52 Things to Do in the Area — This Week’s Highlight
Outing: 9 of 52 – The Hip Kiln: Get Creative
I’ve had the chance to spend time at The Hip Kiln🎨, and it’s easily become one of my favorite creative spots in town. This charming pottery studio has been in operation for over two years and has hosted a wide variety of events along the way.
The space itself is so inviting—shelves line the walls, filled with a huge variety of pottery pieces to choose from. I love that you can pick anything from ceramic figurines and mugs to dishes and other household items. No matter what you are in the mood to create, there’s always something that will catch your eye. They provide everything to decorate the piece you choose, and once finished, just leave it with them to be fired in their kiln 🔥. Pricing varies depending on the size and piece, which makes it easy to find something within budget. They also receive new inventory regularly and keep up with seasons and holidays, so there’s always something fresh and fun to paint 🎃🎄🌸.
One of the best parts of the experience at The Hip Kiln is the staff. Everyone there is so friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about helping people create. Whenever you need guidance, they’ll be right there with helpful painting techniques, color combinations, and creative ideas. It really makes a difference—you’ll be surprised what you can create with a little encouragement and a paintbrush in hand 😊.
I will say the space isn’t huge, so seating for classes can be limited—but honestly, that just makes the experience feel more personal. The instructors are able to spend more time helping everyone, making sure each person feels supported and their piece turns out great. Every time I walk in, I’m reminded why I keep going back.❤️
The Hip Kiln creates such a welcoming and safe environment to just relax and be creative. You can go alone, with friends, or bring family along, it always turns into a special experience. They offer private parties, which is perfect for birthdays, work events, or just a fun get-together 🎉. Their event lineup is always changing, with options like holiday-themed painting classes, paint-and-sip nights 🍷, mystery-solving events, and even hands-on wet clay classes where you can make something completely from scratch.
Another fun bonus is their drink options 🍹. During classes and events, they offer drinks and mocktails, and their full drink menu is available online with options like wine, cocktails, beer, and soda—perfect for a relaxed night out. Their website is a great resource for everything you need, from drink selections to upcoming classes, event dates, and ticket booking. Hours can vary, so it’s best to check online, but you can typically find them open on weekends starting at noon.
Something that really sets them apart is their mobile travel setup 🚐. I’ve seen it in action at the MMF event last year, and it’s such a unique addition. They can bring pottery painting directly to parties, festivals, or family gatherings, and then you just pick up your finished glazed pieces later at the studio.
If you’re looking for a meaningful gift 🎁, this is where you need to head. Whether you paint something yourself or take a class to create a one-of-a-kind piece, it will feel more personal being something you designed and painted. Even when you’re not shopping for someone it’s just such a fun, creative outlet. If you’re looking to unwind, try something new, or make lasting memories, this place truly delivers 💕.
📍520 Monticello St, Somerset, KY 42501
#52ThingsToDoInTheArea #TheHipKiln #DateNightIdeas #ArtTherapy #SupportLocalKY
Outing: 8 of 52- Dairy Bar: Step Back in Time
A visit to the Dairy Bar is more than just a meal—it a chance to experience a true piece of small-town Kentucky history. 🍦🚗 Established in 1933, this beloved local landmark has served generations of families and travelers passing through the region. Long before it became known as the Dairy Bar, it originally operated as Andersons Cafe, a community gathering place that helped shape the town’s early dining scene.
Over the decades, the diner evolved into the Dairy Bar locals know today, while still holding onto its nostalgic charm. Walking inside feels like stepping back in time to a classic 1950s roadside diner, where friendly smiles, familiar faces, and the sounds of the grill create a welcoming atmosphere. The open kitchen lets guests watch the flat-top cooking in action, bringing back memories of the traditional diners. 😊
The Dairy Bar has become much more than a restaurant—it’s a community hub for Whitley City. Families gather after ballgames, friends meet up on warm summer evenings, and travelers stop by while exploring the beautiful landscapes of southern Kentucky. The glowing lights out front and the vintage-style setup almost call out to passing cars, inviting you to pull in.
