hazard kentucky tourism

Things To Do In Hazard Kentucky: Tourist Attractions & Where To Eat

by Trey Copeland | Last updated Sep 5, 2023

Known as the Queen City of the Mountains, Hazard is a small town located in Eastern Kentucky that is an outdoor lovers paradise.

The city is small but offers a large variety of tourist attractions and things to do for people in the area, especially for those that love being adventurous and the outdoors.

Boating, fishing, hiking and exploring are a few things that one can do in Hazard and Perry County. Hazard is also known for the birthplace of the blue people of Kentucky .

In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Hazard Kentucky. Lets get started.

Table of Contents

Things to do in hazard kentucky, the mother goose house.

The Mother Goose House is a quirky and unique architectural landmark in Hazard. It’s a house that’s designed to look like a giant goose and is definitely a sight to see. While the Mother Goose House is not a traditional museum or historical site, it has become a local attraction and a point of interest for visitors passing through the Hazard area.

Perry County Park

Want to enjoy hiking or some type of outdoor recreation? Perry County Park stands as a recreational lovers paradise, offering an array of amenities to cater to every outdoor enthusiast. This park is a testament to the county’s commitment to providing top notch outdoor facilities for visitors and locals.

Holliday Farm and Garden

Steeped in rich history dating back to its founding in 1855, Holliday Farm showcases Kentucky’s agricultural heritage. Over the years, this beloved farm has passed through the hands of several generations. Offering pumpkins, mums, flowers and fresh produce, come check out Holliday Farm.

Daniel Boone National Forest

Located in eastern Kentucky, the Daniel Boone National Forest is a pristine wilderness beckoning outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. It’s about an hour drive west of Hazard. Covering over 700,000 acres of rugged terrain, it’s an outdoor haven for people who love the outdoors. Named after the legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone, who walked through these very woods.

Homeplace Clinic Log Cabin

If you are a history buff and like to visit old cultural and unique places, then the Homeplace will be for you. It’s a large two story log cabin built in 1930. It’s located on the community center grounds with lots of beautiful scenery.

Buckhorn Lake

Located a few miles north of Hazard is Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park. If you’ve ever been to a Kentucky State Park, you know how clean and beautiful they are. Our state does a great job upkeeping them, and it’s the same at Buckhorn.

If you like fishing, boating, hiking and outdoors, Buckhorn Lake is for you. There’s horseshoes, playgrounds for the kids and miniature golf for a little family game night.

Also, while near Buckhorn Lake, check out the nearby Buckhorn Lake Area Presbyterian Church Log Cathedral. It’s an amazing church built in 1928 from white oak in the surrounding forests that stands as the center of the small mount town.

Places To Eat In Hazard Kentucky

Hazard coffee company.

A local coffee shop serving fresh brewed coffee, lattes and locally sourced pastries.

Website – https://www.hazardcoffeecompany.com/

Rudy’s Bakery

Locally owned bakery offering sweet treats such as cakes, pastries and cupcakes.

Website – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057324584987

France’s Diner

Locally owned family style restaurant offering a full menu of breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Website – https://www.facebook.com/Francesdiner

Locally owned and one of the best restaurants in Hazard offering steaks, burgers and more.

Website – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063877320129

Where To Shop In Hazard Kentucky

Appalachian apparel company.

Clothing and apparel store downtown Hazard offering unique gifts and apparel featuring local artists and culture.

Website – https://www.appappco.com/

Jac-Lin’s

You can find all sorts of antiques and treasures at Jac-Lin’s antique shop in Hazard.

Website – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064070768517

We hope this guide helped you find things to do in Hazard and Perry County Kentucky. Hazard is a small town with a lot of outdoor recreation activities nearby.

To find out more information about local events and attractions, visit the Hazard Perry County Tourism website – https://www.hazardperrytourism.com/

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Trey Copeland

Founder & Editor

Hello folks! I’m Trey Copeland, founder and editor of Stay Bluegrass, along with my wife Kaci. We’ve been fortunate to travel to many countries such as Mexico and Costa Rica, but our true roots remain here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the Bluegrass State.

