Kentucky’s Oldest Operating Business Still Runs on the River

Kentucky has several two-lane roads that make for excellent mini-road trips, and I've written about them multiple times. But the Bluegrass State also wins the day with its waterways. On one of them, you'll find a unique piece of Kentucky history.

The Oldest Operating Business in Kentucky

If you're interested in mixing in some of that history with a future river cruise (you know, after the thaw), a ride aboard the Valley View Ferry is the answer. It is the oldest operating business in Kentucky.

The History of the Valley View Ferry

If you drive down Tates Creek Road in Lexington, you'll eventually arrive at the confluence of the creek and the Kentucky River. At that point, you and your vehicle can board the historic Valley View Ferry; it's been in operation since before Kentucky became the 15th state in 1792. When you get there, you'll see what marks its historical significance:

The oldest continuous business of record in Ky. On land acquired by John Craig in 1780 through a military warrant, the Virginia Assembly granted a perpetual and irrevocable franchise to establish a ferry in 1785. Ferry is presently named for the location in the picturesque Valley View community.

Of course, back then, they were transporting wagons, not F-250s and Hummers.

It's always smart to examine the history of any location you're visiting because it will have history. There's history everywhere; just watch for and read those historical markers. It's a great way to make an already-fun road trip even better.

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