The Bluegrass might be best-known for bourbon and fried chicken, but there’s a little town in Northern Kentucky where beer and brats reign supreme. MainStrasse Village is an authentic Bavarian village in Kentucky that’s straight out of an Old World fairy tale. From Bavarian breweries and shops to charming German architecture and culture, MainStrasse Village is a delightful and unique day trip — or weekend getaway! — destination in Kentucky.

In Northern Kentucky, there’s a place that feels much more Bavaria than Bluegrass.

Ni N./Google Local

This is MainStrasse Village, the “Little Bavaria of Kentucky” – and it’s delightful.

MainStrasse Village/Facebook

Designated as a national historic district, this 19th century German neighborhood is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, as the village features unique shops, art galleries, a variety of excellent restaurants, beer and bourbon pubs, and year-round entertainment.

MainStrasse Village/Facebook

There’s almost always something happening in MainStrasse Village, from the world’s largest yard sale…

Pam Sweet/Google Local

…to Oktoberfest and even Goettafest!

MainStrasse Village/Facebook

This charming little Bavarian village in Northern Kentucky is a must-visit for those who appreciate old architecture. The town is home to the Carroll Chimes Bell Tower, which plays The Legend of the Pied Piper on the hour from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Craig Strauss/Google Local Carroll Street, Carroll St, Covington, KY 41015, USA

The Goose Girl Fountain is another popular landmark, and adds an airy of magic and whimsy to this charming village. The fountain was commissioned by the Northern Kentucky Convention and Visitor’s Bureau and unveiled in 1980. It’s based on the “Goose Girl” fairy tale by the Brothers Grimm and represents the Germanic culture of the area.

MainStrasse Village/Facebook

Shops and breweries line the streets of Mainstrasse Village. Cedar Restaurant is a popular eatery in town, offering a German-Bavarian influence to American favorites, as with the beef and goetta burger.

Pam Sweet/Google Local Cedar, 701 Main St, Covington, KY 41011, USA

The Standard is your classic greasy spoon, while Cock And Bull Mainstrasse is an authentic European pub with the best fish and chips in the state!

Lowell Cady/Google Local Cock & Bull Public House Mainstrasse Village, 601 Main St, Covington, KY 41011, USA

And Crafts & Vines is the perfect place to bring your pup, grab a pint and a pretzel, and sit and people watch.

Crafts & Vines/Facebook Crafts & Vines, 642 Main St, Covington, KY 41011, USA

Northern Kentucky might not be the first (or second, or tenth) place that comes to mind when thinking Little Bavaria, but MainStrasse Village is as authentic – and awesome – as it gets. And if there’s one thing we know to be true about the Bluegrass, it’s that the state is full of surprises!

MainStrasse Village/Facebook

Have you explored MainStrasse Village, the “Little Bavaria” of Kentucky, before? If so, please share your highlights in the comments below!

Ni N./Google Local

MainStrasse Village/Facebook

Pam Sweet/Google Local

Craig Strauss/Google Local

Carroll Street, Carroll St, Covington, KY 41015, USA

Cedar, 701 Main St, Covington, KY 41011, USA

Lowell Cady/Google Local

Cock & Bull Public House Mainstrasse Village, 601 Main St, Covington, KY 41011, USA

Crafts & Vines/Facebook

Crafts & Vines, 642 Main St, Covington, KY 41011, USA

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Address: Mainstrasse, 473W W 5th St, Covington, KY 41011, USA