Our goal is to help you live like a local while traveling and exploring the great state of Kentucky. We want to help you find the best places to eat, the must see and do attractions and more.

Hey! I'm Trey

I live in Owensboro, Kentucky and have traveled around the Bluegrass state with my wife Kaci.

Read more about us

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Hazard Kentucky

Draped in a majestic mountainous backdrop of The Kentucky Wildlands, the Kentucky Trail Town of Hazard offers slices of vintage Americana for everyone. Peruse Main Street and enjoy local dining at Big Blue Smokehouse or Jabo’s Coal River Express. Browse boutiques, such as Moose Creek Quilts and Smith’s Woods and Water. Settle in at the new ArtStation for poetry readings and outdoor mountain jam sessions or meander down to the Mother Goose House (a private home built to resemble the structure of a goose). Check out the Perry County Farmer’s Market for seasonally fresh produce and unique local art, then unwind at the Perry County Park, featuring putt-putt golf, a skate park, an RC racing track, dog park, horse arena, and public tennis and basketball courts.

For more outdoor adventure, connect with the trail system at the nearby North Fork of the Kentucky River for hiking, fishing and kayaking. Take a quick drive from downtown to the Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park in the Appalachian foothills for seasonal pontoon and fishing boat rentals, jet-skiing, waterskiing, fishing, hunting and non-commercial trapping (rabbit, squirrel, turkey, and deer), archery, camping, and hiking, including the interpretive Moonshine Trail around 1,200-acre Buckhorn Lake.

Lottery-based elk hunting is available in the adjacent Robinson Forest. Then rev it up at the ATV off-road Mine Made Adventure Park trail system. Find your way back home for local-favorite events, such Black Gold Music Festival in the fall and Christmas in a Small Town every December, complete with an ice rink, chili cook-off and horse-drawn wagon parade.

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Paintsville, art galleries.

The Kentucky Wildlands

2292 South Highway 27, Somerset, KY 42501

P: (606) 677-6150

[email protected]

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THE 5 BEST Things to Do in Hazard

Things to do in hazard.

• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Bobby Davis Museum

2. The Mother Goose

3. Holliday Farm and Garden

4. First Baptist Church

5. appalachian apparel co., 6. perry county park, 7. big lots, 8. air bounce inflatables & arcade, 9. beyond clothes, what travellers are saying.

• Bobby Davis Museum
• The Mother Goose
• Holliday Farm and Garden
• Air Bounce Inflatables & Arcade

THE BEST Hazard Sights & Historical Landmarks

Hazard landmarks.

• Points of Interest & Landmarks
• Churches & Cathedrals
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Mother Goose

2. Holliday Farm and Garden

3. First Baptist Church

• The Mother Goose
• Holliday Farm and Garden
• First Baptist Church

Top Things to Do in Hazard, KY

Places to visit in hazard.

• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Bobby Davis Museum

2. The Mother Goose

3. Holliday Farm and Garden

4. First Baptist Church

5. appalachian apparel co., 6. perry county park, 7. big lots, 8. air bounce inflatables & arcade, 9. beyond clothes, what travellers are saying.

• Bobby Davis Museum
• The Mother Goose
• Holliday Farm and Garden
• Air Bounce Inflatables & Arcade

4 Best and Fun Things To Do In Hazard, Kentucky

With a nickname like “Queen City of the Mountains”, you would expect to find an outdoorsman’s paradise in this Kentucky town – and you’d be right. The city’s proximity to Carr Creek State Park makes it an excellent spot for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities, while the Perry County and Bobby Davis parks also provide ample opportunities for spending time in nature.

In addition to these nearby green spaces, there are a variety of other fun and historical attractions within driving distance as well. Some of these include the Knott County Trail Ride, Mine Made Adventure Park, and Hester Brashear Hollow.

There are plenty of things to do in Hazard, Kentucky. And with adventure tourism being their trademark, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a dull moment during your day trip, personal adventure, or weeklong vacation in Hazard.

To help you create an exciting itinerary, here is a list of additional activities and attractions to consider the next time you’re in Hazard, Kentucky.

