You can purchase online at This Link. You will receive an email confirmation, and we can also send a postal mail or email you a nice Certificate to give. Contact us for more information.
Mary Elizabeth Priest 1937-2021
In Memorial
Mary Elizabeth Priest
Innkeeper Extraordinaire
1937 – 2021
Her passion was hospitality. She had everything to make your stay in Henderson, Kentucky, memorable. Her collections of dishes, tablecloths, placemats, bed linens, furniture, and local memorabilia go unmatched. Her simple breakfast foods were delicious.
Her traditions and hospitality live on for future visitors to this great city, Henderson, KY.
Read her complete obituary here.
Open the Door to Your Next L&N Adventure
Have you ever wondered what the letters “L” & “N” represent in our name?
For years, guests’ have chosen words such as, “Likeable” and “Nice,” to describe our innkeepers, Norris and Mary Elizabeth Priest who exude southern hospitality and love to share it freely with others. Whether you’re a weekend visitor or a weekday business traveler we promise a welcoming, warm and comfortable bed and breakfast experience.
Others have used terms like “Local” and “Nearby,” since our address is on beautiful Main Street in historic downtown Henderson, Kentucky. We’re just 2 hours northwest of Nashville, TN, and 120 miles west of Louisville, KY making it an easy ride from just about anywhere. We’re also close to lots of activities and adventures, you can choose on your next visit like exploring one of our many hiking trails inside John James Audubon State Park or touring one of our local wineries. There’s an exciting adventure waiting for you just around the corner from the L & N Bed and Breakfast.
Maybe you’re just looking for a get-a-way adventure that’s “Leisurely” and “Neighborly,” at a friendly, clean inn. Stroll the lantern-lit sidewalks of our award-winning community and you’ll see Main Street mansions and one-of-a-kind downtown shops with welcoming store owners. Sip freshly roasted coffee at Planter’s Cafe and Coffee Bar, before shopping for a smart new pair of Wilkerson’s or Simon’s shoes. Maybe you’re in the market for that perfect new piece of furniture, if so, Alles Brothers, a downtown landmark for over 100 years is where you might just find it.
The L & N is “Lovely” and “Nostalgic” and can also be “Lackadaisical” and “Nonchalant” if you’re just needing to unplug and unwind. However, you choose to describe your experience the L & N Bed and Breakfast is adjacent to the “Louisville” & “Nashville” Railroad tracks, the historic inn’s true namesake. These active steel railways carry more than 50 trains a day alongside the inn. If you happen to be a train aficionado, then we’re a must-see destination with train memorabilia throughout the house.
Let us open the door and invite you to step back in history to a time when railroad commerce carried passengers to Henderson, KY to experience all that our historic river town has to offer. From music festivals to museums, wineries to window shopping, horse racing, boating, and unique restaurants, they’re all here waiting to be a part of your next L & N adventure. Come be our guest at the L & N Bed and Breakfast where exciting adventures begin with an exceptional inn experience.
18 Things To Do while in Henderson Kentucky -Spend the Night in Henderson
This new year, there are just as many new and exciting things to do as there are traditional Henderson activities. If you are looking for places to explore, fun events, new food, and ways get your family up and outdoors, this is the perfect guide.
Attend a Festival:
- The W.C. Handy Blues and Barbecue Festival (unfortunaltey we are booked for 2018) is held for 4 days in June. It has become one of the largest free music festivals in the nation, and celebrates the life and legacy of Henderson native W. C. Handy through lots of music, food, and good company!
- The Sandy Lee Watkins Songwriters Festival held in July showcases some of Nashville’s biggest singer/songwriters through intimate acoustic performances. It creates an up-close experience for attendees, along with a chance for them to learn the stories of how and why from the songwriters themselves.
- Bluegrass in the Park, held in August, features live bluegrass music, food, folklife displays, children’s activities, and more.
Learn About Our History (along with yours!):
- Visit the John James Audubon Museum and State Park for one of their arts and crafts events, workshops, trail tours, or unique exhibits!
- Visit the Community Room to see the exhibited history of Henderson, or attend one of their walking tours, such as Taste of Henderson, Fernwood Cemetery, or Bird Statue Tour.
