Why This Kentucky Town Deserves More Attention
Along the northern fork of the Nolin River in Central Kentucky, you will find Hodgenville, a lively and musically inclined town. While some of its larger neighbors, like Elizabethtown, sometimes overshadow it, Hodgenville has a few surprises in store that have earned it international fame. Not only was Abraham Lincoln born here, but the town is also home to the state’s longest-running live music theater. It also plays an important role in the state’s agriculture, producing important products like dairy, flowers, and produce. Whether you are a country music fan, a history buff, or just craving a good southern-style meal, Hodgenville is the perfect town to visit.
The Birthplace Of Abraham Lincoln
While Hodgenville might not be widely known outside of Kentucky, most people will recognize its connection to Abraham Lincoln, who was born nearby. People from all over the world visit the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park each year, which commemorates the beginnings of the 16th president. This historical park features two farm areas where Lincoln once lived: his birthplace and his boyhood home. At his birthplace site, travelers can appreciate an early 19th-century Kentucky-style cabin. His boyhood home, on the other hand, is located on the historic Knob Creek Farm. This site is where Lincoln lived from the age of two through eight years old and includes a tavern and log cabin. Visitors can enjoy an array of picnic areas and hiking trails throughout the entire National Historic Park as well.
Downtown Hodgenville is home to The Lincoln Museum, a must-visit attraction for anyone intrigued by the life of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore period artifacts, life-size dioramas, and an impressive array of wax figures that vividly depict pivotal moments from the president’s life. Many of the exhibits are arranged into historically accurate dioramas, each representing a distinct period in history. On the museum’s second floor, there is also an incredible collection of campaign posters, newspaper clippings, and other memorabilia, along with an art gallery that showcases artwork related to the Lincoln era.
Country Music And Art
Hodgenville is famously known for hosting The Lincoln Jamboree, the longest-running live country show in Kentucky. Since 1954, this theater has welcomed local, regional, and national talent, with performers taking to the stage each Saturday. Not able to visit on Saturday? On the other days of the week, the jamboree also operates as a family-style restaurant, serving southern classics like fried chicken, pork barbecue, and country ham.
The local artists in Hodgenville definitely deserve a mention as well. For an eclectic piece of art, visitors can browse Art Gypsy, a local art gallery. Here, shoppers can appreciate hand-crafted jewelry, paintings, knitted home goods, leather bags, and more. For the chance to blend agriculture with art, make sure to plan an afternoon at Annie’s Art Farm. During the summer months, travelers can spend an afternoon picking their own blueberries, followed by a stroll through Annie’s Art Gallery.
Farming Experiences
Agriculture and farming are central to Hodgenville’s identity, and what better way to experience it than by visiting some of the local farms? In the fall, travelers can have fun with their families at Crawford Farms Pumpkin Patch, which offers a variety of seasonal activities like hay rides, corn mazes, a petting zoo, and barrel train rides. Those wanting some freshly cut flowers can stop by Magnolia Greenery Flower Farm, open from spring through fall, to purchase some seasonal flowers like tulips and sunflowers.
Want some locally produced dairy and eggs? Make sure to plan a stop at Locke Ridge Farm, which produces seasonal produce, goat products, and eggs. The LaRue County Farmers Market is a good way to appreciate the area’s farming community all in one place. This market, open from June through August, sells everything ranging from artisanal soaps and deodorants to fresh produce, meat, and dairy.
Shops And Restaurants
Travelers should make sure to save a morning to meander through Hodgenville’s downtown area, which is filled with an assortment of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Those needing to fuel up for the day can start their morning at Vibe Coffee, a specialty coffee shop that offers everything from bourbon-aged French press to nitro cold brew and espresso. The coffee shop also has a variety of breakfast options, such as avocado toast, acai bowls, and waffles. After breakfast, stop by some of Hodgenville’s boutiques, like The Casual Co. and Market Boutique, both offering clothing items. For a country-style lunch or dinner, travelers can make a reservation at The 16th, a local restaurant in the historic district that serves dishes like ribeye, salmon, pork tenderloin, and an array of sandwiches. Are you a traveler with a sweet tooth? You can stop by Sweet Shoppe Dessert Cafe after dinner for some homemade fudge, ice cream, or chocolate.
Final Thoughts
Although Hodgenville may not be the most well-known tourist destination in the state, travelers certainly miss out by not stopping by. Town highlights like Sweet Shoppe Dessert Cafe, Annie’s Art Farm, and The Lincoln Jamboree all give the town a unique character that is hard to find in other Kentucky towns. If you have been looking for somewhere new to explore this year, make sure that Hodgenville is on your list!
