Springfield locals relish in the area’s rich history and agriculture
Amid the rolling hills of Central Kentucky, Springfield is a rural community that blends history, agriculture and a kind community. “Hospitality is a word that I’ve heard over and over again,” says Jill Reed, director of Springfield Main Street. “When people come here, they feel very welcome.” At the city’s center is the Washington County Judicial Center, the oldest active courthouse in the state. Agricultural outputs range from breeding show horses to grains used in bourbon distilling. Louisville is about 50 miles away.
The churches in the area contribute to its history. The Springfield Presbyterian Church was founded in 1788, and the first convent of Dominican Sisters in the United States was started in 1822. “They call us ‘The Holy Land,’” says Lora Justice, executive director of the Springfield Tourism Commission.
Lincoln Homestead, community parks and an equestrian hub
History and recreation come together at Lincoln Homestead State Park, which features the birthplace of Nancy Hanks Lincoln, the mother of President Abraham Lincoln. There is a public 18-hole golf course and a disc golf course. Idle Hour Park is the most visited park in the city, with several athletic fields, a walking trail, a playground and a splash pad. “That is really a wonderful addition for cooling off and gathering with friends,” Justice says. Anglers and kayakers head to Rotary Park at the Reservoir, which is regularly stocked with bass and catfish. It has the only wheelchair-accessible ramp in the county and a pavilion for picnics and parties.
There is a rich equestrian history, with Saddlebred and Thoroughbred breeders in the area. The most notable is Kalarama Farms, which was established in 1901. “If you were to come here and meet the owners of these farms that have these thoroughbreds, you wouldn’t even know it because they don’t look it,” Justice says. “They’re just regular Joes in their muck boots; they’re just very ordinary citizens.”
Homes near Main Street Historic District are over a century old
Many of Springfield’s oldest homes are located in and around the Main Street Historic District and date back to the late 19th century. Colonial Revivals, Cape Cods and bungalows are common, while ranch-style and New Traditional houses built between the mid-20th century and early 2000s can be found farther out. Prices generally range from $100,000 to $250,000, although some larger homes cost $500,000 to $680,000. “The cost of living is less expensive than in several other places,” Reed says.
Local businesses include steakhouses and up-and-coming distilleries
Locally owned shops like The Unique Boutique occupy the centuries-old buildings along Main Street, near eateries like Big Bull Steak House. “It’s good food and consistent,” Reed says. “You go there once and have a great experience. You go there again; you’ll have another great experience.” It is across the street from the Springfield Opera House, where people can watch a performance from the Central Kentucky Theatre. “It’s community, but it’s as close to professional as you can get,” Justice says. Bourbon Trail BBQ & Amish Deli, on the city’s outskirts, along U.S. Route 150, has a menu of homestyle cooking and sells Amish baked goods. Coffee enjoyers can stop by Lincoln Perk Coffee Company, which sells Lincoln-themed lattes and ice cream. Residents get groceries from Parkview IGA. Walmart is about 10 miles away, while Lowe’s is about a 15-mile drive.
Springfield is located along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and a handful of distilleries and grain farms are in the area. Potter Jane Distilling Company started fermenting in early 2025. “It’s a top-notch place, and they’ll be doing tours, so we plan on seeing an uptick in tourism,” Reed says. It will take a few years for drinks to be ready, but Maker’s Mark and Limestone Branch distilleries are within a 10-mile drive.
Students attend Washington County Schools
Springfield is part of the Washington County School District, which participates in school choice. Students can start at Washington County Elementary School, which receives a B-minus from Niche, before attending the B-plus-rated Washington County Middle School. At Washington County High School, which has a B-minus, dual credit courses are available through nearby institutions like Murray State University.
Community events range from the Sorghum Festival to the farmers market
The Sorghum Festival, held on the first weekend of October, includes a 5K, Frog Jumping contest, parade and a dog show. There are food trucks and live music all weekend. Other events throughout the year include seasonal craft markets, holiday celebrations and the African American Heritage Festival. The Farmers Market at the Depot is every Wednesday and Saturday from June to October. “They have wonderful homemade and home-grown foods, but they also have people who have brought in some beautiful crafts,” Justice says.
Cars and golf carts share Springfield streets
Most people rely on cars to get around, although more and more residents have started taking their golf carts downtown. “You’ll see families riding their golf carts along, usually with the dog right next to them,” Reed says. Drivers should ensure their cart has a city permit before operating it. Major roads in the area include U.S. Route 150 and State Route 555. Spring View Hospital is about 10 miles away. Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport is about a 50-mile drive and offers nonstop service to over 35 destinations.
