LINK nky - NKY Guide - 2026

NKY GUIDE linknky.com

THE VOICE OF NORTHERN KENTUCKY

Finding your way in NKY INSIDE:

Getting around: Public transit, ride services and the airport p13

A list of Northern Kentucky cities p7

Get a beer but bring the family! p14

What are the public and private schools in NKY p8

Wind up or down at a coffee shop or wine bar p15

How do I register to vote and what is the voting process? p11

Try something new with a class or workshop p16

What you need to know about your car’s registration and taxes p12 How to get your utilities connected p13

Museums, libraries and bookstores p18 A historic map of Northern Kentucky created by CS Mendenhall. Photo provided | CS Mendenhall via University of Kentucky

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Find a stop on the B-Line near you p19

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2 JANUARY 2026

Welcome to the NKY Guide: your neighborly companion to life in Northern Kentucky

PRESIDENT & CEO Lacy Starling EXECUTIVE EDITOR Meghan Goth SPORTS EDITOR Evan Dennison HAVE A TIP? News@LINKnky.com WANT TO ADVERTISE?

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hether you’ve just unpacked your first box or you’ve lived here for decades, this guide is designed to help you feel at home, informed and connected to your community. Every month, we deliver the NKY Guide (free of charge) to new homeowners in Kenton, Campbell and Boone counties because moving isn’t just about a change of address. It’s about becoming part of a community.

Inside these pages, you’ll find the practical information everyone needs but few know where to start looking for. From setting up utilities and registering your car to understanding how local schools work, when and where to vote and how county and city services fit together, the NKY Guide aims to simplify the essentials of everyday life.

Clear, local and reliable: This is the stuff

that helps a house start to feel like home.

But community is about more than checklists. It’s also about discovering the places and people that make Northern Kentucky what it is. That’s why we also highlight local coffee shops, restaurants, bars, parks and small businesses. We want to give you an inside look at the spots where conversations happen and connections are made.

Whether you’re searching for a great cocktail, a quiet cup of coffee or a new favorite neighborhood hangout, we want to help you find it.

At its heart, the NKY Guide is a bridge—between newcomers and longtime residents, between questions and answers and between where you live and the community you’re now a part of. Welcome home.

SUPPORT OUR WORK

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Scan the QR code below, or mail a check payable to the Northern Kentucky Community Journalism Fund to 50 East Rivercenter Blvd. Suite 431, Covington, KY 41011.

No part of this publication may be used without permission of the publisher.

Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please let us know and accept our sincere apologies in advance.

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Inside LINK: Something I wished I had when I moved here

The Roebling Suspension Bridge looking into Northern Kentucky. Photo by Eric Willoughby | LINK nky contributor

By Meghan Goth

W

hen I was 16, my family moved from Denver to Cincinnati.

It should have been Northern Kentucky, but as a family completely new to the area with little time to figure out logistics, NKY was simply too hard to figure out. So, alas, my dad had to commute from Cincinnati to Alexandria every day for work.

Someone told my mom the schools “were bad in NKY,” but we had no idea what to do with that information. In Denver, there was one school district and I just went to the school closest to me.

In NKY, we couldn’t even figure out how many school districts there were, let alone how to find out if I was eligible to go to a specific school or where we needed to live to make sure I could go there.

Somehow, we ended up with a realtor from NKY, who didn’t know much about Cincinnati, which made things even more complicated.

All of that is to say: If you’ve ever had to figure out NKY (or even a new area within

Scan this QR code for the digital NKY guide.

NKY) as an outsider, good luck.

The people in NKY are so wonderful and welcoming, but I’ve found that most people who have been here a while don’t even realize the difficulties that face those moving to NKY—or even within it.

April Draine, a parenting advocate and podcast host whose kids go to Ryle High School, said she experienced this first hand when she and her kids moved here a few years ago.

Her son, who played sports, didn’t know he needed to procure transportation to after-school activities, because his previous school district bussed kids there. But Ryle doesn’t provide transportation.

can’t figure something out or if you need something to do.

This guide is intended to help you integrate yourself into your new community. It’s also here for you to reference when you need a place to take the kids for dinner, or if you want to take a class and aren’t sure what’s available, or if you’re looking for a list of distilleries that are part of the B-Line.

For the newbies to the region, start here.

I’ll tell you generally how the schools work, how many cities there are and how to navigate between them, how to get your utilities and water turned on and how to begin to get involved in the community.

Let’s face it: Being the new kid in town is hard. But we are here to help you through it.

How to use this guide

Which is why Draine thinks of herself as a bridge of sorts.

For the not newbies, use this guide to welcome your friends or neighbors or anyone who you think could use a hand or a friend.

It can also help those moving between counties figure out where to register your car—just because you’ve lived in Kenton County the last 10 years, that doesn’t mean you’ll know everything about how to do things in Campbell County.

Or you can flip to Page 3 for a complete table of contents if you already know what you’re looking for.

“I’ve tried to find ways to stand in the middle of the bridge” between her kids and their school, Draine said. It can be a challenge even for someone as involved as Draine. “I’m trying to be bilingual even though we’re both speaking English.”

The print version of this guide will be updated in January each year. Updates to anything found in the Welcome to NKY Guide will be updated throughout the year at linknky.com.

And that is what we want to do with the Welcome to NKY Guide. We want to be a bridge between you and all the amazing things happening in NKY (or in your new neighborhood) that you may not know about.

Whether you are new to NKY or new to a city or county in NKY, there’s a lot to know: • How are decisions made at the local level and how can I get involved?

• How do the schools work and how do I enroll my student?

• How do I pay my taxes?

• How do I get my water and utilities turned on?

4 JANUARY 2026

• How do I get around, whether by public transportation or other methods?

Welcome to Northern Kentucky! We’re glad you’re here.

How do schools work in NKY?

If you’re new to NKY, you might be wondering about the watertower. It is near the Florence Mall and used to say as such, but then some legal wranglings caused the city to need to change the lettering. The water tower even inspired the name of the Florence Yall’s baseball team. File photo | LINK nky

This guide is intended to be a resource for new homeowners, but it should also be something you reference often when you

Boone, Kenton and Campbell counties have about 55,000 students enrolled in its 13 public school districts.

Kentucky’s 1838 education law established the state’s first system of free education, according to the Kentucky Historical Society. The legislation established a system that included a state superintendent, state board of education and county board of education.

To see a full list of public and private schools, along with contact information, go to Page 8.

Navigating NKY

But the law didn’t require local taxation for schools.

The result was a collection of small, locally funded districts that operated mostly independent of each other and the state board.

An Erlanger City Council meeting. File photo | LINK nky

NKY has 36 cities and municipalities. That means 36 separate governmental bodies, 36 mayors, 36 councils or commissions, 36 tax codes.

Fast forward about 100 years to 1934, when Kentucky decided to create two types of school districts: county school districts and independent school districts. Independent districts had to have at least 200 students enrolled—a requirement that is still in place today.

What does that mean for you?

Today, an independent district is defined as “those school districts whose geographic boundaries are defined not by the county lines that define most districts, but by historic boundaries within counties,” according to the Legislative Research Commission report. In short, independent districts are the ones that didn’t merge with the county in 1934.

“We can influence our schools and cities easily because they are accessible and we can run for those offices because they are easily accessible,” Noem said.

NKY, according to the Kentucky School Board Association, has 10 independent school districts, which is the largest cluster of independent districts in the state. The state has 51 total independent schools.

But with so many smaller cities, it becomes easier for a regular person to walk into a meeting and talk to the mayor or give an opinion about a proposed development.

So what does all that mean for someone moving into the region?

In short, where you live matters—a lot. Let’s say you live in Bellevue. Your child could go to Bellevue Independent School District, or you could go to Campbell County Schools.

Don’t like either of those options? You can also have your child go to, for example, Fort Thomas or Beechwood Independent schools, though tuition is required if you live outside of those cities.

Shane Noem, a lobbyist and chair of the Kenton County Republican Party, said one plus to lots of cities in our region is that it makes local government more accessible for people.

As someone who reported mostly in Cincinnati before I joined LINK nky, councils and commissions always felt very intimidating.

The decisions that are made at the city level are the things that affect your everyday life: From whether your taxes go up to how much you will pay for road repairs or when a stop light will finally be put in at that problematic intersection, showing up to these city meetings is a sure way to make your voice heard and stay up to date on what is happening in your community.

To learn more about how to get civically engaged in your new community, go to Page 6.

Find answers to all of these things on Page 13.

Looking to have some fun?

And that’s how the Eastside+ Neighborhood Association came to be, which unites neighbors all over Covington to address issues they may face together. It brings in local leaders to talk about different topics, and it coordinates days to beautify the neighborhood or help make home repairs.

Community looks different for just about everyone, but here at LINK, we see it as our responsibility to help bring people together and find their communities.

To that end, if you want to get involved and are looking for your community, go here.

OK, but what about all this piddly stuff?

Covington Yard. Photo provided | meetNKY

Coming to a new area can also be loads of fun as you learn about the local restaurants, shops and people that make the community come alive.

My favorite way to explore a new area is to walk around until I find something interesting, but since NKY as a whole isn’t the most walkable, we took the work out of it for you.

If you’ve got kids and want to find something to do with the family, there are restaurants, breweries and dog parks galore.

We’ve got a list of coffee shops and places to find an amazing cocktail, along with museums, libraries and bookstores.

A sample of Kentucky’s REAL ID. Photo provided | Commonwealth of Kentucky

Moving is a pain. Even though it feels like the process is finally completed after you’ve signed the papers or moved in, there are a lot of other little things to take care of that can feel impossible to navigate.

How do I register my vehicle? Where do I renew my driver’s license? How do I register to vote? How do I get my tags renewed?

If you’re new to Kentucky, you might not know that cars are taxed differently here … so be prepared for the sticker shock. But beyond that, how does one even pay those taxes?

What if you don’t have public transportation, or are looking for a driving service for a client who is flying into CVG?

Maybe you’re looking to take a new class or get your kids (or yourself!) involved in sports—or maybe you just want to know where to watch sports.

