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Five Kentucky destinations celebrated for excellence on national best-of lists

Stories by Lexington Herald-Leader journalists, with AI summarization

This collection of stories highlights Kentucky destinations and establishments recognized nationally for distinct achievements.

Lexington’s Blue Grass Airport earned a mention as a top small airport in the U.S., while Bellevue stood out as a leading city for affordable living on a $100,000 salary. Syers Browning, a home decor boutique in Lexington, received praise as one of the best stores in the South.

Southern Living placed Lexington in its top ten best cities in the South, noting its 250th birthday celebration and entries like The Distillery District and 21c Museum Hotel. Kentucky State Parks also celebrated 100 years, showcasing locations such as Pine Mountain and Cumberland Falls State Resort Parks.

Read the stories below.

Inventory at Syers Browning includes vibrant dinnerware.

NO. 1: A LEXINGTON HOME DECOR STORE IS ONE OF THE ‘BEST IN THE SOUTH,’ SOUTHERN LIVING SAYS

The publication highlighted two stores in Kentucky in a recent article. | Published June 1, 2024 | Read Full Story by Ali Costellow

Allegiant will fly twice weekly from RDU to Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport starting June 8.

NO. 2: NEED A SUMMER GETAWAY? NEWSWEEK SAYS THIS SMALL KY AIRPORT IS AMONG THE BEST IN U.S.

The airport expects up to 20% more travelers than last summer in what’s shaping up to be a busy travel season. | Published June 5, 2024 | Read Full Story by Aaron Mudd

This year marks the 100 year anniversary of Kentucky State Parks and a century of destinations for Kentuckians, and many others, to visit. By Ryan C. Hermens

NO. 3: A CENTURY OF DESTINATIONS. CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF KENTUCKY STATE PARKS

A lot has changed in 100 years. Lindy Casebier, Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage secretary, said the anniversary is a major milestone in the history of the parks system. | Published June 6, 2024 | Read Full Story by Andrew Henderson

A stock photo of houses in a suburban neighborhood. By Davel5957

NO. 4: SMALL CITY IN NORTHERN KENTUCKY NAMED AMONG BEST PLACES TO LIVE ON $100K ANNUAL SALARY

The ranking identified the best city in each state for individuals with a $100,000 income. | Published November 29, 2024 | Read Full Story by Meredith Howard

A horse stands in a field at Mill Ridge Farm in Fayette County, Ky., on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. By Ryan C. Hermens

NO. 5: YES, KENTUCKY IS HOME TO ONE OF SOUTHERN LIVING’S TOP 10 BEST CITIES IN THE SOUTH

It fell just behind Atlanta in this year’s feature. | Published March 29, 2025 | Read Full Story by Aaron Mudd

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories listed were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.