The 4 Most Popular Things To Do – Hazard, Ky

4. hazard pavilion.

Credit: WallpaperFlare

Location: 617 Broadway St, Hazard, KY 41701

Tel: 606 436 4200

Built in 1988, the Hazard Pavilion is regarded as one of the most comprehensive indoor recreation centers across the state. The Pavilion has a heated 25-meter pool, tennis courts, racquetball courts, aerobics room, a 1.5 mile-long track, weight room, sauna, sun deck, and patio.

The Pavilion is open to the public, but it can also be rented out for special occasions. Additionally, the Pavilion offers private swimming lessons and yoga classes.

3. Daniel Boone National Forest

Credit: Jason Everett Morris | Wikimedia Commons

The Daniel Boone National Forest is an expansive park that spreads across 21 counties in eastern Kentucky, including Hazard. The forest system itself spans 708,000 acres with over 600 miles of trails and more than 250 recreation sites for tourists.

There are plenty of things to do in Daniel Boone National Park, including water-based recreation such as boating, canoeing, kayaking, scuba diving, and even water skiing. Guests with valid fishing licenses can also cast their lines.

If you’re not the type to enjoy water activities, you can try out one of the many trails and excursions in the forest system. The Sky Bridge Trail is recommended for amateur climbers while the Rock Bridge Trail is recommended for people who want a bit more challenge.

There are no resorts in Daniel Boone National Forest. However, there are cabins for rent. The park also allows guests to camp or glamp inside the area. RVs are also allowed in the Cumberland District, the London Ranger District, and the Stearns District.

2. Bobby Davis Museum and Park

Location: 234 Walnut St, Hazard, KY 41701

Located on Walnut Street, the Bobby Davis Museum and Park features works that honor the history of the town and veterans who fell during World War II. Additionally, it also celebrates the long history of Hazard and Perry County. The museum is surrounded by a lush, urban forest, making it the city’s centerpiece.

During October, the museum serves as the host of the “Cocktails in the Garden” event, which spotlights original recipes by locals and a fun community gathering.

1. Perry County Park

Location: 933 Perry Park Rd, Hazard, KY 41701

Perry County Park is one of the largest parks in the area and features a walking track, skateboard park, basketball courts, five picnic shelters, and baseball and softball fields. In addition, the park also has a staging area where events and concerts are held, an outdoor pool, putt-putt golf, and boat ramp access for guests coming from and going to the Kentucky River.

Guests come to Perry County Park all year round. However, the park sees the most number of visitors from May through October. During these months, specifically on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the park hosts the Perry County Farmers Market where local vendors sell homemade seasonal produce and handmade crafts.

Final Words:

Thank you for reading our list of the best things to do in Hazard, Kentucky! We hope it helped you plan the perfect itinerary for your next trip to this fantastic destination. Happy travels!

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During the course of each year, specially selected hunters flock to Perry and surrounding counties to participate in the state lottery ELK HUNT . For more information about the elk hunt, please visit the website of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources at www.kdfwr.state.ky.us/   

One public hunting area for Perry County is Robinson Forrest , owned by the University of Kentucky, which connects to Breathitt, and Knott counties and encompasses approximately 12,304 acres; Robinson Forest is located east of Jackson and Clayhole. Head east of Clayhole on 476 about 8 miles, and turn on Little Buckhorn Road and the county line. (606) 878-9595 .

All Terrain Elk Tours

606-436-2635 or 606-233-7470

Provided by Danny Combs, 18354 KY Hwy 476, Hazard, Ky. 41701

Elk tours at their finest. Each tour personalized just for you. Get closer to the elk than you ever thought possible!

​ Old Mill Marina Outfitters

(207) 444-7529

Old Mill Marina is the exclusive outfitter on about 200,000 acres of some of the best Eastern Kentucky elk, deer, and turkey habitat. The property is managed with a view to producing trophy class animals. Old Mill Marina's main focus is elk and providing an extra-ordinary outdoor adventure. http://www.ommoutfitters.com/kentucky-elk-hunts.html

Rack Reapers  Kris Hall 606-438-0213

* Hazard Perry County Tourism does not endorse hunting and fishing guide services. Listings are provided as resource only. To be listed, please contact us. 