Moral of the story? Keep this guide We’re here for you when you’re trying to figure out where to move, once you’ve moved and when you’re settling in. This guide is intended to be your go-to when you can’t figure out where to go or what to do.

While some things may have changed or been updated since this was printed, you can find the most updated version of the NKY Guide at linknky.com/nky-guide.

Our goal is to be a bridge between you and the wonderful community that is NKY. Welcome, and let’s explore Northern Kentucky together!

How do I find my community?

There’s also transportation to think about: If you live in Bellevue but you decided to send your child to Beechwood, you’ll have to provide transportation because buses won’t go outside the district.

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But this can also be a positive, because county districts are required to bus all students who live in the county, so if you’re in Bellevue, your kids could get a bus to Campbell County Schools.

There are also many private schools within the Diocese of Covington to choose from, with 34 schools spread among Kenton, Campbell and Boone counties. Those schools do require tuition and do not provide transportation.

Scott Banford and Melissa Kelley moved to Covington in 2022 from New York City, where they lived for 25 years, to be closer to Kelley’s sister, who also lives in Covington. The couple rehabbed and moved into a home in Covington’s Eastside neighborhood.

We’ve got you covered.

Then, Kelley said, “we wanted to get involved, because that’s just who we are.”

Schools in NKY are not easy to figure out. That’s why we’re here. File photo | LINK nky

That meant wealthy communities could choose to support schools through taxation if they chose to.

people look for is a way to connect to their community.

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How do I become civically engaged in my new community?

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is a great way to get involved with the local business community. Photo provided | Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce on Instagram

Leadership Northern Kentucky is a way to get to know your fellow Northern Kentuckians; it also offers opportunities like the Women’s Initiative. Photo provided | Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

etting involved in the Northern Kentucky community is one of the most meaningful ways to put down roots, build relationships and shape the future of the place you call home. Whether you’re new to the region or a lifelong resident, engagement creates connection and ensures that community decisions reflect the voices of the people who live and work here.

Campbell County

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NKY offers countless pathways to get involved, from local political parties and issue-focused organizations to citizens’ academies that provide behind-the-scenes insight into how local government, law enforcement and public services operate.

Business councils, chambers of commerce, rotary clubs and leadership programs bring professionals together to collaborate, network and invest in the region’s economic and civic vitality. These organizations help cultivate leaders, support small businesses and foster partnerships that benefit the entire community.

Ultimately, involvement builds trust, encourages collaboration across differences, and helps NKY remain a place where people feel heard, supported and proud to be-

long. When residents participate, communities thrive—and everyone benefits.

Here is a list of some organizations to help you get more involved in civic life in NKY. If you have an organization you would like to add to the list, email news@linknky.com.

City: Campbell County Democrats thecampbelldems.com/ Phone: n/a

Boone County City: Boone County Democrats Website: linktr.ee/boonekydems Phone: n/a City: Boone County Engage Citizens Academy Website: boonecountyky.org/government/ citizensacademy.php Phone: n/a

City: Boone County Sheriff Citizen’s Academy Website: boonecountykysheriff.com/citizens-academy Phone: 859-334-2175

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City: Florence PD Citizen’s Academy Website: florence-ky.gov/florence-policedepartment-2024-citizens-academy/ Phone: n/a City: Kenton County Detention Center Citizens Academy Website: n/a Phone: n/a City: Kenton County Democrats Website: kentoncountydemocrats.org Phone: n/a City: Kenton County Republicans Website: kcrp.org Phone: n/a

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City: Covington Mayor’s Academy Website: covingtonky.gov/engagement Phone: 859-292-2160

City: Leadership Northern Kentucky Website: nkychamber.com/leadershipnky/ Phone: 859-578-8800

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City: Campbell County Republicans Website: campbellcountyrepublicanparty. org Phone: n/a

Kenton County

City: Boone County Republicans Website: bcrpky.net Phone: n/a

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City: Campbell County Citizens’ Academy Website: campbellcountyky.gov/division/ blocks.php?structureid=246 Phone: 859-547-1806

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City: NKY League of Women Voters Website: lwv.org/local-leagues/lwv-northern-kentucky Phone: 502-875-6481 City: Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Website: nkychamber.com Phone: 859-578-8800

City: Covington Neighborhood Collaborative Website: covingtoncnc.org Phone: n/a City: Center for Great Neighborhoods Website: greatneighborhoods.org Phone: 859-491-2220 City: Kenton County Rotary Club Website: kentonrotary.org Phone: n/a City: Rotary Club of Florence Website: florencerotary.org Phone: 859-334-0465 City: Campbell County Rotary Club Website: n/a Phone: n/a City: Covington Business Council Website: cbcky.com Phone: 859-431-1500 City: Fort Thomas Business Council Website: nkychamber.com/businesscouncils/ Phone: n/a City: Erlanger Business Council Website: nkychamber.com/businesscouncils/ Phone: n/a City: Newport Business Council Website: nkychamber.com/businesscouncils/ Phone: n/a City: Independence Business Association Website: ibanky.org Phone: n/a City: NKY Forum Website: nky-forum.org Phone: 859-572-1448 City: Catholic Faith Service Organizations Website: covdio.org/service-agenciesand-organizations/ Phone: n/a

The cities that make up Northern Kentucky

The view overlooking Northern Kentucky's river cities. Photo by Eric Willoughby | LINK nky contributor

T

here are a lot of cities in Northern Kentucky’s three counties: Boone, Kenton and Campbell. Thirty-six of them, as a matter of fact. And each of those cities has its own form of government, different places kids can go to school and their own ways of deciding things.

As a resident of NKY, that means there’s not always just one place to go if you need an answer to something.

Below is a list of NKY’s incorporated cities, their websites and the phone numbers to their clerks, who can help you with questions when you are new to a city.

You can get more information, like when these cities have their meetings and who to contact for zoning questions, for example, at linknky.com/nky-guide/

Boone County City: Florence Website: florence-ky.gov/ Phone: 859-647-8177 City: Union Website: cityofunionky.org/ Phone: 859-384-1511 City: Walton Website: cityofwalton.org/ Phone: 859-485-4383

Campbell County City: Alexandria Website: alexandriaky.gov/ Phone: 859-635-4125 City: Bellevue Website: bellevueky.org/ Phone: 859-431-8888 City: California

Website: n/a Phone: 859-609-6315

Website: woodlawnky.gov/ Phone: n/a

City: Cold Spring Website: coldspringky.gov/ Phone: 859-441-9604

Kenton County

City: Crestview Website: facebook.com/crestviewky/ Phone: 859-441-4620 City: Dayton Website: daytonky.com/ Phone: 859-491-1600 City: Fort Thomas Website: fortthomasky.org/ Phone: 859-441-1055 City: Highland Heights Website: hhky.com/ Phone: 859-441-8575 City: Melbourne Website: cityofmelbourneky.com/ Phone: 859-781-6664 City: Mentor Website: n/a Phone: 859-250-0065 City: Newport Website: newportky.gov/ Phone: 859-292-3666 City: Silver Grove Website: cityofsilvergroveky.com/ Phone: 859-441-6390 City: Southgate Website: southgateky.org/ Phone: 859-441-0075 City: Wilder Website:wilderky.gov/ Phone: 859-581-8884 City: Woodlawn

City: Bromley Website: cityofbromley.com/ Phone: 859-261-2498 City: Covington Website: covingtonky.gov/ Phone: 859-292-2160 City: Crescent Springs crescent-springs.ky.us/ Phone: 859-341-3017 City: Crestview Hills Website: crestviewhills.gov/ Phone: 859-341-7373 City: Edgewood Website: edgewoodky.gov/ Phone: 859-331-5910 City: Elsmere Website: cityofelsmere.com/ Phone: 859-342-7911 City: Erlanger Website: erlangerky.gov/ Phone: 859-727-2525

Go to linknky.com every Monday morning for a rundown of what’s going on in local government in your city that week from reporter Haley Parnell.

City: Kenton Vale Website: None Phone: 859-331-7977 City: Lakeside Park Website: lakesideparkky.gov/ Phone: 859-341-6670 City: Ludlow Website: ludlow.org/ Phone: 859-491-1233 City: Park Hills Website: parkhillsky.gov/ Phone: 859-431-6252 City: Ryland Heights Website: cityofrylandheights.org/ Phone: 859-363-7707 City: Taylor Mill Website: taylormillky.gov/ Phone: 859-581-3234

City: Fairview Website: https://fairview.ky.gov/Pages/ index.aspx Phone: 859-620-1852

City: Villa Hills Website: villahillsky.org/ Phone: 859-341-1515

City: Fort Mitchell Website: fortmitchell.com/ Phone: 859-331-1212

City: Walton Website: cityofwalton.org/ Phone: 859-485-4383

City: Independence Website: cityofindependence.org/ Phone: 859-356-5302

JANUARY 2026 7

Public school districts in Northern Kentucky

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avigating public school options in Northern Kentucky can feel overwhelming, especially for families who are new to the region or preparing for a move.

Unlike areas with a single, unified district, NKY is made up of a complex mix of countywide systems and numerous independent school districts, each with its own boundaries, grade configurations, programs and performance ratings.

If you’re not from the area or if you are moving to a new city, school names, grade groupings and pathways aren’t always intuitive. Some districts combine middle and high school under one roof, while others separate them.

For parents and guardians, this can turn school selection into a stressful and timeconsuming process, particularly when decisions must be made quickly. Having clear, accessible information about each district and school is essential to helping families make informed choices that best fit their children’s needs.

Understanding NKY’s school landscape takes time, patience and good resources— but with the right guidance, families can find schools where students can thrive academically and personally.

Below is a list of the public school districts in NKY. Rankings are color coded from lowest to highest: red, orange, yellow, green and blue.

