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29 Top Things to Do in Kentucky

Kentucky is synonymous with bourbon, country music and horse racing, but visitors to the Bluegrass State might not expect its quirky museums or impressive natural wonders.

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From wandering museums in the city to exploring unique attractions in the countryside, Kentucky offers something for everyone.

Kentucky is generally associated with derbies, whiskey and fried chicken, but there is much more to the Bluegrass State. A sprawling underground cave system, a plunging river gorge, and a stunning waterfall all call the state home, as do Corvettes, an unlikely castle and a museum dedicated to creationism. And while there is certainly a quirky roadside attraction for every taste, many museums and attractions close down for the winter, so travelers should plan their itineraries accordingly.

There is plenty to occupy families and road trippers within Kentucky's state lines, but it's also helpful to know that Cincinnati is just a John A. Roebling suspension bridge away — 83 miles from Lexington, Kentucky, or 100 miles from Louisville, Kentucky .

Whether you're on the hunt for the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail or ready to forge your own path, read on for 29 of the best things to do in Kentucky.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Courtesy of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

The prolific Louisville slugger baseball bat began production in Louisville in 1884, and it's still being produced at the site's active factory today. Baseball fans from across the country pilgrimage to this factory tour and museum dedicated to the love of the game. Galleries of memorabilia — including a Babe Ruth bat — await, as well as rotating exhibits, like "The Best Black Baseball Team You've Never Heard Of," to keep things fresh.

General admission is less than $20 (and kids under 5 are free) and includes a factory tour and a mini bat keepsake. Meanwhile, $299 will buy you an exclusive All-Star Experience pass to restricted areas of the factory floor, the bat vault, the archive room with the museum's most prized artifacts and a personalized bat. Take a picture with it outside next to Louisville's iconic Big Bat — at 120 feet tall, it's the world's largest.

Address: 800 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, located in Corbin, Kentucky, is one of the state's most picturesque natural preserves. The park's highlight is Cumberland Falls. On clear nights around a full moon (about five days each month), Cumberland Falls creates a moonbow: a natural phenomenon that refracts light in its water droplets. Roughly 17 miles of hiking trails wind through the park, with many connecting to Daniel Boone National Forest. Both parks are of particular interest to birders, who come seeking species like the Carolina wren or tufted titmouse. Horseback riding is offered daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and on select weekends in September and October. Families will also enjoy organized gem mining, located just past the gift shop. The park permits fishing with a license and welcomes campers from mid-March through October.

Address: 7351 Highway 90, Corbin, KY 40701

Channel history on an Old Louisville Ghost Tour

Courtesy of Louisville Historic Tours

Kentucky was established as the 15th U.S. state in 1792, and it has developed a lot of history during the last 230-plus years. Louisville was the center of Kentucky society during the 1800s, and sordid reminders of booze and tobacco industries pockmark the city and lend the Gothic architecture its spooky stories. Local author David Domine specializes in true crime and the paranormal, and he crafted a 100-minute ghost tour of "America's most haunted neighborhood " to share its fascinating narratives. Recommended by the New York Times, David's ghost stories inform and entertain with the added benefit of getting your steps in. Tours run from March through November.

Address: 1300 S. Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40208

Churchill Downs

If you're in Kentucky on the first Saturday in May — even if you're nowhere near Louisville — there will be no avoiding the frenzy that surrounds the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps, extravagant hats and seersucker suits characterize the iconic horse race, but Churchill Downs is also worth visiting year-round. Where the derby is held, Churchill Downs racetrack provides unparalleled insight into the world of horse racing. Kentucky Derby Museum offers two floors of related exhibits and various tours of the grounds, including experiences that range from meeting jockeys and working with the horses to tasting bourbon.

Tickets to the museum cost less than $20, and children younger than 5 are free; all tour rates include access to the museum. Race day tours make a full-day experience of the nation's most famous horse racetrack. Also, consider a visit to Keeneland, another of Kentucky's finest thoroughbred racecourses and one of the best attractions in Lexington .

Address: 704 Central Ave., Louisville, KY 40208

The Galt House Hotel

Courtesy of The Galt House Hotel

Even if you're not booking a stay, it's worth visiting Kentucky's largest hotel, which traces its roots back to the early 19th century. The Galt House , a Trademark Collection Hotel, located in downtown Louisville, was originally a private home owned by Dr. W.C. Galt. The Galt House Hotel opened in 1835, and the original home was absorbed as the hotel's East Tower in 1984. The Galt House Hotel's primary draw is its central location, near Museum Row, the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, the Muhammad Ali Center and more. There are two bourbon bars on-site, plus a spa with bourbon-infused treatments.

Anyone looking for an offbeat and free thing to do can find a hidden installation on the hotel's grounds; near the main entrance, Gallop to Glory is the "Walk of Fame" of jockeys, featuring the handprints and signatures of the winning riders of the Kentucky Derby.

Address: 140 N. Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40202

Tour a modern castle

Courtesy of The Kentucky Castle

Appropriately located in the town of Versailles (not to be confused with the French palace ), The Kentucky Castle is a stunning boutique hotel just 10 miles outside Lexington. As you might expect, the castle's origins are a bit strange. The castle began construction in 1969 by a wealthy couple but was not completed due to the couple's divorce six years into the castle's construction. The castle was eventually purchased, though a fire in 2004 delayed renovations. The Kentucky Castle finally opened to the public in 2008 as a bed-and-breakfast called the Castle Post, just shy of 40 years in the making.

Today, curious tourists not staying at the B&B can book a 45-minute tour of the grounds for $25. Events, like murder mystery dinners, are also occasionally held here.

Address: 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

National Corvette Museum

Courtesy of National Corvette Museum

Head to Bowling Green, Kentucky, the self-proclaimed " Home of America's Sports Car ," to drool over all things Corvette. There will be more cars than you can manage between the exhibits of 'Vettes old and new, which span Chevrolet's automotive achievement since they introduced the Corvette in 1953. A more unexpected installation features heavily damaged Corvettes; in 2014, a massive sinkhole took eight cars about 30 feet down. They say to make lemonade from lemons, and the museum made a permanent exhibit of the cave-in called the Skydome Sinkhole Experience to document the event. An interactive driving game and a massive gift shop are just some of the museum's other added features.

If you're looking to bring home a serious souvenir, you can custom-build your own Corvette — Bowling Green is the only plant in the world that builds them.

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY 42101

Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum

Courtesy of Maysville-Mason County Tourism

In 1833, Harriet Beecher Stowe visited one of her students in Maysville, Kentucky. During the visit, she witnessed a slave auction at a local courthouse, and it was this distressing event that, in part, inspired her to write her classic novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Her former student's family home, the Marshall Key House, now also houses the Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum. The small house is more than 215 years old and decorated in the style it would have been when Stowe visited. Patrons can also observe artifacts related to the American Civil War and slavery.

Anyone interested in a tour can book one through the Old Washington Visitor Center on Main Street in Maysville. While in Maysville, visitors may want to explore the National Underground Railroad Museum and the Kentucky Gateway Museum for historical collections and temporary exhibits.

Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum was closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is scheduled to reopen in 2023.

Address: 1001 Forest Ave., Maysville, KY 41056

Mammoth Cave National Park

Did you know the longest recorded cave system in the world is in Kentucky? Mammoth Cave National Park and its more than 400 miles of recorded caves, located about 40 miles northeast of Bowling Green, is free to visit (cave tours incur an additional fee). Aboveground, the park offers hiking, biking, camping, scenic drives, horseback riding and more.

Still, the park's cave tours showcase the area's interesting history and serve as its primary draw. Enslaved Black Americans mined the caves for saltpeter in the 18th century, and enslaved men and women also developed cave tour routes as Mammoth Cave transitioned into a tourist destination. Following the Civil War, generations of now-free Black guides continued to lead tours.

Today, tours are remarkably accessible, including versions for various levels of mobility and hearing. Routes range from a quarter-mile with a dozen stairs to more than 2 miles with 600 stairs.

Address: One Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Vent Haven Museum                                                          

Courtesy of Vent Haven Museum

Don't be a dummy — if you're in Fort Mitchell, come check out the world's only museum dedicated to ventriloquism. Vent Haven is the result of a decades-long personal collection of ventriloquist dummies and paraphernalia by W.S. Berger. In operation since 1973, the museum now houses more than a thousand dummies spanning three centuries of use. Special exhibits have included the characters used by Darci Lynne, the 2017 winner of "America's Got Talent."

Tours are by appointment only, customized to visitors' interests and range from 45 minutes to an hour. The museum operates seven days a week, seasonally. Vent Haven Museum is in Kentucky but located just 7 miles from downtown Cincinnati .

Vent Haven Museum was closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is scheduled to reopen in August 2022.

Address: 33 W. Maple Ave., Fort Mitchell, KY 41011

Muhammad Ali Center

Courtesy of the Kentucky Department of Tourism

Born Cassius Clay in Louisville in 1942, Muhammad Ali went on to have an iconic career in boxing that eventually earned him the nickname "The Greatest." Most people know him as a charismatic athlete, but Ali donated his time and money to charitable causes throughout his life. In 2005, Ali cofounded Kentucky's Muhammad Ali Center, a multicultural gathering space and nonprofit museum dedicated to the "Six Core Principles" that he lived his life by: confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect and spirituality. The exhibits inspire greatness with artifacts, historical footage, multimedia presentations and more.

The Muhammad Ali Center is located along Louisville's renowned Museum Row. Admission ranges from $9 to $14; children under 5 are free.

