If you are looking for an essential Kentucky road trip, you have to consider My Old Kentucky Home.

According to Kentucky Tourism, Bardstown is being praised left and right by the experts in travel. "Rand McNally and USA Today called it the “Most Beautiful Small Town in America.”  Travel + Leisure said you’ll find “America’s Most Beautiful Town Square” here, too." Not only is it a gorgeous city, it is full of personality and fun.

The second oldest city in Kentucky, most of the downtown area is actually listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can spend a day shopping at the adorable clothing boutiques and interesting gift shops before enjoying a delicious dinner at one of their many local restaurants.

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The My Old Kentucky Home Dinner Train is a favorite tourist attraction. While you're there be sure to tour the homestead where Stephen Foster was inspired to write our famous state song.

Also the Bourbon Capital of the World, you can't miss a tour of one of the local distilleries like Barton 1792 and Willett. "Begin or end your Kentucky Bourbon Trail® journey here. Bardstown is an official trailhead and home to six distilleries along the trail: Heaven HillMaker’s MarkJim BeamBardstown Bourbon Co.Lux Row and Four Roses Cox's Creek."

The sun shines bright on this beautiful small town. Visit Bardstown has everything you need to plan your getaway.

LOOK: Route 66’s quirkiest and most wonderful attractions state by state

Stacker compiled a list of 50 attractions--state by state--to see along the drive, drawing on information from historic sites, news stories, Roadside America, and the National Park Service. Keep reading to discover where travelers can get their kicks on Route 66.

Gallery Credit: Kery Wiginton

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