Marion County

By Ray Hunter Photographs Courtesy of Brooklyn Leep

If you’re looking for an extraordinary getaway, look no further than Marion County, Kentucky. This stunningly beautiful area is full of adventure, culture, and history. From outdoor activities like hiking and fishing to visiting historical sites, there is something for everyone in Marion County. Whether you want to explore the gorgeous countryside, visit local shops, or relax and enjoy the scenery, you’ll find plenty of activities to fill your days.

Brooklyn Leep has been the Executive Director of Marion County Economic Development for the past two years.

“Our welcoming smiles, warm hospitality, and generous nature will quickly endear you to the great friends here in Marion County,” Brooklyn said. “We’re small enough to feel comfortable and large enough to be exciting. Our communities attract thousands of visitors annually, and we look forward to welcoming you soon!”

Perhaps the most famous of Marion County’s attractions is the Marion County Trail, where the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour intersect. The legacy of history and craftsmanship is perfected in their distilleries and businesses built around the spirits industry. There are currently three significant distilleries to visit on the trail, including Maker’s Mark Distillery, Diageo Distillery, and Limestone Branch Distillery.

“Pernod Ricard plans to invest $250 million over five years in a new distillery and bourbon warehouses in Lebanon in Marion County for its Jefferson’s Bourbon Distillery,” Brooklyn said. “The project will include a state-of-the-art carbon-neutral distillery and a world-class visitor center.”

Marion County has some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Kentucky. Take a leisurely stroll at Fagan Branch Reservoir and its Cecil L. Gorley Naturalist Trail. It’s an outdoor mecca in Marion County and a place where folks truly can find their nature. Fishing is another excellent way to spend an afternoon for those looking to get out on the water. The rivers and lakes provide ample opportunity to catch some of the area’s most popular species, including bass, catfish, and bluegill.

“The Lebanon city government municipal park ranks as one of the biggest and best in Kentucky,” Brooklyn said. “The massive indoor and outdoor swimming facility, the park’s Lebanon Aquatic Center, is unique in any city, anywhere.”

The newly remodeled Lebanon Aquatic Center at Graham Memorial Park is open throughout the year and features a 25-meter by 25-yard heated indoor pool with water up to 5.5 feet deep. It also has roped lap lanes for swimming exercises. During the summer (Memorial Day through Labor Day), the outside pools are open, including a thrilling 100-foot winding water slide and a children’s pool.

“Marion County is home to several historical sites, including the Loretto Motherhouse and its archives,” Brooklyn said. “Visitors may tour the Heritage Center, a world-class museum where the richness and heritage of the Sisters of Loretto are on full display.”

Visitors can access the archives, a carefully preserved collection of artifacts dating to frontier Kentucky. History buffs can visit Lebanon National Cemetery on 15 acres of natural beauty and reverence. Located at 20 Highway 208 just outside of Lebanon, it dates to the Civil War and contains the graves of soldiers who died in the Battle of Perryville.

“When it comes to shopping, Marion County has plenty to offer. Lebanon has numerous antique shops where you can find everything from vintage furniture to rare collectibles. There are also plenty of unique boutiques and galleries where you can find handmade crafts and artwork.”

If you’re looking for a more active experience, Marion County has plenty of horseback riding and kayaking opportunities. Horseback riding is a popular activity in the area, and you can find a number of trails and stables to explore. For a truly unique experience, take a guided horseback tour of the area’s back roads and trails. Kayaking on the Rolling Fork River is another excellent way to explore the area. All you need is a canoe or kayak, a paddle, and a lifejacket, and you’re ready to enjoy recreational opportunities with endless discoveries.

Marion County is a stunningly beautiful area full of adventure and culture. From historical sites to outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed vacation, Marion County offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags and explore this truly unique and memorable destination.

Susie Rodes

Susie Rodes

Associate Broker

Associate Broker

ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES

ABR, CRS, GRI, SRES

859-619-8730

859-619-8730

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