Yesterday I had a work luncheon for a board that I serve on, and it took me on a little road trip through this beautiful state of Kentucky. It was a five hour round trip, but to be honest, I love long drives. I get to pick my own music or podcasts, use my blue tooth speakers to call everyone I need to catch up with, and just let my thoughts run crazy. I do some good thinking in the car, so it's great!
Boone Tavern is a beautiful and historic hotel in Berea Kentucky that takes up an entire city block. It was founded in 1909 and has accommodated such distinctive guests as Dalai Lama, Henry Ford, President and Mrs. Coolidge, Eleanor Roosevelt, Maya Angelou and Robert Frost.
It is such a hidden treasure at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, which hold such precious memories for me because that's where my people are from. Even though I grew up in Lexington, we took regular trips to the mountains to visit family. The stories I know are truly unbelievable and book worthy. If I ever become a notable author, it will be to share these stories. To this day, I LOVE the mountains and would take a trip to a rustic cabin over a beach front condo...any day.
But back to Boone Tavern...it is a stately establishment with regal furnishings. It reminds me greatly of the architecture in Washington, DC. Despite its timeless decor, it is actually quite modern with energy saving features and has been LEED certified.
In addition to the rooms, guests can enjoy fresh and organic meal options in the dining rooms. I opted for a BLT with house-raised bacon and garden fresh tomatoes. It was heavenly! They also have an assortment of Beer Cheese flavored options, the Kentucky Hot Brown, and their infamous spoon spread. Naturally, I was too busy enjoying the cuisine to snap a picture of my meal. Plus, I thought it would be a bit unprofessional considering this was a work meeting.
As luck would have it, my brother works in Berea and met me to say "hello" before I got back on the road. While I was waiting from him to get there, I was able to take a stroll around the property and enjoy a few minutes rocking on the porch.
Boone Tavern is named after Daniel Boone who is credited as the founder of our great state. Across from the hotel is a large park area, and to the side is the campus of Berea College, which also has an interesting history if you ever have time to read up on it.
The building connected to the hotel looked to house boutiques and interesting shops. As I mentioned, I was working so I didn't take the time to explore them. Nonetheless, I would love to go back for a visit since my brother lives so close.
If you are looking for a fun day trip for your family, I would highly recommend Boone Tavern. While I have never participated in these events, I hear the area has wonderful craft fairs. There's also some great hiking trails and a few lakes close by.
If you want to make an entire weekend out of it, Lexington is only about 45 minutes away and has some great shopping and is the Horse Capital of the World. It's a hidden treasure and not a terrible way to spend a few working hours.
Comments
Post a Comment