The town of Winchester is known for being a place for “original, local experiences,” ranging from hand-on history to Ale-8 and much more. Located just outside of Lexington, the town is a unique one, the place where Kentucky’s “official soft drink,” Ale-8, was founded along with the idea of beer cheese. There’s much more to Winchester, however, than food and drinks, including museums, art, preserved geological areas, historic sites, and more.
Admire stunning formations at the Red River Gorge Geological Area
The Red River Gorge Geological Area is a scenic area within the Daniel Boone National Forest near Winchester, Kentucky. Known for its abundant geological formations, the area features amazing towering sandstone cliffs, unusual rock formations, and many natural stone arches. Designated by the United States Forest Service as a national geological area, the Red River Gorge attracts visitors with its opportunities for outdoor recreation throughout the entire year as well, such as wildlife viewing, canoeing, camping, hiking, and other activities. The Red River Gorge area is also designated as a National Archaeological District and a National Natural Landmark.
Red River Gorge Geological Area, 3451 Sky Bridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, Phone: 606-663-8100
Learn about the local history at the Bluegrass Heritage Museum
The Bluegrass Heritage Museum is a place that brings the Bluegrass region’s history to life through its collection, preservation, and exhibition of objects associated with the history of Winchester, Kentucky, as well as the surrounding Clark County and Bluegrass area of the state. The unique museum highlights the history of the Bluegrass region’s places and people, from the settlements of the Eskippakithiki Indian up through the present day. The first Western frontier of America, the area attracted a number of colorful characters, such as Simon Kenton and Daniel Boone. In addition to the many exhibits, there is also a gift shop.
Bluegrass Heritage Museum, 217 S Main St, Winchester, KY 40391, Phone: 859-745-1358
Visit Lower Howard's Creek Nature and Heritage Preserve
Lower Howard's Creek Nature and Heritage Preserve was established in November of 2000 as the fortieth state nature preserve in Kentucky, featuring many miles of nature trail winding through several historic sites and allowing hikers to view an array of animal and plant species. Guided tours of the preserve are offered by appointment as well. The preserve encompasses more than 300 acres of land along both sides of the scenic Lower Howard’s Creek and was created to preserve threatened and endangered species, preserve and interpret the history of the Bluegrass Region and Clark County, and to provide nature education.
Lower Howard's Creek Nature and Heritage Preserve, 1225 Athens Boonesboro Rd, Winchester, KY 40391, Phone: 859-806-2466
See a show at Leeds Center for the Arts
Situated in the middle of downtown Winchester, the Leeds Center for the Arts has been a part of the local community since 1925. The historic theater hosts a variety of community and cultural events throughout the year, including educational classes, concerts, musicals, and plays. The Leeds Theater was one of the first movie houses to open in Winchester, Kentucky in May of 1925. The theater eventually closed in 1986, but was restored by the Winchester Council for the Arts and reopened as the Leeds Center for the Arts in 1990. Today, the center hosts events and shows classic movies.
Leeds Center for the Arts, 37 N Main St, Winchester, KY 40391, Phone: 859-744-6437
Take a tour of Clark Mansion aka Holly Rood
The Clark Mansion , also known as Holly Rood, is a Federal-style house built by Kentucky’s thirteenth Governor, James Clark, back in 1813 and 1814. One of the most historic houses in Clark County, the home today is full of a variety of mementos and antiques that help share the local community’s story. In 1974, Holly Rood was added to the country’s National Register of Historic Places. Now owned and operated by the local government, visitors can take a tour of the Clark Mansion by appointment. The building is also often used for special events, such as weddings.
Clark Mansion aka Holly Rood, 28 Beckner St, Winchester, KY 40391, Phone: 859-745-6664