Beechwood Independent School: Beechwood Elementary School Website: beechwood.kyschools.us/ elementary Phone number: 859-331-1220 Rating: green School: Beechwood High School Website: beechwood.kyschools.us/highschool Phone number: 859-331-1220 Rating: blue School: Guardian Angel Website: dcchcenter.org/ Phone number: 859-331-2040 Rating: n/a

Bellevue Independent School: Bellevue High School (Middle) Website: bellevue.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-261-2980 Rating: orange School: Bellevue High School (High) Website: bellevue.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-261-2980 Rating: yellow School: Grandview Elementary School Website: bellevue.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-261-4355 Rating: yellow

Boone County

School: Conner Middle School Website: cms.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-334-4410 Rating: blue School: Erpenbeck Elementary School Website: erpenbeck.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-384-7200 Rating: blue School: Florence Elementary School Website: florence.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-282-2610 Rating: orange School: Gray Middle School Website: gms.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-384-5333 Rating: green

School: A M Yealey Elementary School Website: yealey.boone.kyschools.us/o/ yealey Phone number: 859-282-3333 Rating: green

School: Hillard Collins Elementary School Website: collins.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-282-2350 Rating: yellow

School: Ballyshannon Middle School Website: bms.boone.k12.ky.us/o/bms Phone number: 859-905-2620 Rating: green

School: Ignite Institute Website: igniteinstitute.org Phone number: 859-817-3570 Rating: n/a

School: Boone County High School Website: bchs.boone.kyschools.us/o/bchs Phone number: 859-282-5655 Rating: yellow

School: Larry A. Ryle High School Website: ryle.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-384-5300 Rating: green

School: Burlington Elementary School Website: boone.kyschools.us/o/burlington Phone number: 859-334-4440 Rating: green

School: Longbranch Elementary School Website: longbranch.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-384-4500 Rating: green

School: Camp Ernst Middle School Website: cems.boone.kyschools.us/ Phone number: 859-534-4000 Rating: green

School: New Haven Elementary School Website: newhaven.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-384-5325 Rating: blue

School: Charles H. Kelly Elementary School Website: kelly.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-334-4450 Rating: blue

School: North Pointe Elementary School Website: northpointe.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-334-7000 Rating: green

School: Chester Goodridge Elementary School Website: goodridge.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-334-4420 Rating: yellow School: Conner High School Website: chs.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-334-4400 Rating: green

School: Ockerman Elementary School Website: ockerman.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-282-4620 Rating: orange School: Ockerman Middle School Website: oms.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-282-3240 Rating: yellow School: Randall K. Cooper High School Website: cooper.boone.kyschools.us/o/ cooper Phone number: 859-384-5040 Rating: yellow School: Rector A. Jones Middle School Website: rajms.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-282-4610 Rating: orange School: RISE Academy Website: bcap.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-283-1003 Rating: n/a School: Shirley Mann Elementary School Website: mann.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-384-5000 Rating: blue

Students participate in a Bob Ross painting party at Boone County High School. Photo provided | Boone County Schools on Instagram

8 JANUARY 2026

School: Steeplechase Elementary School Website: steeplechase.boone.k12.ky.us Phone number: 859-485-3500

Rating: yellow School: Stephens Elementary School Website: stephens.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-334-4460 Rating: green School: Thornwilde Elementary School Website: thornwilde.boone.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-283-1003 Rating: blue

Campbell County School: Alexandria Educational Center Website: aec.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-635-9113 Rating: n/a School: Campbell County High School Website: cchs.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-635-4161 Rating: green School: Campbell County Middle School Website: ccms.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-635-6077 Rating: green School: Campbell Ridge Elementary Website: cres.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-448-4780 Rating: green School: Crossroads Elementary School Website: crossroads.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-441-9174 Rating: yellow School: Donald E. Cline Elementary School Website: cline.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-781-4544 Rating: blue School: Grant’s Lick Elementary School Website: gle.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-635-2129 Rating: blue School: John W. Reiley Elementary School Website: reiley.campbell.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-635-2118 Rating: blue

Covington Independent School: Biggs Early Childhood Education Center Website: jbece.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-5895 Rating: n/a School: Chapman Vocational Education Center Website: n/a Phone number: 859-291-5911 Rating: n/a School: Covington Adult High School Website: n/a Phone number: 859-292-5864 Rating: n/a School: Glenn O. Swing Elementary Website: gses.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-5821 Rating: green School: Holmes High School Website: hhs.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-655-9545 Rating: yellow School: Holmes Middle School

Website: hms.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-655-9545 Rating: orange School: John G. Carlisle Elementary Website: jces.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-5812 Rating: green School: Latonia Elementary School Website: les.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-5825 Rating: yellow School: Ninth District Elementary Website: www.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-5823 Rating: orange School: Sixth District Elementary School Website: sdes.covington.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-5819 Rating: orange School: Transformational Learning Center Website: n/a Phone number: 859-581-7512 Rating: n/a

Dayton Independent School: Dayton High School (Middle) Website: dhs.dayton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-7486 Rating: yellow School: Dayton High School (High) Website: dhs.dayton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-7486 Rating: green School: Lincoln Elementary School Website: les.dayton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-292-7492 Rating: yellow

Erlanger–Elsmere Independent School: Arnett Elementary School Website: aes.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-727-1488 Rating: yellow School: Bartlett Educational Center Website: bec.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-342-2460 Rating: n/a School: Early Learning Center Website: elc.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-342-2427 Rating: n/a School: Howell Elementary School Website: hes.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-727-1108 Rating: orange School: Lindeman Elementary School Website: les.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-727-1188 Rating: green School: Lloyd High School Website: lmhs.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-727-1555 Rating: yellow School: Miles Elementary School Website: mes.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-727-2231 Rating: green School: Tichenor Middle School Website: tms.erlanger.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-727-2255 Rating: yellow

Fort Thomas Independent School: Highlands High School Website: www.fortthomas.kyschools.us/o/ hhs/ Phone number: 859-781-5900 Rating: blue School: Highlands Middle School Website: hms.fortthomas.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-441-5222 Rating: green School: Johnson Elementary School Website: jes.fortthomas.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-441-2444 Rating: blue School: Moyer Elementary School Website: mes.fortthomas.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-441-1180 Rating: blue School: Woodfill Elementary School Website: wes.fortthomas.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-441-0506 Rating: blue

Kenton County School: Beechgrove Elementary School Website: beechgrove.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-371-1636 Rating: yellow School: Dixie Heights High School Website: dixieheights.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-341-7650 Rating: blue School: Ft. Wright Elementary School Website: fortwright.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-331-7742 Rating: green School: James A. Caywood Elementary School Website: caywood.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-341-7062 Rating: green School: Kenton Elementary School Website: kentonelementary.kenton. kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-3781 Rating: green School: Piner Elementary School Website: piner.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-2155 Rating: yellow School: R.C. Hinsdale Elementary School Website: hinsdale.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-341-8226 Rating: green School: River Ridge Elementary School Website: riverridge.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-341-5260 Rating: yellow School: Ryland Heights Elementary School Website: rylandheights.kenton.ky schools.us Phone number: 859-356-9270 Rating: blue School: Scott High School Website: scott.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-3146 Rating: green School: Simon Kenton High School Website: simonkenton.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-960-0100 Rating: green

Students in Beechwood High School’s EDGE program. Photo provided | Beechwood Schools Instagram

School: Taylor Mill Elementary School Website: taylormill.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-2566 Rating: green School: Turkey Foot Middle School Website: turkeyfoot.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-341-0216 Rating: green School: Twenhofel Middle School Website: twenhofel.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-5559 Rating: green School: White’s Tower Elementary School Website: whitestower.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-9668 Rating: yellow School: Woodland Middle School Website: woodland.kenton.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-356-7300 Rating: blue

Ludlow Independent School: Ludlow High School (Middle) Website: high.ludlow.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-261-8211 Rating: orange School: Ludlow High School (High) Website: high.ludlow.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-261-8211 Rating: green School: Mary A. Goetz Elementary School Website: elementary.ludlow.kyschools.us Phone number: 859-261-2100 Rating: green

Newport Independent School: Newport High School (Middle) Website: nhs.newportwildcats.org Phone number: 859-292-3023 Rating: orange School: Newport High School (High) Website: nhs.newportwildcats.org Phone number: 859-292-3023 Rating: orange School: Newport Intermediate School Website: nis.newportwildcats.org Phone number: 859-292-3021 Rating: orange School: Newport Primary School Website: nps.newportwildcats.org Phone number: 859-292-3011 Rating: orange School: Newport Regional School Website: nrs.newportwildcats.org

Phone number: 859-292-6476 Rating: n/a School: Newport School of Innovation Website: nsoi.newportwildcats.org Phone number: 859-292-3001 Rating: n/a

Southgate Independent School: Southgate Public School (Elementary) Website: southgate.k12.ky.us Phone number: 859-441-0743 Rating: yellow School: Southgate Public School (Middle) Website: southgate.k12.ky.us Phone number: 859-441-0743 Rating: green

Walton–Verona Independent School: Walton–Verona Early Childhood Center Website: wv.kyschools.us/page/preschool Phone number: 859-485-4181 Rating: n/a School: Walton–Verona Elementary School Website: waltonveronaisdky.sites. thrillshare.com/page/elementary Phone number: 859-485-4181 Rating: green School: Walton–Verona High School Website: wv.kyschools.us/page/highschool Phone number: 859-485-7721 Rating: blue School: Walton–Verona Intermediate School Website: wv.kyschools.us/page/ intermediate-school Phone number: 859-485-4181 Rating: blue School: Walton–Verona Middle School Website: wv.kyschools.us/page/elementary Phone number: 859-485-4181 Rating: green

For more information about school ratings and what they mean, scan this QR code.

JANUARY 2026 9

C

Parochial schools in Northern Kentucky

atholic and parochial schools have long been an important part of Northern Kentucky’s education landscape. With schools serving students from preschool through high school, these institutions expand school choice by giving families alternatives that are not limited by district boundaries or neighborhood lines.

In NKY, a wide range of academic approaches and extracurricular opportunities also allows families to find settings that fit their children’s individual needs and learning styles.