Address: 144 N. Sixth St., Louisville, KY 40202

Take five at the Big Four Bridge

Linking Kentucky and Indiana, the Big Four Bridge straddles the Ohio River with its Kentucky entrance located along the 85-acre Louisville Waterfront Park. The 53-foot-high bridge, originally built in 1895, allowed railroad cars to enter Louisville through 1968, when train traffic was diverted. In 2014, an access ramp was constructed to convert the previously decommissioned train bridge into a mile-long pedestrian space. The reimagined bridge provides walkers and bikers a panoramic view over the Ohio River, and recent travelers say it is especially stunning at sunset. From twilight to 1 a.m., a rainbow of LED lights illuminate the bridge. About 1.5 million visitors are estimated to cross the bridge every year.

Address: 1101 River Road, Louisville, KY 40202

U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum

Part roadside attraction, part homage to country music royalty, this museum sits along a gas station exit ramp off U.S. Highway 23, also known as "the country music highway." Highlighting talent from the eastern part of Kentucky, the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum features 14 exhibits spanning country artists who have called the Bluegrass State home, including artists like Loretta Lynn and Chris Stapleton. Keeping the tradition alive, a bluegrass musician takes to the porch steps to play every Thursday night.

The museum costs $4 to enter and is located in Paintsville, Kentucky, more than 100 miles east of Lexington and not very far from the border of West Virginia. If you're traveling toward Louisa, the Kentucky Country Music Museum is yet another collection of local legend paraphernalia — and this time, it's inside of an actual gas station.

Address: 120 Stave Branch, Staffordsville, KY 41256

Harland Sanders Café and Museum

Sure, KFCs are found everywhere — even in Egypt with a view of the pyramids . However, the world-famous chain started in Corbin with Colonel Harland Sanders (an honorary title, not a military colonel). The Sanders Café opened in 1937, but the structure was rebuilt after a fire in 1939 and reopened on Independence Day in 1940. Colonel Sanders' "secret" fried chicken recipe was developed on-site, and in 1956 he began to franchise restaurants across the nation. The original cafe remains, now a museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can walk through a model of the motel room, view KFC memorabilia including a Green Lantern and Colonel Sanders crossover comic book and, of course, try some chicken and biscuits in a distinct dining room.

Parts of Harland Sanders Café and Museum were closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is scheduled to reopen in 2022.

Address: 688 U.S. Highway 25 W, Corbin, KY 40701

Creation Museum

Courtesy of the Creation Museum

From curators not sold on the Big Bang Theory — the astronomical event, not the comedy series — the Creation Museum is dedicated to "creation science," an explanation of human existence drawn straight from the pages of the Bible. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of Kentucky's adult population identifies as evangelical Protestant. In a survey by the same group, 67% of respondents believed humans have always existed in our present form or evolved due to God's design. Regardless of what you think, the Creation Museum offers a unique perspective on the origin of life with more than 140 exhibits.

Admission costs about $45 for adults and $25 for kids ages 11 to 17, while children under 10 are free. A companion exhibit features a life-sized replica of Noah's Ark about 40 miles south.

Address: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Road, Petersburg, KY 41080

Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Timothy Miller | Courtesy of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

This house museum with an alliterative name and design — Richardsonian Romanesque — particularly delights fans of HBO's "Gilded Age." The Conrad-Caldwell house, originally constructed in 1895, is a prime example of Louisville's elaborate Victorian architecture. Louisville holds the distinction of having the highest concentration of Victorian homes in the country. Surround yourself with beautiful objects on a tour of the home, which was purchased by William Caldwell in 1908.

Caldwell's firm was responsible for the creation of the giant bat at the Louisville Slugger Museum and the Mickey Mouse ears at Walt Disney World . Self-guided and docent-led tours of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum cost from $8 to $12 and can be reserved online.

Address: 1402 Saint James Court, Louisville, KY 40208

Dinosaur World

With a name like Cave City, Kentucky, maybe it's not all that surprising that visitors will find hundreds of life-size dinosaur figures in the town. While it might seem a little cheesy initially, past travelers to Dinosaur World rave that the colorful statues and interactive "fossil digs" were a huge hit with their kids and more fun than they originally expected. Walking trails and an indoor museum encourage visitors to learn about their ancient ancestors.

Admission costs $15.75 for adults, with discounted rates for children and seniors. For about $6 more, visitors can purchase an Excavation Pass, which allows them to "excavate" shiny rocks, minerals and bones to take home. Unlike prehistoric times, Dinosaur World is a dog-friendly attraction for leash-trained pups. A 5,000-square-foot gift shop might add to the bill, but Dinosaur World encourages families to bring their own food and drink.

Address: 711 Mammoth Cave Road, Cave City, KY 42127

Newport Aquarium

Courtesy of Newport Aquarium

Do the words "shark rope bridge" instill fear or excitement? If it's the latter, you're in for a treat at Kentucky's Newport Aquarium. Considered one of the best aquariums in the country, Newport Aquarium is known for its sharks above all else. Walk through a glass tunnel while these sea predators swim above and around you. Or, if you're extra daring, attempt to cross the Shark Bridge, a suspended rope bridge where thrill-seekers can walk inches above the 385,000-gallon shark and fish tank (free with admission). Of course, there's more on display at this lively aquarium, including penguins, crocodiles, stingrays and an exhibit featuring eels that dwell in an old shipwreck.

The museum is located in Newport, Kentucky, and tickets start at $59.99, with discounts available for children and seniors.

Address: 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071

Pleasant Hill Shaker Village

Shaker is a sect of the Quaker religion, and Pleasant Hill, Kentucky, has the largest restored Shaker community in the United States. Most people might know of them from their sought-after furniture designs, but the Shakers have a fascinating history. The Pleasant Hill Shaker Village began in 1805 and lasted until 1910. Now, just 34 of the original 250 pre-Civil War buildings have been restored, but visitors can immerse themselves in 3,000 acres of craft demonstrations, history exhibits and 40 miles of hiking trails that cross organic gardens and cow pastures.

Pleasant Hill's Shaker Village, about 25 miles southwest of Lexington, Kentucky, is free to visit; however, a $10 donation is suggested for hikers, and admission for tours and exhibits starts at $14.

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330

Take a gander at the Mother Goose House

Is there anything more amusing than a house with a goose on top? We're not talking about Canadian geese — the Mother Goose house in Hazard, Kentucky, features a 15-foot goose structure resting on a round stone home with egg-shaped windows. The avian idea was that of George Stacy, who built the home for him and his wife between 1935 and 1940. Its origins are slightly more grim than its whimsical appearance suggests, with Stacy killing an actual goose to use its bones as a blueprint. The fantastical structure continues to stand today, despite a temporary goose decapitation due to high winds in March 2021. Though its creator has passed on, the home is still occupied 80 years later. Driving along Interstate 476, it's hard to miss.

Address: 2906 N. Main St., Hazard, KY 41701

Cozy up at The National Quilt Museum

Courtesy of The National Quilt Museum

Past travelers, who visit from all 50 states and more than 40 countries, generally agree that this textile museum is one of the top attractions in Paducah, Kentucky. The National Quilt Museum describes itself as displaying "the finest quilting and fiber art in the world." With 600 quilts in its collection, the museum offers rotating displays, with thousands more submissions for consideration sent in each year. World-class quilters decide on new additions to the museum based on quality and diversity, and the museum prides itself on a well-rounded contemporary collection.

Visitors note that the museum is artistic and not kitschy, defying expectations of what a quilt museum can be. Tickets to the museum start at $12, with discounts available for seniors and students, while children under 12 are free.

Address: 215 Jefferson St., Paducah, KY 42001

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Ponies and chicken aside, the most famous Kentucky offering is its American-style whiskey, known as bourbon. Dozens of working bourbon distilleries are operating in Kentucky today; the state produces 95 percent of the world's bourbon, with more than two aging barrels for every resident, at any given time. It's a $9 billion industry, and travelers can experience it firsthand with a distillery tour — or two, or three. Locations for favorites like Jim Beam and Maker's Mark are sprinkled between Louisville, Lexington and Frankfort, the Kentucky state capital, with one outlier — Green River Distilling — out west in Owensboro, Kentucky. Of course, you can pick and choose your favorite brands to visit, or you can go whole hog by following Kentucky's official Bourbon Trail, a liquid adventure across 18 distilleries lasting an estimated four days.

Sip sweet wine at Purple Toad Winery

Courtesy of Purple Toad Winery

If you don't drink the brown stuff, head to Purple Toad Winery, Kentucky's largest winery and a traveler-favorite attraction in Paducah. Visitors to the 25,000-square-foot facility will find a staggering more than 40 types of wine, including seasonal and test varietals in addition to best-selling bottles. Tastings are free and include up to eight wines for oenophiles to enjoy. Sweet wines are Purple Toad Winery's specialty, with inventive combinations like a mango chardonnay and a strawberry jalapeno wine. Wine-tasting is one of the best things to do in Kentucky in November, or throughout the fall, due to cool temperatures and ripe grapes.

Nonalcoholic fruit punch slushies are available for purchase, and pets on a leash are welcome on the grounds.

Address: 4275 Old U.S. Highway 45 S, Paducah, KY 42003

Mary Todd Lincoln House

Courtesy of Mary Todd Lincoln House

Head to Lexington to connect with the life of former First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln in her childhood home. The Federal-style house was built in 1806 and designated as a museum in 1977, making it the first historic site dedicated to a first lady. Mary's life was not without complexities, including the assassination of her husband, President Abraham Lincoln. The museum strives to shed light on her whole life, including her years outside the White House. On the museum's website, a 1-mile walking tour guide is available for download, which allows visitors to experience Lexington as the Lincolns might have.

