Clark County showcases history in different forms: a fortified site, a private home and a preserved commercial district. Beer cheese adds a culinary discovery, featured on its own trail and at an annual festival. Together, these themes offer different perspectives on the area—from its early settlement years to its 19th-century buildings.
Fort Remains, a Home and Commercial History
Strode’s Station was built in 1779. During the early settlement period and the bloody Indian Wars, it was the largest and most significant fortified site in Clark County. Holly Rood tells a different story: Governor James Clark (1779–1839) had the house built in 1813 as his private residence. It is considered one of Winchester’s most significant historic buildings. The contrast between a fortified site and a home highlights how varied the functions of historic places can be.
The Winchester Downtown Commercial District offers another distinct perspective. It is one of Kentucky’s more significant preserved commercial centers from the late 19th century. Winchester is also home to the Bluegrass Heritage Museum on South Main Street. Its distinctive building was constructed in the Romanesque Revival style, has been renovated and fitted with an elevator, and offers accessibility features. The museum’s exhibitions change; if you are planning a visit, check the latest visitor information.
Trails and Historic Routes
Hiking is permitted at the Civil War Fort at Boonesboro from sunrise to sunset. The trail is half a mile long, ranges from moderate to steep, and has interpretive signs. One trail ends at a hilltop overlook with views of the Kentucky River. The eastern and western walls and trenches also remain. Check the latest operating information before your visit.
For comparison, the Holder Public Trail is 1.4 miles long; the round trip covers 2.8 miles. These figures help you gauge the trail lengths without equating the different routes. The Holder Public Trail follows sections of the Athens-Boonesboro Turnpike, Salt Springs Trace and Holder’s Road. The Daniel Boone Heritage Trail offers another historic perspective: this historic and scenic route recalls the journeys and expeditions of the famous American pioneer Daniel Boone.
Beer Cheese and Other Regional Discoveries
The Beer Cheese Trail includes 15 beer cheese stops in Clark County. Along the route, you’ll find beer cheese in different forms: as an appetizer, dip, soup, lunch dish and in other special recipes. The number of participating stops may change. Hall’s on the River is located at the site of the Driftwood Inn, which is considered the birthplace of beer cheese—a special connection for anyone looking to learn more about the dish’s culinary history.
The Beer Cheese Festival is held annually on the second Saturday in June; plans may change, so it’s worth checking that year’s dates. Another option is Abettor Brewing Company, with 20 varieties of beer, cider and seltzer, as well as seasonal offerings that change throughout the year. The selection may vary. Harkness Edwards Vineyard offers wine tastings on a scenic patio and guided vineyard tours. Check the latest tasting and tour arrangements before your visit. Three Trees adds canoeing and kayaking on the historic Kentucky River to the mix; rentals are seasonal.
Discover more destinations: Winchester, Hart County, Knox County, Breckinridge, Shelby County, Hardin, Woodford County, Floyd County.
For the broader travel guide: Kentucky.