Whether families are seeking continuity, structure, or alternative educational options, parochial schools play a practical role in NKY’s broader education system.

Elementary School: Immaculate Heart of Mary Level: Elementary Website: www.ihmkyschool.org Phone number: 859-689-4303 School: St. Joseph Academy–Walton Level: Elementary Website: sjawalton.com Phone number: 859-485-6444 School: Mary, Queen of Heaven Level: Elementary Website: mqhschool.com Phone number: 859-371-8100 School: St. Paul–Florence Level: Elementary Website: stpaulnky.org/school Phone number: 859-371-8051 School: St. Timothy–Union Level: Elementary Website: saint-timothy-school.org/elementary-school/ Phone number: 859-384-5100 School: St. Timothy–Union Level: Middle Website: saint-timothy-school.org/middle-school/ Phone number: 859-384-5100 School: Holy Trinity–Bellevue Level: Elementary Website: holytrinity-school.org/ Phone number: 859-291-6937

Website: sites.google.com/a/stphilipky.org/ stphilip/st-philip-school Phone number: 859-441-3423 School: St. Therese–Southgate Level: Elementary Website: school.sainttherese.ws Phone number: 859-441-0449 School: St. Thomas–Fort Thomas Level: Elementary Website: saintthomasschool.org Phone number: 859-572-4641 School: Blessed Sacrament–Fort Mitchell Level: Elementary Website: bssky.org Phone number: 859-331-3062 School: Holy Cross Elementary–Latonia Level: Elementary Website: www.holycrosselem.com Phone number: 859-581-6599 School: Prince of Peace Montessori– Covington Level: Elementary Website: www.popcov.com Phone number: 859-431-5153 School: St. Agnes–Fort Wright Level: Elementary Website: school.saintagnes.com Phone number: 859-261-0543 School: St. Anthony–Taylor Mill Level: Elementary Website: www.saintanthonytaylormill.org/ school Phone number: 859-431-5987 School: St. Augustine–Covington Level: Elementary Website: www.staugustines.net/school Phone number: 859-261-5564 School: St. Cecilia–Independence Level: Elementary Website: www.stceciliaky.org Phone number: 859-363-4314 School: St. Henry–Elsmere Level: Elementary Website: www.sthenryschool.net Phone number: 859-342-2551 School: St. Joseph–Crescent Springs Level: Elementary Website: www.sjscrescent.com Phone number: 859-578-2742

School: Covington Catholic High School Level: High School Website: www.covcath.org Phone number: 859-491-2247 School: Covington Latin School Level: High School Website: covingtonlatin.org Phone number: 859-291-7044 School: Holy Cross District High School Level: High School Website: hchscov.com Phone number: 859-431-1335 School: Newport Central Catholic High School Level: High School Website: ncchs.com Phone number: 859-292-0001 School: Notre Dame Academy Level: High School Website: www.ndapandas.org Phone number: 859-261-4300 School: St. Henry District High School Level: High School Website: shdhs.org Phone number: 859-525-0255 School: Villa Madonna Academy Level: High School Website: hsjh.villamadonna.org Phone number: 859-331-6333

School: Immaculate Heart of Mary Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.ihmkyschool.org/preschool Phone number: 859-689-4303

School: St. Thomas–Fort Thomas Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: saintthomasschool.org Phone number: 859-572-4641

School: St. Joseph Academy–Walton Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: sjawalton.com/Child-Care Phone number: 859-638-8323

School: Blessed Sacrament–Fort Mitchell Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: bssky.org Phone number: 859-331-3062

School: Mary, Queen of Heaven Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: mqhschool.com/ Phone number: 859-371-8100

School: St. Cecilia–Independence Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.stceciliaky.org Phone number: 859-363-2304

School: St. Paul–Florence Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: stpaulnky.org/school Phone number: 859-371-8051

School: St. Henry–Elsmere Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.sthenryschool.net Phone number: 859-342-2551

School: St. Timothy–Union Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: saint-timothy-school.org/preschool Phone number: 859-384-5100

School: St. Joseph–Crescent Springs Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.sjscrescent.com Phone number: 859-578-2742

School: St. Joseph Academy–Cold Spring Level: Elementary Website: stjosephcoldspring.com/school Phone number: 859-441-2025

School: St. Pius X Level: Elementary Website: school.stpiusx.com Phone number: 859-341-4900

School: Holy Parish Child Development Center–Newport Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.holyspiritnky.org/childdevelopment-center.html Phone number: 859-888-0777

School: St. Mary–Alexandria Level: Elementary Website: saintmaryparish.com Phone number: 859-635-4188

School: Villa Madonna Academy–Villa Hills Level: Elementary Website: www.villamadonna.org Phone number: 859-331-6333

School: Holy Trinity–Bellevue Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: holytrinity-school.org Phone number: 859-291-6937

School: Sts. Peter and Paul Level: Elementary Website: www.stspp.com Phone number: 859-635-4382

High Schools

School: St. Joseph–Camp Springs Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.stjosephcampsprings.org Phone number: 859-635-2491

10 JANUARY 2026

School: Sts. Peter and Paul Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.stspp.com Phone number: 859-635-4382

Preschool / Child Care

School: St. Patrick–Taylor Mill Level: Elementary Website: stpat.school Phone number: 859-344-7040

School: St. Philip–Melbourne Level: Elementary

School: St. Mary–Alexandria Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: saintmaryparish.com general-information Phone number: 859-635-4188

School: St. Therese–Southgate Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: school.sainttherese.ws Phone number: 859-441-0449

School: St. Catherine of Siena–Fort Thomas Level: Elementary Website: www.stcky.org/school Phone number: 859-572-2680

School: Bishop Brossart High School Level: High School Website: bishopbrossart.org Phone number: 859-635-2108

Students walk down the hallway at St. Timothy Catholic School in Union. Photo provided | St. Timothy Instagram

School: St. Joseph–Cold Spring Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: stjosephcoldspring.com/school Phone number: 859-441-2025

School: Julie Learning Center–Park Hills Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.julielearningcenter.comPhone number: 859-392-8231 School: St. Patrick–Taylor Mill Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: stpat.school Phone number: 859-344-7040 School: Prince of Peace–Covington Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.popcov.com Phone number: 859-431-5153 School: Villa Madonna Montessori–Villa Hills Level: Preschool / Child Care Website: www.villamadonna.org Phone number: 859-331-6333

VOTING IN KENTUCKY 101 HOW DO YOU REGISTER TO VOTE? To register online, visit govote.ky.gov​. To register via the mail, print and submit a completed voter registration applic​ation to your county clerk’s office. To register in person, visit your county clerk’s office to submit an application.

If you have changed your name or mailing address, you must update your registration. Do so online or by completing a voter registration application and submitting it to your county clerk’s office.

People voting at the Covington branch of the Kenton County Library during Election Day 2024. Photo by Kenton Hornbeck | LINK nky

WHAT IDENTIFICATION CAN I BRING TO THE POLLING PLACE? All voters must produce identification at the polling place. Further information regarding valid forms of ID may be found at elect.ky.gov.

DO I HAVE TO VOTE ACCORDING TO PARTY AFFILIATION? In Primary Elections, voters may only vote for candidates of their same political affiliation and non-partisan candidates. You can find out what political party you are registered under at vrsws. sos.ky.gov.

WHERE IS MY POLLING PLACE? A voting sign outside of the Southgate Police Station on Election Day 2024. Photo by Haley Parnell | LINK nky

You can find your polling place at govote.ky.gov Scan this QR code to go to LINK nky’s Election Headquarters, where you can find out everything from which candidates are running to where to vote to how to get an absentee ballot.

I WILL BE OUT OF TOWN ON ELECTION DAY. HOW CAN I VOTE? You can request an absentee ballot by mail and find no-excuse absentee voting dates at govote. ky.gov.

JANUARY 2026 11

I

Getting your driver’s license, registering your car and paying taxes on your car

f you’re new to the commonwealth, you’ll need to apply for a Kentucky driver’s license within 30 days of moving, even if your current license is still valid, in order to legally drive on Kentucky roads.

You’ll also need to transfer your title registration to Kentucky, get new license plates, pay vehicle usage taxes on your car and undergo an inspection if your car was bought out of state.

If you’re from out of state, it can seem a little onerous, but them's the rules; we didn’t make them.

License issuances are handled through the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, or KYTC. Beginning in May 2025, all IDs must conform to federal REAL ID requirements.

This means you’ll need proof of your identity, proof of your social security number and proof of any official name or gender changes in order to get an approved license. There are a handful of ways you can

do this. Consult the chart below to see acceptable documents.

Next, you’ll need to find an approved regional office of the KYTC (which you can do at https://drive.ky.gov/Pages/Find-An-Office.aspx) and go there during open hours.

Some offices allow you to make an appointment.

From there, you’ll need to update your insurance so that it’s valid with our new Kentucky address. This may or may or entail getting a fresh policy, depending on your insurance provider, but you have to have valid Kentucky insurance before doing anything else.

If you bought your vehicle outside of Kentucky, your county sheriff will have to inspect it. You usually don’t have to make an appointment for an inspection, but check with your sheriff at the webpages below for details.

which will allow you to complete the final registration of your car.

• boonecountykysheriff.com/ • kentoncountysheriff.org/167/ Vehicle-Inspection • campbellcountysheriffky.org/ vehicle-inspection/ Finally, you’ll need to update your title, get new plates and pay taxes. Unlike license issuances, these tasks are completed with your county clerk.

Vehicle usage taxes are collected anytime you’re required to register your car and are charged at a rate of 6%.

Call the phone numbers below to find out more.

• Boone County Clerk - 859-334-2108 • Kenton County Clerk - 859-392-1652 • Campbell County Clerk - 859-2923850

Once your inspection is complete, they’ll send a special form to the clerk’s office,

This is a list of documents accepted in order to obtain your REAL ID. Photo provided | Kentucky Transportation Cabinet

12 JANUARY 2026

If you're new to Kentucky, paying taxes on your car is gonna be a doozy. Photo provided | Rowen Smith via Unsplash

Getting around: public transit, ride services and the airport

Y

Getting your utilities connected

our utility provider, whether electricity or natural gas, is determined by which provider's service area your residence falls into (this is true whether you own or rent). Service areas are determined by the Kentucky Public Service Commission, a state agency that regulates utility providers in the commonwealth. Any utility provider that wants to set up shop in Kentucky has to go through the Public Service Commission first. Ditto if they want to change their rates.