Admission to the museum costs $15 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 through 17, and children 5 and younger are free. The Mary Todd Lincoln House is only open seasonally, mid-March through November, and closed on Sundays.

Address: 578 W. Main St., Lexington, KY 40507

Journey to Germany via MainStrasse Village

Courtesy of John Lair

The address might say Covington, Kentucky, but Deutschland inspired this tourist town. MainStrasse (Main Street) Village is a National Historic District and includes examples of 19 th -century homes, businesses and restaurants. The shopping and dining district blends wheat beer with bourbon and polka with Dixieland music for a unique convergence of the American South and Western Europe. MainStrasse is the place to be year-round for festivals and events like Mardi Gras, Oktoberfest (of course) and more offbeat gatherings, like the "World's Longest Yard Sale" in August.

Address: 406 W. 6th St., Convington, KY 41014

Red River Gorge: The Grand Canyon of Kentucky

Explorer Daniel Boone first took in the scenery of the Red River Gorge in the 1700s, and tourists today can explore the aptly named Daniel Boone National Forest in several ways. The Red River Gorge is an acclaimed climbing and rappelling destination, but more risk-averse visitors can also hike, kayak or drive along the scenic byway. Hourlong kayak tours take travelers through the Gorge Underground, an unground portion of the canyon system that's easily navigated with a gentle paddle and a headlamp.

Red River Gorge is about 70 miles southeast of Lexington, and those looking to spend the night can reserve a campsite at the nearby Natural Bridge State Resort Park.

Address: 3451 Sky Bridge Road, Stanton, KY 40380

Stretch your legs at the Paducah Riverwalk

Courtesy of Paducah CVB

Architectural Digest recognizes historic downtown Paducah, Kentucky, as one of the most beautiful main streets in America. See what the fuss is about as you familiarize yourself with this town by foot; it boasts more historical markers per capita than anywhere else in the state. Paducah sits in the southwestern corner of Kentucky and is separated from Illinois by the Ohio River. Along the Paducah waterfront, pedestrians can enjoy views of the river and (occasionally) the paddle wheel boats that still navigate it.

Past travelers praise the lively floodwall murals and the peaceful waterfront views. If you do get tired of walking, a free trolley regularly runs through historic downtown.

Address: Riverfront at Broadway & Kentucky Ave., Paducah, KY 42001

Catch a Wildcats or Cardinals game

Sports are always in season in Kentucky, with college baseball games held February through May and college basketball games October to March. The state's two most prominent sports programs are the University of Kentucky's Wildcats and the University of Louisville's Cardinals. The Wildcats play baseball games at the Joe Craft Center in Lexington, and the Cardinals shoot hoops at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville.

College sports are a big deal in these parts, and both colleges are known to sell out games. Buy tickets early or opt for a less popular sport when you know you want to catch a game. If you're rooting for the Wildcats, go blue; otherwise, be sure to dress in your best reds for the Cardinals.

Address: 338 Lexington Ave., Lexington, KY 40506 (Joe Craft Center); 1 Arena Plaza, Louisville, KY 40202 (KFC Yum! Center)

Frazier History Museum

Courtesy of Frazier History Museum

From the explorations of Lewis and Clark to the largest public collection of toys soldiers in the world, the Frazier History Museum in Louisville provides patrons with an eclectic mix of historical curiosities. Visitors have commented that they particularly enjoy being able to take in the unusual artifacts, like President Theodore Roosevelt's "big stick," while sipping bourbon — for educational purposes only, of course. Temporary exhibits buffer the museum's permanent collection, like "West of Ninth," a photography exhibition that comments on race, and "Border State," which delves into Kentucky's role in the American Civil War.

General admission is $14, with discounted rates available for students, seniors, children and military members.

Address: 829 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Kentucky
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago
• The Top Restaurants in Louisville, Kentucky

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kentucky

Written by Lura Seavey and Michael Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

Kentucky, also known as the Bluegrass state, has a diverse geography and cultural history, offering attractions for couples, families, and everyone else. It is most widely known as the home of the Kentucky Derby , which is held in May near Louisville, the state's largest city, also famous as the birthplace of the Louisville Slugger baseball bat.

Another popular destination for equine enthusiasts is Lexington, home to the Kentucky Horse Park . If you are looking for free things to do in Kentucky, the state's many parks are home to countless natural springs, impressive caves , and other unique natural attractions thanks to the karst geology.

Kentucky is also a wonderful place for a weekend getaway, perhaps in a romantic cabin along the Appalachians or one of the state's other popular vacation spots. Discover some of the best places to visit in our list of the top tourist attractions in Kentucky.

1. Kentucky Derby

2. louisville slugger museum & factory, 3. daniel boone national forest, 4. cumberland gap national historical park, 5. abraham lincoln birthplace national historic park, 6. mammoth cave national park, 7. kentucky horse park, 8. muhammad ali center, 9. the kentucky derby museum, 10. lost river cave, 11. louisville mega cavern, 12. cumberland falls state resort park, 13. shaker village of pleasant hill, 14. newport aquarium, 15. ark encounter, 16. national corvette museum, 17. waverly hills sanitorium, 18. great american dollhouse museum, danville.

Kentucky's most famous event and one of horse racing's most prestigious races is the Kentucky Derby, held at Churchill Downs outside of Louisville. The Kentucky Derby takes place the first Sunday in May and draws a huge crowd to the city – it's one of the top things to do in Louisville .

The race is more than just about seeing which horse can get first past the post to win – it's also about fashion and fun. A number of traditions exist around race day. People get dressed up for the event – don't forget your fascinator – and generally have a great time in the warm spring Kentucky air.

If you'd like to attend, plan in advance, well over 150,000 people descend on the city, and hotels book up, as the race always sells out.

Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.kentuckyderby.com

The museum is perhaps the easiest tourist attraction in town to find, just look for the 120-foot-tall replica of Babe Ruth's Louisville Slugger, which sits at the entrance. Inside, guests have the opportunity to tour the factory where the Louisville Slugger is made, watching as a simple piece of wood is turned into a tool that professional baseball players have been breaking records with since 1884.

Attached to the factory is a museum filled with memorabilia and exhibits that look at the history of the Louisville Slugger and the careers of some of the most legendary players who wielded it. The museum's most prized items are the bat used to hit Hank Aaron's 700th home run ; Joe DiMaggio's bat from his 56-game hitting streak; and the bat used by Babe Ruth for 21 of his 1927 home runs, complete with the notches that the Bambino carved around the logo for each of those runs.

The museum also has batting cages, a pitching simulator, and a 17-ton limestone baseball glove, which is often climbed by kids and adults alike. At the end of your visit, you'll receive your very own mini bat as a souvenir.

Address: 800 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.sluggermuseum.com

The Daniel Boone National Forest occupies a stretch of land that runs through 21 counties in eastern Kentucky, covering more than 708,000 acres. The park's most distinguished feature is its varied terrain, which includes more than 3,400 miles of sandstone cliffs, gorges, and ravines cut by rivers and streams, and the Natural Bridge, which measures 65 feet high and 75 feet wide.

Created by the erosive forces of wind and water, it is just one of the many bizarre rock formations found in the park. Among the park's many trails, the Sheltowee Trace trail is the largest, extending for 273 miles through Daniel Boone National Forest.

The Barren Folk Accessible Heritage Trail is closest to Whitley City and has a 0.75-mile paved trail, which narrates the history of Barren Folk Mining and Coal and the hundreds of people who occupied the isolated mining town.

Official site: http://www.fs.usda.gov/dbnf

Southeastern Kentucky extends into the Cumberland Mountains, and the most important passage through the hills is the Cumberland Gap. This 760-foot-deep cut through the range was used as a traffic route by Native Americans and was discovered by pioneers moving west in the mid-18th century.

After the legendary Daniel Boone drove his Wilderness Trail into Kentucky in 1775, more than 200,000 white settlers made their way through the Cumberland Mountains to the west.

The Visitor Center is located in Middleboro, offering a small interactive museum and rangers on duty to answer questions.

You can also take a tour to the Hensley Settlement , a well-preserved old country township, which departs by shuttle from the visitor center. The park also offers guided hiking tours of Gap Cave, and a popular hike is to Pinnacle Overview where, at an altitude of 2460 feet, there are magnificent views of the hills and the Gap.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/cuga/index.htm

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park is located on the former site of Sinking Springs Farm, established by the 16th President's father, Thomas Lincoln. In 1911, construction was finished on the Memorial Building, which houses the Symbolic Birth Cabin, a replica of the one-room home where Abraham Lincoln was born in 1809.

The Neoclassical Memorial Building is constructed of Tennessee marble and pink granite from Connecticut, and was designed by architect John Russell Pope. Its 56 steps represent Lincoln's age at his death, and other features represent his presidency. Also on the property is Sinking Spring, a natural water source named for the way in which the water disappears back into the earth below.

Address: 2995 Lincoln Farm Road, Hodgenville, Kentucky

Official site: www.nps.gov/abli

The Mammoth Cave lies in the "Land of 10,000 Sinks" or the Caveland Corridor , an area in southwestern Kentucky approximately 80 miles south of Louisville. This region is strongly marked by karstic features of all kinds.

With more than 400 miles of passages surveyed so far, the Mammoth Cave is one of the world's largest known cave systems and was already known to the original native inhabitants of the region by the 1st millennium BCE.

This is an incredibly popular attraction for families, and a variety of tours are available. Top attractions in the park include the Mammoth Dome, which is almost 200 feet high, and the Ruins of Karnak, named for its massive limestone columns, which give the impression of a ruined temple.