- Research your roots in Henderson through the Historical & Genealogical Society. You can find information such as bible records, churches, census records, cemeteries, family pages and a brief history of The Depot.
Venture Outdoors:
- Go canoeing through the Sloughs Wildlife Management Area. Divided into wetlands, woodlands, ridges, and open fields, this area is the perfect spot for fishermen, campers, hikers, and nature enthusiasts. Visit https://www.techiecamper.org for all your camping gear reviews.
- Enjoy live racing from early July through Labor Day at Ellis Park Race Course, or attend one of their special events such as wiener dog races, ostrich races, and camel races.
- Explore Henderson’s nature scenes by taking a walk on the Atkinson Park Riverwalk, through the Sandy Lee Watkins Community Park, or visit the Audubon Wetlands Boardwalk. During the spring and summer, this trail has the best up-close views of wetland wildlife.
Explore Art & Culture:
- Check out the OVAL Gallery at The Citi Center Building is a myriad of yearly exhibits that include fine arts, fiber works, mixed media, and photography.
- Visit the Rotunda Gallery located on the top floor of the library is a historic space that offers rotating nature and art exhibits.
- See a live performance at the Preston Arts Center at HCC. Top vocalists, children’s science shows, and many other exciting shows visit each season.
Try New Flavors:
- Have a date night at Farmer and Frenchman Winery, where you can dine on the deck, sample wines, and see the fully refurbished 1940’s tobacco barn.
- Visit the Henderson Farmers Market at the Fairgrounds from May-October. It is the place to go for fresh produce, local honey, delicious jams, and more!
- Try different local restaurants in our ever-growing food community. Here, you can find a taste of everything from barbecue, seafood, sandwiches, and ethnic cuisine.
Treat yourself:
- If you’re looking for a new piece of furniture to put the finishing touch on your home, visit Alles Brothers Furniture Company who has been furnishing Henderson homes for 115 years.
- Handmade soaps and lotions are a couple of sweet-smelling ways to treat yourself. Lucia Soaps Etc LLC is the hot spot for local, handmade soaps and lotions!
- If furniture and soaps don’t hit the spot, there are lots of local boutiques and shops that are guaranteed to do the job. The Gold Mine, J Petals Flower Shop & Gifts, Paisley’s, Sweet Peas Gift Shop, Third Street House, Tip Top Design Company, and Victoria’s Boutique are some of the boutiques and shops that Henderson has to offer.
Henderson is home to a number of special events and unique activities year round. For more information on the latest happenings and can’t-miss experiences, check out our community calendar, and be sure to check it throughout the year for new and updated events.
Book a stay at the L&N Bed and Breakfast.
Blog produced by Henderson County Tourist Commission
A Valentine Getaway for Your Sweetheart and YOU!
Looking for a different Valentine’s gift this year? A special gift that includes breakfast and an overnight stay in gorgeous turn of the century home filled with nostalgia, antiques, charm and comfort. Treat your Valentine to an evening or weekend stay at L&N Bed and Breakfast. It promises to be a memorable stay and a treat for both of you. We’ll not only leave the light on with proper arrangements in advance we will have flowers and chocolates awaiting your arrival.
Check our availability at stay@lnbbky.com
We promise a Valentine Day to remember for years to come.
Merry Christmas from L&N
Twas the week before Christmas and all through the house, not a creature was stirring except for the mouse, (the stuffed one in the wall clock that is). Guests were checking into rooms adorned with stockings and poinsettias. Festive wreaths, and misseltoe balls were hung throughout the house and even a live tree adorned the parlor.
If you’re looking for a relaxing get-a-way during the holidays we still have some rooms available just call us 270.831.1100 or visit us online lnbbky.com/reservations
We promise visions of sugarplums, comforting, relaxing train lull-a-byes and some of the best breakfasts’ in town.
Merry Christmas from all of us at L&N and may your holidays be filled with peace and joy!
There’s no substitute for community, and Henderson KY is a sweet one to come home to.
Homecoming and True Community
By Mike Morgan, Fishers, Indiana
There’s no substitute for community, and Henderson is a sweet one to come home to.