There are three primary electricity providers in Northern Kentucky: Duke Energy, Owen Electric Cooperative and (to a much smaller degree) Kentucky Utilities Company. Their service areas are carved up and don’t match any county or city boundaries, however, certain providers tend to dominate in certain areas. Duke is more dominant in the region’s northern areas close to the Ohio River. Owen is more dominant in the south, and a small portion of southeast Campbell County falls into Kentucky Utilities Company’s service area.

A TANK bus. Photo provided | TANK

T

he Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky, or TANK, is the primary provider of public transportation in Northern Kentucky. It leans heavily on bus transit, but it provides a handful of other services, as well, including door-todoor paratransit services and specialized transportation services for qualifying senior citizens.

You can pay for single fares—$2 for a single ride or $4 for a day pass, as of December 2025—or buy prepaid monthly passes.

Special discounts are available for students and for certain events. Fares can be purchased when getting on a bus with cash, through the Transit with EZFare app on your smart device or at select locations throughout the region.

Finally, TANK has a so-called microtransit service called TANK Plus that offers curbto-curb rides in designated zones and within certain time frames. You can view normal fare and route information at tank bus.org. Learn more about the TANK Plus program at tankbus.org/microtransit.

There are also private companies that provide professional ride services (at a higher premium than public transit, naturally), including chauffeur services, passenger vans, paratransit services, shuttles to the airport and charter buses. Notable companies include Executive Transportation, Executive Services Group and Express Mobile Transportation (for seniors only). Check out their websites below.

Northern Kentucky without talking about the Cincinnati & NKY International Airport, known more commonly by its three letter designation: CVG. CVG is an economic focal point in Boone County, where it’s located, and serves as both a passenger and commercial hub. The airport offers flights throughout the world and serves as a global cargo hub for Amazon Air, DHL and Atlas Air, among others.

Gas, on the other hand, is almost entirely the purview of Duke.

Figuring out how to do everyday things can feel overwhelming when moving. That's what this guide is for. Photo provided | Sasikan Ulevik via Unsplash

Consult the maps below to see the service areas for each provider. Visit the providers’ webpages to get signed up for service, view outage maps and get more information.

• duke-energy.com/home (Duke) • owenelectric.com/ (Owen) • lge-ku.com/ (Kentucky Utilities)

TANK has a designated route called the “Airporter” (get it?) that departs from Covington and Cincinnati and travels down through Kenton and Boone counties to the airport and back again. It makes frequent stops but with a fare of only $2, it’s the cheapest way to get there if you don’t have your own car. If you do have a car, you can drive yourself, of course, but expect to pay for parking.

There are shuttle and rail services at the airport to help you get around, and some of the nearby hotels have courtesy shuttles.

You can learn more about various travel options to CVG at cvgairport.com/terminalinformation/ground-transportation/.

A map of electric distribution service areas in Kentucky. Map provided | Kentucky Public Service Commission

Scan this QR code for a list of TANK routes and times

• executivetransportation.org • esgcincinnati.com • expressmobiletransport.com What about the airport? You can’t talk about

Natural gas distribution areas in Kentucky. Map provided | Kentucky Public Service Commission

JANUARY 2026 13

Get a beer but bring the fam

N

orthern Kentucky offers no shortage of ways for families to spend time together, explore their communities and support local businesses. From casual neighborhood restaurants to lively outdoor gathering spots, the region is full of places that welcome all ages and make it easy to enjoy a meal or outing without leaving anyone out.

Family-friendly restaurants throughout NKY combine approachable menus with relaxed atmospheres, making them ideal for dining with kids while still being appealing to adults. Breweries and taphouses in the region have also evolved into community spaces, often featuring outdoor seating, food options and open layouts that work well for families during daytime and early evening hours.

For families looking to get outside, local dog parks and green spaces offer opportunities to relax, let pets burn off energy and connect with neighbors. These spaces provide simple, low-cost ways to enjoy time together while taking advantage of NKY’s parks and neighborhoods.

Business name: The 859 Taproom and Grill Address: 8720 Bankers St, Florence Website: the859taproom.com Phone number: 859-534-2802

Breweries / Taphouses Business name: The Post Taphouse Address: 1136 S Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: thepostft.com Phone number: 859-441-0900 Business name: Barleycorn’s Brewhouse Address: 915 N Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: ordertickle.com Phone number: 859-815-8085 If you’re looking for a cold beer but also an atmosphere where your kids aren’t going to annoy everyone, Barleycorns is a great choice. Photo provided | Barleycorn’s on Instagram

Business name: Covington Yard Address: 401 Greenup St, Covington Website: covingtonyard.com Phone number: 859-993-9273

Business name: Pompilios Address: 600 Washington Ave, Newport Website: pompilios.com Phone number: 859-581-3065

Business name: Fort Mitchell Public House Address: 2053 Dixie Hwy, Fort Mitchell Website: fortmitchellpub.com Phone number: 859-331-0867

Business name: Dixie Chili Newport Address: 733 Monmouth St, Newport Website: dixiechili.com Phone number: 859-291-5337

Family-Friendly Restaurants

Business name: Camporosso Address: 2475 Dixie Hwy, Fort Mitchell Website: camporosso.com Phone number: 859-331-0155

Business name: Dixie Chili Covington Address: 2421 Madison Ave, Covington Website: dixiechili.com Phone number: 859-431-7444

Business name: Ford’s Garage Florence Address: 4911 Houston Rd, Florence Website: fordsgarageusa.com/locations/ florence Phone number: 859-535-3673

Business name: Tickle Pickle Restaurant Address: 915 N Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: ordertickle.com Phone number: 859-815-8085

Business name: Dixie Chili Erlanger Address: 3716 Dixie Hwy, Erlanger Website: dixiechili.com Phone number: 859-727-2828

Business name: Knotty Pine On The Bayou Address: 6302 Licking Pike, Cold Spring Website: theknottypineonthebayou.com Phone number: 859-781-2200

Business name: The Pretzel Place Address: 411 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue Website: thepretzelplaceky.com Phone number: 859-781-6569

Business name: Wunderbar!

Address: 1132 Lee St, Covington Website: facebook.com/wunderbar.covington.3 Phone number: (859) 360-3911

Business name: Sharky’s Address: 9924 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria Website: facebook.com/SharkysArtic Sweets Phone number: 859-448-0999

Together, these destinations highlight the region’s strong sense of community and accessibility, offering families many ways to connect, unwind and create memories close to home.

Business name: PeeWee’s Place Address: 2325 Anderson Rd, Crescent Springs Website: peeweesplace.net Phone number: 859-341-4977 Business name: The Gruff Address: 129 E Second St, Covington Website: atthegruff.com Phone number: 859-581-0040 Business name: Dewey’s Pizza Covington Address: 43 W Seventh St, Covington Website: deweyspizza.com/location/ covington Phone number: 859-306-0013

Kids AND dogs have a great time at the dog park, and there are plenty around NKY. Provided | Boone County Dog Park

14 JANUARY 2026

Business name: Dewey’s Pizza Union Address: 8901 U.S. Route 42 Suite A, Union Website: deweyspizza.com/location/union Phone number: 859-568-8800

Business name: Barleycorn’s Cold Spring Address: 1073 Industrial Rd, Cold Spring Website:.barleycorns.com Phone number: 859-442-3400 Business name: Barleycorn’s Lakeside Park Address: 2642 Dixie Hwy, Lakeside Park Website: barleycorns.com Phone number: 859-331-6633 Business name: Barleycorn’s Florence Address: 8544 US-42, Florence Website: barleycorns.com Phone number: 859-371-4100 Business name: Barleycorn’s Brewhouse Address: 402 Licking Pike, Wilder Website: .barleycornsbrewhouse.com Phone number: 859-291-2739 Business name: Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey Address: 9039 US-42 Suite H, Union Website: facebook.com/boomtown biscuitbar Phone number: 859-384-5910 Business name: Tousey House Tavern Address: 5963 N Jefferson St #9596, Burlington Website: touseyhouse.com Phone number: 859-586-9900

Business name: Hofbräuhaus Newport Address: 200 Third St, Newport Website: hofbrauhausnewport.com Phone number: 859-491-7200 Business name: Fabled Brew Works Address: 331 Kenton Lands Rd Suite 300, Erlanger Website: fabledbrewworks.beer Phone number: 859-727-2337 Business name: Braxton Brewing Covington Address: 27 W Seventh St, Covington Website: braxtonbrewing.com Phone number: 859-261-5600 Business name: Braxton Brewing Union Address: 8901 U.S. Route 42, Union Website: braxtonbrewing.com Phone number: 859-261-2530 Business name: Alexandria Brewing Company Address: 7926 Alexandria Pike #1, Alexandria Website: alexandriabrewingcompany.com Phone number: 859-694-6999

Dog Parks Business name: Boone County Dog Park Address: 199 Mayfield Ave, Fort Thomas Website: n/a Phone number: n/a Business name: Fort Thomas Dog Park Address: 901 E Sixth St, Newport Website: n/a Phone number: n/a Business name: Kenney Shield’s Dog Park Address: 5550 Idlewild Rd, Burlington Website: n/a Phone number: n/a Business name: Newport Dog Park Address: 847 Philadelphia St, Covington Website: n/a Phone number: n/a

From coffee to cocktails

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rom early morning coffee runs to evening cocktails with friends, Northern Kentucky’s local drink scene offers something for every pace and preference. Across the region, independent coffee shops serve as neighborhood gathering spaces: places to work, meet or simply slow down for a moment.

