Kentucky

The Bluegrass State

Kentucky is a state of rolling hills, horse farms, mountains, rivers, music, craftsmanship, agriculture, and traditions that connect the Appalachian region with the American South and Midwest. Indigenous peoples traveled and lived throughout the area long before settlers crossed the Appalachian Mountains during the 1700s. Kentucky became the 15th state in 1792 and developed around farming, river transportation, frontier communities, and trade. Horses became deeply connected to Kentucky's identity, particularly in the Bluegrass region around Lexington, where generations of breeders and trainers built one of the world's best-known thoroughbred industries. Louisville grew along the Ohio River into the state's largest city and became famous for manufacturing, transportation, food, and the Kentucky Derby. Eastern Kentucky developed around Appalachian communities, coal mining, music, and mountain traditions, while western Kentucky connected closely with the Mississippi and Ohio river systems. Kentucky is also known for bourbon, bluegrass music, Mammoth Cave, Daniel Boone country, and landscapes ranging from horse farms to rugged mountains. Its story combines frontier heritage, craftsmanship, music, agriculture, sport, and family traditions—a distinctive piece of the American journey where old customs and modern communities continue to share the same rolling countryside.

I've been there.
I know that place.
Kentucky is part of my story.

KENTUCKY
The Bluegrass StateExplore the places. Learn their stories. Remember the journey.

MILEAMERICA
Wear the Journey.