About Berea

Set alongside the Cumberland Plateau on the edge of Kentucky’s famed ‘Bluegrass Country’, Berea is a small city with a big arts and crafts reputation. Popular with culture lovers and outdoorsy travellers eager to kick back in tranquil surroundings, Berea is a wonderful holiday destination with a good selection of self-catering spots and heritage hotels. Our pick of the best places to stay in Berea is close to the centre of the city — ideal for discovering its artisanal shops, galleries, cafés and eateries.

Begin your explorations at the Berea Welcome Centre. Housed in a restored railway station, this hub is an excellent place to find out about the festivals, live music performances and artistic exhibitions which might form part of your trip. The Kentucky Artisan Centre hosts exhibitions and demonstrations, as well as selling art by Kentucky creatives. Get a sense of the city through a guided Public Art Tour, a visit to Union Church, or a hands-on craft workshop. Don't miss the chance to pick up top-notch fresh produce from the thriving farmers’ market! Sample local Kentucky bourbon in the evenings, feast on farm-to-table fare and catch an intimate gig or see a show at the Spotlight Playhouse. The city is home to Berea College, so there are an array of lively, student-led events and performances throughout the year, too.

Berea is surrounded by superb scenery, with ample opportunities to go cycling or hiking in leafy forests backed by limestone bluffs and roaring waterfalls. The Indian Fort Mountain Trail System offers gorgeous routes for admiring the Berea Pinnacles, whilst there are family-friendly biking trails and fun rafting, kayaking or boat trips on Kentucky’s many rivers. Plus, the lively horse racing captial of Lexington is just 45 minutes' drive away, and visits to world-class horse farms can be easily arranged.

Whether you’re artsy or nature-focused, the best places to stay in Berea promise the perfect base for soaking up the region’s easygoing charm.

The Best Places to Stay in Berea

For Old-School Charm

Boone Tavern Hotel features blue and white interiors with cosy armchairs and botanical prints in 63 guestrooms tucked behind a striking colonnaded façade. Centrally-located and boasting an excellent restaurant, this is a great pick for couples, friends or families looking to explore Berea and the surrounding countryside.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

Fly to Central Kentucky Regional Airport, just six miles from Berea. Alternatively, travel to Lexington's Blue Grass Airport, 45 minutes away by bus or car.
Kentucky is a wonderful state for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 26°C and 30°C, or come in the spring or autumn for cooler weather. The annual Kentucky Derby, in May, is the busiest time of year — book well in advance if you're visiting for the race and festival.