As the day winds down, the region transitions seamlessly into a vibrant cocktail and wine bar scene. From cozy wine bars and historic spaces to modern lounges and hotel bars, these destinations provide relaxed settings for conversation, date nights or small celebrations. Many highlight local ingredients, craft spirits and thoughtfully curated menus that showcase NKY’s growing food and beverage culture.

Together, coffee shops and cocktail bars play an important role in local life, supporting small businesses while creating spaces where people connect.

This list highlights a range of locally loved places across NKY, making it easy to explore different communities — one cup or cocktail at a time.

Business name: Carabello Coffee Company Address: 107 E Ninth St, Newport Website: carabellocoffee.com Phone number: 859-415-1587

Business name: Roebling Books & Coffee – Newport Address: 601 Overton St, Newport Website: roeblingbooks.com Phone number: 859-308-7086

Business name: Collective Espresso Address: 50 E RiverCenter Blvd, Suite 1100, Covington Website: collectiveespresso.com Phone number: 859-261-4677

Business name: The Black Goose Address: 10829 U.S Route 42, Union Website: blackgoosegifts.com Phone number: 859-534-1643

Business name: CV Coffee Lounge Address: 8137 Mall Rd, Florence Website: facebook.com/CVcoffeeLounge Phone number: 859-240-2846

Business name: The Hive Address: 480 Erlanger Rd, Erlanger Website: thehiveerlanger.com Phone number: 859-495-5655

Business name: Elliott Coffee Address: 825 Sixth Ave, Dayton Website: elliottcafe.com Phone number: n/a

Business name: The Roost Latonia Address: 3616 Decoursey Ave, Covington Website: theroostlatonia.com Phone number: 859-663-6014

Business name: Enlightenment Coffee Address: 11069 Clay Dr, Walton Website: enlightenment.coffee Phone number: 859-493-4009

Business name: Trailhead Coffee Address: 648 Monmouth St, Newport Website: facebook.com/trailheadcoffee Phone number: 859-261-6187

Business name: Fort Thomas Coffee Address: 1 Highland Ave Suite A, Fort Thomas Website: fortthomascoffee.com Phone number: 859-999-8080

Business name: Unataza Coffee Address: 603 Sixth Ave, Dayton Website: unatazacoffee.square.site Phone number: 859-261-8292

Business name: KungBrew Cafe Address: 640 Main St, Covington Website: kungbrew.com Phone number: n/a Business name: Left Bank Coffeehouse Address: 701 Greenup St, Covington Website: leftbankcoffeehouse.com Phone number: 859-431-4655 Business name: Ludlow Coffee Address: 630 Elm St, Ludlow Website: facebook.com/ludlowkycoffee Phone number: (859) 341-2928

Business name: Velocity Bike & Bean Address: 7560 Burlington Pike, Florence Website: instagram.com/velocity_bikeandbean Phone number: 859-371-8356

Cocktails / Wine Bars Business name: Beeline – Newport on the Levee Address: 1 Levee Way Suite 2124, Newport Website: newportonthelevee.com/ dining/376 Phone number: 859-392-0600

Business name: Point Perk Coffee Address: 43 W Pike St, Covington Website: thepointarc.org/point-perkcoffee-shop Phone number: n/a

Business name: Coppin’s at Hotel Covington Address: 638 Madison Ave, Covington Website: hotelcovington.com/dining/ coppins-restaurant Phone number: 859-905-6800

Business name: Press on Monmouth Address: 421 Monmouth St, Newport Website: pressonmonmouthnky.com Phone number: 859-261-3397

Business name: Crafts & Vines Address: 642 Main St, Covington Website: craftsandvines.com Phone number: 859-360-0476

Business name: Reality Tuesday Cafe Address: 1518 Dixie Hwy, Park Hills Website: facebook.com/p/RealityTuesday-Cafe-100086312485609 Phone number: 859-261-4939

Business name: Grassroots & Vine Address: 1011 S Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: grassrootsandvine.com Phone number: 859-814-8391

Business name: Avenue Brew Address: 310 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue Website: avenuebrew.com Phone number: 859-261-4381

Business name: Roebling Books & Coffee – Covington Address: 306 Greenup St, Covington Website: roeblingbooks.com Phone number: 859-240-9476

Business name: Jerry’s Jug House Address: 414 E Seventh St, Newport Website: jerrysjughouse.com Phone number: 859-360-6527

Business name: Brass Key Coffee Address: 8109 Alexandria Pike Suite 9, Alexandria Website: facebook.com/brasskeycoffee Phone number: n/a

Business name: Roebling Books & Coffee – Dayton Address: 301 Sixth Ave, Dayton Website: roeblingbooks.com Phone number: n/a

Coffee shops abound in Northern Kentucky, including Brass Key Coffee in Alexandria. Photo provided | Brass Key Coffee Instagram

Coffee

Juniper’s in Mainstrasse knows what it’s doing when it comes to cocktails. Photo provided | Juniper’s on Instagram

Business name: Knowledge Bar and Social Room Address: 620 Madison Ave, Covington Website: hotelcovington.com/diningknowledge-bar-social-room/ Phone number: 859-905-6713 Business name: Ripple Wine Bar Address: 4 W Pike St, Covington Website: ripplewinebar.com Phone number: 859-261-0004 Business name: Second Story Address: 100 W Sixth St #2, Covington Website: secondstory.bar Phone number: 859-669-2270 Business name: The Aquifer at New Riff Distilling Address: 24 Distillery Way, Newport Website: newriffdistilling.com/the-aquifer Phone number: 859-261-7433 Business name: The Globe Address: 12 E Fifth St, Covington Website: theglobecov.com Phone number: 859-261-1267 Business name: The Grape Vines Wine Bar Address: 485 Lebanon Rd, Crittenden Website: thegrapevineswinebar.com Phone number: 859-446-8416 Business name: The Hannaford at Pike & Madison Address: 619 Madison Ave, Covington Website: thehannaford.com Phone number: (859) 261-2178

Business name: Juniper’s Address: 409 W Sixth St St 100, Covington Website: junipersginbar.net Phone number: 859-291-4466

JANUARY 2026 15

Try something new with a class or workshop

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orthern Kentucky’s arts and creative spaces play an important role in bringing people together, fostering self-expression and strengthening local culture. From visual arts and music to theater and hands-on workshops, the region offers opportunities for residents of all ages to explore creativity, learn new skills and connect with others in meaningful ways.

Community art centers and studios provide accessible entry points for beginners while also supporting experienced artists through classes, open studios and performances. These spaces often serve as cultural anchors within their neighborhoods.

Creative studios focused on pottery, painting and design offer flexible, hands-on experiences that are well suited for almost anyone.

Together, these organizations highlight the value of creativity in everyday life and contribute to NKY’s identity as a region that supports the arts. They provide welcoming spaces to try something new, support local talent and experience the cultural richness that helps communities thrive.

Business name: Baker-Hunt Art & Cultural Center Address: 620 Greenup St, Covington Website: bakerhunt.org Phone number: 859-431-0020

Baker-Hunt Art & Cultural Center in Covington offers classes year-round, including painting classes. Photo provided | Baker-Hunt on Instagram

Business name: Creative House of Art & Design Address: 609 Main St, Covington Website: creativehousead.com Phone number: 859-669-1425

Address: 2875 Town Center Blvd, Crestview Hills Website: boardandbrush.com/ crestviewhills Phone number: 859-331-1590

Business name: Covington Clay Address: 16 W Pike St, Covington Website: covingtonclay.com Phone number: 859-491-3900

Business name: Creative Expressions Address: 1028 Fairway Ct, IndependenceWebsite: creativeexpressionsartstudio. com Phone number: 859-647-1822

Business name: Board & Brush Creative Studio – Crestview Hills

Business name: Tallant Music Studio

Address: 122 N Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: tallantmusicstudio.com Phone number: 859-620-6065 Business name: Mudlark Pottery Studio Address: 1739 Roberts Rd, Verona Website: mudlarkpotterystudio.com Phone number: 859-630-0701 Business name: Village Players of Fort Thomas Address: 8 N Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: villageplayers.org Phone number: 859-240-7897

VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITES

GET READY TO NOMINATE YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESSES, RESTAURANTS AND PEOPLE ACROSS NORTHERN KENTUCKY IN LINK NKY’S ANNUAL READERS’ CHOICE AWARDS.

Nominations Open February 1, 2026 linknky.com/readerschoice 16 JANUARY 2026

Sports clubs

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orthern Kentucky makes it easy to stay active, with recreation options that fit every season and stage of life.

Business name: A.J. Jolly Golf Course Address: 11541 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria Website: ajjolly.com Phone number: 859-635-2106

Fitness centers, sports clubs and training facilities provide structured spaces for exercise, youth programs and team sports, while community hubs like local YMCAs emphasize accessibility and family-friendly programming. When summer arrives, attention naturally shifts outdoors. Neighborhood pools, swim clubs and splash pads become social gathering points where families cool off, kids stay busy and routines slow down just enough to enjoy the season.

Golf also plays a visible role across NKY, with public courses woven into parks and communities throughout the region. For those short on time—or facing winter weather—driving ranges and indoor simulators keep the game accessible yearround.

Beyond daily recreation, seasonal programs such as summer camps offer kids hands-on learning, physical activity and new experiences during school breaks.

Taken together, these spaces reflect how NKY values balance: encouraging healthy habits, creating opportunities to connect and making room for fun alongside everyday life.

