FRANKFORT, Ky. (LEX 18) — The Kentucky Department of Tourism unveiled its 2020 Official Visitor's Guide on Wednesday to a crowd at the state Capitol.
"We have an incredible opportunity to make Kentucky the top tourism destination in the world," said Gov. Andy Beshear. "Shouldn't that be our mission?"
One way to do that is to get the word out about what the Bluegrass state has to offer. This year's guide highlights 2020 as the Year of Music in Kentucky.
"We especially have a lot to be proud of when it comes to our musical talents and our musical heritage," said Beshear.
This includes music festivals, events and shows that are held all year throughout the state.
"There are several large music festivals," said Mike Berry, the secretary of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. "The trifecta in Louisville that is in September each year. Railbird at Keeneland in Lexington."
The cover of this year's guide features J.D. Shelburne, a musician originally from Taylorsville.
"I can't tell you how proud I am to know that when people first glance at this 2020 Kentucky Tourism Visitor's Guide, they're going to see the face of a true Kentucky boy who's proud of where he came from," said Shelburne.
He means the same state that gave the world some of the biggest names in country music.
"Whether it's Loretta Lynn in far eastern Kentucky or Bill Monroe, the King of Bluegrass," said Berry.
The 2020 Official Visitor's Guide can be found in Welcome Centers and local tourism offices. You can also view them online by clicking here.
