If you’re Kentucky born and raised, then chances are you’ll like this list. You may not go crazy for each item, but they all find their way into most Kentuckians hearts. Kentucky has its own flavor, traditions and soul and those from Kentucky know that it just feels like home.
1. Horses
Welcome to Kentucky, aka Horse Country. With The Kentucky Derby, The Kentucky Horse Park, hundreds of gorgeous horse farms and endless trails to discover on horse back, people in Kentucky just plain love horses.
2. College Basketball
No need for Major League teams here; in Kentucky you either bleed blue or red. Kentucky has two top notch college basketball teams to cheer for and the fans of both University of Kentucky and University of Louisville will tell you they are crazy for their team.
3. The Signature Sandwich
The Kentucky Hot Brown is a broiled, open-faced sandwich that may not have the prettiest presentation, but who cares? It's delicious and anyone from Kentucky will not let you argue anything different.
4. A Trail To Follow
Kentucky loves a good trail. It also loves bourbon and as the bourbon capital of the world, you can follow The Bourbon Trail to visit several picturesque distilleries. Kentucky is also filled with countless hiking trails, that cover all types of terrain. Between these two types of trails, there is really no reason to spend much time indoors while in Kentucky.
5. Bluegrass Music
Many argue that this toe-tapping style of music originated right here in the Bluegrass state, thanks to Bill Monroe and his "Blue Grass Boys." You'll find bluegrass music all over the state and it's celebrated during the oldest bluegrass festival in the country the second weekend of June in Lexington with Festival of the Bluegrass.
6. Hidden Treasures
Scattered throughout Kentucky, you'll find several antique shops, festivals, flea markets, thrift shops and other places to find a hidden treasure. Kentucky is also home to the World's Longest Yard Sale that stretches from Michigan all the way to Alabama, but most importantly, right through Kentucky.
7. Ale-8-One
Since 1926, Ale-8-One has been bottled in Winchester and Kentuckians have been enjoying it ever since. This ginger and citrus flavored soft drink is best chilled, right out of the bottle or as many locals will tell you, mixed with bourbon.
8. Kentucky's Sons and Daughters
Many celebrities, politicians, musicians and authors were born or raised in Kentucky, which makes them part of the family. Most notably, Muhammad Ali, Abraham Lincoln, Daniel Boone, George Clooney, Johnny Depp, Patty Loveless, and of course Colonel Harland Sanders all call Kentucky home.
9. Fancy Hats
Where else on this side of the pond can you get away with wearing a large, overly decorated hat? At Derby time, women flock to this famed Kentucky accessory - the more over the top, the better.
10. Sweet Tea
When you're in Kentucky, tea is sweet, and that's that. It's also served over ice and if you're feeling crazy, mix it with half lemonade for a classic Arnold Palmer.
11. A Stellar Sunset
Kentucky's beauty is undeniable and one of the best times to take it in is at sunset. Kentucky Lake plays host to some of the best sunsets around, but they are really spectacular in many spots around the state.
12. Burgoo
Burgoo is difficult to define, as it is a little different each time you try it. It was originally created to use whatever meat and vegetables were available, and it's basically still made the same way. You'll see it on many menus throughout Kentucky, so don't be afraid to try this slow-cooked delicacy.
13. Tradition
Tradition and history run deep in Kentucky. Quilting has long been a tradition, along with many others that vary throughout the state. The bottom line is that Kentuckians enjoy carrying on as previous generations once did.
14. A Good View
If you're not from Kentucky, you may not think of it as a state with spectacular views. But with mountains, ridges, gorges, caves and sparkling bodies of water, Kentucky is just as awe-inspiring as any other state.
15. Kentucky Itself
Kentucky has pride. We stick up for ourselves and have a deep love for our state. We will put you right if you have misconceptions, but at the same time, we'll welcome you over for supper. We love our Bluegrass State - our Old Kentucky Home.
Kentucky is a proud state, deep in tradition and history. It’s diverse in people and terrain and that’s why many who are from here always seem to find their way back. So, what do you think of the list? Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments! And for more local Kentucky items like those in the last photo, check out Shop Local Kentucky here .
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