Other highlights are the Snowball Dining Room, with its extraordinary rock formations; the imposing Frozen Niagara, with its magnificent stalactites and stalagmites; and the beautiful Crystal Lake. All cave tours are ticketed, and hikers should come prepared for the much cooler subterranean temperatures.

Additional things to do in Mammoth Cave National Park include camping, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, bicycling, hiking, horseback riding, and various ranger-led activities for kids.

Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

The Kentucky Horse Park, located a short drive north of Lexington, allows visitors a chance to see a working horse farm , learn about, and visit with horses. The park houses several attractions and activities, including the opportunity to take horse or pony rides.

The farm's residents occupy a variety of themed barns, including a Kids Barn for meeting smaller animals; the Mounted Police Barn; the Breeds Barn, where a selection of rare breeds reside; the Hall of Champions; and the Big Barn. The Hall of Champions is home to retired champion racehorses, and the Big Barn houses the park's impressive draft horses.

Be sure to check out the multiple shows each day featuring the various breeds and occupations of the horses. In fact, the draft horses provide the power for an informational trolley tour.

One of the top things to do in Lexington , the park is also home to four distinct museums, including the Smithsonian-affiliated International Museum of the Horse , which explores the history of the horse's role. Additional museums are the Al-Marah Arabian Horse Galleries; the American Saddlebred Museum; and the Wheeler Museum, which is dedicated to competition horses.

Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, Kentucky

Official site: http://kyhorsepark.com/

The Muhammad Ali Center was founded to further the ideals and life work of this legendary humanitarian. Visitors are first introduced to Ali via an orientation film shown in a five screen format, which provides an overview of his life. Exhibits focus on various aspects of Ali's approach to living his life and helping make the world a better place, including interactive displays, artifacts, historic film, and multimedia presentations.

Topics include his role as a symbol of strength during the Civil Rights era, the importance of his spiritual life, and charitable acts. One of the most interesting exhibits is the Children's Hope and Dream wall, a mosaic of artwork from children around the world.

Other exhibits include a replica of the boxing great's practice room, where you can learn some moves and take a shot at the speed bag. The museum also houses three galleries, which feature changing exhibits and installations.

Address: 144 N 6th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: https://alicenter.org/

Just next door to the racetrack, the Kentucky Derby Museum houses a variety of exhibits spread over two floors that explore the history of the Kentucky Derby and Churchill Downs since the first race in 1875. The museum also features a series of exhibits about thoroughbred horses and each stage of their lives and training.

Be sure to catch the 18-minute feature film called The Greatest Race , shown in high-definition on an impressive 360-degree screen.

Among the museum's artifacts are belongings of famous trainers Bill Shoemaker and D. Wayne Lukas, as well as other significant historic items. For an additional fee, the museum also conducts tours of Churchill Downs, which allow visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the venue.

The on-site restaurant, Derby Cafe, is a great spot to grab a bite and soak up the atmosphere of Churchill Downs.

Official site: https://www.derbymuseum.org/

Lost River Cave offers several ways for families to enjoy the wonders of Kentucky's unique karst geology and get kids interested in the natural world.

The biggest attraction here is a boat tour of a massive cave , the only one of its kind in the state. The Nature Center offers a wide range of activities and programs that encourage younger visitors (or simply the curious) to explore the world around them.

While exploring the easy nature trails, kids can work on activities to become a Junior Tour Guide or collect their discoveries and trade them at the Nature Trading Post. Other family activities include "bird bingo," geocaching, and sifting for gems.

Visitors are also free to simply explore the grounds to discover the natural spring, limestone bluffs, and the remnants of old mining buildings. For those seeking a little more excitement, there is also a zipline tour available.

Address: 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky

Louisville Mega Cavern is a unique attraction that lies beneath the city of Louisville. Covering around 100 acres, the space started out as a limestone quarry in the 1930s and was actively mined until the 1970s. After spending years empty, it was eventually turned into a secure underground storage facility, as well as one of the most popular family attractions in Kentucky .

The tram tour gives you an up-close look at the inner workings of the cavern and provides fascinating commentary on the cavern's history and engineering, and more active visitors can join a guided electric bike tour. The more adventurous can choose from a two-hour zipline tour or an aerial rope course.

Address: 1841 Taylor Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.louisvillemegacavern.com

The Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is known as the " Niagara of the South ." The 125-foot-wide falls drops 68 feet into the Cumberland River, and under a full moon shows the only "moonbow" in the Western Hemisphere .

The park has 17 miles of walking trails of short to medium length winding their way through the forest. Other things to do here are camping, bird-watching, guided horseback rides, rafting trips, and flume gem mining for families.

There is also a full-service restaurant, as well as a gift shop with a wide variety of hand-made souvenirs.

Address: 7351 Hwy 90, Corbin, Kentucky

Official site: http://parks.ky.gov/parks/resortparks/cumberland-falls/

Shaker Village is an open-air village that contains 34 of Pleasant Hill's original buildings, now used to show tourists the traditional lifestyle of Shakers. These buildings are filled with handmade furniture and everyday items from the 1800s.

The Historic Center is also host to demonstrations on various crafts and daily activities, as well as special events throughout the year.

Families will especially love visiting the farm, where you can meet the animals, learn about the sustainable farming methods of the Shakers, and take hay rides among other activities.

The grounds also include a 3,000-acre wildlife preserve , which has 40 miles of hiking trails, a bird blind, and offers naturalist-guided programs.

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, Kentucky

Official site: www.shakervillageky.org

The Newport Aquarium offers a variety of ways to view and learn about diverse aquatic life thanks to its extensive system of acrylic tunnels. In the Amazon Tunnel, you walk through the habitat of the massive Arapaima as it swims in a river along a flooded Amazon forest floor.

More tunnels explore the inner workings of a coral reef, alive with life like the unicorn fish, honeycomb moray eels, and cownose rays. In the Surrounded by Sharks exhibit, you will be face-to-face with these fascinating predators as they glide effortlessly by. Equally formidable fish lurk in the Dangerous and Deadly exhibit, which features infamous animals like the piranha and Gila monster. Gator Alley , home to alligators, is another popular area.

Other exhibits include a frog habitat with rare species, the chance to watch seahorses and their colorful friends up-close, a stingray touch-tank, and the popular penguin habitat. The aquarium puts on various shows and presentations throughout the day.

Address: 1, Levee Way, Newport, Kentucky

Official site: www.newportaquarium.com

For many years, people have searched far and wide to find Noah's Ark. Well, search no more. A replica copy is located in Kentucky. Built to exacting standards based on the descriptions in the Bible, this massive ark sits in a field of Interstate 75 near Williamstown, midway between Cincinnati and Lexington.

The ark is 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high and is open to tours. Inside this spectacular wooden creation, you'll find exhibits showing what life would have been like during the ark's time on the water.

A visit here isn't all about the ark. On the same grounds, you will also find ziplines an incredible 17 stories high, and a large playground. Be sure to stop in at the Ararat Ridge Zoo , where you can see a wide assortment of animals and even get up close and personal with a camel, kangaroo, goats, and even a tortoise.

Address: 1 Encounter Drive, Williamstown, Kentucky

Official site: https://arkencounter.com/

Fans of muscle cars should motor right on over to the National Corvette Museum, one of the top things to do in Bowling Green . You can't miss the architecturally stylistic building done up in grey, yellow, and red colors.

Step inside to see a vast and interesting collection of Corvettes, all in mint condition. In the towering Skydome area, be sure to check out the Corvette Hall of Fame.

In addition to the cars, wander down Main Street and pop in at the barbershop, a Mobil service station, and a Chevrolet dealer showroom. For a bit of action and adventure, climb into the Corvette racing simulator, where you'll be in the driver's seat of a C6 Corvette on a racetrack (additional fee required).

If you get hungry, grab a seat at the Stingray Grill and chow down on some tasty fare. Of course, a stop at the Corvette Store on your way out is in order to grab some of the latest car-themed gear.

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, Kentucky

Official site: https://www.corvettemuseum.org/

Fancy yourself a bit of a ghost hunter? Well then a trip into the haunted Waverly Hills Sanitorium is in order. This massive former sanitorium used to house and treat patients with tuberculosis and has a reputation for being the home of a number of ghosts . At one time deceased patients were moved from the building via a 500-foot tunnel.

Daily tours are available that take you through the building, and provide background on what it was used for and who might still be there watching you wander around. If that's not creepy enough for you, overnight stays can also be arranged.

The Great American Dollhouse Museum in Danville has the biggest collection of little Kentucky. The galleries contain more than 200 examples of dollhouses, room boxes, and miniatures, which are organized into three areas.

The largest section of the museum is home to a series of historic miniatures which depict eras, locations, and people from various times and places in American history, from the native populations to the present.

Cooper Hollow is the name given to the museum's 1910-themed town, complete with shops and homes both humble and grand. The museum's third exhibit is dedicated to the whimsical – a land of the magical and fantasy with forests and caves inhabited by mischievous elves, plotting witches, and delicate fairies.

Address: 344 Swope Drive, Danville, Kentucky

Official site: www.thedollhousemuseum.com

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Exploring More of Kentucky: While Louisville and Lexington get much of the state's attention when it comes to tourism, you'll also find some smaller cities towns worth seeing. In the south of the state, just an hour from Nashville, is Bowling Green , home to the National Corvette Museum and other great attractions. In the southwest of Kentucky is Paducah , where the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers meet.

More on Kentucky

45 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Kentucky

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: November 2, 2019  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

Kentucky is a great state, filled with a wide range of different attractive locations, from fun and unique spots to serene and peaceful natural parks making it one of the best places to go on vacation .

