Roadside Attractions - Kentucky Artisan Center
A wide selection of Kentucky crafted gifts is available at the Artisan Center.
What: Kentucky Artisan Center
Where: In Berea, KY off Exit 77 on I-75 between Knoxville, TN and Lexington, KY; 30 minutes south of Lexington
Time Spent: Less than an hour including lunch. You could easily spend more or less time depending on your travel schedule.
Why you should stop: The Kentucky Artisan Center houses a beautiful collection of unique handcrafted goods from artists across the state. In addition to the store filled with handcrafted arts and tasty Kentucky made foods, they have rotating exhibits of varying artist's work. On the weekends you can often find artists demonstrating their creative process.The Center also doubles as a lunch spot. I had their hot plate with two sides. There were a variety of choices, and I had the Fried Fish, Hushpuppies, Mashed Potatoes and Gravy and Corn Pudding. Needless to say I had Sweet Tea, too. The food was hot and fresh and served cafeteria style. So, while it was a quick spot to grab food the service was extremely friendly. It is a much better alternative than fast food and just as quick.
Where you should go if you have more time: Berea is considered the Arts and Crafts capitol of Kentucky, so there is plenty to see. Old Town is just 2 miles away and signs will lead you from the Artisan Center. There is a fudge shop, an Amish store and numerous little crafts shops. College Square is also just a hop, skip and a jump away. There is a lunch alternative at the Historic Boone Tavern right off the square. There are also shops and galleries nearby on the square. The Vistor's Center at Berea College offers tours of the grounds and the Student Crafts program.
Berea is a lovely little town. Truly, no matter where you turn you can't go wrong.
