Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Step back in time at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, a preserved 19th-century community offering history, nature, and farm-to-table dining.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, a preserved 19th-century community offering history, nature, and farm-to-table dining.
"An absolutely unforgettable getaway, transporting you into history with enriching exhibits and unique accommodations."
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds and trails.
🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations
The Trustees' Table is popular; book your table in advance to guarantee a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Village Exploration
Throughout the village
Wander through meticulously preserved Shaker buildings, learning about their unique communal lifestyle and history.
The Trustees' Table Dining
The Trustees' Table Restaurant
Savor farm-to-table cuisine inspired by Shaker recipes, often featuring ingredients from the on-site farm.
Scenic Walking Trails
Various trails around the village
Explore miles of picturesque paths, including routes to waterfalls and through serene countryside.
Carriage Rides
Village grounds
Enjoy a charming carriage ride through the historic village and surrounding landscapes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Experiences
+1Embrace the Outdoors & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds and trails.
🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations
The Trustees' Table is popular; book your table in advance to guarantee a spot.
💧 Water Shoes for Trails
Some trails involve walking through water; water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended.
👻 Paranormal Interest
The Old Mud Meeting House nearby has local ghost stories.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Shoes are Key
You'll be doing a lot of walking on historic grounds and trails.
🍽️ Book Dinner Reservations
The Trustees' Table is popular; book your table in advance to guarantee a spot.
💧 Water Shoes for Trails
Some trails involve walking through water; water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended.
👻 Paranormal Interest
The Old Mud Meeting House nearby has local ghost stories.
🐴 Carriage Ride Charm
A carriage ride offers a unique and relaxing way to see the village.
🎶 Live Music Vibes
Enjoy live music, especially during summer evenings under the oak trees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Shaker Village for its serene atmosphere, rich history, and beautiful grounds. The farm-to-table dining and well-preserved architecture are frequently highlighted as positives. However, some guests have noted issues with room comfort and late check-in times impacting their overnight experience.
"I did a day visit to this lovely historic landmark. I did not stay at the Inn overnight but did eat at the Table Restaurant. This is a beautiful serene location out in the country outside of Lexington. Docent Melinda was informative and very delightful. I learned so much about the Shaker society. She also did the music presentation and has the voice of an angel. The restaurant food was farm to table. I had the best hamburger and fries I have ever eaten! I would recommend you spend a 2 days here to see and do everything."
Deanna K
"Shaker Village is incredibly interesting, and it's great for a day visit. However, I really REALLY cannot recommend a stay and I feel very adamant that I don't think I would ever stay again. Check-in is so late in the day that half the exhibits are closed by the time you get settled, the rooms themselves are historic but not great. We checked into our room and upon getting in, it was 75 degrees in the middle of summer and the windows cannot open. We had to get maintenance to come fix it, and while they were quick and did get some air flow going in, it didn't really cool us down despite everyone else in the house getting good air. We were told that the filter had fallen and blocked the air, but that must've been an issue and ignored by previous guests, not acknowledged by room cleaning staff, or happened in between the two hours of cleaning and check-in.
The room itself also had a very creepy closet with a chest in it that we got very bad vibes from. It felt like the moment we walked into that room we were on edge.
The restaurant isn't anything special to talk about either. The dinner menu was pretty bad and the breakfast buffet was good but service was so so.
The saving grace, and the reason this place isn't getting a 1 star from me is that it is a very genuinely cool location. There was live music the night we visited and it is incredibly beautiful. I think this is a great place to make a quick day trip to, but I wouldn't stay the night here again."
Zachary Baker
"I stayed at Shaker Village when I was driving across the country. It's an incredibly special place with a rich history, delightful and professional staff, and exceptional service. The rooms are located in original historical buildings that have been incredibly well maintained. The rooms are exceptionally clean, bathrooms are well stocked with towels, soaps, etc., and the beds and bedding are super comfy. As for the broader Shaker Village experience, I can't say enough good things! The non-profit that runs the historic site have done an amazing job maintaining the grounds, gardens, and organic farm and animals. There's miles and miles of walking paths/trails to explore, daily events where you can learn about Shaker history, music, and life ways (all included in your reservation at no extra charge), and a restaurant that has three seatings per day. I didn't have time to catch one of the meals but other guests I spoke with who ate there remarked on how delicious everything was, much of it sourced right from the farm on site, and the excellent service. The gift shop has really cool books on history, Shaker inspired items of all kinds, and snacks. In the summer when I stayed there was free music under the big oak trees! It was heavenly. Although Shaker Village is a 7 hour drive from me, I fully intend on returning for a longer stay, and soon."
Sarah Griffith
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is located near Harrodsburg, Kentucky. It's a scenic drive through the Bluegrass region. Many visitors arrive by car, and it's accessible via major highways.
Public transportation options directly to Shaker Village are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle.
From Lexington, take US-60 W towards Versailles, then follow KY-33 S to Harrodsburg. Shaker Village is just south of Harrodsburg.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors.
Absolutely! Shaker Village is a popular destination for day trips, offering a rich historical experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary depending on the season and any special events. It's recommended to check the official website, shakervillageky.org, for the most current pricing and to purchase tickets in advance.
