Arboretum
Do you love beautiful flowers and plants? Explore a nature lover’s paradise as you gaze at Pale Purple Coneflowers, Bergamot, Sunflowers and Black Eyed Susans in the summer time. In the spring, the forest floor is carpeted with bountiful wildflowers, including varieties of Trillium, Fire Pink, Blue Phlox and Bloodroot. 440 herbaceous and woody plants, including several rare species, have been identified throughout the village.
Architecture
Graceful lines and perfect proportion are the hallmark of the buildings constructed by the Shakers at Pleasant Hill and reflect their belief that they were creating a “heaven on earth.” The Shakers constructed more than 260 structures during the one hundred years they occupied Pleasant Hill – from simple outhouses of frame construction to the towering magnificence of the limestone Centre Family Dwelling. Today 34 carefully-restored original buildings remain on their original sites. Frame buildings wear colors ranging from palest yellow to deep blood-red, and brick structures rise three and four stories above ground. The meticulous Shakers, who believed every task was a way of giving glory to God, built their buildings to last a thousand years – their legacy remains at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.
Birding
Over 125 varieties of birds have been identified on Shaker village property in areas consisting of restored grasslands, pastures, forests, wetlands and the Kentucky River. The peak of the spring Warbler migration is the first week in May. Summertime brings nesting Grasshopper Sparrows, Bobolinks, Henslow’s Sparrows and Blue Grosbeaks to our grasslands. Among other breeding birds visiting Shaker Village are Baltimore Orioles, Orchard Orioles and Summer and Scarlet Tanagers. Visit our bird observation blind at anytime of the year for an up close look!
Dixie Belle Riverboat
Does your family enjoy a relaxing boat ride? Hop aboard the Dixie Belle, our 115-passenger riverboat. Cruise the scenic Kentucky River palisades and see high limestone cliffs and untouched natural beauty. Learn about the river’s diverse ecosystem and the historical importance of the river to the Shakers during the hour-long narrated tour.
Equestrian
If horseback riding is what you love, bring your horses to Shaker Village and ride the quiet bluegrass countryside. Our well-marked trail system includes 33 miles of horseback riding trails and 15 miles of carriage-friendly trails. Overnight boarding facilities are available.
Furniture & Crafts
Browse the Shaker Village craft stores and get a look at genuine Kentucky crafts, as well as Shaker reproduction furniture. Each piece of furniture is either an exact reproduction or an adaptation of original pieces in our museum collection. See how everything the Shakers built served a purpose, as you admire the furniture for its clean lines and simplicity.
Geothermal Upgrades
Shaker Village is going “green.” Geothermal heating and cooling has been installed throughout parts of the Village in an effort to become more eco- friendly. Learn how geothermal works and why it is a more efficient method.
Inn at Shaker Village
Want a taste of Shaker life? Stay in rooms with a view at the Inn at Shaker Village. The Inn encompasses 81 guest rooms, suites and private cottages spread throughout fifteen restored 19th century buildings. Inn accommodations feature Shaker reproduction furniture, hardwood flooring and newly renovated private baths.
Kentucky River
Observe the oldest exposed rock in Kentucky along the Kentucky River Palisades: palisades. These limestone formations are between 400 and 450 million years old.
Preservation
The mission of Shaker Village is to preserve the nearly 34 original shaker buildings and 3,000 acres where the Shaker society once flourished. See 34 carefully restored buildings, rolling countryside and historical records as you visit this National Historic Landmark.
Rock Walls
See 25 miles of historic dry stone rock walls that are spread throughout the Village. These walls constitute the most extensive collection remaining in the United States. Get involved in the Dry Stone Conservancy workshops at the Village. Attend the National Stonewalling Competition that is held here in the fall.
Shaker History
What was life at Shaker Village like during the 1800s? Experience our outdoor living history museum and visit with costumed interpreters as they demonstrate how the Shakers lived at Pleasant Hill. Enjoy unforgettable solo Shaker music performances and step back in time to a simple way of life.
The Village Farm
Discover heritage animal breeds up close. Visit with Percheron horses, 2200 pound gentle giants. See Red Durham oxen, 1800 pound twin steers that have been trained to work in the yoke. Get a look at Bourbon Red Turkeys, a breed developed right here in Kentucky over 150 years ago. Also, taste fresh seasonal vegetables from our garden. These tasty treats are incorporated into our menus at the Trustees’ Dining Room when possible. Learn the importance of agriculture to the Shakers and the entire state at our historic farm.
Trails
Discover a secret worship site and experience breathtaking views, historical building ruins, spectacular wildflowers and undisturbed wildlife on The Trails of Shaker Village. Our trail system provides walkers, hikers, mountain bikers, horseback riders and carriage drivers an opportunity to explore over 40 miles of well-marked trails.
Wildlife Habitat
From squirrels and chipmunks to foxes, raccoons and rabbits, you’re likely to spot wildlife along our trails. Whitetail deer will likely bound away as you approach.
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