Still not sure what to do while you’re in the state?

Here are 45 things to do and places to visit in Kentucky.

Table of Contents

1. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is located inside one of the most stunning vacation spots in the state of Kentucky: the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Spanning 1,657 acres and boasting a campground with 50 sites, a restaurant looking out to the river, a lodge, and a visitor’s center it’s among the best the state has to offer.

While you’re in the park, you can visit Cumberland Falls, which arches 68 feet into the air, or even Eagle Falls, which falls second place at a still-impressive 44 feet tall.

You can take your time doing all sorts of things, like white water rafting, hiking, fishing, biking, horseback riding, catching a moonbow, and more.

On top of that, there are also a good number of events that occur throughout the year, so if you’re lucky, you’ll be in the park at the right time to enjoy them.

The Overnight Canoe Adventures, the Kentucky Hills Craft Festival, the Native American Weekend, and the Nature Photography Weekend are all great!

Address:  7351 Hwy 90, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

2. Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

James R. Martin / Shutterstock

We all know about Kentucky Fried Chicken, the scrumptious fast food that’s become famous all around the world.

But what do you know about Colonel Harland Sanders, the man behind the KFC crave?

Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum was the first restaurant that the Colonel ever opened.

It’s quite different from most other KFC outlets you’ll find today.

It contains a close replica of the kitchen that Sanders worked in back in the 1940s, and it’s full of historical information that will tell you all about the cafe’s rise to fame.

It’s safe to say that visiting the place where the first KFC chicken was served in the 11 herbs and spices of its glory is among the most fun things to do in Kentucky!

Address:  688 Hwy 25, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

3. Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

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Love races? Pop down to Churchill Downs , where you can watch the Kentucky Derby!

It is among the most famous and prestigious events in the state, and it’s extremely exciting to attend.

So if this weekend is the first Sunday in May and you’re in Louisville at the time, this is an event you just can’t miss out on!

You can place bets if you’re into gambling, or you can just enjoy the thoroughbred horses dashing by.

If you go off-season, don’t worry – you can tour the grounds.

There is also a Kentucky Derby Museum on-site that you can visit anytime.

It documents the history of this event since its beginnings in 1875 and holds plenty of fascinating artifacts, including items that once belonged to some of the most famous horse trainers.

It also educates visitors on how horses are bred and trained, and a cemetery outside pays tribute to past champions.

Address:  700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, United States

Planning a trip to Louisville soon? Be sure to check out our awesome list of things to do in Louisville, KY .

4. Louisville Mega Cavern

Selbe / flickr

The Louisville Mega Cavern is among the most stunning Kentucky attractions in the state.

It is comprised of man-made caverns and tunnels that span 17 miles beneath Louisville.

Originally, the caverns were used as a limestone quarry, but mining stopped in the 1970s and the place sat empty for a while before being turned into a storage facility.

Now, it is among the top spots for tourists to visit, especially traveling families.

Inside, you can learn about how the cavern works and find out about its rich history in a variety of ways.

You can go on a Mega Zips zipline tour, which is the world’s one and only zip line course that is fully underground, or opt for a Mega Tram adventure, or go on an electric bike tour.

During the holiday season, you can also enjoy a 30-minute light show in the cavern!

Address:  1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213, United States

5. Kentucky State Capitol

The Kentucky State Capitol can be found in Frankfort, and many consider it among the top 10 most beautiful capitols in the nation.

With architecture designed by Frank Mills Andrews, it is a grand and opulent structure.

Its most loved luxurious feature is probably its huge marble staircase (and other staircases within).

It truly feels like a rich, lush experience, and it’ll be like you’ve left the state altogether!

If you like, you can take a guided tour around the capitol building and be blown away by the Opera Garnier-inspired designs within.

You can also see the First Lady Doll Collection while you’re there!

Address:  700 Capital Ave, Frankfort, KY 40601, United States

6. Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

Joe Hendrickson / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for what to do in Kentucky, why not celebrate the state’s wealth of history in baseball?

The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory is a location that showcases the long and rich history of Louisville Slugger bats, as well as their role in America’s sports over the decades.

One of the most photo-worthy items isn’t inside the factory or the museum, but instead at the entrance: a gigantic replica of the Louisville Slugger used by Babe Ruth, standing 120 feet tall.

Once you’re done marveling at that, you can step inside the factory and learn about how the bats are made, then go to the museum to learn even more!

The Louisville Slugger Museum has plenty of fascinating exhibits.

It holds iconic bats, such as the one used by Joe DiMaggio during his impressive hitting streak of 56 games, the one used by Hank Aaron when he scored his 700th home run, and one used by Babe Ruth to hit 21 home runs in 1927.

You can even hold Andre Dawson or Micky Mantle’s bat!

The museum has its fair share of unique items, too, like a baseball glove made from 17 tons of limestone, batting cages, and a pitching simulator!

Address:  800 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States

7. Red River Gorge

Irina Mos / Shutterstock

The Red River Gorge is among the most gorgeous spots to go site seeing in the state of Kentucky.

It can be found in the Daniel Boone National Forest and it has some of the most renowned natural arches of stone in the world.

Its sandstone cliffs and formations of unique rock draw in tourists and rock climbers alike.

Apart from being great to look at, the Red River Gorge is an official national geological area.

You can trap or hunt animals in the area (following guidelines by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife), go on a hike, row a canoe, or enjoy a picnic!

Don’t forget to stop by the Sky Bridge for a truly breathtaking experience.

Address:  Robbie Ridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, United States

8. Keeneland

Can’t go to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby?

Then head to Keeneland , which has another important race track.

It’s not just one of the most fun of the tourist attractions in the state, but it’s also a National Historic Landmark!

Keeneland was originally founded in 1936, and since then, it has been a crucial player in the industry and sector of thoroughbred horse breeding and racing.

In 2015, it was home to the Breeders’ Cup, which saw triple crown winner American Pharoah take home the number one ranking.

The races in Keeneland run in April and in October, so if you’re in the state during this time, drop by to watch champion horses training hard from the moment the sun rises.

Horse auctions also take place during this time, and you can eat some of the offered bread pudding as you watch!

Address:  4201 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY 40510, United States

9. Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate

The Ashland Henry Clay Estate is a plantation mansion that is yet another National Historic Landmark in Kentucky.

It was home to Henry Clay, a famous Kentucky statesman, and his family up until his passing in 1852.

The property is located in the middle of many other high-class homes, and it’s among the best ways to catch a glimpse into the lives of upper-class citizens in the 19th century.

Entering the mansion costs a small admission fee and takes you on a tour that lasts for an hour, allowing you to view the Federal architecture and the subtle Italianate details.

Visitors hear about Henry Clay’s life and his history, and during the holiday season, you can even go on a Candlelight Tour!

If you don’t want to pay admission, you can also walk around the ground for free.

Glance inside the carriage house, examine the privy, admire the wide-reaching and well-manicured land and hedges, and enjoy the view.

If you’re looking for what to see in Kentucky that’s free, this is a good option!

Address:  120 Sycamore Rd, Lexington, KY 40502, United States

10. Breaks Interstate Park

Eli Christman / flickr

Breaks Interstate Park is basically referred to as the unofficial Grand Canyon of the south of America.

Covering area over the border between Virginia and Kentucky, it houses the deepest gorge that you can find in the east area of Mississippi.

Daniel Boone was the man behind its original discovery, and it now is a great place that tourists go sightseeing in!

You can choose to stay in one of the lodges, go rafting, or enjoy the novelty of being right on a state line.

It’s a great spot for nature lovers!

Address:  627 Commission Cir, Breaks, VA 24607, United States

11. Mary Todd Lincoln House

The Mary Todd Lincoln House is among the points of interest that you simply must stop by while you’re visiting the best places that Kentucky has to offer.

It is here that Mary Todd Lincoln, who was the wife of 16th President Abraham Lincoln.

Originally built as a tavern and inn, it was purchased by the Todds in 1832.

Now, the home is open to visitors.

Tours run year-round from April to November, both for groups and for private sessions, and you can enter and survey the fascinating home – now a museum – and its fourteen beautiful rooms.

Personal belongings of the Lincoln and Todd families are exhibited, as well as plenty of furniture and decor that comes from that period.

Address:  578 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507, United States

12. Natural Bridge

Cara Siera / Shutterstock

The Natural Bridge is among the most beautiful places you can find in Kentucky.

Situated near to the famous (and previously discussed) Red River Gorge, it is located within the Natural Bridge Park, which is free of charge to enter, making it among the coolest free things to do in Kentucky.

The Natural Bridge itself is 65 feet high and 78 feet long.

The imposing sandstone arch is truly an incredible sight and isn’t too difficult to get to.

But it’s not just the bridge itself that you can have fun at; the whole park has plenty to enjoy!

There are hiking trails such as the Original Trail to the bridge and the Sand Gap Trail which stretches 7.5 miles through a logging road.

Want to stay in the park?

You can opt to stay at a seasonal campground or rent a room or cottage at the serene Hemlock Lodge.

You can also skip out on walking altogether and take a paid sky lift over the National Bridge to view it.

Address:  2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376, United States

13. Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History is fittingly located in the town that is widely considered the world’s bourbon capital: Bardstown, Kentucky.

The museum is filled with items from the collection of Oscar Getz, an executive in the liquor business from Chicago .

He had originally purchased a distillery and filled it with collectibles, whiskey treasures, and memorabilia.

Eventually, his whiskey-themed collection grew so large that he wanted to make it a private museum – but his wife flat out refused!

