Known for Jack Daniel’s Whiskey and the Appalachian Kentucky mountains, another thing we should recognize are the many unique places to stay in Kentucky. This state is surprisingly full of hotels and lodging that will ‘wow’ you for a weekend away or road trip stopover.
From cool places to stay in Kentucky nestled in nature to fun boutique hotels in the heart of Louisville, KY, we’ve collected the most unique lodgings in Kentucky into this article. From elegant and historic to simple and fun, you will surely find some favorites here.
21c Museum Hotel: A Museum and Unique Hotel in Louisville, KY
There’s a reason the 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville is known as one of the unique places to stay in Kentucky — it’s not just a super cool hotel, but has an onsite museum that features contemporary art on 9,000 square feet of exhibition space. In addition to the onsite museum, there’s also a spa and restaurant!
As the hotel building is a former warehouse, the rooms, and suites have high ceilings and large windows, creating a spacious feel. Some rooms include balconies and exposed brick walls of the original building. The room’s designs are simple, with light colors and artwork to compliment the hotel’s status as a museum. If you’re a history and art lover staying in Louisville, this hotel will be an experience!
Historic Boone Tavern, Hotel, and Restaurant: Century-Old Unique Lodging in the Kentucky Mountains
Nestled in Berea, Kentucky, the Boone Tavern, Hotel, and Restaurant has served guests top-quality Southern hospitality for over a century in the Kentucky mountains. On site, there’s a cafe and restaurant that serves original plates. Plus, if you love to explore on two wheels, there are complimentary bicycles to take out and explore the town!
The Boone Tavern is more than just a charming place to stay but is a proud gem in the community as they embrace the town’s creative qualities. The 63 rooms, which feature high ceilings and soaking tubs, include furnishings, many of which are made by the local students of Berea College.
Historic Wigwam Village No. 2: Historical and Fun Lodging in KY
Since 1937, Wingwam Village No.2 has brought guests a unique way to enjoy Kentucky nights in their wigwams — yep, they look like tepees, yet they are a slightly different structure called a wigwam! You can read the history on their website if you want an in-depth explanation, as it is quite interesting.
Of three original wigwam villages, hence the No.2, this is the only one that remains today and is a way to experience a unique piece of US history. Located along North Dixie Highway, it’s a popular place to stay while visiting Mammoth Cave National Park and going cave kayaking.
While the interior of the wigwam is simple, it’s cozy with a bed (or two), a private bathroom, and a table. The most unique part is the shape! The wigwams are lined up in a slight curve with a path leading across the entrances, and in the center, there’s a green space and park for hanging out and enjoying with friends, family, and other guests!
The Brown Hotel: The Height of Elegance in the Heart of Louisville, KY
The Brown Hotel is a unique place to stay in Louisville, Kentucky, that exudes sophistication, history, and elegance. Opened a century ago, the Brown Hotel particularity prides itself in providing a top-notch experience for guests, especially those hosting weddings and meetings. With this, it’s no wonder it was voted the #1 Hotel in Kentucky and the South by Condé Nast in 2021. On-site, there’s a bar, cafe, and restaurant.
As you step into the hotel lobby (I mean, check out these photos!), the Brown Hotel is extravagant, and this follows you to your room. The classically designed rooms have detailed wooden furniture, classy curtains, and patterned carpeting making it very unique.
Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast: Historic Prison Turned Fun Bed & Breakfast in Bardstown KY
Hidden away in Bardstown, the Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast is a unique place to stay in KY for its location and history. Known as one of “America’s Favorite Towns” by Travel + Leisure, come to Bardstown for the charm, and stay for the experience of a night or two in the Jailer’s Inn. Built in 1819, the jail held prisoners until relatively recently, actually — 1987!
Most rooms feature period-dated design, transporting you back in time, and all include private bathrooms (some with soaking and jacuzzi tubs)! In addition to your room, included in your stay, you’ll get a historical tour of the property and complimentary breakfast served in the garden during summertime!
