My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park preserves the historic Federal Hill mansion and surrounding grounds, offering visitors a mix of history, scenic landscapes, and recreational opportunities in Bardstown, Kentucky.

324
Acres Protected
3.5
Miles of Trails
100,000+
Annual Visitors
1936
Year Established

About My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park
 

My Old Kentucky Home State Park is located in Bardstown, Kentucky, and centers around the historic Federal Hill mansion, famously linked to Stephen Foster's iconic song "My Old Kentucky Home." The park's rolling hills, mature trees, and limestone bluffs frame a peaceful setting along with gardens and walking paths. The Federal Hill mansion, built in the 1790s, provides an important glimpse into antebellum architecture and Kentucky’s cultural heritage. Visitors can tour the mansion, enjoy guided interpretive programs, and explore the park's grounds. Beyond history, the park offers outdoor recreational activities including walking and hiking along scenic trails, picnicking, and seasonal event participation such as the popular Kentucky Homecoming festival. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts observe local wildlife, with common species including songbirds and deer. The park features a golf course and an amphitheater for concerts and cultural events. With its combination of historic importance and outdoor appeal, My Old Kentucky Home State Park is a valuable destination for visitors seeking cultural enrichment and light outdoor recreation. Located just outside Bardstown, it is easily accessible and offers well-maintained facilities including visitor services.

Highlights

Highlight

Federal Hill Mansion – Historic antebellum home with guided tours

Highlight

Sunken Garden – Formal gardens dating to the 1930s with seasonal flowers

Highlight

Kentucky Homecoming Festival – Annual event celebrating Kentucky music and culture

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Limestone bluffs and scenic overlooks along the walking trails

Notable Natural Features

Federal Hill Mansion

The plantation home built in 1795 that inspired Stephen Foster's song, offering detailed historic tours and exhibits.

Sunken Garden

A 1930s-era terraced formal garden featuring colorful seasonal blooms and a tranquil environment.

Stephen Foster Museum

Located adjacent to the mansion, showcasing artifacts and history related to the composer and Kentucky's musical heritage.