So he decided to pay for a seminary to be restored in Bardstown, and the 200-year-old building became the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History.

The Getz family has kept admission open and without charge, making a trip here among the most fun free things to do in the area.

It holds artifacts, documents, photographs, and information surrounding American whiskey and its in-depth history through the country’s many eras.

While here, you’ll be able to view the still of George Washington, the liquor license of Abraham Lincoln, a huge number of priceless whiskey bottles, and some antique collectible bottles for sale.

No samples are provided, but if you’re in Bardstown this weekend, you simply can’t miss a trip here!

Address:  114 N 5th St, Bardstown, KY 40004, United States

14. Fort Knox

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Fort Knox spans 109,000 acres and is one of the most renowned army posts in all of America – not just in Kentucky.

It is the location that houses and has housed the Army Human Resources Command, United States Bullion Depository, Accessions Command, and more.

You can’t go inside the fort’s gold depository, unfortunately, and you won’t get a glimpse of the whopping 5,000 tons of gold within.

But you can take a picture there and visit one of the most interesting Kentucky attractions: the General George Patton Museum

Within this museum, you’ll find a weapons collection all carefully designed by none other than Leonardo da Vinci, a display of the Remembrance Walls, education exhibits, and even events for Veteran Appreciation Day.

Address:  Fort Knox, KY 40121, United States

15. Cumberland Gap National Park

anthony heflin / Shutterstock

The Cumberland Gap National Park is one of the best Kentucky destinations for nature-lovers and their families to have fun.

There are hiking trails that stretch over 80 miles, with some as short as half a mile and some as long as 20 miles.

The Cumberland Gap is the subject of one of the most interesting myths of Kentucky: that Daniel Boone crossed over the gap and made a lovely statement: that, in the sun, the grass appeared blue over the border.

Regardless of the truth behind this story, it’s definitely a delightful tale – and now you can walk around that same gap yourself!

Address:  91 Bartlett Park Road, Middlesboro, KY 40965, United States

Learn how to plan a trip the right way to make incredible memories that will stay with you and your loved ones forever!

16. Vent Haven Museum

5chw4r7z / flickr

The Vent Haven Museum is one of the most fascinating and strange places to visit in Kentucky.

It is home to a wide range of ventriloquism artifacts, born from William Shakespeare Berger’s collection.

He was a businessman and an International Brotherhood of Ventriloquists president.

Berger’s collection grew and grew for over six decades, and the museum holds many, including some of the best and most rare!

Enjoy the sight of 700 dolls, all lined up with their big wooden heads.

You may recognize many from the fame of old TV programs!

For extra entertainment, stop by this Kentucky museum in July so you can attend a ventriloquist convention that has more than 400 of these performers flocking in and putting on a unique show!

Address:  33 W Maple Ave, Fort Mitchell, KY 41011, United States

17. Diamond Caverns

James St. John / flickr

The Diamond Caverns are a truly must-see Kentucky location.

First found in 1859, the caverns have been open to the public for tours and exploration for over a century.

Lighting sources line the cave, right under ceilings full of gorgeous stalactites.

You’ll walk along a paved cement floor that leads you through the twisting caves.

If you’re looking for unique and beautiful sites to see, the Diamond Caverns are up there among the greatest in Kentucky.

Tours are available all year round!

Address:  1900 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Park City, KY 42160, United States

18. Newport Aquarium

Rosamar / Shutterstock

Newport Aquarium is one of the most fun and exciting tourist attractions that you’ll see in Kentucky.

It holds more than 14 galleries and over 70 different exhibits, many of which are interactive.

The Newport Aquarium offers a fantastic way to learn more about marine and aquatic life.

Five tunnels lead the way through the aquarium, each one leading to different “habitats” that will make you feel like you’ve left Kentucky and are in a coastal island somewhere!

There is the Surrounded by Sharks area where you can be closer to these intimidating fish.

The Gator Alley that is full of alligators.

The Amazon Tunnel that shows off the Arapaima.

The Dangerous but Deadly attraction that will make you gasp, the Kroger Penguin Palooza, the jellyfish gallery, the stingray touch-tank, and more!

Address:  1 Levee Way, Newport, KY 41071, United States

19. Wooldridge Monuments

Wooldridge Monuments

The Wooldridge Monuments are an eerie, creepy set of statues that are among the top scary spots in Kentucky.

They consist of 18 different monuments, all commissioned by a man named Colonel Henry G. Wooldridge to commemorate those he lost throughout his life.

This includes his family, two dogs, a horse, and other loved ones.

13 of these monuments depict people, while 5 depict animals.

All the monuments gaze in the same direction, looking over Mayfield, which is a quiet little cemetery.

It’s odd to think of a cemetery as one of the places to visit on a vacation, but The Strange Procession Which Never Moves is more than worth the trip!

Address: Lockridge Street, Intersection with North Sixth Street, Mayfield, KY 42066, United States

20. Mammoth Cave National Park

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The Mammoth Cave National Park can be found in the Caveland Corridor of Kentucky, which is also known as the Land of 10,000 Sinks.

The karstic vibes of the location make it an amazing place to visit, and Mammoth Cave itself is actually among the oldest cave systems across the globe.

The park has plenty of options and activities for you to explore.

You can survey any of the 400 miles of Mammoth Cave passages, seek out the 200-foot-tall Mammoth Dome, visit the intimidating Frozen Niagra, view the Crystal Lake, and examine the huge limestone pillars of the Ruins of Karnak.

Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the cool places that’s educational, fun, and stunning all at once.

You can go horseback riding, canoeing, cycling, kayaking, hiking, and more!

And don’t forget the Mammoth Cave Adventures, which features a safe but exciting experience on a Tarzan Swing, a pair of zipline courses, and a tower drop.

Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave National Park, KY 42259, United States

21. Big Four Bridge

Bridget Calip / Shutterstock

The Big Four Bridge was once a truss bridge for a rail system.

Now, it’s a bicycle bridge and a pedestrian walkway that leads from Kentucky to Indiana , letting you visit multiple vacation spots at once.

It spans 2,525 feet and arches over the gorgeous Ohio River, and it’s one of the best ways to get from one state to another in a relaxed manner.

If you like, you can exit the bridge to visit the Louisville Waterfront Park.

This park has 85 acres of land and is perfect for picnics, jogging, walking, and cycling.

You can even visit the amphitheater, let your kids play at a designated play area, explore tree groves and a riverside esplanade, or even visit at the right time to see events, fairs, or concerts.

Of course, you can also just enjoy the walk through the bridge.

Go at night to see a beautiful light show; its beauty and grace are sure to blow your mind.

It’s a great way to end a nice long day of walking, and the whole family can enjoy it!

Address:  1101 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40202, United States

22. Kentucky Artisan Center

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The Kentucky Artisan Center holds a wide range of artisan works, but not in an ordinary museum-style showcase.

Instead, it’s a mix of a shopping center, exhibition area, and gallery, all in one that covers 25,000 square feet.

Almost 700 different local artisans sell their creations here, ranging from steel and metal works, note cards, glass crafts, jewelry, pottery, furniture, woodcraft, specialty foods, paper, and fiber crafts, pastels, photographs, paintings, and more.

The center is generally meant to function as a rest stop and an information center all in one.

It’s one of the things to do in KY that is easy to stop by, even in the middle of your journey to another location this weekend!

Address:  200 Artisan Way, Berea, KY 40403, United States

23. Muhammad Ali Center

Fans of boxing will love the Muhammad Ali Center , which showcases the life and time of the man, the myth, the legend, the Louisville Lip, The Greatest, and all the other names we’ve used to refer to one of the most incredible sportsmen of all time.

An orientation film is first shown to visitors who arrive to give a general overview of the legendary boxer, and then you’re led in to enjoy the exhibits.

You’ll be able to view interactive displays that teach you about Ali’s life, religion, philanthropy, and career, artifacts from his world, educational exhibits that discuss his symbolic power during the fight for Civil Rights.

If you want some extra fun, you can head back to an exhibit that showcases a close replica of Ali’s own practice room, which offers you a chance to learn some cool boxing moves and even try to punch a speed bag.

Exhibits in the Kentucky museum’s three galleries change regularly, and you have the chance to watch videos of Ali, shadowbox with him, and more!

Address:  144 N 6th St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States

24. Creation Museum

The Creation Museum is one of the best of the Kentucky attractions you can find.

It measures 75,000 square feet and calls Petersburg, Kentucky its home.

It first opened up in 2006, and since then, it has served as a presentation of the history of the universe as told by the book of Genesis in the Bible – as literally as possible!

It focuses on the first six days of the world as said in the book through 160 unique exhibits.

Even if you’re not a Christian, you can still enjoy the historical significance and fascinating features of the Creation Museum.

Walk through the God’s Word exhibit and see the life-size dinosaurs, have a picnic in the botanical Garden of Eden, visit the Tower of Babel, interact with the petting zoo, explore the “construction site” of Noah’s Ark, or watch a theater presentation, among other things (like a zip line and planetarium)!

Address:  2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd, Petersburg, KY 41080, United States

25. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Piotr Kalinowski Photos / Shutterstock

The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is among the most beautiful places that you can find in Kentucky.

It is situated between Barkley Lake and Kentucky Lake and was made a national recreation area by President John Kennedy in 1963.

There’s plenty that you can see here, ranging from simple hiking trails to a breathtaking elk and bison prairie, including the biggest herd of bison that is publicly owned on this side of the Mississippi River.

The land itself is also an inland peninsula that is the second biggest in the country at 360 square miles.

While you’re here, you can enjoy water sports like swimming, fishing, boating, skiing, and more.

