News Summary
Kentucky State Parks is celebrating its centennial anniversary, established in 1924. The state has launched activities to enhance visitor experiences, including a special lager brewed for the occasion. Governor Andy Beshear emphasized the importance of these parks in improving the quality of life for Kentuckians. The collaboration with Against the Grain Brewing aims to raise funds for park upgrades. The new lager will be available across 20 parks and select retailers, encouraging exploration of Kentucky’s natural beauty.
FRANKFORT, KY – Kentucky State Parks are marking their 100th anniversary, having been officially established in 1924. To commemorate this milestone, the state has initiated several activities, enhancing visitors’ experiences and revitalizing the parks.
The formation of the Kentucky Parks Commission led to the creation of the first four parks, one of which was the acclaimed Natural Bridge State Resort Park. A centennial celebration was recently held at this park, attended by Governor Andy Beshear, who highlighted the vital role of natural parks in improving the quality of life for Kentuckians.
As part of the anniversary festivities, a special lager has been brewed specifically for Kentucky’s parks by Against the Grain Brewing, a popular brewery based in Louisville. The brewery has committed to donating 5% of the proceeds from this lager to support much-needed upgrades and repairs across the state parks. This collaboration not only celebrates the centennial but also furthers the preservation of these natural venues.
The newly crafted lager is set to be available in 20 state parks and select retailers starting mid-December, providing a unique way for visitors to support Kentucky’s natural heritage while enjoying a locally brewed beverage.
Against the Grain Brewing’s co-owner expressed pride in this partnership, tying their craft beer passion to the rich offerings of Kentucky’s outdoors. The brewery encourages locals and tourists alike to explore the states’ natural beauty and experience the outdoor activities that these parks provide.
Kentucky State Parks boast numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure. Popular activities include hiking, with notable parks such as Cumberland Falls and Kenlake State Resort Park attracting visitors year-round. Each park presents a unique landscape and a chance for exploration, catering to both inexperienced hikers and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts.
In recognition of the dynamic tourism landscape within Kentucky, Lexington has emerged as one of the South’s prime destinations for horse racing and bourbon culture. The city has gained a reputation for its vibrant atmosphere and rich traditions, further enhancing its appeal to visitors. Additionally, Maysville has been characterized as a historic ‘hidden gem’ along the famed Bourbon Trail, attracting those interested in the state’s deep-rooted distilling heritage.
Kentucky offers a variety of attractions, from stunning natural landmarks to cultural and historical sites, unveiling the diverse experiences available across the state. Other cities within Kentucky have also received accolades in a recent publication that ranked the best cities in the South for 2024, highlighting the growing recognition of Kentuckian tourism.
The tourism community throughout Kentucky is actively engaged in promoting local attractions and fostering initiatives that drive visitor interest. With the celebration of Kentucky State Parks’ century-long legacy, the collaborative efforts of local businesses, like Against the Grain Brewing, demonstrate a commitment to supporting these vital natural resources while enhancing the overall visitor experience in the state.
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Article on Kentucky State Parks
- Wikipedia: Kentucky State Parks
- Kentucky Living: Win 2 Nights in a Kentucky State Park
- Google Search: Kentucky State Parks 100th Anniversary
- LEX18: Gov. Beshear Unveils Craft Beer for Anniversary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kentucky
- Spectrum News: Kentucky State Parks and Beer
- Google News: Kentucky State Parks
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
