Named by Reverend John Fee for a biblical town that "received the word with all eagerness," Berea stood out in 1850s slave-state Kentucky as an area that opposed slavery. In fact, Berea College was the first interracial college founded in the South.
Berea is a city located in Madison County, Kentucky
Named by Reverend John Fee for a biblical town that "received the word with all eagerness," Berea stood out in 1850s slave-state Kentucky as an area that opposed slavery. In fact, Berea College was the first interracial college founded in the South.
Berea is a city located in Madison County, Kentucky. With a quickly growing population of 13,561 at the 2010 census, the city is a major hub for artisans and wordsmiths. Even renowned authors Bell Hooks and Silas House reside in this dreamy small town with flair. The city sits within 40 miles of Lexington and is home to a giant community of musicians, painters, sculptors, jewelry makers, furniture designers and many other artists of all types.
With the college campus nearby, you'll easily find affordable apartments for rent in Berea, including studio apartments for rent, duplexes for rent and month-to-month townhouses for rent. Rental apartments are quite plentiful here. You'll likely need a first and last months' deposit, identification, and proof of income to secure the rental you desire. With Kentucky's seasonal weather, you'll most likely want to begin your search in early spring and summer to avoid ice skating to an apartment viewing. Interstate 75 provides access to nearby Lexington and locals can benefit from the Foothills Express bus service throughout the city and neighboring areas. Berea's structure is highly accommodating for walking and biking, as well.
What do you look for in your ideal neighborhood? Shops and restaurants? Arts and culture? A short commute? Check out the list below to find out which area is best for you.
Downtown: You'll find the college campus here, plus lots of apartment rentals to peruse. Lots of shops and restaurants line these streets, and you'll have no trouble biking or walking in this area. The country club is also found here.
Northern: The Kentucky Artisans Center at Berea is located in the northwestern portion of the city, and residential options are clustered in this section as well.
Western: Highway 75 runs down the western half of the city, providing an easy commute for those in need.
Life in Berea is sure to include crafts festivals, art shows, and creative inspiration -- especially considering that it's "the folk arts and crafts capital of Kentucky." The city's Spoonbread Festival, held annually in September, features a local cornmeal dish eaten with -- you guessed it -- a spoon. The event includes entertainment, hot air balloon rides, car and dog shows, a 5K run, and a parade.
Berea College is known nationwide as the most accessible way to earn a quality education. Noted author Bell Hooks teaches and resides in Berea, as well. The city is also home to many manufacturing employers: STEMCO Motor Wheels, Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas, Kentucky Steel Center, and Novelis, to name only a few.
Craving some new food flavors? Berea has you covered with numerous locally owned restaurants, including Wan Pen, The Artisan Cafe, Mariachi's Mexican, and the Smokehouse Grill and Buffet. Appease your sweet tooth with a visit to the Berea Fudge Shop, or get your caffeine fix at Berea Coffee and Tea Co. For a historically rich treat, and for some of that famous spoonbread, stop by the Boone Tavern Restaurant. The Berea Farmers Market is ideal for those with culinary prowess.
As the town's motto suggest, Berea truly is "where art's alive."