/ WALKING TRAILS

Buckhorn lake state resort park.

http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/buckhorn-lake/

Hikers can explore the natural beauty and resources of Buckhorn Lake with a stroll along a 1.5 mile, self-guiding, easy walking trail. And the opportunities for mountain hiking are limitless

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park offers two trails for your hiking enjoyment.

Moonshine Trail

1 mile—is a self-guided interpretive trail for which a brochure describing a variety of plant life and natural land is provided at the front desk of the Lodge. 

An Interpretative Hiking Trail is available at Buckhorn Lake Dam site at Tailwater Recreation Area. 

Perry Park Hiking Trails

Check out the new

Ben Braman Hiking & Walking Trails 

at the Perry County Park.

You may enter the trails at the

red roofed Kiosk in  the fence

below the softball field

or at the horse ring.

Over seven miles of trails are designed for all  levels of hiking experience.

Tap on the MAP to download

a copy of the 

PERRY PARK TRAILS MAP

for you to review or to print!

" Thank You"

Pathfinders

for the use of this informative map! 

Hope you will be inspired to come HIKE, SHOP & EAT

when visiting our area!

Walking Tour

Pathfinders teamed up with a class of 7th-8th grade social studies students from A.B. Combs Elementary, to develop a walking tour by interviewing residents about the history of downtown Hazard. They met with Martha Quigley, Perry County Museum Director, to look at archives and artifacts available at the museum.

Brochures are available at the Hazard City Hall, the Hazard Perry County Tourism Board, and many local banks and businesses.

 Nature Trail

at Hazard High School

In response to a large amount of flooding, Pathfinders developed a wetland pond adjacent to the outdoor science lab at Hazard High School. Pathfinders also worked with the local Boy Scout Troop to improve the nature trail on the campus of Hazard High School.

The trail is adjacent to the school's main building and is accessible by way of a small bridge. The trail winds through hardwood forest, is moderately strenuous and is approximately one mile long and being expanded.

The Little Daisy 

School Trail

The newest trail, open to the public, in the Perry County Trail System is located at the  Battle of Leatherwood 

site at Cornettsville.  

The Little Daisy School

House Trail 

offers walkers and hikers,

of all ages, an opportunity

to enjoy the outdoors! 

Parking is available at the Fire House. 

Buckhorn Lake Wildlife Management Area

Hunting is permitted in the Buckhorn Lake Wildlife Management Area as well as outside recreation and operations areas on the project. There is a large supply of rabbit, squirrel, turkey and deer to be hunted on the project. Non-commercial trapping, archery and black powder hunting are gaining popularity at the lake. Buckhorn Lake provides visitors many opportunities to see and experience native wildlife of southeastern Kentucky.

An Interpretative Hiking Trail is available at Buckhorn Lake Dam site. A Hiking Trail is available at Tailwater Recreation Area.

Campground, Boat Launch and Horse Riding Trails

Buckhorn Tailwater Campground

Bowlingtown Marina

at Buckhorn Lake State Park is the place to enjoy fishing, boating and water sports recreation! The marina has 95 open slips, two launching ramps, and  rental pontoons and fishing boats, available for your time on the water.  Boating available May-October

606-398-7022

North Fork River Trail

is an almost five-mile trip down the North Fork by kayak, float, raft or boat. Enjoy fishing, wildlife and scenic views.

606-439-1816 www.kentuckytourism.com/north-fork-river-trail/

The TransAmerica Bike Route (USBR76)

travels thorough the northern part of Perry County, starting at Morris Fork on KY 28 near Buckhorn. 

www.kentuckytourism.com/transamerica-bike-route-usbr-76/

Parks AND RECREATION

BOBBY DAVIS MUSEUM & PARK

Located on Walnut Street and overlooking the downtown section of Hazard, the Bobby Davis Museum was founded by Lawrence Davis as a memorial to his son and other fallen veterans during World War II. This lush, urban forest and museum is a centerpiece for the City of Hazard. The curator for the Museum, Martha Quigley, is an expert with regards to the City’s history and provides a unique historical experience.

