If you're moving to Shelbyville, keep in mind that the nearby residents of Springfield are simply not to be trusted. Just teasing! That's the fictional Shelbyville of The Simpsons fame and it's a far cry from this Kentucky city full of charm and without any city rivalries. On an odd note, the city actually neighbors fellow Shelby County city of Simpsonville, in addition to another Kentucky city, Springfield. Coincidence?
With a population of 14,045 at the 2010 census, this lovely little slice of "The Bluegrass State" is known as "The American Saddlebred Capital of the World." What's an American Saddlebred, you ask? Have you ever seen those high-stepping, extremely controlled horses that prance along with beautiful, exaggerated movements? Then you've seen an American Saddlebred. You may also see William Shatner in Shelbyville at the annual Shelby County Fair and Horse Show.
Renting In Shelbyville
Interstate 64 connects Shelbyville to larger metropolitan cities like Louisville and the state capital of Frankfort, both of which are around 30 miles outside of the city. Lexington "The Horse Capital of the World" and home to the University of Kentucky Wildcats is less than an hour away. The Louisville International Airport is 28 miles outside of Shelbyville, as well. The average worker's commute here is less than 20 minutes, which is a major bonus in itself.
If you dream of a southern way of life, you're in for a treat here. You'll easily find lots of affordable rental properties in Shelbyville, including studio apartments for rent, pet friendly apartments, and one bedroom apartment and 2 bedroom apartment options. Many types of housing can be found, whether you want the luxury of modern amenities or historical architecture and charm. You'll likely need first and last month's rent, identification, a credit history and proof of income to secure that rental you desire. Show up on time, too southerners are known for appreciating hospitality and manners, so mind your Ps and Qs.
Neighborhoods
Shelbyville doesn't have distinct neighborhoods, per se, but it is known for its historic district, which features gorgeously restored houses, statues and more. The Shelbyville Historic District Commission's office is where you can find information about walking tours through this beautiful area; not surprisingly, the office is housed in the restored Italianate Presbyterian Manse Building, which dates to 1872.
Wherever you wander in Shelbyville, you're sure to encounter country hospitality!
Living in Shelbyville
Shelbyville calls itself "The Gateway to the Bluegrass," and the title definitely fits. The city is perfectly situated between Lexington, Louisville and Frankfort, so the locals can have their cake in Shelbyville and eat it, too.
The Shelbyville History Museum is located in the downtown area and gives a thorough tour of the city's past. Explore the beautiful scenery at Talon Winery on Gordon Lake and help yourself to a glass or two, of course!
Parks
There's an extensive park system in Shelbyville. Outdoorsy types will enjoy the large number of choices for spending time in the great outdoors.
Clear Creek Park: This park has all kinds of activities to try, including indoor and outdoor swimming, sports facilities, exercise equipment and access to Lake Shelby. It also hosts the city's 4th of July fireworks celebration.
Red Orchard Park: If hiking trails and horseback riding sound like your cup of tea, Red Orchard Park on Kentucky Street is your ideal spot for recreation.
Finchville Park: This park on Highway 55 South has walking trails for beautiful hikes, a pond and a playground.
Skate Park: Rollerbladers and skateboarders alike are welcome at this outdoor steel park that features over 10,000 square feet of skating space. The park was built over an old swimming pool, which would surely make California Dogtown lords Tony Alva and company proud. You'll not only find a euro gap, fun box, rails and a quarter pipe, but you'll also have access to a 4-foot half pipe. Not the best on wheels? Secure your center of gravity at the park's picnic tables and simply watch the fun.
Lake Shelby: Lake Shelby is a 20-acre fishing lake full of bluegill, crappie, bass and catfish. But what if you're a vegetarian or simply not a fisherman? No worries the lake also offers canoeing, paddle boating and row boating, so you can still partake in its beauty. If you're craving some s'mores, set up your tent or R.V. at the lake's neighboring campgrounds on Don Cubert Road.
Shelby County Parks & Recreation also has several mini parks throughout the area for sports, recreation, playgrounds and and picnicking. This includes Mose Dale on Lee Nor Mack, James Burnett on Thorn Avenue, Elmo Head on 800 3rd Street (with access to Clear Creek), Greenway Park downtown and Stratton Bottom on Washington Street.
Restaurants
Get ready for a huge assortment of restaurants Shelbyville is home to the Claudia Sanders Dinner House. Hmm, let's see, last name Sanders combined with a Kentucky location does that sound familiar? Claudia was the better half to Kentucky's famous Colonel Sanders, who just so happened to reside in Shelbyville from 1960 until his passing in 1980. She certainly knew how to set a table with an array of classic southern dishes! You'll feel right at home with an enormous buffet of entrees, sides, and desserts and the Colonel's portrait hangs proudly above the restaurant's fireplace.
You'll also enjoy southern eats at the Science Hill Inn and the renovated Bell House Restaurant in the downtown area is sure to please. Craving a hearty steak? Cattleman's Roadhouse can help you out. Ken-Tex Bar-B-Q and Asian Buffet are also both great dining options, depending on what you're in the mood for.
If it's southern charm you're seeking, Shelbyville is the place you'll find it.
