Lebanon, home to bourbon tourism, history and active social calendars
In Lebanon, the county seat of Marion County, rolling hills and residential areas surround a historic downtown. “It is the community that makes everyone feel welcome, from amazing schools with instructors who love your kids like their own to sports teams and clubs for the community to get involved,” says Aubri Osborne, managing director at Marion County Chamber of Commerce, based in Lebanon. According to the estimates of the United States Census Bureau for 2023, the city has a population of about 6,500. This total changes with tourists visiting the area for bourbon tours and the county festival.
Main Street businesses, restaurants and Kentucky Cooperage tours
Italianate-style storefronts line Main Street, an area home to shops, such as Cactus Jane’s Boutique. Los Tres Mexican Restaurant Bar and Grill is in the walkable area of West Main Street. Cedarwood Restaurant serves American diner fare and freshly baked pies on East Main Street near Kroger. The Visitors Center at Kentucky Cooperage is adjacent to the grocery and hosts tours of the cooperage, giving an inside look at the bourbon barrel-making process. “Lebanon has an amazing coffee shop called 'School Grounds Coffee'. This place stands out because it is in an old school that is now also used for plays and productions,” Osborne says, regarding the brick building known as Kentucky Classic Arts at Centre Square.
Historic architecture and brick ranch-style homes, some near creeks
Lebanon's architecture ranges from early 20th-century Victorian mansions and cottages to post-1970 ranch-style homes, many of which are brick. Home prices range from about $60,000 to $460,000, depending on factors like home condition and size. Flooding is a growing concern across Kentucky. Lebanon residents are encouraged to research flood zones and have proper insurance, since creeks cut through the area.
A festival celebrating country ham
During Marion County Country Ham Days, Lebanon’s average population grows exponentially, with average attendance totals in the 30,000s. Downtown hosts the festival on the last full weekend in September. According to Osborne, the event highlights include the Pokey Pig 5K Run, the Pigasus Parade down Main Street and carnival activities. A traditional country ham breakfast is a meal option each year.
Graham Memorial Park, golf and waterside recreation
The Lebanon Aquatic Center is in Graham Memorial Park, which consists of playgrounds, soccer fields and basketball courts. Graham Memorial Park also hosts annual holiday events, including Easter egg hunts and Christmas in the Park. Fagan Branch Reservoir is in Lebanon’s southern region and is home to the Cecil L. Gorley Naturalist Trail that totals over 3 miles. Golfers have two options: Lebanon Country Club with a private 9-hole course and the public Rosewood Golf Course spanning 18 holes. Rolling Fork River runs through the region, and New Calvary Road has a kayak and paddleboard launch point at Calvary Dam.
Learning in Marion County Public Schools and dual credit courses
Marion County Public Schools serves Lebanon and allows students in the district and out to apply for a school other than the one for which they are zoned. Some students may attend Lebanon Elementary School, which Niche gives a C-plus, before attending C-graded Lebanon Middle School. Marion County High School is the only one of its kind in the district and earns a B-minus. Juniors and seniors can enroll in in-person dual credit courses, including psychology and algebra.
Drives to Springfield, access to Lexington and a local hospital
Spring View Hospital is a 75-bed facility that serves the community. Kentucky Highway 55 connects Lebanon to nearby cities, such as Springfield, less than 10 miles away. Lexington is nearly a 65-mile drive. Blue Grass Airport in Lexington has direct flights only within the country.
