February 2026 Issue
Real Country, Real Escape
Enjoy authentic Kentucky hospitality in Taylorsville & Spencer County.
A Winter Weekend in Taylorsville, Spencer County, KY
When winter settles over Taylorsville Lake and the hills get frosted, Spencer County turns into the most snug, welcoming, heartwarming little getaway in Kentucky. Its a safe quick jump from Louisville, Frankfort, or Lexington and let me tell you, Spencer County maintains its winter roads like a boss.
Winter Weekend Itinerary
Enjoy this magical little weekend plan. It’s what I would do with my husband and kiddos if I were visiting Taylorsville!
Friday Night: Margaritas & Music
El Lago Bar & Grill
Start with margaritas and Friday‑night music at El Lago Bar & Grill.
Website: https://ellagobarandgrill.com/
Hours/Menu Listing: https://www.restaurantji.com/ky/taylorsville/el-lago-bar-and-grill-/
Additional Info: https://www.checkle.com/biz/el-lago-bar-grill-taylorsville [ellagobara…dgrill.com][https://ww…and-grill-][https://ww…ylorsville]
Edgewater Resort – Lakeside Cottages
Settle in for a peaceful winter stay with fireplaces, lake views, and hot tubs.
Website: https://www.edgewatertaylorsvillelake.com/
Book here via VRBO!
Saturday: Brunch, Horses & Comfort Food
(Local Favorite!) Jac n Jill Bakery
A warm, homey, made‑from‑scratch brunch spot.
Website: https://www.jacnjillbakery.com/
Store Hours
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Closed: Sunday – Wednesday
Address:
105 Settlers Center Rd. Taylorsville, KY 40071
Louisville Equestrian Center (Red Barn location in Taylorsville)
A refreshing, revitalizing horseback experience.
Website: https://www.louisvilleequestriancenter.com/
Facility Details & Hours: https://www.yelp.com/biz/louisville-equestrian-center-taylorsville
Revival Coffee Company (Spencer County)
Pick up your comfort‑food bliss: a family‑sized Chicken & Dumplings pan.
Website: https://revivalcoffeesc.com/
Menu Listing: https://www.restaurantji.com/ky/fisherville/revival-coffee-co-/
Menu & Ordering: https://www.menupix.com/kentucky/restaurants/33268731/Revival-Coffee-Company-Fisherville-KY [https://re…ffeesc.com][restaurantji.com][menupix.com]
Insider Tip: Be sure to order in advance, place your order on Friday night to ensure Saturday night pickup!
Bubbles + Bourbon
Sip JD Shelburne’s Signature Series Bourbon in your Edgewater cottage’s hot tub for a toasty, relaxed evening. If you are extra lucky it will snow!
Distillery Partner: https://www.inclusion-brand.com/ [jdshelburne.com][inclusion-brand.com]
Pick up a bottle at Good Time Liquor: 5471 Taylorsville Road / Fisherville, KY
Sunday: Trails, Leftovers & Kitschy Shopping
Taylorsville Lake State Park
Enjoy a brisk, invigorating winter walk. Free entry + free parking.
Trail Info: https://parks.ky.gov/explore/taylorsville-lake-state-park-7827
Park Overview: https://visittaylorsville.com/taylorsville-lake-state-park/
Heirloom Paints (Heirloom Traditions Paint Co. Store)
A charming, feel‑good, gift‑filled shopping stop.
Store Page: https://www.allinonepaint.com/heirloom-traditions-company-store
Hours & Address: https://www.allinonepaint.com/
Local Feature: https://visittaylorsville.com/tag/heirloom-paints/
After a weekend in Taylorsville you will head home, happy and relaxed. There is nothing quite like a small-town reset to focus on what truly matters!
See you soon!
Kat (Mom of 4, Small-Town enthusiast, Tourism Director)
January 2026 Issue
Why Spencer County Should Be on Every Equestrian’s Radar
If you love horses and you’re anywhere near Spencer County, KY, you’re in for a treat. This area might not be as famous as Lexington, but it’s got plenty to offer for folks who want to ride, camp, or just enjoy the horse life.
Whether you’re a seasoned horse expert or just looking to reconnect with nature on horseback, Spencer County offers:
• Beautiful trails and campsites
• Legal road riding
• Local charm and quiet surroundings
• Easy access to Kentucky’s biggest horse events
Trail Riding at Taylorsville Lake
The big draw here is Taylorsville Lake State Park, which features a 24-mile trail system designed for horseback riding, hiking, and mountain biking. Riders can explore loops like Legends Run and Piney Woods, all set in beautiful Kentucky countryside.