One of the most unique features is its original drive-in style setup. The decor inside is vintage and has tables and booths. Guests can remain parked in their car for to-go orders, step inside for the full diner experience, or sit outside at the round picnic tables with umbrellas to enjoy their meal. On weekends and summer nights, the place is often buzzing with activity—it’s truly a “hoppin’” gathering spot. 🚙
After more than 90 years, the Dairy Bar continues to keep its traditions alive while welcoming new visitors every day. Its rich history, friendly atmosphere, and classic diner charm make it a must-stop destination when exploring the area. One of the diner’s long-standing traditions is its famous Dixie Whopper Platter 🍔, a favorite that generations of locals have come back for time and time again. The Dairy Bar takes pride in using fresh ingredients, sourcing their meat from Perkins’ Meat & Feed Store and hand-pattying their burgers daily to ensure quality and flavor.
Of course, no visit would be complete without dessert.🍦The ice cream swirl machine offers several flavors to choose from. Their rich, decadent hot fudge cake has become a favorite of mine and the orange dreamsicle milkshake was good too. You may find it hard to pick just one dessert! The menu offers classic diner favorites at prices that won’t hurt your wallet. If you’re exploring southern Kentucky, this longtime diner is one of those small-town gems that reminds you why local history and community gathering places still matter. ❤️
📍 Location: 198 S Main St, Whitley City, KY 42653
#52WeeksOfAdventure #OldFashionedGoodness #Since1930s #FoodieFinds #LakeCumberland
Outing: 7 of 52- Woodstock Lavender Farm: Step Into the Lavender Fields
Discover the Beauty of Lavender Season! 🌿💜 The Woodstock Lavender Company has some great history and I recently had the chance to learn the story behind the farm which makes the visit feel even more special.
The land itself carries a beautiful piece of family history. Their father and grandfather, L.G. Colyer, once borrowed money to purchase this farm in south-central Kentucky—land that today is home to more than 700 lavender plants. During the Great Depression, he struggled to keep up with the payments and made a difficult decision: he traveled by train to Detroit to work for two years. The money he sent home to Kentucky saved the land and ultimately began the legacy that would become Woodstock Lavender Company. 💜
I’m excited to share that this years event tickets officially went live on March 1, with a full lineup of experiences happening throughout May and June at the farm. ✨ Throughout the summer, the farm hosts a variety of events including workshops, classes, farm dinners, festivals, wellness experiences, and you-pick opportunities that welcome hundreds of visitors into the lavender fields each season. 🪻One event I’m especially excited about is “Tea on the Farm,” happening May 30 and May 31 at 5 p.m. Tickets are $45 each, and seats are limited—this event traditionally sells out quickly!
When you attend Tea on the Farm, it truly feels like stepping into the lavender fields and straight into the French countryside- inspired by Provence, petals, and perfectly poured tea. 🇫🇷🌸 The experience is designed to delight all five senses. Imagine long farm tables dressed in soft florals, delicate china teacups waiting to be filled, and the scent of blooming lavender drifting through a warm Kentucky breeze.
Guests enjoy a thoughtfully curated France-inspired menu, prepared with the farm’s farm-to-table philosophy in mind. Items served include: Lavender Honey & Goat Cheese Tartine, Provençal Greens with Lavender Vinaigrette, Herbes de Provence Quiche with Lavender Crust, and Lavender Lemon Ricotta Crêpe. For dessert a Lavender Crème Brûlée and drinks are Herbal Tea & Lavender Lemonade🍋💜
In addition to Tea on the Farm, there are many exciting events planned for the 2026 season, there is something for everyone! 🌸 A Mother’s Day Floral Class, 🧹 A Broom-Making Workshop, 😂 A Stand-Up Comedy Show & Farm-to-Table Dinner, 👧 Multiple Kids’ Camps, 🌿 Wreath-Making Workshops, 🧘♀️ Yoga on the Farm, 👯♀️ Girls’ Night Out Events, 💜 The Lavender Festival and so much more! Two additional favorites that visitors love each year include 🌞 Kids’ Day and the 💜 Lavender Festival.
💐 These experiences are perfect whether you gather your mother, daughter, friends, lavender-lovers or simply come enjoy a peaceful afternoon on your own. It’s truly a celebration of beauty, heritage, fresh air, and the beautiful grounds the farm offers.
Another fun offering from the farm is their lavender subscription box. 📦💜 This is their 5th year offering it, and it’s such a creative way to enjoy the farm year-round. Every other month, subscribers receive exclusive, handcrafted lavender treasures—from luxurious self-care products to culinary treats and home essentials. Subscribers also receive special perks, including a free visit to the farm during lavender season and additional subscriber-only surprises throughout the year. It’s a wonderful way to experience a variety of their products, and you also have the option to purchase items separately on their website.
What inspired me most during my visit was the heart behind what they do. The farm beautifully blends agriculture, family heritage, and a love for the land into a line of home, body, and kitchen products. Their focus on responsibly sourced ingredients and supporting fellow local growers and small businesses truly reflects the spirit of our community.
If you’re looking for a unique experience this summer, I highly recommend exploring what Woodstock Lavender Company has to offer. Whether you’re planning a time to enjoy one of their events or searching for thoughtful gifts for loved ones, their website is full of helpful information and beautiful photos showcasing the farm, their events, and their lavender products. You can find event tickets and subscription box details on their website.
https://www.woodstocklavender.com/ 🌿💜
📍 13394 KY-39, Somerset, KY 42503
#FarmToTableExperience #GirlsDayOut #KentuckyFarms #FieldOfDreams #52WeeksOfAdventure
Outing: 6 of 52- The Goodie Shack: 70 Years of Service
✨ THE GOODIE SHACK – A Burnside Tradition Since 1956! ✨
Located in Burnside, KY, The Goodie Shack has been serving up family-friendly favorites year after year — and this year marks their incredible 70th Anniversary in business! 🎉
In 1950, the completion of Wolf Creek Dam led to the flooding and relocation of the original town of Burnside, including the historic Seven Gables Hotel. As the community rebuilt in its current location, The Goodie Shack opened shortly after in 1956, becoming a beloved seasonal staple. Operating primarily from March through November, it has long been a sure sign that summer has officially arrived in Burnside. ☀️
After speaking with the current owner, I had to ask about the bold “World’s Best Hot Dog” claim displayed on their sign. The story? About 40 years ago, they won a local hot dog competition 🌭🏆 — and that proud title has remained ever since! Today, you can still order their famous hot dogs regular or foot-long, served plain, fully loaded, or topped with chili and all the fixings.
Step inside and you’ll immediately feel that classic diner nostalgia. From the vintage charm of the building to the comforting menu, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel like family the moment you walk through the door. Favorite menu items include: 🍔 Juicy Burgers, 🍗 Chicken Tenders, Mini Corn Dogs and sides of 🍟 Crispy Fries & Hushpuppies, and 🧅 Golden Onion Rings. Of course, no visit is complete without something sweet! 🍦 Treat yourself and tastebuds to a classic ice cream cone or banana split, or cool down with one of their thick, delicious shakes — available in a variety of flavors, and yes, you can make it a malt! 🥤
The portions are generous and guaranteed to fill you up! 😋 While the food is fantastic, the employees are truly exceptional — friendly, sweet, and always accommodating.
It’s the perfect stop on your way to or from the lake 🚤, after a hike 🥾, during a lunch break, or whenever you’re craving a quick meal or treat. Enjoy the convenience of the drive-thru, dine inside, or grab a seat at the picnic tables outside on a beautiful Kentucky day. ☀️
It’s a busy little spot — with locals calling in orders, picking up their “usuals,” and visitors discovering a new favorite.
Whether you’re a lifelong local or just passing through, make sure to stop by The Goodie Shack for a meal and keep this local favorite going for another 70 years!
📍 7788 S. Hwy. 27, Burnside, KY 42519
#FamilyFriendlyDining #LakeCumberlandEats #TheGoodieShack #Since1956 #52WeeksOfAdventure
Outing: 5 of 52- Haney’s Appledale Farm: Deep Roots, Sweet Traditions
If you are looking for a true taste of Kentucky tradition, a visit to Haney’s Appledale Farm in Nancy is an absolute must! 🍎🌳
Nestled in the heart of South-Central Kentucky, this family-owned gem has been welcoming visitors since the 1870s. I loved learning that it’s been passed down through five generations and was even recognized by the Somerset-Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce as Pulaski County’s oldest business in continuous operation. You can truly feel that heritage the moment you arrive. ❤️
The farm stretches across more than 450 beautiful acres, and walking the property felt like stepping into a postcard. They grow over 25 varieties of apples along with more than 10 varieties of summer favorites like peaches, pears, and nectarines. During harvest season, you have the chance to stroll through the orchards and pick fruit straight from the tree. There’s nothing quite like that crisp, just-picked crunch — it doesn’t get any fresher than that! ✨
As a certified Kentucky Farm Bureau Roadside Market, the selection was incredible. Depending on the season, you can find found fresh apple cider, pumpkins, summer vegetables, gourds, and colorful mums. Inside the market, I browsed shelves filled with jams, specialty sauces, molasses, gourmet cheeses, cookbooks, and so much more. I was especially impressed by their large line of sugar-free products — it made it easy to bring home something sweet for everyone.
If you’re looking for the perfect holiday or birthday gift, this is the place. I loved that they can ship a little piece of Kentucky to friends and family across the country — such a thoughtful (and delicious) surprise. It would make the sweetest date day, or a fun outing with the whole family to start a tradition you’ll look forward to year after year. 🌳
One of my favorite parts of the visit was stopping by the café, currently open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 AM to 5 PM, inside the original Haney family home. This historic house was the first all-electric home in Pulaski County when it was built by Lawrence and Oreida Haney — such a fascinating piece of local history! ☕🏡 You can enjoy a warm meal and treat yourself to delicious baked goods here. I couldn’t pass up the delectable fried apple pie before heading back out to explore the grounds.
From its humble beginnings as a roadside fruit stand to becoming a beloved staple of the Lake Cumberland region, Haney’s Appledale Farm felt like so much more than a farm — it was a full experience. 🌻✨ I left with full bags, a full heart, and a new favorite tradition I can’t wait to revisit.
📍8350 KY-80, Nancy, KY 42544
#52WeeksOfAdventure #HaneysFarm #LakeCumberland #LiveAppley
Outing: 4 of 52- Keno Cove Café at Lake Cumberland Resort lll
When you’re staying at Lake Cumberland Resort, there’s no need to drive into town for a delicious meal — it’s waiting for you right here at Keno Cove Café. 🍽️ The best part? You don’t have to be a resort guest to enjoy it. Simply stop by, bring your friends, and make Keno Cove Café a destination all its own.
Indulge in our homemade ice cream and rich, handcrafted fudge, or savor one of our specialty coffee drinks made with premium Baxter’s coffee beans. 🍳Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast, a fresh salad, a hearty sandwich, comforting soup, delicious pizza, or even a refreshing cocktail, you’ll find it all at our very own Keno Cove Café.🥗🍹 Every snack and sweet treat is made right in our kitchen, ensuring fresh flavors in every bite.
Open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM, Keno Cove Café is the closest and most convenient dining option for our resort guests. Whether you’re starting your morning with breakfast, grabbing lunch between lake adventures, or settling in for an early dinner, we make it easy to dine well without ever leaving the property.Our carefully curated recipes allow us to deliver simple food in a big way. 🍕We make our pizza dough from scratch, bake our own bread and rolls for hamburgers and soups, and prepare all of our snacks and sweet treats right in our kitchen. Every detail matters — from the texture of our dough to the balance of flavors in our soups and sandwiches. When it comes to dessert, we love to get creative. 🍨Our homemade ice cream and rich fudge rotate with the seasons because we’ve taken the time to discover which flavors shine — and which new combinations are worth experimenting with. There’s always something new (and something classic) to enjoy.
Choose to dine in or take your favorites to-go, but if you stay awhile, you’ll discover what makes Keno Cove Café so special. Our brand-new, spacious back patio features picnic tables and high-top seating, all shaded with umbrellas to keep you cool on sunny days. A beautiful gas fireplace adds warmth and ambiance, while our garage doors open wide to blend indoor comfort with fresh mountain air. When live music fills the space, the atmosphere truly comes alive.On summer weekends, the fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down! Join us for our “Lake Nights Live” sessions, where talented musicians take the stage and fill the evening air with songs you’ll love. 🎶✨
Summer is meant for staying out late, relaxing with friends, and enjoying a little “peace” of heaven. Check out our scheduled live music dates below. We can’t wait to welcome you for great food, great music, and great memories. See you at the lake!🚤
📍500 Roberts Bend Rd. Burnside, KY 45219
#52WeeksOfAdventure #LakeNightsLive #LakeCumberland #HomemadeFood #LakeCumberlandResort
🎶Lake Nights Live🎶
Live music. Summer air. Cumberland vibes.
Every weekend • Memorial Day–Labor Day • Lake Cumberland Resort lll
Band performances are from 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
May
• May 23 – Raise One Up
• May 30 – Jonathan New
June
• June 6 – Brando
• June 13 – James Foster
• June 20 – TBA
• June 27 – Raise One Up
July
• July 4 – Kenny Massengale (DJ)
• July 11 – Aiden Drew
• July 18 – Logan Purcell
• July 25 – Brando
August
• August 1 – Aiden Drew
• August 8 – TBA
• August 15 – Jonathan New
• August 22 – TBA
• August 29 – Kenny Massengale
September
• September 5 – Logan Purcell (Labor Day Weekend)
Outing: 3 of 52-Master Musicians Festival:A Legacy of Music, Leadership, and Community
We are honored to spotlight not only an extraordinary community leader, but one of the region’s most impactful events — the Master Musicians Festival — under the passionate leadership of Tiffany Finley.
Recently, we had the privilege of sitting down with Tiffany and had a meaningful conversation about her journey, her heart for Somerset, and her vision for strengthening our community through music and service. What quickly becomes clear when speaking with Tiffany is that her work isn’t just professional — it’s deeply personal. As a lifelong resident of Somerset, Tiffany’s roots run deep. Her dedication to the Lake Cumberland region has shaped a career defined by leadership, collaboration, and community growth. As Executive Director of the Master Musicians Festival, she now stewards one of rural Kentucky’s most celebrated cultural events — a nonprofit music festival that generates an estimated $3 million annually in economic impact for the region.👏
For nearly three decades, the festival has brought world-class talent to our backyard while remaining committed to accessibility and affordability. Recognized as a Kentucky Travel Industry Association Top 10 Summer Festival & Event and honored as the Southeast Tourism Society’s Shining Example of the Year, MMF continues to shine as a premier cultural experience in the Lake Cumberland area.🎶 🎤 The festival’s stage has welcomed legendary artists such as Willie Nelson, The Old Crow Medicine Show, John Prine, The Wallflowers, Counting Crows, Dwight Yoakam, Wynonna Judd, and J.D. Crowe. Featuring artists of this caliber—while also showcasing rising stars and exceptional regional talent—is what truly makes the festival shine. From blues and bluegrass to Americana, jazz, rock, and global roots music, MMF delivers a diverse, multi-generational experience unlike any other in rural Kentucky. 🎸 🎻 🪕
After 17 years of involvement with MMF — including 11 years as a volunteer before stepping into leadership — Tiffany says her greatest joy comes from witnessing the pride of the 150+ volunteers who give their time so generously.🤝 ❤️
“Seeing the volunteers who generously give their time to make the festival possible and witnessing the pride and joy they take in being part of something meaningful, along with collaborating with the talented artists who bring the festival to life.”
That vision captures exactly what makes the Master Musicians Festival more than an event. It’s a gathering place. A celebration of heritage. An economic driver. A volunteer-powered labor of love. This is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community rallies around something meaningful. Tiffany’s leadership extends well beyond the festival grounds having previously served 12 years as Community Development Director for Pulaski County Fiscal Court. She has overseen transformative projects such as the $1 million Downtown Somerset Fountain Square project, the Pulaski County Senior Citizens Center, and multiple trail developments across the county. She has also co-founded Black Mountain Management and Pure Grain Studios to support and elevate Kentucky artists.📍 🎉
Through Tiffany’s dedication and the continued support of our community, the Master Musicians Festival is not only preserving musical excellence — it is helping build a stronger, more vibrant Lake Cumberland region for generations to come. ✨ Be sure to check out the website for upcoming dates, and if you have the opportunity to attend the Master Musicians Festival, we highly encourage you to go. It’s an incredible experience filled with unforgettable performances, community spirit, and outstanding headlining acts each year. 🎶
https://mastermusiciansfestival.org/
#MasterMusiciansFestival #SupportLocalMusic #LakeCumberland #WomenInLeadership #52WeeksOfAdventure
Outing: 2 of 52-Reno’s Roadhouse: A Local Favorite in Burnside, Kentucky
If you are looking for a place that combines great food, a lively atmosphere, and genuine local charm, Reno’s Roadhouse is absolutely worth a stop. Reno’s is located at 6361 S. Highway 27, Somerset, KY 42501, in the Burnside area. This restaurant has clearly earned its reputation as a favorite among both locals and visitors passing through the Lake Cumberland area. Many have this being the stop before and after hitting the lake! 🥩
Known for its fun, relaxed environment, Reno’s Roadhouse is a place where friends gather, families enjoy meals together, and travelers make a point to stop during their time in the Lake Cumberland area. The menu features a wide variety of fan favorites and crowd-pleasing appetizers, ensuring there is something for everyone. One of the most popular weekly specials is Burger Monday. Offering a burger and fries for just $9, this is a value that continues to draw a loyal following. 🍟🍔
What really makes Reno’s Roadhouse special is the experience. The traditional peanuts are still part of the fun (just no tossing them on the floor anymore 😄), and when the dinner bell rings, everyone joins in with a loud and cheerful “Yee-Haw!” 🤠🔔 It creates an energy that makes dining here feel more like an event than just a meal.
Reno’s Roadhouse celebrated over 10 years at this location in fall 2025! That says a lot about the loyal customer base it has built. People come not only for the consistently good food, but also for the friendly staff and the welcoming atmosphere that makes you want to return—whether you live nearby or are visiting from farther away. ❤️It is the kind of place where you can grab a casual dinner with friends, enjoy a family night out, or attend for a quick cocktail after work.
Spending this weeks lunch get together with colleagues was a perfect place to not feel rushed. There was great food, great service, and a great time! Reno’s Roadhouse is one of those places you visit once—and then find yourself coming back again and again. 🌟🍽️
📍6361 S Hwy 27, 6361 US-27, Somerset, KY 42501
#GoodFoodGoodTimes #FamilyFriendlyDining #LakeCumberlandEats #RenosRoadhouse #52WeeksOfAdventure
Outing: 1 of 52-Literary History Close to Home: Discover Harriette Simpson Arnow in Keno
📚 Explore Literary History in Keno, Kentucky
Right here in the Keno area of Pulaski County, history and literature come together through the life and legacy of Harriette Simpson Arnow, one of Kentucky’s most influential writers. This is where Arnow once taught school, and the surrounding area helped inspire her most famous novel, The Dollmaker.
🪆 The Story Behind The Dollmaker
Born in Kentucky and deeply shaped by her time in Pulaski County, Arnow captured the strength, struggles, and spirit of Appalachian families with remarkable authenticity. The Dollmaker tells the story of a Kentucky family forced to leave their rural home for factory life in Detroit—a narrative rooted in the same landscape that surrounds Keno today.
🪦 Visit Harriette Simpson Arnow’s Gravesite
Just a short ride away, visitors can visit Harriette Simpson Arnow’s gravesite, located nearby. We recently made the scenic trip by side-by-side and included photos from our visit, along with a photo of Harriette herself and her gravestone, to help bring her story to life.
📕 A Meaningful Local Experience
This stop offers a meaningful way to experience local history in Pulaski County. Whether you’re a literature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for unique things to do in Keno, Kentucky, this quiet visit provides a powerful connection to Kentucky’s storytelling heritage.
📍 Local Tip: Make it a peaceful afternoon outing—enjoy a scenic ride, reflect on Arnow’s work, and imagine the stories born from these hills.
#HarrietteSimpsonArnow #TheDollmaker #KenoKY #PulaskiCountyKY #KentuckyHistory #AppalachianStories #SideBySideLife #52WeeksOfAdventure