Looking for Civil War history, scenic countryside, and small-town hospitality? Head to Richmond! Located in the heart of central Kentucky, Richmond blends historic charm with university-town energy. Whether you're exploring battlefield parks, strolling downtown shops, or hiking nearby trails, Richmond is a laid-back destination with Southern character.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Richmond is from April through October. Spring and fall offer mild weather and beautiful landscapes, while summer is great for outdoor festivals and exploring nature. Winter tends to be quiet, with cozy indoor attractions and seasonal events.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Richmond is located off I-75, about 30 minutes south of Lexington and 2 hours from Louisville or Knoxville.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Blue Grass Airport (LEX) in Lexington, approximately 40 minutes away.
- By Bus: Greyhound and other regional bus services connect Richmond with nearby cities, but driving is recommended for convenience.
Where I like to stay
- Hampton Inn Richmond – Comfortable and conveniently located hotel with free breakfast and indoor pool.
- Historic Boone Tavern Hotel (Berea) – Located 20 minutes south in Berea, this historic inn offers charm, fine dining, and a connection to Kentucky heritage.
- Airbnb & Vacation Rentals – Options range from cozy homes to countryside cabins perfect for quiet retreats.
Top Attractions
1. Visit a historic fort at Fort Boonesborough State Park
Fort Boonesborough State Park offers several different experiences for visitors, including a historic fort, the Kentucky River Museum, boating, camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, and more. Guests can explore the original fort site used by Daniel Boone and the settlers, head out on a boat to get a great view of the Palisades, fish on the Kentucky River, spend the night or two in the campground, or find unique handmade items in the park’s gift shop. Fort Boonesborough was reconstructed as a working fort and features resident artisans performing craft demonstrations, showcasing what pioneer life was like in Kentucky.
Address: 4375 Boonesboro Rd, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-527-3131
2. Step back in time at the White Hall State Historic Site
The White Hall State Historic Site is a historic home in Richmond, nestled in the scenic rolling farmland of Kentucky. Constructed during the late 1700s, along with an addition in the 1860s, the historic mansion was designed in the Italianate and Georgian styles, boasting almost ten thousand square feet and including modern innovations for the time period like indoor plumbing and central heating. The White Hall State Historic Site was formerly the home of Cassius Clay, newspaper publishers, politician, emancipationist, friend of Abraham Lincoln, and Ambassador to Russia. The house was originally built by his father, General Green Clay.
Address: 500 White Hall Shrine Rd, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-623-9178
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Stop by the Battle of Richmond Visitors Center
Located along Battlefield Memorial Highway, the Battle of Richmond Visitors Center displays many different exhibits highlighting the Battle of Richmond that happened during the American Civil War. The museum gives both the casual visitor and history buffs alike a great learning experience and overview of the importance of the Battle of Richmond, which took place on August 29 and August 30 in 1862 as the second largest battle of the Civil War fought in the state of Kentucky.
Address: 101 Battlefield Memorial Hwy, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-624-0013
4. Go wine tasting at Chenault Vineyards
The Chenault Vineyards lie within central Kentucky’s rolling hills, offering visitors a picturesque destination to sample some great tasting wines in Richmond. This family-owned and operated winery and vineyards span across five hundred acres of beautiful land, stunning views, and grape vines. Chenault Vineyards offers a variety of handmade wines that are made on-site at the property, including white wines, red wines, and a blush wine. Visitors can stop by the winery for tours and wine tastings, or simply to relax with their favorite glass of wine on the outdoor patio and take in the gorgeous scenery.
Address: 2284 Barnes Mill Rd, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-328-7773
If you are traveling with kids:
5. Take the kids to Baldwin Farms
Baldwin Farms is a popular destination for people of all ages in Richmond, Kentucky, especially families with young children. The popular Pumpkin Festival in the farm has become a local tradition over the years, drawing visitors from Madison County and beyond to come and see the fall display, find the perfect pumpkin, and spend time with family and friends. Activities at Baldwin Farms include visiting with friendly animals, pony rides, climbing Mt. Baldwin Dirt Hill or straw bales, the Jump Baldwin Dragon, corn hole, a hay maze, wagon rides, and much more. Baldwin Farms also features acres of Christmas Trees in December.
Address: 1113 Tates Creek Rd, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-582-5785
6. Admire art at the Richmond Area Arts Center
The Richmond Area Arts Center provides visual and performing arts programs for people of all ages in Richmond, Kentucky. The arts council is a “philanthropic and altruistic” arts organization that strives to bring art to everyone in the local community and is open to the public Monday to Friday from 9:00am until 5:00pm. The Richmond Area Arts Council provides numerous arts activities for both adults and children alike, hosting art exhibits featuring local artists, education classes for adults, and after school and summer programs for kids.