Business name: Town & Country Sports and Health Club Address: 1018 Town Dr, Wilder Website: towncountrysports.com Phone number: 859-442-5800 Business name: Next Level Academy Address: 419 Licking Pike, Wilder Website: nextlevelnky.com Phone number: 859-291-3000 Business name: Griffin Elite Sports & Wellness Address: 700 Dolwick Dr, Erlanger Website: griffinelite.com Phone number: 859-331-0979 Business name: Five Seasons Family Sports Club – NKY Address: 345 Thomas More Pkwy, Crestview Hills Website: fiveseasonsnky.com Phone number: 859-341-3687 Business name: Sports Of All Sorts Address: 10094 Investment Way, Florence Website: sportsofallsortsky.com Phone number: 859-372-7754 Business name: The Fieldhouse Address: 3785 Lake Park Dr, CovingtonWebsite: thekyfieldhouse.com Phone number: 859-331-4487 Business name: Campbell County YMCA Address: 1437 S Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: ymca.org/locations/campbellcounty-branch-ymca Phone number: 859-781-1814 Business name: R.C. Durr YMCA Address: 5874 Veterans Way, BurlingtonWebsite: ymca.org/locations/rc-durrfamily-ymca

Business name: Boone Links Golf Address: 19 Clubhouse Drive, Florence Website: boonecountygolf.com/boonelinks/home Phone number: 859-371-7550 Business name: Lassing Pointe Golf Course Address: 2266 Double Eagle Drive, Union Website: boonecountygolf.com/ lassing-pointe/home Phone number: 859-384-2266 A disc golf basket at A.J. Jolly Park. Photo by Kenton Hornbeck | LINK nky

Phone number: 859-534-5700 Business name: Silverlake: The Family Place Address: 301 Kenton Lands Rd, ErlangerWebsite: silverlakefamily.com Phone number: 859-426-7777

Swim Clubs, Pools & Splash Pads Business name: Taylor Mill Swim Club Address: 5791 Taylor Mill Rd, CovingtonWebsite: Phone number: 859-356-6288 Business name: Fort Thomas Swim Club Address: 48 James Ave, Fort ThomasWebsite: ftscsharks.com Phone number: 859-441-1411

Website: florence-ky.gov/residents/ florence-family-aquatic-center/ Phone number: 859-282-4130 Business name: Randolph Park Pool Address: 226 E Eighth St, Covington Website: covingtonky.gov/government/ departments/neighborhood-services/ parks-recreation/swimming Phone number: 859-292-2152 Business name: Veterans Memorial Park Pool – Newport Address: 26 Caroline Drive, Newport Website: newportky.gov/facilities/facility/ details/veteransmemorialpark-7 Phone number:

Business name: Brookwood Swim Club Address: 1 Fair Oaks Ln, Edgewood Website: facebook.com/BrookwoodSwim ClubKY Phone number: 859-360-0906

Business name: The Latonia Water Park / Splash Pad Address: 4305 Decoursey Ave, Covington Website: covingtonky.gov/government/ departments/neighborhood-services/ parks-recreation/swimming Phone number: 859-292-2152

Business name: Beechwood Swim Club Address: 247 Beechwood Rd, Fort Mitchell Website: beechwoodswimclub.org Phone number: 859-331-1644

Business name: Wilder Splash Pad Address: 10 South St., Wilder Website: wilderky.gov/parks-recreation/ Phone number:

Business name: Oakbrook Swim and Tennis Club Address: 6249 Deermeade Dr, FlorenceWebsite: oakbrookswimandtennisclub. com Phone number: 859-282-9662

Business name: Veteran’s Memorial Park Splash Pad – Wilder Address: 110 South St, Wilder Website: Phone number:

Business name: Silverlake: The Family Place Address: 301 Kenton Lands Rd, Erlanger Website: silverlakefamily.com Phone number: 859-426-7777 Business name: Five Seasons Family Sports Club – NKY Address: 345 Thomas More Pkwy, Crestview Hills Website: fiveseasonsnky.com Phone number: 859-341-3687 Business name: Ludlow Bromley Swim Club Address: 860 Elm St, Ludlow Website: lbswimclub.com Phone number: 859-291-8132 Business name: Florence Aquatic Center Address: 8200 Ewing Blvd, Florence

Public Golf Courses Business name: Devou Park Golf Course Address: 1201 Park Drive, Covington Website: devouparkgolf.com Phone number: 859-431-8030 Business name: Twin Oaks Golf Address: 450 E 43rd St., Covington Website: golfattwinoaks.com Phone number: 859-581-2410 Business name: The Golf Courses of Kenton County Address: 3908 Richardson Road, Independence Website: kentoncountygolf.com Phone number: 859-371-3200 Business name: Hickory Sticks Golf Club Address: 3812 Painter Road, California Website: hickorysticksgolf.com Phone number: (859) 635-4653

Business name: Meadowood Golf Course Address: 1911 Golf Club Drive, Burlington Website: meadowoodky.com Phone number: 859-586-0422

Driving Ranges & Indoor Golf Simulators Business name: 19th Hole Indoor Golf Address: 8537 U.S. Route 42, Florence Website: 19thholeindoorgolf.com Phone number: 859-817-0100 Business name: Always In Play Address: 90 Alexandria Pike, Suite 15, Fort Thomas Website: alwaysinplay.com Phone number: 859-781-4653 Business name: Boone Links Golf Simulators Address: 19 Clubhouse Drive, Florence Website: boonecountygolf.com/boonelinks/golf-simulators Phone number: 859-371-7550 Business name: Birdie Bound Address: 11 Viewpoint Drive, Alexandria Website: birdieboundnky.com Phone number: 859-412-2232 Business name: Tin Cup Golf Address: 3319 Madison Pike, Covington Website: tincupgolfnky.com Phone number: 859-360-5847 Business name: The Stephens Golf Center Address: 5390 Limaburg Rd., Burlington Website: stephensgolfcenter.com Phone number: 859-282-1110

Summer Camps Business name: Camp Ernst Address: 7615 Camp Ernst Rd, Burlington Website: myycamp.org/ Phone number: 859-586-6181 Business name: Summer Camps at NKU Address: Nunn Drive, Highland Heights Website: nku.edu/calendar/summercamps Phone number: 859-572-5100 Business name: Behringer-Crawford Museum Address: 1600 Montague Rd, Covington Website: bcmuseum.org Phone number: 859-491-4003

JANUARY 2026 17

Museums, libraries and bookstores

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orthern Kentucky is rich in places that tell stories, spark curiosity and bring people together through culture, history and the arts. From museums and historic sites to performance venues, libraries and independent bookstores, the region offers countless ways to explore both its past and its present.

Museums and educational attractions provide hands-on learning for all ages, highlighting everything from local history and transportation to science, art and faithbased exhibits. Experiential destinations and historic landmarks invite visitors to step outside, look closer and better understand the people and events that shaped NKY. Scenic overlooks, iconic bridges and architectural landmarks add a sense of place that connects communities across the river cities and beyond.

Libraries throughout Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties serve as more than places to check out books. They function as community hubs, offering programs, resources and welcoming spaces for learning and connection. Similarly, music, theater and comedy venues bring energy to the region, supporting local performers while attracting national acts and diverse audiences.

Independent bookstores round out the cultural landscape, offering curated selections and intimate spaces that encourage conversation and discovery. Together, these institutions form the backbone of NKY’s cultural life—places where residents and visitors alike can learn, reflect, and experience the creativity that defines the region.

Museums Business name: Behringer-Crawford Museum Address: 1600 Montague Rd, Covington Website: bcmuseum.org Phone number: 859-491-4003 Business name: Creation Museum Address: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd, Petersburg Website: creationmuseum.org Phone number: (888) 582-4253 Business name: Collection 21 Address: 21 Kenton Lands Rd, Erlanger Website: collection21ky.com Phone number: 859-581-4665 Business name: Dinsmore Homestead Address: 5656 Burlington Pike, Burlington Website: dinsmorefarm.org Phone number: 859-586-6117 Business name: Railway Museum of Greater Cincinnati Address: 315 W Southern Ave, Covington Website: cincirailmuseum.org Phone number: 513-574-7672 Business name: The Carnegie Address: 1028 Scott St, Covington Website: thecarnegie.com Phone number: 859-491-2030

Experiences Business name: Baker-Hunt Art & Cultural 18 JANUARY 2026

Center Address: 620 Greenup St, Covington Website: bakerhunt.org Phone number: 859-431-0020

Business name: Kenton County Public Library – Covington Address: 502 Scott St, Covington Website: kentonlibrary.org Phone number: 859-962-4000

Business name:: Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Address: 3380 Beaver Road, Union Website: parks.ky.gov Phone number: 859-384-3522

Business name: Kenton County Public Library – Latonia Address: 3911 Winston Ave, Covington Website: kentonlibrary.org Phone number: 859-962-4000

Business name: Haile Digital Planetarium Address: 409 Science Center, 1 Nunn Drive, Highland Heights (NKU) Website: nku.edu Phone number: 859-572-5600 Business name: Newport Aquarium Address: 1 Levee Way, Newport Website: newportaquarium.com Phone number: 1-800-406-3474 Business name: Newport Gangster Tour Address: 56 E 5th St, Newport Website: americanlegacytours.com Phone number: 859-951-8560

Landmarks Business name: Roebling Suspension Bridge Address: Court Avenue and E 2nd St., Covington Website: N/A Phone number: N/A Business name: Purple People Bridge Address: 1 Levee Way, Newport Website: purplepeoplebridge.com Phone number: 859-655-7700 Business name: Northern Kentucky Convention Center Address: 1 W Rivercenter Blvd, Covington Website: nkycc.com Phone number: 859-261-1500 Business name: Carroll Chimes Bell Tower Address: 605 Philadelphia St, Covington Website: Phone number: 859-491-0458 Business name: Scenic Overlook at Devou Park Address: 854 Park Ln, Covington Website: exploredevoupark.org Phone number: Other info: Part of Devou Park Business name: Florence Y’all Water Tower Address: 500 Mall Circle Rd, Florence Website: Phone number: Business name: Daniel Carter Beard Boyhood Home Address: 322 E 3rd St, Covington Website: N/A Phone number: N/A Business name: Fort Thomas Tower Park Address: 950 S Fort Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: fortthomasky.org/recreation/ parks/tower-park Phone number: 859-781-1700 Business name: The Carnegie (Covington) Address: 1028 Scott St, Covington, KY

Business name: Kenton County Public Library – Erlanger Address: 401 Kenton Lands Rd, Erlanger Website: kentonlibrary.org Phone number: 859-962-4000 Behringer-Crawford Museum in Covington has regular exhibits, like this one called Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Exhibit! Photo provided | Behringer-Crawford Museum on Instagram

