Getaways in Bluegrass country

With the loonie soaring, the U.S. has become a very attractive travel destination for Canadians. If you haven't been south of the border recently and are looking for things to do, the new 2011 Kentucky Official Visitor's Guide has a wealth of ideas for getaways in the Bluegrass State.

Those who are driving can pick up the free guide at eight staffed Kentucky welcome centers on Interstate highways throughout the state or call 1-800-225-8747 to request a copy by mail. An interactive online version is also available at kytourism.com. The guide contains region-by-region information on accommodations, attractions, state parks plus suggested itineraries and features on horse country, dining, crafts, music and more.

"This year is a great time to visit Kentucky as 2011 marks the beginning of the Civil War sesquicentennial and the 100th anniversary of the birth of Bill Monroe, the father of Bluegrass music," Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear said.

Other major events this year include Louisville's two-week Kentucky Derby Festival, which starts April 22, the Kentucky Derby on May 7, the inaugural NASCAR Sprint Cup race at Kentucky Speedway in Sparta on July 9, and the Breeders' Cup -- thoroughbred racing's most prestigious competition -- at Churchill Downs Nov. 4-5.


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