Selling Travel Connect: Kentucky highlighted why agents should be selling travel to the American state that’s known as ‘the Gateway to the South’.
“Our goal is to help agents see Kentucky through a different lens. We want them to discover a destination that delivers iconic American experiences without the premium price tag often associated with larger U.S. gateway cities,” said Chenelle McGee, International and Group Sales Director at Kentucky Tourism.
She explained the aim of the events is to showcase Kentucky’s unique blend of world-famous attractions, authentic hospitality, vibrant cities, outdoor adventure and sporting experiences, bourbon culture, and the state’s appeal to a range of travellers.
Kentucky’s exceptional value
“Most importantly, we want agents to leave feeling confident that Kentucky offers exceptional value and memorable experiences for families, couples, groups and sports enthusiasts alike,” she emphasised.
“Kentucky delivers experiences at an accessible price point. Travellers can tour legendary bourbon distilleries, experience world-class horse racing, attend major sporting events, enjoy authentic Bluegrass music and explore breathtaking outdoor landscapes, all while often spending significantly less than they would in other similar states. Visitors don’t have to compromise on quality, authenticity or experiences to stay within budget,” explained Chenelle.
Kentucky is evolving and offers an increasingly diverse visitor experience with something for everyone. That includes kayaking in underground caves, hiking on scenic trails and professional sporting events. Exploring dynamic urban neighbourhoods and enjoying award-winning culinary experiences are also options.
“What truly sets Kentucky apart is our welcoming spirit,” said Chenelle. “Whether guests are visiting for a weekend getaway, a family vacation, events and festivals, or a once-in-a-lifetime bourbon experience, they’ll find genuine hospitality and a destination where everyone feels welcome. Kentucky isn’t simply a stop along the way; it’s a destination worth discovering in its own right.”
Bourbon culture in Louisville, Kentucky
Speaking at the event at the SKYbar Edinburgh, Jessica Grace, Director of Tourism Development at Louisville Tourism, said: “I think the most interesting part of the connectivity between Louisville, Kentucky, and Edinburgh, Scotland is our whiskey and bourbon culture. Between our two countries and two cities is the tie to spirits experiences that we share but are so different and unique. The running of the Kentucky Derby recently is another highlight, and I’m really excited to talk about that to travel agents about all the other great cultural experiences we have going on in the city, from our sports to our culinary to our museums and live music.”
15 great reasons to sell travel to Kentucky
- The buzzing bar and restaurant scenes in Louisville and Lexington offer exceptional value for money and memorable culinary experiences.
- The latter is known as ‘the capital of the world’. Tours of horse farms offer fascinating insights into how the racehorses are bred and trained.
- The Kentucky Derby sees 150,000 spectators gather at Churchill Downs in Louisville. The world-class sporting event is a bucket list experience for many and a highlight of the social calendar. Donning a hat and holding a Mint Julep is part of the experience.
- Travellers should also experience horse racing in Lexington, which hosts the prestigious Breeders’ Cup at its Keeneland racecourse.
- Prefer horsepower of a different kind? The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green tells the story of ‘America’s Sports Car’ and showcases a remarkable collection of the coveted cars.
- Kentucky is the home of Bluegrass music – an upbeat, folky genre played using string instruments. Free concerts are offered at The Rosine Barn Jamboree on Friday nights. Discover more about the genre and its stars at The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum on Owensboro.
- Visit Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace and see a replica of his humble one-room cabin at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park.
- Kentucky has around 95% of the world’s bourbon whiskey. The state has more than 100 distilleries and many can be visited for tastings, tours and experiences. They range from complimentary tours at Buffalo Trace Distillery to mixology experiences at Woodford Reserve. Bourbon-based menus feature at some.
- At 101 miles long, Kentucky’s Lake Cumberland is the biggest man-made lake in the U.S. and is known as ‘the Houseboat Capital of the World’. Hiring a houseboat is an ideal way of relaxing and experiencing the lake.
- Clients looking to experience nature during their trip to the U.S. can hike, climb, kayak or cycle through breathtaking landscapes, including the cascading Cumberland Falls and the rugged Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest. Hiring an RV or spending time at a campsite offers opportunities to go fishing, stargazing, and birdwatching, and to roast s’mores by the campfire.
- Kentucky is home to the longest-known cave system in the world. Mammoth Cave National Park has more than 400 miles of interconnected chambers and tunnels. Hiring an RV or spending time at a campsite offers opportunities to go fishing, stargazing, birdwatching and the chance to roast s’mores by the campfire.
- Stay at luxury properties with refreshingly accessible prices. The Seelbach Hilton Louisville and The Manchester Hotel in Lexington deliver style, stories and comfort. Ranch-style properties include The Hidden Cave Ranch Bed and Breakfast, where guests can saddle up for a cowboy experience.
- Billed as ‘the world’s most inclusive experience’, a new attraction is set to open in Louisville in October. The Dot Experience will make every exhibit and artefact accessible to all of its visitors.
- Exploring Louisville’s neighbourhoods offers memorable insights into the city. Old Louisville hosts the St. Jame Court Art Show each October and activities throughout the year. Butchertown, near the downtown area, has great shops and restaurants.
- The Muhammad Ali Center in downtown Louisville tells the story of the Louisville-born world champion who rose above sport. This year marks 10 years since Ali succumbed to Parkinson’s disease.
Connect Kentucky prize winners
The agents present had opportunities to win prizes by mixing bourbon-based cocktails and choosing the winner of the Kentucky Derby.
In Edinburgh, the winners included Alison McCarney of Inteletravel, Steven McLean of Barrhead Travel and Greig Ewins of Stewart Travel.
In Leeds, one day later, the winners were Phil O’Boyle, Emma Wainwright and Debra Dickson.
View the Connect Calendar to plan your attendance at future Selling Travel Connect events.
More information
Discover more about Kentucky and Louisville on their respective websites.