The Bobby Davis Park plays host to games, food, music, and plays throughout the summer months. Featuring the Heritage Herb Garden, the Park celebrates “Cocktails in the Garden” during October which spotlights original recipes and a fun community gathering. The Park may also be reserved for weddings and other special occasions.

HAZARD PAVILION

The Hazard Pavilion was built in 1988 and is one of the most comprehensive indoor recreation centers in Kentucky. Located at 617 Broadway Street, the Pavilion consists of a heated 25-meter pool, two tennis courts, three racquetball / handball courts, aerobics room, 1/12 mile long track, weight room, sauna, cardiovascular equipment, sun-deck and patio, locker rooms and party room. The Pavilion hosts private swimming lessons and Yoga classes. Call (606) 436-4200 for more information.

Pool Parties

The Hazard Pavilion has a large, indoor party room located adjacent to the swimming pool and the sun-deck / patio, which is available for parties, picnics, and other events. The party room is available for reservation in two-hour blocks. Reservations of the party room includes use of the pool during public pool hours for party attendees.

The pool and party room may be reserved for private parties.

Party-Room Rental Fee 1-50 people : $75 (each additional 25 people $25)

Private Pool Party (including lifeguard services): $200

Parties are reserved in two-hour blocks. The Pavilion asks 24-hour notice for all reservations.

Click Here for Rates, Rules, and Hours of Operations

Pool Facilities Reservation Application

PERRY COUNTY PARK

The Perry County Park is one of the largest parks in our County. The Perry County Park consists of a walk track, Skate Park, basketball courts, five picnic shelters, baseball and softball fields, a stage area for concerts, an outdoor pool, putt-putt golf, tennis courts, a boat ramp for access to the Kentucky River, Horse Park and a playground area. Also located in the park is the Hazard/Perry Senior Citizens Center.

THE PEOPLE'S PARK

Featured in the heart of downtown Hazard, the People’s Park provides a natural, yet modern feel to Main Street.

Lothair Park

Located in the Lothair section of Hazard, the Lothair Park provides a playground, picnic shelters, and green grass for leisurely play.

jim rose Courts

Located on the corner of North Main Street and Memorial Drive, these courts play host to a yearly tournament called “The Dust Bowl”.

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This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 — How to Plan the Perfect Visit

Louisville, Kentucky, is called the "Gateway to the South."

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best nightlife, best restaurants, best time to visit, neighborhoods to visit, how to get there and how to get around.

Courtesy of @GoToLouisville

For decades, Louisville, Kentucky, was known only for a two-minute horse race, the Kentucky Derby, celebrating its 150th running in 2024. Now, thanks to a marked uptick in bourbon tourism, visitors are coming for the bourbon and staying for the culture. Bourbon & Beyond draws more than 140,000 tourists to the area, and in 2023, Louisville was a top trending travel destination, according to Airbnb . Downtown Louisville’s Whiskey Row on Main Street is a major tourism magnet for the city, providing a starting point for several days of bourbon tourism without leaving the city limits. There are also world-class restaurants, more than a dozen distilleries, and family-friendly museums. It's no wonder the city, called the "Gateway to the South," was named one of the best places to travel in 2024 . Whether you're into history or nature, there's lots to do in Louisville year-round. Here's how to plan a memorable trip.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• The Seelbach Hilton was a popular hangout spot for both F. Scott Fitzgerald and Al Capone. In fact, Fitzgerald based "The Great Gatsby" on his time there.
• The Kentucky Bourbon Trail draws more than 2.1 million visitors to the state each year, many of whom stay in Louisville for its nightlife and restaurant scene.
• Jack Fry’s was a favorite of Louisville’s own Muhammad Ali — sit at table 17 where he sat.
• Michter’s at Fort Nelson is a great place for a nightcap, and the open mezzanine allows guests to peer into a working distillery after hours.
• Cave Hill Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 150 distillery owners and businesspeople as well as Colonel Harland Sanders and Muhammad Ali.