My wife Stacy and I recently spent an especially sweet three-day weekend in Henderson to reconnect with old friends and familiar places. I was born here in 1960 and lived here until I left for college at Western Kentucky. My dad was a popular veterinarian here for decades—Dr. Morgan, on South Green Street and later on Old Corydon Road. I am proud to be known here mainly as the son of James and Clare, because they were so appreciated by this community. They both passed away years ago, and my brother Jim and sister Lyn live in North Carolina. With no more family to visit here, it had been more than a decade since I’d been home. So it was with fresh and grateful eyes that I was able to visit my hometown on Oct. 18-20 and take in both what Henderson was to me and what it has become.
Clean and Spacious
It was great to see that the town has been well maintained even through the economic downturn. The streets are clean and so very wide (you forget how special that is when you’re away). The buildings present politely, even the empty ones as they quietly wait for their next assignments.
Stacy and I both felt as though the town has turned a corner. Eleven years ago, what I noticed was pawn shops. Today, public works like the lovely Riverwalk, the tasteful Judicial Center, the massive expansion of the high school, and the Depot on Water Street (made me smile—old train station’s MiniMe!) prove that the town is not stuck in time. Selfishly, I wanted to find a little bit of stuck; I drove in wanting to lay eyes on places and buildings just as I remembered them when I tooled down Green Street in my ‘76 Maverick, feeling as if I owned the town. I did find plenty of scenes that had hardly changed at all; but between your progress and my imperfect memory, I found several nice surprises around the town.
We spent rich hours of conversation one-on-one with friends from the HCHS class of ’78—Doug Bobo, Kenny Perkins, Pastor Russell Wood–and with Glenda Guess, who has the distinction of being the only teacher who ever sat on my lap. (I was playing Santa Claus in a play at North Junior High. It was perfectly innocent.) We visited First Methodist Church Sunday morning and sat in the very same just-right-of-center pew where my family sat for decades. But perhaps the highlight was returning to the home and farm on Old Corydon Road to find it well cared for by a sweet couple who moved here from Fishers, the town where we now live near Indianapolis, and are nearing the end of a two-year remodeling project. The 1967 house that Jimmy Bethel designed for James and Clare has a new future, and the farm has become a busy equestrian center with plenty of riders and boarders. We couples chattered for nearly two hours about the history of the property and all the surprising things our families have in common, now including the old Hilltop Haven Farm.
Real and Virtual Communities
What has struck me about this weekend is that true community is something that evolves over time, requires early and patient investment, and as they say in prize drawings, you must be present to win. I could not have arranged this weekend without the internet and Facebook—it’s how I knew which of my high school friends are still in town, and it’s how we found Norris and Mary Elizabeth Priest’s lovely bed-and-breakfast. (How often is one served eggs, bacon, and slight-of-hand on the same menu?) But that virtual community is, at best, an enhancement to the real one. I hope we 21st-century people will all figure this out someday, but I saw it clearly this weekend: the people you befriend online can never become a substitute for a real community, like the one that Henderson was to me in my youth and that opened its arms to me again this Autumn.
The note I’ve taken: real community is the product of history, memory, friendship, and progress, and so I thank you for delivering so richly on all fronts so I could reconnect with Henderson in so sweet and poignant a way.
Make New Discoveries and Experience Century Old Taverns
A trip to Henderson, KY many times may include enjoying the talented musicians of the WC Handy Blues & BBQ Festival, an adventure on one of the many John James Audubon State Park foot trails or a stroll through the beautiful sidewalks of quaint, historic downtown.
Did you know there are a variety of restaurants, retail outlets and points of interest for your enjoyment and pleasure located in and around Henderson.
Here are three notable places to consider during your next visit.
Established in the late 1800’s, this historic structure with its hardwood floors and 15-seat bar serves some of the best bean soup, chili, and burgers in the area. Read more here about the new owner and plans for the long-running business, http://bit.ly/2o6QJrY
Interested in antiques and collectibles? You won’t want to miss these three floors of treasures curated by the Glick family for your enjoyment and shopping pleasure. Looking for a special home accent chair or are you into collecting specific heirlooms? Make sure to plan a visit to this downtown treasure chest.
