Many know Boone County as home to CVG, one of the nation’s busiest international airports, but what may surprise some is that fast-growing cities like Hebron and Florence are helping solidify its importance as a regional economic hub. Amazon and Mazak have planted roots here, while major restaurant, hotel and retail chains provide an additional boost. The county’s agribusiness ventures farther south in Union and Walton show similar promise.

The county’s strong cultural identity is reflected in protected sites that include historic Dinsmore Homestead and Big Bone Lick State Park, whose famed collection of prehistoric fossils includes a 1,000-pound mastodon skull.
 
Meanwhile, eclectic Rabbit Hash — 25 minutes south of Florence — boasts a quirky lineage of elected canine mayors and a general store that doubles as live music venue and motorcycle pit stop.