Address: 399 W Water St, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-624-4242
Where to Eat
7. Have dinner at Brady's Sushi and Hibachi
Brady's Sushi and Hibachi is a locally-owned and operated restaurant in the city of Richmond specializing in traditional sushi rolls. In addition to the variety of options for sushi, the Japanese restaurant also serves hibachi entrees and innovative Poke bowls, with every dish made with the freshest ingredients. The family behind Brady’s has many years of experience with cooking Asian cuisine and aims to provide visitors and locals alike with best fast casual dining experience for hibachi and sushi through great tasting food and exceptional customer service. Brady's Sushi and Hibachi is open every day except for Sunday.
Address: 525 Eastern Bypass, Richmond, KY 40475, Phone: 859-544-6193
8. Have lunch at Madison Garden Bar and Grill
For more than 40 years the Madison Garden Bar and Grill has been a popular Richmond meeting place where good food and great drinks make for a special dining experience. The Bar and Grill is proud to offer patrons one of the best selections of craft beers and bourbons in town. Regular diners rave about their amazing Buff Stuff house dry rub which is guaranteed to elevate simple chicken wings to dizzy heights, (and is available for you to take home). Other rave-worthy menu items include their pure Angus beef burgers in a variety of styles, their delicious sandwiches and their “Almost New York Pizza Pies”, available whole or by the slice.
Address: 152 N. Madison Ave, Richmond, KY 40475, 859 623 9720
For golfers:
9. Play a round of golf at the Boones Trace National Golf Course
Widely acknowledged to be one of the finest public golf courses in Kentucky, the Boones Trace National Golf Course offers outstanding golfing at very reasonable prices. The course enjoys an elevated location on a series of high bluffs overlooking the Kentucky River and offers beautiful vistas from every hole. Everything you need for a great day of golf is available right on site including a driving range, fully-stocked Pro Shop, expert golf pro’s to help you improve your game and a convivial “19th hole” Bar and Grill where you can relax after your game. Golfers rate the course 4.5 out of 5 for playability and challenge.
Address: 175 Gleneagles Blvd, Richmond, KY 40475, 859 623 4653
10. Have fun at the Adventure Falls Mini Golf and Battling Cages
The Adventure Falls Mini Golf and Battling Cages is a seasonal outdoor activity center for children and their families. The facility is open from April through September and boasts an 18-hole landscaped mini-golf course which can be enjoyed by just about all ages. 9 of the holes are ADA accessible and the course includes some challenging obstacles. There are a total of 8 batting cages where avid baseball and softball players can perfect their skills using the modern and innovative Iron Mike Pitching Hands. The facility is ideal for children’s birthday parties, combining fun activities with good, outdoor fresh air.
Address: 250 Lake Reba Drive, Richmond, KY 40475, 859 623 8753
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Eastern Kentucky University – Stroll the campus grounds or attend performances, lectures, and sporting events.
- Lake Reba Recreational Complex – Family-friendly destination with a lake, golf course, batting cages, walking trails, and sports fields.
- Downtown Richmond – Browse boutiques, antique stores, and local cafés in the historic district.
Where I Like to Eat
- Krafty Kitchen & Bar – Casual spot for burgers, beer, and Southern comfort food with a modern twist.
- Babylon Café – Family-run Mediterranean restaurant offering flavorful dishes like gyros, falafel, and hummus.
- Chenault Vineyards – Enjoy wine tastings and lunch with scenic views of rolling hills just outside of town.
My favorite local events:
- Downtown Richmond Farmers Market (Spring–Fall) – Shop local produce, crafts, and baked goods in the town square.
- Battle of Richmond Reenactment (August) – Annual Civil War reenactment with demonstrations and living history activities.
- Millstone Festival (October) – Fall celebration with live music, craft vendors, food trucks, and a kids’ zone.
My favorite day trips within 30–60 Minutes of Richmond, Kentucky:
- Lexington (30–40 min) – Visit the Horse Capital of the World, explore bourbon distilleries, and enjoy shopping or dining in a vibrant downtown.
- Berea (20 min) – Arts and crafts haven known for Berea College, artisan shops, and Appalachian culture.
- Fort Boonesborough State Park (30 min) – Step back in time at this reconstructed 18th-century frontier fort.
- Natural Bridge State Resort Park (1 hour) – Hike to breathtaking sandstone arches and enjoy scenic views in Red River Gorge.
- Winchester (45 min) – Discover historic downtown, visit the Ale-8-One bottling plant, or explore local museums and trails.
Plan Your Trip