The Henderson Riverwalk
One of the newest additions to our community runs adjacent to the river with spectacular views available to walkers and runners. Beginning at 12th Street and Merit Drive this paved path invites pedestrians and cyclist to exercise while watching barge and river traffic traverse the Ohio River.
Why not book a get-a-way weekend at the L & N Bed and Breakfast located in the heart of downtown, Henderson, KY and take in these special destinations and create your own unique adventure?
Let us help you discover your nature in Henderson.
Click to check availability at the L&N Bed and Breakfast.
Busting 10 Bed & Breakfast Myths
Considering traveling soon on a spontaneous getaway weekend to somewhere special? Were you considering a stay at a bed and breakfast, but dismissed the idea because you weren’t sure what to expect or afraid you might not like it? Well, leave your preconceived notions at the door and book a room now at the L&N Bed and Breakfast.
While there are plenty of myths about B&Bs floating around, here are 10 worth busting:
Myth #1: Breakfast is only served during a certain time period and with other guests.
While some B&Bs have designated breakfast hours (the L&N innkeepers pride themselves on mouthwatering, often cooked-to-order, breakfasts), exceptions usually can be made with advance-notice if you like to sleep in or rise early. And, no worries if your getaway is a romantic rendezvous; you and your sweetheart still can enjoy a cozy breakfast for two at your leisure.
Myth #2: B&Bs are second-rate and cheap.
On the contrary, B&Bs offer an incredible value with top-notch touches often only found at the most expensive hotels such as fine china, fresh flowers, luxurious linens and complimentary snacks (so forget about mini-bar charges). They also provide ways to pad your wallet including free Wi-Fi, complimentary parking and, of course, breakfast included in your rate!
Myth #3: All bathrooms are shared.
According to PAII, the Professional Association of Innkeepers International, 94% of all B&Bs have private, en-suite bathrooms. At the L&N, 100% of our four guest rooms all have private bathrooms.
Myth #4: Privacy is limited.
Innkeepers are hospitality experts and they are there to assist. But, it’s your getaway, so once you’re settled in you can have as much, or as little, interaction as you would like. Most inns also offer plenty of common space where you can find your own hideaway or enjoy the company of others. At the L&N we have spacious living and dining rooms, a common shared kitchen stocked with beverages and snacks and plenty of outdoor areas to relax in with a cup of coffee, a favorite book or your electronic tablet.
Myth #5: The breakfasts are fattening and unhealthy.
Breakfasts are the cornerstone of a B&B, and innkeepers take pride in their creations. From low-fat or low-carb options to dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, they can create a special dish using one of their healthy recipes just for you (with advance notice, of course).
Myth #6: B&Bs are only for older people.
Yes, the older set are frequent guests at B&Bs. But, younger travelers, lured by the uniqueness, personal touch, and value, have found B&Bs to be a smart alternative to the big-box, cookie-cutter hotels who nickel and dime their guests with fees.
Myth #7: B&Bs are cluttered with chotchkies, antiques and doilies.
Some B&Bs fit this bill… but not all. At the L&N we pride ourselves on train memorabilia and it shows throughout our property. Scaled, miniature train locomotives, books, art and a variety of train-themed historic artifacts adorn the interior of the inn to create a magical guest experience.
Myth #8: B&Bs don’t cater to business travelers.
While mainly thought of as a vacation-only destination, B&Bs have added amenities to accommodate the business traveler including in-room desks, guest rooms with numerous outlets, free Wi-Fi, parcel delivery and pick-up services and business specials for midweek, last-minute and extended stays. And, you won’t have to spend on breakfast, snacks and, in many cases, bottled water — a real cost cutter.
Myth #9: Only breakfast is served.
Breakfast may be in the name, but there’s more to a B&B than the morning meal. Reservations can be made at a variety of local dining establishments featuring anything from steaks to gastropub fare, Italian, Mexican and even a French Winery.
Myth #10: B&Bs are just a room. How boring.
Step outside of your room, past the cozy deck and glorious gardens found at many inns, and you’ll find a list of great outdoor activities at the inn or around the area to fill up any getaway including scenic walkways along the river, food and wine tasting tours, nature hikes, water sports, bicycling and more. Think of the innkeeper as a concierge. Not only will they point out the hot spots in town but also the hidden gems only a native would know.