Courtesy of @GoToLouisville

Hotel Genevieve

Hotel Genevieve features Parisian-inspired decor, 122 guest rooms, and three restaurants and bars by James Beard-nominated chef Ashleigh Shanti. Plus, it’s located in the trendy NuLu district near boutiques, distilleries such as Rabbit Hole and Angel’s Envy , and locally owned coffee shops like Please & Thank You and Quills .

Hotel Distil, Autograph Collection

Located right in the middle of Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, this Marriott Autograph Collection hotel features an original facade from the 1860s and is just a few doors down from the Old Forester Distillery on Main Street.

21c Museum Hotel

“ 21c is such a fun and weird place to stay — and I mean weird in the best way. It's part contemporary art gallery, part hotel, and part upscale restaurant and bar, so it has a little bit of everything for someone staying a few nights in Louisville. And where else can you take in world-renowned art while sipping on one of the city's best old fashioned cocktails — and have your bed just a quick elevator ride away?” said Sara Havens of The Bar Belle .

The Brown Hotel

Home to the iconic Hot Brown open-faced sandwich, The Brown Hotel opened in 1923 only 10 months after construction began. Then-prime minister of Great Britain David Lloyd George was the first guest of the 234-room property, which sits near the Black Jockeys Lounge and the Fourth Street Live! entertainment district.

The Seelbach Hilton

“Like a fine wine, The Seelbach has continued to age gracefully throughout its nearly 120 years, offering guests a taste of "The Great Gatsby" era in the heart of downtown Louisville. Tip: Don’t miss the renowned Rathskeller ballroom in the basement,” said Jordan Skora, marketing communications manager at Louisville Tourism .

Bourbon & Beyond

“ Bourbon & Beyond has become the jewel of Kentucky’s musical festival scene, making Louisville the ideal destination for celebrating Bourbon Heritage Month each September,” said Missy Hillock, innkeeper at Chateau Bourbon .

Big Four Bridge

“The Big Four Bridge offers city skyline and colorful sunset views, plus some exercise while crossing the scenic Ohio River from Louisville to Jeffersonville, Indiana, a charming destination brimming with dining options,” said Rosanne Mastin, public relations manager at Louisville Tourism.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

With seven stops in Louisville alone, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail includes 46 of the state's 90-plus distilleries. On Main Street, you'll find Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. , Michter’s Fort Nelson , the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience , Old Forester , and Angel’s Envy . Round out your trip with a visit to the Frazier History Museum’s " Spirit of Kentucky " exhibit.

Speed Art Museum

Founded by Hattie Bishop Speed in 1925, the Speed Art Museum includes collections of Roman antiquities, Native American art, works by Kentucky artisans, and more. Rotating exhibitions include "Louisville’s Black Avant-Garde" and "Winslow Homer: American Storyteller."

Cave Hill Cemetery

“When in Louisville, you should visit Cave Hill Cemetery and enjoy a walk among the distillers laid to rest there,” said Michael Veach, bourbon historian .

Charles Zapata/Courtesy of @GoToLouisville

Work the Metal

“ Work the Metal is the one and only place I visit anytime I need a thoughtful, quirky, or fun gift for a friend or family member — especially if it’s bourbon or Kentucky-related,” said Heather Wibbels, managing director of the Bourbon Women Association .

Spark Boutique

“ Spark Boutique is a fantastic mix of fashionable, one-of-a-kind looks and pieces that won’t break the bank. Their inventory is always changing, leaving shoppers with a fresh look after each visit,” said Hillock.

Frazier History Museum Gift Shop

“The Frazier History Museum gift shop is a treasure trove of unique Kentucky themed-gifts, apparel, and curated bourbons without requiring an admission ticket to browse. However, the ‘ Cool Kentucky ’ exhibit will draw you into the museum,” said Cleo Battle, president and CEO of Louisville Tourism.

Art Eatables

Immerse yourself in every possible bourbon and chocolate combination at Art Eatables . Proprietor Kelly Ramsey pairs each whiskey with a specific chocolate flavor profile for unique bourbon truffles.

