Appalachian Mountain Dreams

New 2023 Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide Now Available

Travel guide features must see attractions, debuts video series

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 10, 2023) – The Kentucky Department of Tourism released the 2023 Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide, Team Kentucky’s official visitor’s guide for travel in the commonwealth.

The 2023 Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide serves as the state’s primary tourism advertising and promotional piece with nearly 350,000 copies distributed worldwide. Beauty in the Bluegrass is the theme for the latest installment of the annually anticipated publication. “Kentucky is a destination for world-class experiences and unparalleled hospitality thanks to the spirit of our people,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “As Kentuckians, we are proud to call our commonwealth home, and this visitor’s guide serves as an invitation to the world: Come visit Kentucky. We see the value in this crucial industry, which serves as a major economic driver and job creator.”

Kentucky tourism is an $11.2 billion dollar industry that serves as a mechanism for fostering economic growth in communities throughout the commonwealth. This year’s guide encourages visitors to enjoy Kentucky’s artistic talents. Whether it’s a handcrafted quilt, handblown glass, live music, bourbon barrel art, or delicious southern cuisine, each represents the voice of an artist who has drawn inspiration from living in Kentucky. Through the guide, Kentucky welcomes visitors to create their own experience, add their voice and forge beautiful memories.

“The commonwealth is full of talented Kentuckians offering visitors unique experiences that last a lifetime,” said Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Mike Berry. “The Visitor’s Guide helps inspire travelers to discover the diversity and abundance of the Kentucky story.”

The 2023 Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide’s cover features a colorful mural of two horses on the Nulu Marketplace building in Louisville. Titled “The Unified Race,” the mural was created by internationally recognized artist, and Louisville native, Kacy Jackson. Debuting with the release of the 2023 guide is a new “Kentucky Creator” video series. QR codes placed throughout the publication allow readers to view Kentucky artists in action by using a smartphone to scan codes and access videos. For visitors who wish to learn more, the guide also includes QR codes linking to additional video series and information. “Our Visitor’s Guide is an excellent source of inspiration for travelers as we approach the new year and everyone begins planning for 2023,” Commissioner Mike Mangeot, Kentucky Department of Tourism said. “We are also delighted to highlight the stories of some of our great artists in this issue through our Kentucky Creators video series, linked throughout. We look forward to a wonderful year, sharing all the great things Kentucky has to offer.” Resources in the guide include everything needed to plan a trip in Kentucky, whether exploring regionally or by topic of interest. Regional itineraries, travel tips, and a variety of other helpful information can also be found in the guide.

New 2023 Official Visitor Guides are provided at no cost to visitors and available at Kentucky’s eight visitor centers across the state and by visiting www.KentuckyTourism.com