Tourism in the Commonwealth is expanding, especially in communities locally. The Menifee County Tourism Commission, founded last year, has been working to help travelers enjoy all the area has to offer.
Many events are coming up in and around Frenchburg in Menifee County, and more are in the planning phase. Carrie Lawson is the first Director of Tourism for the county. She said these events paired with the natural beauty of the region bring in new faces, including those in the film industry.
“Being as small as we are, when you tell people we’re doing that, they’re like ‘Wow, in Menifee, you’re so little.’ It’s growing, and people want to come there and film because of our people and what we have to offer. We’re that charming little town that everyone is looking for,” said Lawson.
The county has well over 200 Airbnb rental spaces, encouraging travelers to visit the area’s largest attractions. Lawson said the placement of the county between two major landmarks, one of them being Cave Run Lake, is one of its greatest draws.
“They’re fishing or they’re just recreating on the lake, or they’re going hiking in the Red River Gorge. We’re right in between, so we’re getting on both sides. They’re super excited about everything that’s going on. It just seems like they’re coming more now than they ever have,” said Lawson.
Menifee County Tourism is helping with local events, including the annual Mountain Memories Festival. The festival will be held in Frenchburg June 6 and 7, and will feature local crafts, food, and live music. Lawson said collaboration between organizations within Menifee County is helping to make community gatherings better than ever.