41011 Website: thecarnegie.com Phone number: 859-491-2030

Business name: Kenton County Public Library – Independence Address: 1992 Walton-Nicholson Rd, Independence Website: kentonlibrary.org Phone number: 859-962-4000

Business name: Carnegie Hall at Newport Address: 401 Monmouth St, Newport Website: newportcarnegie.com Phone number: 513-841-9999

Business name: Boone County Public Library – Burlington (Main) Address: 1786 Burlington Pike, Burlington Website: bcpl.org Phone number: 859-342-2665

Business name: Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption Address: 1140 Madison Ave, Covington Website: covcathedral.com Phone number: 859-431-2060

Business name: Boone County Public Library – Florence Address: 7425 US-42, Florence Website: bcpl.org Phone number: 859-342-2665

Business name: Mother of God Roman Catholic Church Address: 119 W 6th St, Covington Website: mother-of-god.org Phone number: 859-291-2288

Business name: Boone County Public Library – Union (Scheben) Address: 8899 U.S. Route 42, Union Website: bcpl.org Phone number: 859-384-5550

Business name: Boone County Arboretum Address: 9190 Camp Ernst Rd, Union Website: bcarboretum.org Phone number: 859-384-4999

Music / Theater / Comedy Venues

Business name: Newport on the Levee Address: One Levee Way, Newport Website: newportonthelevee.com Phone number: 859-291-0550

Libraries Business name: Campbell County Public Library – Fort Thomas Address: 1000 Highland Ave, Fort Thomas Website: cc-pl.org Phone number: 859-572-5033 Business name: Campbell County Public Library – Newport Address: 901 E 6th St, Newport Website: cc-pl.org Phone number: 859-572-5035 Business name: Campbell County Public Library – Cold Spring Address: 3920 Alexandria Pike, Cold Spring Website: cc-pl.org Phone number: 859-781-6166 Business name: Campbell County Public Library – Alexandria Address: 8333 Alexandria Pike #203, Alexandria Website: cc-pl.org Phone number: 859-572-7463

Business name: Carnegie Hall at Newport Address: 401 Monmouth St, Newport Website: newportcarnegie.com Phone number: 513-841-9999 Business name: Commonwealth Comedy Club Address: 522 Fifth Ave, Dayton Website: commonwealthcomedyclub.com Phone number: N/A Business name: Devou Park Band Shell Address: 1215 Bandshell Blvd, Covington Website: exploredevoupark.org/bandshell Phone number: 859-292-2151 Business name: Greaves Concert Hall Address: 1 Louie B Nunn Dr, Highland Heights Website: inside.nku.edu Phone number: 859-431-6216 Business name: Madison Live!

Address: 734 Madison Ave, CovingtonWebsite: madisontheater.com Phone number: 859-491-2444 Business name: Madison Theater Address: 730 Madison Ave, Covington Website: madisontheateronline.com Phone number: 859-491-2444

Business name: MegaCorp Pavilion Address: 101 W Fourth St, Newport Website: promowestlive.com/cincinnati/ megacorp-pavilion Phone number: 859-900-2294 Business name: The Carnegie Address: 1028 Scott St, Covington Website: thecarnegie.com Phone number: 859-491-2030 Business name: The Southgate House Revival Address: 111 E Sixth St, Newport Website: southgatehouse.com Phone number: 859-431-2201 Business name: Tower Park Amphitheater Address: 900 S Ft Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: fortthomasky.org/venues tower-park-amphitheatre/ Phone number: 859-441-1055 Business name: Truist Arena Address: 500 Louie B Nunn Dr, Highland Heights Website: thetruistarena.com Phone number: 859-442-2652 Business name: Village Players of Fort Thomas Address: 8 N Fort Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: villageplayers.org Phone number: 859-240-7897

Bookstores Business name: Roebling Books & Coffee (Newport) Address: 601 Overton St, Newport Website: roeblingbooks.com Phone number: 859-308-7086 Business name: Roebling Books & Coffee (Covington) Address: 306 Greenup St, Covington Website: roeblingbooks.com Phone number: 859-240-9476 Business name: Roebling Books & Coffee (Dayton) Address: 301 Sixth Ave, Dayton Website: roeblingbooks.com Phone number: 859-279-1820 Business name: The Hidden Chapter Bookstore Address: 118 N Fort Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: thehiddenchapter.com Phone number: 859-442-0118 Business name: Conveyor Belt Books Address: 410 W Pike St, Covington Website: conveyorbeltbooks.com Phone number: 859-360-2311 Business name: Blue Marble Books Address: 1356 S Fort Thomas Ave, Fort Thomas Website: bluemarblebooks.com Phone number: 859-781-0602 Business name: Indie Northern Kentucky Address: 507 Sixth Ave, Dayton Website: indienky.com Phone number: 513-360-8519

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The B-line

orthern Kentucky’s B-Line is a celebration of the region’s deep bourbon heritage and its modern food and drink scene, connecting distilleries, bars and restaurants across river towns and rolling hills.

Designed to encourage exploration, the B-Line invites locals and visitors alike to experience how bourbon is made, served and enjoyed—often within just a short drive of one another.

Along the route, historic and emerging distilleries showcase a range of approaches, from family-run operations rooted in generations of tradition to innovative producers pushing Kentucky spirits in new directions. The experience extends beyond the still, weaving through bourbon-focused bars and bottle shops where knowledgeable staff and carefully curated menus highlight the versatility of Kentucky whiskey. Many participating restaurants round out the journey, pairing regional cuisine with thoughtfully selected bourbon and cocktail offerings.

What makes the B-Line unique is its accessibility. Rather than a single destination, it functions as a regional trail, encouraging people to move between communities, discover neighborhoods, and support local businesses along the way. Whether you’re a longtime bourbon enthusiast or simply curious about NKY’s role in Kentucky’s signature industry, the B-Line offers an approachable way to experience the craft, culture and hospitality that define the region—one stop at a time.

Distilleries Business name: Augusta Distillery Address: 207 Seminary Ave, Augusta Website: augustakydistillery.com Phone number: 888-592-6872 Business name: Becker & Bird Distillery and Winery Address: 4465 Augusta Chatham Rd, Augusta Website: bakerbirdwinerydistillery.com Phone number: 606-756-3739 Business name: Boone County Distilling Company Address: 10601 Toebben Dr, Independence Website: boonedistilling.com Phone number: 859-282-6545 Business name: Neeley Family Distillery Address: 4360 State Route 1130, Sparta Website: neeleyfamilydistillery.com Phone number: 859-609-3641 Business name: New Riff Distilling Address: 24 Distillery Way, Newport Website: newriffdistilling.com Phone number: 859-261-7433 Business name: Pensive Distilling Co. Address: 720 Monmouth St, Newport Website: pensivedistilling.com Phone number: 859-360-5579 Business name: Second Sight Spirits Address: 301 Elm St, Ludlow

Northern Kentucky’s B-Line includes a stop at Second Sight Spirits in Ludlow. Photo provided | B-Line Instagram

Website: secondsightspirits.com Phone number: 859-488-7866 Business name: The Old Pogue Distillery Address: 705 Germantown Rd, Maysville Website: oldpogue.com Phone number: N/A Email: tours@oldpogue.com Business name: Wenzel Distillery Address: 412 Madison Ave, Covington Website: wenzelwhiskey.com Phone number: 859-279-3614

Bars Business name: Jerry’s Jug House Address: 414 E Seventh St, Newport Website: jerrysjughouse.com Phone number: 859-360-6527 Business name: Knowledge Bar and Social Room Address: 620 Madison Ave, Covington Website: hotelcovington.com/dining/ knowledge-bar-social-room Phone number: 859-905-6713 Business name: Merchants Club Address: 18 Distillery Way, Newport Website: merchantsclubbar.com Phone number: 859-655-6820 Business name: Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar Address: 629 Main St, Covington Website: oldkybourbonbar.com Phone number: 859-581-1777 Business name: Prohibition Bourbon Bar Address: 530 Washington Ave, NewportWebsite: newberrybroscoffee.com Phone number: 859-261-9463 Business name: Revival Vintage Bottle Shop and Bar Address: 614 Madison Ave, Covington Website: revivalky.com Phone number: 859-479-2676 Business name: Smoke Justis Address: 302 Court St, Covington Website: smokejustis.com Phone number: 859-814-8858 Business name: The Globe Address: 12 E Fifth St, Covington Website: theglobecov.com Phone number: 859-261-1267 Business name: Three Spirits Tavern Address: 209 Fairfield Ave, Bellevue Website: threespiritstavern.com Phone number: 859-982-3039

Restaurants Business name: Bouquet Restaurant Address: 519 Main St, Covington Website: bouquetbistro.com Phone number: 859-491-7777 Business name: Capronis Restaurant & Bar Address: 320 Rosemary Clooney St, Maysville Website: capronisontheriver.com Phone number: 859-564-8956 Business name: Coppin’s Restaurant & Bar Address: 638 Madison Ave, Covington Website: hotelcovington.com/dining/ coppins-restaurant Phone number: 859-905-6800 Business name: Greyhound Tavern Address: 2500 Dixie Hwy, Fort Mitchell Website: greyhoundtavern.com Phone number: 859-331-3767 Business name: Libby’s Southern Comfort Address: 35 W Eighth St, Covington Website: libbyssoutherncomfort.com Phone number: 859-261-3106 Business name: Lisse Steakhuis Address: 530 Main St, Covington Website: lisse.restaurant Phone number: 859-360-7008 Business name: Pompilios Address: 600 Washington Ave, Newport Website: pompilios.com Phone number: 859-431-6161 Business name: Beehive Augusta Tavern Address: 101 West Riverside Drive, Augusta Website: beehiveaugustatavern.com Phone number: 606-756-2137 Business name: Purple Poulet Address: 846 York St, Newport Website: purplepoulet.com Phone number: 859-261-3697 Business name: Tousey House Tavern Address: 5963 N Jefferson St, Burlington Website: touseyhouse.com Phone number: 859-586-7720

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