You can also take your chance at spotting wildlife, such as bobcats, deer, eagles, and osprey.

There are a good number of historic areas to see, too.

On top of that, you should also take a trip to Homeplace, which is also in the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

It is a recreated farm from the 1850s, and all staff in the area are dressed in costumes from the time and showcase period-typical crop-growing techniques.

Address:  238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211, United States

26. Perryville Battlefield

Nicole Bergman / Shutterstock

For those who love war history, the Perryville Battlefield is among the most cool things to do in the state of Kentucky.

After all, the Battle of Perryville – often also called the Battle of Chaplin Hills – is certainly among the most bloody and deadly battles in the Civil War.

More than that, Perryville Battlefield is a National Register of Historic Places site and a National Historic Landmark.

Many of the original buildings on the field still remain, even though they’re mostly nearly two centuries old.

The Perryville Battlefield also offers one of the most fun activities you’ll find of this nature: a recreation of the infamous battle.

The re-enactment occurs at a certain time every year, so check in advance if you want to catch it!

Address:  1825 Battlefield Rd, Perryville, KY 40468, United States

27. Kentucky Kingdom

VEX Robotics / flickr

The Kentucky Kingdom is a fun theme park full of awesome and exciting stuff to do.

It first opened its doors to the public in 1987, and since then, it has been further developed to add even more rides and roller coasters.

Ed Hart, who bought the park before, bought it again later in order to refurbish it and reopen it in 2014.

Now, it boasts five roller coasters, and plenty of new entertainment options have been added, including a 5D cinema, a river ride, a ferris wheel, a playground, water rides, and more!

Some of these rides are truly extreme, but there’s something for all ages and preferences.

Don’t forget to visit Hurricane Bay, too, which is another theme park right next door and specializes in water rides!

Address:  937 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY 40209, United States

28. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

The 16th American president was born in Kentucky, and the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site celebrates that as one of the best and most symbolic tourist attractions you’ll find in the state.

But the site isn’t just one specific area: it’s a collection of awesome things to see.

You can tour the John Russell Pope-designed First Lincoln Memorial of pink granite and marble, which has 56 steps that lead up to the peak.

These represent every year of Lincoln’s life.

The birth cabin of Lincoln is symbolically represented in one of the aforementioned locations.

There is also the Sinking Spring, which is where the president first drank water from after he was born.

Then, you can take a trip to Knob Creek, which is where Lincoln and his family moved later on.

Address:  2995 Lincoln Farm Rd, Hodgenville, KY 42748, United States

29. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

The My Old Kentucky Home State Park is among the places to see in the state that has plenty of things to do.

It houses a campground with 39 spots, the Kenny Rapier Golf Course with 18 holes, a conference space, a wedding space, and The Stephen Foster Story, a touching outdoor musical with 50 years under its belt.

Of course, the top famous spot in the state park is Federal Hill, which has the titular My Old Kentucky Home.

It was once the home of John Rowan, the US Senator, and is now open for tourist visits.

It is a very crucial political site in America, and its architecture is a sight for sore eyes.

The home has a garden house, a stable, windowsills, and mantels that are meticulously carved by hand, a brick exterior, and more.

In addition, the staff there dress in period outfits and spout interesting facts as they bring you around on tours.

Address:  501 E Stephen Foster Ave, Bardstown, KY 40004, United States

30. Shaker Village

Shackleford Photography / Shutterstock

Shaker Village is located on Pleasant Hill in Kentucky, and it began as a Shaker community that was founded in 1805 and stayed active until 1910.

It now has 2,800 acres of stunning farmland for you to enjoy, as well as a whopping 34 buildings that are original from the 19th century, all built with Shaker-unique methods.

Farmers, historians, and more continue to maintain the village, and there are countless different fun activities, tours, and events that you can take part in.

You can learn about the techniques implemented by the community of Shakers way back when, so you’ll be taught how gardening and farming worked in those days.

You can also go sightseeing around some of the 30-mile land trails, stay in The Inn, explore the Shaker buildings complete with period furniture, genuine hardwood floors, and more.

Plus, check out the wildlife preserve to check out a bird blind, programs guided by naturalists, and more.

Address:  3501 Lexington Rd, Harrodsburg, KY 40330, United States

Check out some of these incredible travel hacks to make your trip fun and memorable!

31. Castle Post

Michelle Foley / Shutterstock

Castle Post is one of the points of interest in Kentucky that will truly take you back in time.

It looks like an establishment straight out of old, medieval times, and not much like a castle, but it’s a stunning site that now serves as a Bed and Breakfast.

Castle Post was originally called Martin Castle, named after the man who constructed it after visiting Europe and being inspired.

But the man and his wife divorced during construction, causing the castle to be stuck unfinished.

It wasn’t until Thomas R. Post purchased it that it began to grow again.

A fire then happened, causing the site to have to be rebuilt.

But the fire spurred Post to make the site the best it could be.

He added a garden, a library, a ballroom, and more.

Castle Post as it is known today was finally opened in 2008, but many still remember the countless rumors that surrounded it in its time abandoned.

Address: 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383, United States

32. Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World, Kentucky

Dinosaur World is one of the fun things to do in Kentucky that you shouldn’t miss, especially if you have kids!

This Dinosaur World is just one of three in a franchise, all made by Christer Svensson, a Swedish businessman who turned a Florida alligator farm into the Dinosaur World in that state.

Located near to Cave City, the Kentucky branch of Dinosaur World is marked by a huge tyrannosaurus rex figure that sits on the I-65 highway.

While you’re here, you can walk through the park and see over 100 different life-sized dinosaur statues, which wind through a gorgeous green forest, filled with raptor claws and dinosaur “egg”s.

Kids can drop by the playground, or maybe to go to the fossil dig instead.

And of course, the whole family can enjoy eating in a picnic area nearby.

Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to buy books, fossils, toys, eggs, and more.

Address:  711 Mammoth Cave Rd, Cave City, KY 42127, United States

33. National Quilt Museum

David Hedrich / Shutterstock

Visiting the National Quilt Museum is a little unusual on the list of fun and enjoyable Kentucky activities, but there’s a reason it attracts more than 100,000 visitors!

Within the museum, three galleries showcase unique exhibits that rotate throughout the year to provide something new with each visit.

This Kentucky museum focuses on providing advocating for quilting as an art form and educating visitors on its ins and outs.

Kids can even enjoy student programs that are totally free!

Exhibits in this museum look amazing, and you’d probably think that they were pictures, stained glass artwork, or oil paintings at first glance.

Bright, enticing colors make the quilts pop and catch your eye immediately.

If you’re really a die-hard fan of quilting, you can even pay for a guided tour this weekend!

Address:  215 Jefferson St, Paducah, KY 42001, United States

34. Grave of Colonel Harland Sanders

Vicki L. Miller / Shutterstock

We’ve already talked about Colonel Harland Sanders, the genius behind Kentucky Fried Chicken.

In Cave Hill Cemetery, the Grave of Colonel Harland Sanders rests, decorated by a bust of the man himself, which was sculpted by Sanders’ own daughter, Margaret.

Sure, it’s not the most common of tourist attractions, but it’s among the best to go if you want to pay your respects to this culinary legend.

He was buried in his famous string bow tie and white suit, appearing iconic throughout his life and to his passing.

Address: 701 Baxter Ave, Louisville, KY 40204, United States

35. Floodwall Murals

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

The city of Paducah is one of the Kentucky destinations that many want to visit, and while you’re there, you might as well check out one of the best things that this Kentucky location has to offer: the Floodwall Murals.

The mural is rendered on a floodwall that was erected after a flood in 1937 devastated the area.

Since then, almost 50 murals have been added to the huge concrete structure, all designed by Robert Dafford and finished in the 1990s and 2000s.

Each painting shows the country’s post-colonial history, indicating the past of the beautiful city, and they all look fresh as ever thanks to annual touch-ups.

Address: S Water & Broadway, Paducah, KY 42001 , United States

36. Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

The Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland in Kentucky is a garden of folk art full of a mystical and whimsical energy.

Full of intriguing and unique pieces, items, constructions, and treasures, visiting here is one of the top things to do if you love vintage toys.

The location was set up in the 1920s, when Grandpa Oral Wallace purchased the land, which was a six-acre orchard for apples, and lived in a home onsite while selling apple cider.

He slowly turned it into a much-loved Kentucky business, expanding to include a barbershop, a gas station, an auto camp, a convenience store, a diner, and even a small zoo.

Now, Keith Holt, the grandson of Wallace, transformed the area into an art oasis.

The “woods” in the area are full of folk art, all made from older items.

The Lawn Mower Ranch, the Thronehenge, and the Potty Mouth Tree are all popular pieces.

Don’t forget to visit the museum of toys, where you’ll be able to see 3,500 different toys that are sure to bring back feelings of nostalgia.

Address:  9351 US-68, Calvert City, KY 42029, United States

37. Great American Dollhouse Museum

The Great American Dollhouse Museum

The Great American Dollhouse Museum in Kentucky is a must-see location that’s a little abnormal but full of charm and mystery.

It houses more than 200 unique dollhouses, as well as tiny little dolls within them.

There are also room boxes and little miniature buildings.

Mostly, this Kentucky museum focuses on depicting the social history of the American world in a miniature form.

There are three different major areas within the exhibition hall.

One showcases the growth of the US from Native Americans to modern eras, including the Old West and Colonial ones in between.

Another has a 1910-replicated town that has businesses, mansions, a Shaker village, factories, and shops.

The third depicts a fantasy forest land with elves, dragons, trolls, witches, and faeries, as well as a cave you can walk into!

