Find forest giants, explore the Old Stone Jail, and put the pedal to the metal at the world’s longest go-kart track

As you travel out of Louisville, cityscapes quickly transform into open fields and meandering hills in nearly every direction. Sitting just south of Kentucky’s largest city, Bullitt County is a fast-growing area within the Greater Louisville Region that blends forest escapes with the convenience of suburban life.

Formed in 1796, Bullitt County was named for Alexander Scott Bullitt, a political leader in the early days of Kentucky’s statehood. Several relics of the county’s past still stand today. History buffs will enjoy visiting the Belmont Iron Furnace, which was built in 1844 and used to melt iron for nails and other utensils. The Old Stone Jail in Shepherdsville, constructed in 1891, is a stone fortress built with 22-inch-thick sandstone blocks. Its proximity to the county courthouse makes it easy to tour the jail whenever the courthouse is open, typically 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. Just walk in, and an automatic sound system will share a series of entertaining tales from its storied history! You can also soak in more of the county’s rich past at the Bullitt County History Museum, located inside the courthouse.

Bullitt County is the perfect setting for outdoor recreationists. Take advantage of the wide-open spaces at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, a 16,000+- acre escape that offers a myriad of unique ways to explore nature. There are hiking trails, themed gardens, prairies, and a 17-acre Playcosystem, designed to provide children with open-ended, unstructured play. Take in stunning views from the Canopy Tree Walk, a boardwalk that suspends visitors 75 feet above the forest floor, or climb 961 feet to the top of the fire tower (open seasonally on weekends, though it is recommended to call ahead to confirm). Visit the Forest Giants, three larger-than-life sculptures crafted with repurposed and natural elements by artist Thomas Dambo, or say hi to the 27-foot-tall Tin Man sculpture glistening amongst the trees. Bernheim offers an array of programming and events for all ages—from guided night hikes and wildflower strolls to their annual “electric evening event,” CONNECT, which features live music, pop-up art, educational exhibits, play spaces, and plenty of food and drink! 

There are several pay lakes in Bullitt County, including County Line Pay Lake, Bennett Pay Lake, and Harry’s Pay Lake, and visiting one is a great way to try your hand at fishing without needing to acquire a fishing license. Toss some discs at Bullitt County Disc Golf Course or enjoy a round of golf at Heritage Hill Golf Club. If the weather isn’t cooperating, it’s always sunny in The Golf Lab, an immersive, indoor experience with technology that delivers instant feedback on your golf game.

For a full day of fun with the family, head over to Kart Kountry. Their claim to fame, “the world’s largest go-kart track,” is 1.5 miles of long, winding track, and they’ve also got arcade games, batting cages, mini golf, bumper boats, and more. Roll back in time at Skate-o-Rama, a roller-skating rink that’s been family-owned since the ‘70s. The impressive Hillview All-Inclusive Playground is a fully accessible, wheelchair-friendly space designed for children of all abilities, and, over in Mt. Washington, the WesBanco Amphitheatre hosts free music nights all summer long.

The county’s proximity to big city amenities means you’re never far from a buffet of food and drink options. Bullitt County is home to several distilleries, including the renowned brands Jim Beam and Four Roses, and four award-winning wineries. The Kitchen Table, located at James B. Beam Distilling Company, offers full-service dining in a beautiful environment. The Pit Stop is a family-owned, small-town diner offering all-day breakfast, and homemade comfort food. Amore Mio dishes out authentic Italian fare in a cozy setting, and, for dessert, you can’t beat The Sweet Shoppe’s hand-dipped ice cream treats.

To round out your trip, make sure to shop local at the KFB Certified Farm Markets located in Bullitt County. Stop into Cedar Creek Beef Company or The Farmers Wife to pick up some of the freshest meat cuts around, and visit the market at the Elliott Brothers Farm for top-quality produce, vegetable and herb plants, raw local honey, and more. 

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For your convenience, Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance has multiple insurance offices located in Bullitt County. Click here for more information.

The 120 is a blog series produced by Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance highlighting each of Kentucky's 120 counties—because we're well-known for knowing Kentucky well.