Kentucky’s Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Slow travel is a current catch phrase that’s gaining popularity among tourists. This mindset encourages us to deviate from the traditional “hurry up and see everything” trip to a more relaxed pace of savoring our experiences. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill Kentucky epitomizes the essence of slow travel. Which gifts you the opportunity rest, recharge and fully immerse yourself in the moment.

Nestled near the banks of the Kentucky River Palisades, Shaker Village takes a step back in time while fully embracing the present.  The juxtaposition of 19th century farm life and modern conveniences creates the perfect blend for a lovely escape.  It’s everything you might hope for on a trip – discovery, relaxation, entertainment, nature, and seriously good eats!

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker Village Accommodations

Visiting Lexington or Louisville Kentucky? You can just pop over to Shaker Village for a day trip. However, part of the joy is in staying the night. The village features 72 guest rooms, suites and private cottages located in 13 restored historic Shaker buildings.

You stay right in the center of the action. Nearly every attraction is within a short walking distance, yet your room will still be secluded and serene.  Each room is designed with the Shaker spirit in mind, with original hardwood floors and reproductions of Shaker furniture. They also have lovely sitting areas outside where you can visit with friends or catch up on your reading.

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Activities

There’s no shortage of things to do at Shaker Village. If you want to just completely go off-grid to relax and recharge, you can easily choose that option. If you’d love to fill your day with interesting insights into Shaker history, hands-on activities, that works, too. There’s scenic tours and even special concerts, you’ll find plenty of options.

When planning your visit, you can find a list of seasonal events here: https://shakervillageky.org/event-calendar/. For daily adventures check here: https://shakervillageky.org/everyday-experiences/

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

If you are a foodie, the seasonal Fresh Food Adventures (additional fee) are well worth timing your trip for. Love music? Look for “Music On The Lawn” and special concerts throughout the year.

Enjoy fun holiday-themed experiences, like I do? You’ll want to visit during the fall, Halloween and Christmas-themed event weekends.

Hiking and Riverboat cruises are also options that vary from season to season. There’s even a special Boo-Cruise for Halloween (additional fee). Spring and fall hiking are breath-taking with the changing of seasons.

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Daily adventures are included with your overnight stay at Shaker Village. Alternatively, you may purchase a day pass if you just want to pop in for the day.

Rise & Shine On The Farm is a delightful morning activity where you are guided by farm staff to greet and feed the animals. The Horse Drawn Wagon Ride, Spirit Stroll and Seed Savers programs are among my favorites.  There’s truly a little something for everyone all day long!

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Dining

You know the expression – “come for the location, stay for the food”? This is quite apt for Shaker Village.  The location is amazing and the food is definitely exceptional!

At Shaker Village they serve heirloom ingredients straight from the farm in their lovely restaurant, The Trustees Table. When they say “seed-to-table” dining, they are quite literal. The amazing heirloom seeds grown on the certified organic farm are steps away from the diner. Gourmet restaurant dining truly doesn’t get much fresher than that!

The menu changes seasonally and always features a variety of Shaker-inspired dishes. There’s traditional favorites and modern cuisine takes on classic dishes. Everything is based on what can be sourced locally, ensuring you have a farm fresh dining experience.

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all available at The Trustees Table. If you prefer a lighter fare or snacks throughout the day, several gift shops in Shaker Village also have fresh options. You’ll find sandwiches, salads, chips, drinks and treats, including ice cream!

You truly don’t have to ever leave the village at all.  But, if you are looking for additional dining options or a late night snack, Harrodsburg Kentucky offers a variety of casual and fast food options.

Kentucky's Hidden Retreat: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Visit Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

There are so many lovely reasons to visit Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Shaker Village is currently celebrating the spring season with breath-taking views and plenty of special events. To plan your trip, visit https://shakervillageky.org/. There’s so much to enjoy at Shaker Village. You’ll definitely want to consider staying the night in one of their restored Shaker homes.

by
Barb Webb. Founder and Editor of Rural Mom, is an the author of "Getting Laid" and "Getting Baked". A sustainable living expert nesting in Appalachian Kentucky, when she’s not chasing chickens around the farm or engaging in mock Jedi battles, she’s making tea and writing about country living and artisan culture.
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