If you’re craving a laid-back getaway with small-town charm, I highly recommend Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Located in the heart of central Kentucky, this town, known as "E-town," blends history, outdoor adventures, and that classic Southern hospitality that always makes me feel right at home. Whether I’m road-tripping along the Bourbon Trail or diving into Civil War history, there’s always something new to discover. Elizabethtown has a quiet, inviting vibe that’s perfect for a relaxing weekend escape.
Best Time to Visit
If you ask me, the best times to visit Elizabethtown are spring and fall (April to May or September to October). I’ve found the weather to be mild and perfect for walking around, exploring parks, and enjoying outdoor festivals. The seasons offer the best balance between comfortable temps and scenic surroundings.
How to Get There
- Driving in? Elizabethtown is easy to reach by car, just off I-65. It’s about a 45-minute drive south of Louisville and 2 hours from Nashville. The drive is super easy, and you’ll enjoy the rolling Kentucky hills along the way.
- Flying in? I’ve flown into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) before—it’s a quick 40-minute drive to Elizabethtown. Renting a car is a breeze from there.
- Taking the bus? Greyhound offers limited bus service to Elizabethtown, but if you ask me, having a car gives you the freedom to explore more of the area.
Where to Stay
- The Historic Brown-Pusey House – I stayed here on my last visit, and it’s perfect for a more intimate, historic experience. The garden setting is lovely, and you’ll really feel like you’re stepping back in time.
- Hilton Garden Inn Elizabethtown – If you want a more modern, comfortable stay, this is the spot. It’s got everything you need, including an indoor pool and easy access to the highway for day trips.
- Fairfield Inn & Suites – I stayed here when I was traveling with family. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and the complimentary breakfast is a nice bonus.
Top Attractions
Catch a Show or Tour the Historic State Theatre Complex -
Discover Local Stories at the Hardin County History Museum -
Honor Heroes at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall -
Step Into the Past at the Brown-Pusey House -
Sample Local Flavor at Fly Wheel Brewing -
Celebrate Legends at the Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame -
Unwind with Character at The Wicked Eyed Woman Public House -
Travel Through Time at Swope’s Cars of Yesterday Museum -
Walk in Lincoln’s Footsteps at His Boyhood Home at Knob Creek -
If You’re Craving Comfort with a Kick, Dine at The Cannonball -
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Catch a Show or Tour the Historic State Theatre Complex
- • Discover Local Stories at the Hardin County History Museum
- • Honor Heroes at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall
- • Step Into the Past at the Brown-Pusey House
- • Sample Local Flavor at Fly Wheel Brewing
- • Celebrate Legends at the Kentucky High School Basketball Hall of Fame
- • Unwind with Character at The Wicked Eyed Woman Public House
- • Travel Through Time at Swope’s Cars of Yesterday Museum
- • Walk in Lincoln’s Footsteps at His Boyhood Home at Knob Creek
- • If You’re Craving Comfort with a Kick, Dine at The Cannonball