As part of the City of Nicholasville’s City Notes series, we spoke with Charla Reed, Director of Visit Jessamine, to learn more about what makes Jessamine County a unique destination and how tourism supports the community.
Reed brings years of experience in tourism, with roles across Kentucky. “I’ve pretty much been around tourism my entire career… this position just kind of fit right in to my background,” she said.
A Destination Defined by Variety and Charm
Spring and summer are ideal times to explore Jessamine County, offering a mix of scenic landscapes, outdoor recreation, and historic attractions like Camp Nelson. Visitors can enjoy a full day of local dining, nature, and unique experiences throughout the area.
Tourism as an Economic Driver
Tourism plays a key role in supporting the local economy, driving traffic to restaurants, hotels, and attractions. Reed noted that both first-time and repeat visitors are essential to continued growth and community impact.
Collaboration Across the Community
Partnerships between local businesses, Parks and Recreation, and community organizations help create a more coordinated and welcoming experience. “The more local you get, the more intriguing and more market worthy it is for other people to come to our towns and to our county,” Reed shared.
Events, Experiences, and What’s Ahead
Jessamine County offers a variety of events throughout the year, including the Kentucky Wine and Vine Festival, seasonal celebrations, and newer initiatives like Downtown Day. The growing Wine Trail is another highlight, showcasing the county’s role in wine history.
Planning Your Visit
Visitors can explore events, attractions, and trip ideas through Visit Jessamine resources, along with interactive tools to help plan their experience. Please view the Visit Jessamine website by clicking HERE.