Operating hours can change seasonally. Always check shakervillageky.org for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation for buildings, exhibits, and the grounds.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets and especially dining reservations in advance is highly recommended, particularly for overnight stays and popular events, to ensure availability.
Yes, guided tours are often available and provide in-depth insights into Shaker history and life. Check the schedule upon arrival or on the website.
Yes, day visits are very popular. You can explore the grounds, visit exhibits, and dine at The Trustees' Table without staying at the Inn.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic buildings, learn about Shaker history through exhibits and tours, enjoy farm-to-table dining, walk scenic trails, and participate in workshops or special events.
Yes, Shaker Village is family-friendly with activities like petting farm animals, exploring trails, and special events such as trick-or-treating.
There are miles of walking paths and trails, including routes to waterfalls. Some trails may involve walking through water, so appropriate footwear is advised.
Yes, Shaker Village often has farm animals that visitors, especially children, can see and interact with.
The village boasts a large collection of original Shaker architecture, including unique spiral staircases and well-preserved buildings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The primary dining option is The Trustees' Table, offering farm-to-table cuisine. There may also be food trucks or other options during special events.
The Trustees' Table typically serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but hours can vary. It's best to check their schedule and make reservations, especially for dinner.
The restaurant focuses on farm-to-table dining, often featuring dishes inspired by traditional Shaker recipes and using ingredients sourced from the on-site farm.
While specific menus can change, farm-to-table restaurants often have fresh, seasonal options that can accommodate various dietary needs. It's advisable to inquire directly with the restaurant.
Outside food and beverages may be restricted in dining areas or specific buildings. It's best to consume your own food in designated picnic areas if available, or check the village's policy.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire village offers picturesque scenes. Look for charming historic buildings, scenic trails, the spiral staircase, and the tranquil countryside.
Photography policies can vary by building. Some may allow non-flash photography, while others might restrict it to protect artifacts. Check for signage or ask staff.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light for capturing the historic architecture and landscapes.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historic sites to preserve the atmosphere and for safety reasons. Check the official Shaker Village policy before flying.
Yes, you can generally take photos of the farm animals, but always be respectful of the animals and their enclosures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2 The historic buildings offer a unique educational experience, making history come alive in an engaging way. Consider visiting during special family-friendly events like trick-or-treating or pony rides. The open grounds provide plenty of space for children to run around. Remember to pack water shoes or sturdy sandals if you plan to tackle trails that involve walking through water.
+1🏛️ History Buffs
Explore meticulously preserved buildings and delve into the unique social, religious, and economic history of the Shakers. Take advantage of the guided tours and exhibits that offer deep insights into the Shakers' communal lifestyle, their beliefs in equality, and their contributions to craftsmanship. The village provides an immersive experience that goes beyond textbook learning.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
The trails to waterfalls are particularly rewarding for hikers. Pack comfortable hiking shoes and perhaps a picnic to enjoy amidst the serene landscape. The peaceful environment makes it an ideal spot for a relaxing day outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle.
🍽️ Foodies & Culinary Explorers
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner, as the dining experience is a highlight for many visitors. Enjoy a meal that reflects the Shakers' emphasis on wholesome, locally sourced food.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Shaker Way of Life
+1Visitors can explore original buildings that served as dwelling houses, workshops, and meeting spaces. Exhibits within these structures detail the Shakers' innovative crafts, furniture design, agricultural practices, and their unique spiritual beliefs, including their ecstatic worship that involved singing, dancing, and shouting. The emphasis on simplicity, order, and communal living is evident in the architecture and the preserved artifacts, offering a tangible connection to this fascinating historical period.
Understanding the Shaker philosophy is key to appreciating the village. They were pioneers in gender equality, with men and women holding equal leadership roles, and they also embraced racial equality, welcoming people of all backgrounds. Their self-sufficient communities were models of ingenuity and hard work, contributing significantly to American material culture.
+1Experiencing Shaker Village Today
The village is not just a museum; it's a living history experience. Visitors can participate in guided tours led by knowledgeable interpreters who bring the Shaker story to life. There are also workshops and demonstrations that allow hands-on learning about Shaker crafts, music, and traditions. The farm-to-table dining at The Trustees' Table is a highlight, with many ingredients sourced directly from the village's own organic farm, offering a taste of the Shakers' self-sustaining ethos.
Beyond the historical aspects, Shaker Village is a beautiful natural setting. Miles of walking trails wind through meadows and forests, leading to scenic overlooks and waterfalls. These trails offer a peaceful escape and a chance to appreciate the rural Kentucky landscape that the Shakers cherished. Special events throughout the year, from seasonal festivals to musical performances, add another layer of engagement for visitors.
+1The Legend of the Old Mud Meeting House
TikTok creator @paranormallycorrect shared insights into the legends surrounding this aging structure, highlighting its place in local folklore. While the Shakers were known for their spiritual practices, the stories associated with the Old Mud Meeting House lean more towards traditional ghost stories, making it a point of interest for those fascinated by the supernatural alongside historical exploration.
For visitors interested in a broader exploration of the area's history and legends, a brief detour to investigate the tales of the Old Mud Meeting House can add an unexpected element of intrigue to a trip to Shaker Village.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit