Amid efforts by the U.S. federal government to restrict how African American history is taught, preserved, and celebrated, one state just unveiled a tourism initiative to showcase more than 50 important sites connected to Black heritage.
Kentucky’s new African American Heritage Trail “not only keeps stories alive but also revives stories that have been forgotten,” said Gov. Andy Beshear when announcing the statewide project this week—just in time for Juneteenth, the federal holiday commemorating the end of slavery in the United States.
“It’s time we shined a light on our past so we can build a better future together,” Beshear continued.
The trail features dozens of landmarks, cultural institutions, and even natural attractions across Kentucky. Among the highlights: the Muhammad Ali Center, a museum dedicated to the iconic boxer in his hometown of Louisville; the Shelby County birthplace of 20th-century civil rights leader Whitney M. Young, Jr.; and Lexington’s storied Lyric Theatre, a hub of Black culture during the segregation era, when music greats such as B.B. King and Ray Charles performed here.
Reflecting the broad impact Black people have had on Kentucky, the trail also encompasses the Civil War–era Camp Nelson National Monument, which served as a Union supply depot and refugee camp for formerly enslaved people, as well as Mammoth Cave, where the “vast chambers … hold stories of African American explorers,” according to the trail’s official website.
How to Explore Kentucky’s African American Heritage Trail
The trail’s website is the best tool for planning a trip to experience some of the noteworthy destinations in person. There are sections of the site grouping featured locations by region, or you can chart your course using an interactive map with photos, descriptions, driving directions, and other helpful info.
The site’s “Trip Inspiration” section supplies helpful itineraries based on themes such as the trail’s best sites for families or outdoors enthusiasts.
Developed by the Kentucky Department of Tourism in collaboration with the Kentucky Historical Society and the Kentucky Heritage Council, the African American Heritage Trail “not only brings Kentucky’s diverse stories to the forefront but also ensures that they are preserved and accessible for generations to come,” as a press release puts it.
Plus, “the trail boosts local economies, supports small businesses, and creates job opportunities,” Gov. Beshear said.
For more information about Kentucky’s African American Heritage Trail and to start planning a visit, go to kentuckytourism.com/aaht.
