My Old Kentucky Home State Park
Best Stephen Foster Story Summer Musical in Kentucky
Summer in Bardstown offers the perfect opportunity to experience the Stephen Foster Story, Kentucky’s longest-running outdoor musical. Performed beneath the trees at the J. Dan Talbott Amphitheater inside My Old Kentucky Home State Park, this beloved production has entertained audiences since 1959 with music, history, and unforgettable performances.
Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green, the production follows the life of Stephen Collins Foster, whose music helped shape American songwriting. Throughout the evening, audiences enjoy more than fifty of Foster’s best-known compositions, including “Oh! Susanna,” “Camptown Races,” “Beautiful Dreamer,” and Kentucky’s state song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” The combination of live music, period costumes, and the natural outdoor setting creates a memorable summer experience for visitors of every age.
The Stephen Foster Amphitheater sits on the grounds of historic My Old Kentucky Home, making the performance even more meaningful. The nearby Federal Hill mansion is widely associated with Foster’s famous song, giving guests the opportunity to connect Kentucky history with one of America’s most influential songwriters. Along with the musical, visitors can explore the park, tour the historic home, and discover why this destination remains one of the top things to do in Bardstown, KY.
Bardstown also serves as the heart of Kentucky Bourbon Country. Before the evening performance, spend the day visiting world-renowned distilleries, exploring the charming downtown district, browsing local shops, or enjoying one of the city’s excellent restaurants. Pairing the Stephen Foster Story with Kentucky Bourbon Trail experiences makes for a rewarding summer itinerary that easily fills an entire weekend.
Stay Near the Stephen Foster Story at Maple Hill Manor
Complete your romantic getaway Kentucky vacation with a stay at Maple Hill Manor. Located just outside Bardstown on a historic working horse farm, our Bed and Breakfast offers peaceful surroundings while keeping you close to the area’s most popular attractions. Wake each morning to a freshly prepared breakfast, relax on the porch after a day of sightseeing, or unwind with a glass of Kentucky bourbon before returning to your comfortable guest room.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to enjoy another summer performance, Maple Hill Manor provides an inviting home base for exploring Bardstown, My Old Kentucky Home, and the unforgettable Stephen Foster Story. Reserve your stay today and make this Kentucky tradition part of your next getaway.