You can bring your own horse or check out local stables like Free Spirit Ranch and Foothills Equestrian Center, which offer guided rides and lessons.
Horse Camping
Traveling with your horse? No problem. The Taylorsville Lake Horse Campground has 10 equestrian sites with water and electric hookups, plus access to laundry and bathhouses. It’s a great spot to settle in after a long day on the trails.
Reservations are encouraged but not required, and well-behaved pets are welcome too.
Small-Town Charm
After your ride, head into Taylorsville for a bite or a browse. The town offers cozy diners, local shops, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for unwinding. It is also a charming base for exploring greater Kentucky’s equestrian scene.
Road Riding? Totally Legal!
Here’s something cool: in Kentucky, it’s legal to ride your horse on public roads, as long as you follow traffic laws. The only thing that’s specifically prohibited is racing your horse downhill on a highway. So yes—you can saddle up and take a scenic trot through town.
Scenic Drives Through Horse Country
Even if you’re not riding, Spencer County is surrounded by some of Kentucky’s most iconic horse country drives:
• Old Frankfort Pike: Known as “Thoroughbred Alley,” this 16-mile stretch showcases champion farms like Lane’s End and Three Chimneys.
• Bluegrass Parkway: A 70-mile corridor through Kentucky’s equestrian heartland, perfect for spotting breeding farms and rolling pastures.
These drives are ideal for soaking in the horse-loving spirit of the Bluegrass State.
The Perfect Base for Big Events
Want to attend a major horse show or equestrian event? Spencer County is a quiet, affordable place to stay while you explore nearby hotspots:
• Louisville (about 45 minutes away) hosts the World’s Championship Horse Show and the Kentucky Derby.
• Lexington (just over an hour away) is home to the Kentucky Horse Park, which features year-round events, clinics, and competitions.
You get the best of both worlds—peaceful trails and campgrounds in Spencer County, plus easy access to world-class horse events just down the road.
Resources
• Kentucky State Parks – Taylorsville Lake
• Taylorsville Lake Horse Campground Info
• Kentucky Revised Statutes – Horse Road Use
• Free Spirit Ranch – Taylorsville KY
• Foothills Equestrian Center – Spencer County
• Kentucky Horse Park Events Calendar
• World’s Championship Horse Show – Louisville
Address: 1320 Park Rd, Mt Eden, KY 40046
Phone: (502) 477-8713
Free and Fun Things to Do at Taylorsville Lake State Park
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly outdoor escape in Kentucky, Taylorsville Lake State Park is a fantastic option. Just a short drive from Louisville or Lexington, this park offers a peaceful setting with plenty of free activities for families, hikers, and horseback riders.
Hit the Trails
One of the best things about Taylorsville Lake is its trail system. With around 24 miles of multi-use trails, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re hiking, biking, or riding horses. The trails take you through wooded areas, open fields, and along the lake, offering great views and a chance to see wildlife.
Some of the more popular trails include:
- Taylorsville Lake Trail – about 4.4 miles, good for a moderate hike
- Legends Run, Lakeview Vista, Piney Woods, and Possum Ridge Loop – a longer, more challenging 9.9-mile loop
Visitors often mention how quiet and well-kept the trails are. One hiker said they only passed a few people and saw lots of deer—perfect if you’re looking for a peaceful day outdoors.
A Great Spot for Horseback Riding
If you enjoy horseback riding, this park is a must-visit. The trails are horse-friendly, and there are even campsites designed specifically for equestrians, complete with water and electric hookups. The terrain is gentle and scenic, making it a great place for both experienced riders and beginners.
Family-Friendly Fun at the Playground
The park has two playgrounds, and the newer one has been getting great reviews. Parents say it’s clean, safe, and a great place for kids to play while the adults relax or enjoy a picnic. It’s a nice bonus if you’re visiting with little ones.
Other Free Activities
Besides the trails and playgrounds, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy the park without spending a dime:
- Picnic areas with tables and grills
- Wildlife watching
- Fishing Gear Lending Library at the State Park Welcome Center (yes, free!!!)
- Access to the lake for fishing (just make sure you have a license)
Dogs are welcome too, so feel free to bring your pup along for the adventure.
Plan Your Visit
Taylorsville Lake State Park is open year-round, and most of the activities are completely free. While there are fees for camping and horse sites, day-use areas like the trails and playgrounds are open to everyone.
Whether you’re hiking, riding, or just looking for a quiet place to relax, this park is a great spot to enjoy the outdoors without spending much.