Next time you’re considering a B&B getaway, keep this list in mind. And, remember: Myths are meant to be busted.
Fall Events in Henderson KY (2017)
See all the autumn-inspired events and festivities across Henderson County. Come and spend the weekend (or weekday) with us. You can check our availability online here.
Ellis Park Pumpkin Fest
Ellis Park isn’t just for horsing around! This fall, every Friday through Sunday until October 31, Pumpkin Fest at Ellis Park is open for business. Your general admission ticket comes with lots of fun activities like hayrides, a straw maze, and inflatables for the kiddos. Admission is free for kids ages 2 and under, ages 3 to 11 costs $7, and admission for ages 12 and above is $9. Make sure to bring cash for entrance into the event. Discounts are available for groups if you call in advance! Hours of operation begin at 3 p.m. on Friday and 11 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday, and the event runs until the sun goes down. Pumpkins and fun all day long!
Cates Farm
A family tradition with all your favorite fall and farm activities! This year’s events include an 11-acre corn maze, 12 acres of pumpkins, hayrides, bonfires, and games. A general admission ticket includes a hayride, a corn maze, the pumpkin patch and all the activity areas, all for $7 for children ages 3 to 11 and $9 for children ages 12 to adult. The 2017 season is open on Fridays from 4 to 9 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 1 to 7 p.m. until October 31. Group rates are available for field trips, birthday parties, church groups, company picnics, and class reunions. Must call in advance to schedule these and other events.
Farmer’s Market
Say goodbye to sweet summer garden produce and say hello to fall flavors! Fall Farmer’s Market products include pumpkins, gourds, straw, corn stalks and edible fall squash. Head on out to the Henderson County Fairgrounds on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 381 Sam Ball Way. Freedom Park playground is right beside the Farmer’s Market, so bring the kids and make a day of it!
Highway 60 Yard Sale
Avid bargain hunters from all over will be flocking to Kentucky for the famous 400-mile yard sale that stretches from east to west along Highway 60. From sunup to sundown during October 5 through 8, take a drive down country roads to see what interesting deals you can find.
Lion’s Club Arts & Crafts Festival
Another outdoor market event that draws in thousands of people is the annual Arts & Crafts Festival at Audubon State Park going on October 7 and 8. The festival brings in over 100 unique vendors. Woodworking, artistic items, weaving, seasonal decor, quilts, handmade, and let’s not forget kettle corn and all the other tasty treats! It’s a great time to buy one-of-a-kind gifts for the holidays, and to watch artisans at work! Wooden statues made from chainsaw artists are a favorite of festival-goers. Admission is free, but you’ll need cash for parking.
Terror on the Trail
Looking for a more frightening outing that also supports a good cause? The 11th annual Terror on the Trail is full of scary goblins and ghouls. Two nights of thrilling fun on October 20 and 21, beginning at 7 p.m. Tickets are $15 a piece and worth every penny, as the proceeds of the event go towards kids with medical expenses. This year’s recipients are Erich Gilbert, a freshman in high school with cerebral palsy who is wheelchair bound, and Adeline Grace, the 8-week-old daughter of Brad and Whitney Alsup. The proceeds will go to helping with the purchase of van lift for Erich’s family and for an aortic correction surgery for Adeline which she will need when she reaches 6 to 8 months of age. These two families in need could use your support, and you’re in for a spooktacular time at Terror on the Trail!
Spooks & Legends Haunted Tour
The Depot Community Room’s most popular tour of the year, the Spooks and Legends Haunted Tour, is set for Saturday, October 28. Listen to these eyebrow-raising stories of actual people that lived in Henderson centuries ago! You will find yourself trapped in the plots of murder mysteries, haunted buildings, crimes that might just make your skin crawl! This tour is based on actual people and events that are recorded in Henderson’s History. Two walking tours will operate on Saturday, beginning at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the Depot Community Room at 101 North Water Street.
Downtown Trick-or-Treat
Don’t forget to take the kids out for to do what they love doing most, collecting candy! As always, trick-or-treating will take place in downtown Henderson from 3 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. After the trick-or-treat, make your way to your favorite Halloween party, including community activities at Henderson General Baptist Church, First United Methodist Church, and Community Baptist Church.