Moxy Louisville: Boutique Hotel + Unique Place to Stay in Kentucky along Whiskey Row
So far, we’ve covered unique lodgings in Kentucky that seep history, from origin stories to classic interior design. Coming to the Moxy, we’re launching you into a chic and boutique hotel ready to play. After all, it’s located along Louisville’s Whiskey Row! Before hitting Whiskey Row, fill up on some tacos at the on-site Zombie Taco, and have a few cocktails at Moxy Bar.
The rooms and suites feature high ceilings and large square windows for sweeping views. While the rooms could be more spacious, they offer lots of unique storage to save space, views, and cozy seating. Plus, the hotel is pet-friendly with a fee of $35/pet, which is lower than many hotels and will support the Humane Society.
Grand Victorian Inn: A Cozy & Unique Place to Stay in KY near Mammoth Cave National Park
Located in Park City, the Grand Victorian Inn is a great choice when visiting Mammoth Cave National Park — if Wigwam Village No.2 doesn’t interest you, that is! Large and grand on the outside, the Inn is charming and intimate, with only 11 rooms, all embellished with beautiful Victorian designs. Located near the train tracks, you can relax on the wrap-around porch and enjoy the sight of the train rolling by.
With rooms and suites available, you can select a space perfect for you, from its size to individual Victorian decoration. With a full breakfast included every day, you’ll be ready to kick off the day, whether it’s to explore the hiking trails and caves or move along to your next destination!
1895 Washington Hotel & Spa: Unique Lodging in Kentucky’s Quilt Capital, Paducah
Named after the year it was built, the 1985 Washington Hotel is also even connected to George Washington, as the owners were decedents of Washington’s half-brother. Located in Paducah,which is interestingly enough known for its quilts, the 1985 Washington Hotel is a great space to retreat after a long day of exploring.
Each room features an individual Victorian design, from the bedding to the woodwork. Some rooms also feature quilting artwork to honor the town’s specialty. Of course, the cherry on top of each room is the jetted tub, inviting you to relax and unwind — perhaps even with a glass of wine in hand!
The May Lodge at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park: A Cool Place to Stay in the Kentucky Mountains
Experience the great outdoors at one of the most adventurous and fun places to stay in Kentucky — The May Lodge! With an outdoor pool and restaurant, you can relax with a good meal and enjoy the tree-lined views by the pool (when opened, as it’s seasonal).
With so many activities to experience at the park, such as canoeing, bird watching, and hiking, the May Lodge is the perfect place to stay, especially if you don’t have an RV or camper to bring in tow!
The rooms at the lodge include forest views and private bathrooms and are pretty spacious. In addition, many rooms have balconies, adding an extra touch of comfort with a view! Lastly, if you want a homey feel (kitchen included!), a cozy cottage is available to stay in.
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill: A Historical Center, Farm, and Outdoors Preserve on 3,000 Acres
The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is more than just a cool place to stay in Kentucky; it’s a campus of 3,000 acres awaiting you to come and explore. There’s a saying, “It takes a village,” and for Shaker Village, that’s certainly true as people from numerous backgrounds come together to make this place what it is.
There’s a historical center, a farm, hiking trails, and gardens to immerse yourself in. Plus, the garden is more than flowers, as the village grows food served in the on-site restaurant, The Trustee’s Table.
As for lodgings, suites, rooms, and cottages are nestled in historic buildings across the Shaker Village. Enjoy fantastic countryside views, cozy furnishings, and charming interior design in the accomodations. Each room includes heating and air conditioning, making the Shaker Village a perfect getaway, whether under the hot summer sun or blanketed in snow.
Seelbach Hilton: Luxurious & Historic Place to Stay in Louisville, Kentucky
It’s no doubt Louisville is home to some magnificent hotels, and the Seelbach Hilton continues that legacy. From your first steps into the lobby to the comfort of your bed, the Seelbach immerses you in elegance. During its construction in the 1800s, the owners took no time to check price tags and imported marble from all corners of the world and other valuables, such as bronze from France.
The Seelbach accommodations feature spacious rooms and suites that include soaking tubs and desks. The details of the rooms and suites compliment the hotel’s history with a modern twist, including wood furniture, plenty of lighting, and artwork.
Which of these unique places to stay in Kentucky will you choose?! Let us know in the comments!
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