Introduction

Introduction

WELCOME TO BEREA!

Since its founding in 1854, people have come to visit Berea, found it to their liking, and have made it their home. Today the area boasts a population of approximately 10,000 and offers world-renowned arts & crafts, hiking, camping, acres of beautiful rolling forestland and many other recreational opportunities.

Berea is located 39 miles south of Lexington on I-75 (map), where the bluegrass meets the mountains and art and crafts are created. We are a graceful blend of southern hospitality and Appalachian tradition. We invite you to relax and slow down, visit one of the more 50 craft persons or gallery owners. Listen to the music of the dulcimer and the clack of the weaver's shuttle; watch our potters, jewelers and woodworkers create heirlooms. For "yesterday's treasures" visit our many antique shops and malls. When it's time for dining we have a wide variety from which to choose - traditional southern cuisine, fine regional specialties, ethnic foods, soup and sandwiches, international coffees. Berea has something for everyone. Take your time, have a great visit and return often. Visit the Berea tourism site for more information. Berea is the home of the new Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea. The $8.75 million center is the starting point for touring many of Kentucky's regional arts & crafts. Berea is "The Folk Arts & Crafts Capital of Kentucky" and home of the Berea Crafts Fair and Kentucky Guild of Artist and Craftsmen Fairs. Berea is also home of Berea College, a private, four-year college offering a unique, tuition-free work/study program. Nine other institutions of higher learning are located within 55 miles of Berea.

Berea is a very special place for all. Public schools in Berea and Madison County are accredited with emphasis on achievement. Student scores on nationally standardized tests rank higher each year. Berea schools offer both attractive teacher / student ratios and interaction with the community due to the close proximity of the schools and neighborhoods. Many schools and institutions of higher learning are convenient and accessible including private liberal arts college, private business colleges and upper division state-supported universities.

Berea Hospital is located within the city limits. It has continually expanded its facilities and now has a Cancer Treatment Center.

Lexington, KY (located just 39 miles from Berea) offers plenty of business opportunities and leisure activities: Broadway musicals, ballets, and dramatic theatre. Other recreational activities include University of Kentucky Basketball and Football and the Kentucky Horse Park.

For tradition, variety, quality and year round enjoyment, there's no other geographical area that compares. However, it's the people that make so special.