Wakefield-Scearce Gallery
About
The Wakefield-Scearce Gallery offers a unique opportunity to introduce older children and teens to Kentucky's rich decorative arts history within a stunning Georgian mansion setting. While this elegant antique gallery is best suited for families with mature, well-behaved children who can appreciate fine antiques and historical treasures, the guided tours bring the stories of Kentucky craftsmanship to life in an engaging way.
Highlights
- ✓Beautiful Georgian mansion architecture and period room displays
- ✓Kentucky-made furniture and decorative arts spanning multiple centuries
- ✓Educational guided tours that share fascinating stories about Kentucky heritage
- ✓Unique silver collection and fine china displays
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead to inquire about tour times and whether they offer any special educational programming for students or young people interested in decorative arts
- 2.This is an excellent rainy-day activity in the Shelbyville area when outdoor plans fall through
- 3.Use this as a teaching moment about handling antiques with care and respecting historical artifacts,good practice before visiting larger museums
- 4.The gallery also functions as a store, so set clear expectations with kids about looking versus purchasing before entering
- 5.Combine your visit with a walking tour of historic downtown Shelbyville to make it a full cultural outing
Best Time to Visit
Visit on a weekday morning (Wednesday or Thursday at 10:00 AM opening) for a quieter, more intimate tour experience. The limited hours mean you'll want to plan ahead and arrive early to have adequate time to explore.
What to Know
Check their website or call ahead for current admission prices and to confirm tour availability. Street parking is available in downtown Shelbyville, and this is not a hands-on experience, so plan accordingly for children's attention spans.
Seasonal Notes
Open Wednesday through Saturday year-round with limited hours. Closed Sunday through Tuesday, so plan your visit accordingly. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the historic building and surrounding downtown area.
Nearby Eats
Science Hill Inn (historic restaurant in a beautiful setting with Southern cuisine) and Claudia Sanders Dinner House (family-style chicken dinners in a relaxed atmosphere) are both nearby Shelbyville dining options that continue the heritage experience.
More Activities Near Shelbyville
Red Orchard Park
Red Orchard Park is a welcoming neighborhood gem in Shelbyville that checks all the boxes for families with young children. With well-maintained playground equipment, scenic walking paths perfect for stroller-pushing or bike-riding, and plenty of open green space for picnics and games, it's an ideal spot for everything from quick playground visits to full afternoon family gatherings.
Clear Creek Greenway Trail Head (Access Parking)
Clear Creek Greenway Trail Head offers families a beautiful, paved trail system perfect for introducing kids to outdoor recreation in a safe, accessible environment. The scenic route winds through Shelbyville's natural areas and connects several community parks, making it ideal for family bike rides, nature walks, or jogging with strollers. With its smooth surface and 24/7 access, it's a flexible option for active families looking to explore the outdoors together.
Guist Creek Marina
Guist Creek Marina is a wonderful lakeside destination on Taylorsville Lake where families can enjoy a full day of water adventures and outdoor fun. With boat rentals, sandy beaches for swimming, fishing spots, playgrounds, and camping facilities all in one location, it's perfect for families looking to introduce kids to boating and lake life without traveling far from Louisville.
Shelby County Public Library
Shelby County Public Library is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering engaging story times, hands-on learning activities, and popular summer reading programs that keep kids excited about literacy. With dedicated interactive spaces designed specifically for young children and a calendar full of free family programming, it's a perfect rainy-day destination or regular stop for curious minds.