After you've browsed the wares for sale, check out the Artisan Café and Grill. Don't miss the chance to try the "meat and three" special of the day, which in the south means a main meat like country ham or fried chicken accompanied by three tasty sides like white beans, squash casserole, mashed potatoes and gravy, or mac and cheese. You can even get a "side" of banana pudding or pie!
The delicious treats and amazing artwork you'll find at the Kentucky Artisan Center are just a taste of what lies ahead in charming Berea. If you miss out on a meal at the Artisan Center, visit College Square for a meal at the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant. The historic hotel is named after the pioneer hero Daniel Boone, whose brave exploits made quite a mark on Kentucky lore and history.
In 1775, Daniel Boone and 30 "axe men" blazed a trail from North Carolina through the Cumberland Gap to Boonesborough. The daring move opened up a trail to Kentucky and the West, allowing trade access and settlement. Boone's own trek into the West started in Berea. Look for the historic marker on the Village Green, directly across from the Boone Tavern.
The Boone Tavern is owned and run by Berea College's students, who make up fifty percent of the tavern's staff. Berea College continues its founding mission to provide free room and board to Appalachian students with little means, something that is made possible both by generous donors and through a mandatory work study program. The program has been wildly successful since the school was founded back in 1855, and you'll see smiling student faces at work throughout the town.
Arts, crafts, heritage, and hometown vibes — a southern welcome awaits you in Berea, Kentucky. Come get lost in this charming town, one of the Southland's best kept secrets.
When is the best time to visit Berea, KY?
There's always something going on in Berea. Come on a weekend to see artists at work, or if you prefer to browse without the crowds, weekdays are best. Berea is also a great place to find something special for the holidays. The cafes and galleries as well as the Boone Tavern come alive with holiday cheer and carols. Together with amazing handmade crafts, there's no better place to shop for holiday gifts or get in the spirit for the season. Temperatures are on the moderate side, with average temperatures staying above 40 degrees throughout most of the holiday shopping season. It's also a slower time of the year for tourism, meaning you'll get better rates for your stay.
Music lovers can come join an old-fashioned jam session every Thursday at Jammin' on the Porch. Come hear father and daughter duo Lewis and Donna Lamb host the weekly event at the Berea Welcome Center, or stop by on a Friday night, July through September, for the Levitt AMP Berea Music Series. If you'd rather dance, come on the third Friday or fourth Saturday of the month for Contra Dancing at the Russel Action Folk Center.
Visit Berea in the warmer months to learn all about sustainable agriculture from local farmers. You can even pick up some heirloom seeds for your own garden. Come in mid-July for the Berea Craft Festival, which brings even more artisans and performers to Berea for three days of art, music, and excitement at the Indian Fort Theater. Travel in Berea peaks in June and July, so expect to see an increase in accommodation costs.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Berea, KY:
Berea by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Berea, KY. You can use these line graphs to determine the most cost effective dates to stay in Berea for your upcoming travels.
Are there luxury hotels in the Berea area?
Just over 30 miles from Berea, you'll find luxurious accommodations at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington Green in Lexington. This hotel offers all the comforts you'd expect and more, from pillow top beds to Egyptian cotton sheets and free wireless internet service. Families and large parties will especially love the large suites, which come with mini-fridges, microwaves, and pull-out sofa beds.
Enjoy the convenience of room service or head downstairs to the on-site restaurant, E'Terie. There's even a rustic bar stocked with favorite local bourbons. While you're there, take a dip in the outdoor pool or visit the fitness center.
If you're seeking a hotel with more classic Southern style, check out the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Hotel Lexington. This hotel's gracious grounds include a pool and a café, and guests love the decorative upgrades like arched windows, French doors, candelabras, and a soaring atrium.
Where are affordable hotels in Berea, KY?
3 Star Average Prices: $106.82
For one of the most affordable hotels in the region, the Holiday Inn Express Berea will wow you with its range of amenities. From elegant modern décor to perks like free wireless internet, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center, the Holiday Inn Express Berea offers both affordability and welcoming comfort.
Begin your day in Berea with a full stomach, starting with the Holiday Inn Express' daily complimentary breakfast. If you'd prefer to take your time getting ready, you can keep something in your room's fridge and heat it up in the microwave. After a dip in the pool, take a soothing shower using the room's complimentary toiletries, and dry off with the handy in-room hairdryer. If you need to print anything before departure, like game tickets or flight info, pop into the hotel business center. Finally, express check-out service will have you on your way in no time.
2 Star Average Prices: $80.52
What are the best hotels in Berea, KY, for discounts?
One of Berea's best hotels offers discounts to AAA members. In addition to a great discount, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Lexington Berea offers comfort and unbeatable convenience to key Berea sites. Check in and indulge in a free cup of coffee or tea from the lobby, then head upstairs to your guest suite, which features plush bedding and an in-room fridge.
Catch up on a favorite show with cable programming on the LCD television or check your emails using the free Wi-Fi before stepping out to see Berea. Wind down after an exciting day at the fitness center or indoor pool, then wake up the next day to a free hot/cold breakfast buffet.
Where are the best budget hotels around Berea, KY?
When you come to Berea, you want to take in the local history without sacrificing on If you're looking for a nice hotel without having to splurge for luxury prices, check out the Days Inn Berea. This hotel offers great southern hospitality with modern amenities. You can kick off your morning with coffee or tea made with your in-room coffee maker, check out the headlines with the hotel's free Wi-Fi or complimentary newspaper, and then head downstairs for your free Daybreak Breakfast. Head to the outdoor pool to soak up some rays before continuing your exploration of the area.
