When international visitors to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games come calling in 2010, they’ll be pleasantly surprised by a couple of things. Unless things change drastically, the exchange rate is extremely favorable right now. For example, one € is worth almost 1.48 USD. So you can buy a lot for a little already. Now consider the cost of petrol or gasoline. At current prices, gasoline is selling for 79 cents per liter (USD). So occasionally, this feature will include some day trips for visitors who can drive for only pennies per kilometer to some of the unique attractions the Bluegrass has to offer. First stop: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill and Historic Harrodsburg.

The route from Lexington to Mercer County is an experience in and of itself. U.S. Highway 68 snakes through the Palisades—a stretch of cliffs carved by the Kentucky River over the course of a few million years. During the Games, fall foliage should paint a canvass exploding with yellows, golds, reds and soft maroons to make the drive all the more spectacular. As 68 emerges from the Palisades it opens the door to more of the rolling pasture that the region is known for. A mere eight kilometers later, turn right into Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.

The Shakers played an important role in American religious history, developing the longest lasting communal society. Their legacy is found not only in the furniture and buildings that remain at the Village, but also in their ideals of equality, peace and love.

• Explore 14 original Shaker buildings at your own pace.
• Visit with costumed interpreters as they demonstrate life in the village in the mid-19th century.
• Take a guided tour of the 40-room Centre Family Dwelling and view the extensive collection of original Shaker furniture and artifacts.
• Enjoy unforgettable solo Shaker music performances in the 1820 Meeting House.
• Discover historic animal breeds and heirloom vegetables up close, and learn more about the importance of agriculture to the Shakers, and the entire state, at the village farm.
• Watch skilled craftspeople demonstrating trade techniques commonly used by the Shakers, including broom making, woodworking, spinning and weaving.
• Learn about Shaker life and beliefs, theology, architecture and more on guided talks and walks.
• Find out more about Shaker communities at the Shaker Life Exhibit.
• View special cultural and educational exhibitions throughout the year.
• Enjoy weekend celebrations and other special events, including an antique show, craft fair, special music programs, workshops and nature programs.

After your visit at the Village, which should include lunch (the fried catfish is highly recommended), head toward Harrodsburg—one of the first permanent settlements in the Kentucky frontier. In addition to the boutiques and antique shops, there is the Beaumont Inn—a must see on any visit to Harrodsburg.

The Inn was originally built in 1845 as a school for young ladies, but has been owned and operated by members of the Dedman family for four generations dating back to 1919. The park-like grounds include 33 guest rooms and a dining room known throughout the South for its signature dish—yellow-legged fried chicken. If you would like to try a lighter fare — or to have nightcap before bed—visit the Old Owl Tavern located in the basement of the Inn.

Both Shaker Village and Beaumont Inn offer overnight accommodations, so if you have a couple of days free, this could be just the spot for a little getaway.

For more information, you can visit: www.shakervillageky.org www.beaumontinn.com