Caufield’s Novelty

A Louisville staple since 1920, this costume shop is also part amusement park. Be sure to visit the Dungeon, the spooky back room, and have your photo taken with Michael Myers on his front porch.

The Back Door

“One of my favorite dive bars is the beloved Back Door , which has been a staple in the Highlands neighborhood for more than three decades,” said Havens. “An array of thirsty locals gather [here] to catch up, eat delicious wings, and play a few rounds of pool. The bartenders treat you like family, and the drinks pack quite a punch.”

Hell or High Water or Tartan House

“For a fun cocktail experience, head to Hell or High Water or Tartan House . Both have incredibly curated cocktails and lend themselves to lingering over great conversation,” said Wibbels.

The Bar at Fort Nelson

“ The Bar at Fort Nelson has a great cocktail menu and talented staff,” said Veach.

Trouble Bar

“ Trouble Bar , five minutes east of downtown, has a fine whiskey list, including flights curated by experts, and a great all-inclusive vibe,” said Susan Reigler, whiskey educator at Buzzard’s Roost .

Come for the rotating beers on tap and extensive whiskey selection; stay for the smoked meats and mac at cheese bowls at Four Pegs .

Featured on Chopped , Volare is a local favorite for well-prepared Italian food, farm-to-table tasting menus, and a fresh catch of the day every Friday. Be sure to try the barrel-aged Manhattan cocktail.

Bourbons Bistro

“Go to Bourbons Bistro in one of Louisville's most charming historic districts — Crescent Hill. There's an outstanding bourbon list, barrel picks, and a bourbon-friendly menu,” said Reigler.

“ Jack Fry’s is a Louisville classic, well-known for delivering Southern staples and attentive service in a cozy setting amid the city's famed Restaurant Row. Ask to sit at table 17, the very spot where Muhammad Ali frequently dined,” said Stacey Yates, chief marketing officer at Louisville Tourism.

“With its location in NuLu, Bar Vetti is one of my favorites. They offer both dinner and lunch, with an upbeat ambience, incredible food [and] cocktails, and the GM, Hap, goes above and beyond with customer service,” said Lisa Higgins, founder of Mint Julep Experiences .

”Located in the heart of historic Whiskey Row, Number 15 is the perfect destination for local and regional fare, from its signature sandwiches to perfectly curated cocktails. It's a must-visit for anyone visiting the Derby City and looking for authentic Kentucky food at an affordable price,” said Yates.

There’s lots to do in Louisville no matter the season. April is Mint Julep Month , which coincides with the Kentucky Derby Festival , a three-week party celebrating the two-minute Kentucky Derby . September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, and festivities include the Bourbon & Beyond music festival and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival , about 45 minutes south in Bardstown. October brings the St. James Court Art Show , which has been running since 1957. Throughout the year, visitors to Kentucky’s distilleries make Louisville their home base because of the abundant hotels, restaurants, and bars in the city, as well as the convergence of three interstate highways.

“When guests ask, we highly recommend shopping in NuLu. There are so many unique and local boutiques and artisans that appeal to all ages,” said Higgins. NuLu is also home to Muth’s Candies , a locally owned confectionary that has been in business for more than 100 years. Be sure to try the local favorite, Modjeskas, a handmade marshmallow wrapped in caramel.

Whiksey Row

Once the epicenter of the business of bourbon, this historic district was saved not once but twice — first by Preservation Louisville’s Marianne Zickuhr and later from a fire — before becoming the city's current bourbon tourism center.

The Highlands

One of Louisville’s oldest suburbs, The Highlands is home to an eclectic collection of bars, restaurants, and shops.

Louisville is a car-dependent city, and once you get into the outskirts, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft become scarce. Fortunately, downtown is very walkable, and a well-planned trip can be easily spent within the radius of just a few blocks. Otherwise, rental cars are strongly recommended. Louisville’s airport, about 10 minutes by car from downtown, has direct flights to and from many major U.S. cities. There are also several options for rental bicycles and scooters throughout downtown Louisville.