What attractions does the city of Berea, KY have to offer?
Berea College is a playground for those who love artisan crafts. You could easily spend an entire day wandering the village streets, each lined with galleries, cafes, fudge shops, and gift emporiums. If you're on the hunt for a special gift or memento, you'll need ample time to pour over Berea's incredible array of handmade wares.
Head back to College Square near the Boone Tavern. The hotel is ringed by small shops and boutiques, including the Berea College Farm Store, Appalachian Fireside Gallery, Berea College Student Craft Store, and much more. Admire the finely hand-carved dulcimers at Warren A. May's gallery, or head over to Estelle for some unique handmade jewelry.
If you'd rather watch art being made, Berea offers plenty of opportunities to observe artists at work. As you wander through town, look out for signage that says, "Studio Artists at Berea: Artists at Work." A trip to the Artisan Village will easily satisfy your curiosity at the Berea Arts Council or the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen Galleries. Check out local watercolor artists, candlemakers, jewelers, bead makers, and stained glass workers.
Kentucky is all about heritage, and Berea seems to be an epicenter for the past. Check out the Old Town Amish Store for local Amish made goods or dig through treasure at Shawn's Flea Market and Todd's Antique Mall. Tater Knob Pottery is a great spot for hand-thrown pots and dishware.
Much more than your average college town, Berea is the epicenter of Appalachian arts and crafts. Plan a trip to discover the history, heritage, and charm of Berea, Kentucky, an arts and crafts' lover's dream.
FAQs about hotels in Berea
How much does a cheap hotel in Berea cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Berea can be as cheap as $80.52 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Berea cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Berea has been $106.82 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Recent traveler guest reviews of Berea, KY
Below are reviews of the city of Berea, KY from an actual visitor's perspective.
"Very Friendly"
Score
5.0 / 5
Everyone was very friendly.
Teresa E., from 23-Jul-2024
"We thoroughly enjoyed the Kentucky Artisan Center."
Score
5.0 / 5
We thoroughly enjoyed the Kentucky Artisan Center.
Penelope F., from 10-Jul-2024
"A Jewel!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Beara is a jewel. The craft and art world are all there!
Petie M., from 29-Jun-2024
"Craft Shops!"
Score
4.0 / 5
The craft shops.
Lindsay J., from 22-Jun-2024
"The room was clean, and the staff was friendly"
Score
5.0 / 5
The room was clean, and the staff was friendly. Berea is surrounded by verdant forests, and I will return to hike the trails in a future visit.
Gwendolyn B., from 06-May-2024
"Great Shopping!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Clean place with great gift shopping and charming people!
Betsy L., from 01-May-2024
"Growing College Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Berea is a college town and I have friends who went to college there. The town has grown a lot since the last time I was there five years ago.
Dan T., from 20-Sep-2023
"Berea College"
Score
5.0 / 5
We love Berea and the mission of Berea College.
Margaret M., from 18-Aug-2023
"Historical Downtown"
Score
4.0 / 5
Enjoyed the historical downtown area.
Donald T., from 06-Aug-2023
"Berea College"
Score
5.0 / 5
We were there for a reunion at Berea College.
Lois L., from 14-Jun-2023
"Quaint, clean, safe."
Score
5.0 / 5
Quaint, clean, safe.
Judith R., from 13-Jun-2023
"Quaint, clean, safe."
Score
4.0 / 5
Quaint, clean, safe.
Judith R., from 08-Jun-2023
"Boone Tavern"
Score
4.0 / 5
We like Berea and we also love the Boone Tavern!
Todd W., from 09-Apr-2023
"Gymnastics & Kentucky Artisans"
Score
5.0 / 5
We came for a gymnastics meet so was not there very long. Always enjoy going through the Kentucky Artisans and seeing all the beautiful handmade items.
Joann W., from 18-Mar-2023
"Good Convenient Location"
Score
4.0 / 5
There was lots of different eating places and shopping. Clean area.
Mavis J., from 13-Nov-2022
"Accommodating Staff"
Score
4.0 / 5
Staff associates were accommodating.
June J., from 26-Oct-2022
"Convenient Location"
Score
5.0 / 5
It was easy to get in and out.
Donald L., from 15-Jul-2022
"Room was comfortable and clean."
Score
5.0 / 5
Loved the college.
Linda H., from 12-Jun-2022
"Walkability, charm, good restaurants, history, hiking!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Walkability, charm, good restaurants, history, hiking!
Marilyn P., from 31-May-2022
"Hotel is in a lovely area!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Hotel is in a lovely area of Berea with shops and the beautiful college campus.
Shirley N., from 24-May-2022
"We loved our dinner at Papa Lena's in "Old Town" Berea!"
Score
4.0 / 5
We loved our dinner at Papa Lena's in "Old Town" Berea. Even better, it was suggested to us by the staff @ the Holiday Inn Express. Thanks!
Evelyn C., from 16-Apr-2022
"Loved the Artisan Center!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Loved the Artisan Center! Could have spent all day.
Joan P., from 12-Jan-2022
"Loved the Artisan Center!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Loved the Artisan Center! Could have spent all day.
Joan P., from 12-Jan-2022
"Nicest Small Town Ever!"
Score
5.0 / 5
Berea is the nicest, cleanest small city that I have ever visited.
Arlen S., from 11-Nov-2021
The average traveler rating of the city of Berea, KY shown above is
4.5 out of 5 based on 24 reviews