Address:  344 Swope Dr, Danville, KY 40422, United States

38. Kentucky Horse Park

ehrlif / Shutterstock

Trying to figure out what to do that could be fun for the whole family?

The Kentucky Horse Park has all the activities you could hope for! Located just north of Lexington , it lets you find out about how horse farms work.

You can even go on pony rides or horse rides, attend shows, or go on a trolley tour.

All the animal residents of the farm live in a variety of attractively themed barn houses.

The Breeds Barn houses rare breeds, the Kids Barn is packed with little critters, the Hall of Champions holds racehorses, the Mounted Police Barn has plenty to offer, and the Big Barn has draft horses that are the most incredible of the bunch!

There are also four museums on the property: the Al-Marah Arabian Horse Galleries, the Wheeler Museum, the International Museum of the Horse, and the American Saddlebred Museum.

And if you want to, you can actually stay on the campgrounds, which have lots of modern facilities, like stores, sports courts, a pool, and bathhouses.

Address:  4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511, United States

39. Louisville Zoo

The Louisville Zoo is a fun spot in Kentucky that is perfect for the whole family.

It is home to exhibits that have won awards as well as a Backyard Action Hero program that will teach kids all about nature and animals.

While you’re here, you can visit the famed Glacier Run that has grizzly bears and polar bears, the Gorilla Forest that has a rotational exhibit that will bring you into the habitat that gorillas thrive in.

There are also plenty of events throughout the year that you may just be lucky enough to catch!

Halloween, Christmas, and more are all great times to visit.

Just check the zoo’s event calendar in advance!

Address:  1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213, United States

40. USS Sachem Ruins

BrittanyMosley / Shutterstock

Looking for unusual vacation ideas to enjoy in Kentucky?

Head to the USS Sachem Ruins – known also as the Ghost Ship.

In the past, it had names like the Circle Line V, the USS Phenakite, the Celt, and the Sightseer.

But today it’s a mere shell of its former self.

The ship was abandoned in 1987, near the Lawrenceburg Ferry Road.

In its glory days, it was a navy ship that won awards and served the public in World Wars I and II.

It even appeared in a music video for Madonna, was present during the Statue of Liberty torch lighting by Ronald Reagan, and helped bring Thomas Edison around as he worked on experiments.

The vessel was finally retired at the end of the 20th century, and it is now anchored on the Ohio River by Robert Miller, who purchased and refurbished it in 1986.

It will never sail again, but it’s an incredible spot for kayakers, and for tourists!

Countless people are attracted to its mystery and eerieness.

Address:  2478 Lawrenceburg Ferry Rd, Petersburg, KY 41080, United States

41. National Corvette Museum

Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock

The National Corvette Museum is one of the most fun and fascinating places of interest located in Bowling Green , especially if you’re a fan of cars.

The Corvette has a rich history as America’s favorite sports car, and this museum showcases more than 80 specially designed Corvettes from a wide range of different periods in America.

This includes prototypes that are entirely one of a kind, and there are even mint classics to enjoy.

Next door, an NCM Motorsports Park hosts plenty of activities; you can drive a lap of the race, attend a racing event, and more!

Don’t forget the sinkhole, which suddenly struck in 2014 and practically ate up 8 Corvettes, now safe but available to view while you’re there!

Address:  350 Corvette Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42101, United States

42. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area spans 125,000 acres and is among the best and most scenic places to vacation in Kentucky.

It’s perfect for camping, hiking, rafting, rock climbing, horseback riding, kayaking, picnicking, sports activities, and more.

While you’re here, bask in the stunning scenery and enjoy looking over deep ravines, beautiful sandstone bluffs, miles of natural bridges, and river gorge views.

It’s some of the best hoodoos that you’ll see in all of Kentucky!

Address:  4564 Leatherwood Rd, Oneida, TN 37841, United States

43. Grave of Daniel Boone

We’ve mentioned Daniel Boone countless times over the course of this list, and for good reason.

He’s one of the most iconic figures of Kentucky history and is featured in countless different historical places throughout the state.

So why not pay your respects while you’re looking for the best, most interesting places to go?

The Grave of Daniel Boone rests in Frankfort Cemetery.

He is buried next to Rebecca, his wife.

He originally wasn’t buried here, but in Missouri , which is where he spent his last two decades alive.

He and his wife were moved to Frankfort in 1845, and now they rest there together.

Even just the view from his grave is amazing.

Address:  215 E Main St, Frankfort, KY 40601, United States

44. Joe Ley Antiques

Louisville Images / flickr

Love antiques?

Then you’ll love Joe Ley Antiques , one of the fun and unusual Kentucky attractions that boasts countless unique toys, trunks, signs, and more.

For over 50 years, this store has been a staple of Louisville, Kentucky, and it moved to its current schoolhouse after its original location collapsed in the 1980s.

This three-story, two-acre building is the biggest antique shop that is individually owned in all of America.

It holds 1950’s products, glass and dining ware, product labels, musical instruments, artwork, furniture, memorabilia, and more.

It also has chunky jewelry, dolls, and more – and it’s also award-winning and has been featured in tons of publications!

Address:  615 E Market St #1116, Louisville, KY 40202, United States

45. Waverly Hills Sanatorium

The Waverly Hills Sanatorium

The Waverly Hills Sanatorium is a facility that was once dedicated to healing tuberculosis, which was incurable at the time.

As the outbreak of the disease got worse, the sanatorium had to be expanded, leading to a big building in 1912 being added to the open-air pavilions that could hold 40 patients, leading to 450 new beds.

A children’s pavilion also had its doors open for young patients and for the kids of patients.

A tunnel connecting the hill base to the facility was built, too.

Years later, in 1962, the hospital was bought by the state and converted into a nursing home.

It went through many different changes before eventually being abandoned.

Now, it’s advertised as a haunted building to attract tourists.

Horror houses are held seasonally, and there are ghosts tours year-round!

Address:  4400 Paralee Dr, Louisville, KY 40272, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Kentucky

There are plenty of fun and exciting things to see and do in Kentucky, one of the most beautiful states in the United States.

Whatever your preferred form of entertainment or area of interest, you’re sure to find some enchanting, intriguing, calming, and rich places to see.

Hopefully, this list of the best things to do in Kentucky will help you to find your perfect destination!

Top 13 Kentucky Attractions to Visit

When heading out on a Kentucky family vacation, there is so much to see and do that even if you have visited before, chances are you will be able to hunt down entertaining attractions and stunning sights new to your family.

Kentucky is a beautiful state filled with many natural wonders and man-made attractions. Caves are a perfect example. The natural cave formations of Kentucky have been explored for centuries, and there is even a manmade cavern open for tours in Louisville.

This guide provides ideas and places to get your vacation planning started. Once you start making a list of all the spots you want to visit on your trip, you will surely find more reasons to come back to Kentucky again and again. 

Mammoth Cave National Park

NPS / Public Domain 

Kentucky is home to the world's longest known cave system. You can visit this natural wonder and enjoy the park that surrounds it. There is canoeing, horseback riding, and hiking through the parklands.

Then, when you go into the cave, enjoy a guided tour full of regional history. There are plenty of other caves in Kentucky to explore, too. If you are in Cave City checking out the natural formations, it is also worth the trip to see Wigwam Village Motel No. 2 . It is not a fancy motel by any means, but it is a roadside attraction on Historic Route 66. Fun fact for the kids: the Wigwam Village motel chain was the inspiration for the Cozy Cone Motel in the Pixar movie Cars .

Louisville Mega Cavern

Closer to Louisville, you can explore underground at the immense manmade cavern under the Louisville Zoo. The former Louisville Crushed Stone Mine is now called the Louisville Mega Cavern and it's located right in the city.

There are historic tours available and visitors ride through the cavern on a tram as a tour guide explains the history and current uses of the mega cavern. It's an intriguing tour filled with Louisville fun facts .

For the adventurous, there are zip lines. In the vaulted areas, participants will find ceilings 90 feet high. Zip lines are installed and the course is lit for added dramatic effect.

Cumberland Falls

DWalker44 / Getty Images

Campers will appreciate that this state park is full of stunning natural beauty and there are 50 campsites available. Go gem mining , birding, fishing, horseback riding, rafting, and hiking, all in one spot. Plus, if you time your visit right, you can see the Niagara of the South, a 125-foot wide curtain of water, with a "moonbow." At night, during a full moon, visitors can see a moonbow, a night rainbow.

Churchill Downs

Mali Anderson

The Kentucky Derby is a big deal, in Louisville, in Kentucky, and around the world. Visit the track where it all happens. There are plenty of races to bet on if you are the gambling type.

Churchill Downs is also home to the Kentucky Derby Museum, a Derby Store, and more. If you are traveling with young kids, look into the family fun days filled with age-appropriate activities for young kids.​

Red River Gorge

alexeys / Getty Images

This natural treasure is located in the Daniel Boone National Forest. Stone arches, sandstone cliffs, and stunning rock formations attract visitors from around the world. A popular spot for vacationers and rock climbers alike. It’s so popular, it is on our list of Top 10 Louisville Weekend Getaways . Hunting and trapping are permitted in the gorge, provided all participants follow the rules of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. There are also plenty of hiking trails, places to picnic, and a couple of spots to launch a canoe.

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay

Buccaneer Beach

When it is hot outside, few things are better than a trip to a water park. And, if you are a family who loves to visit theme parks, Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay are not to be missed. With extreme rides like FearFall, which drops thrill seekers from nearly 130’ in the air, a 5D cinema, and a water park featuring Plummet Summit, aTornado Ride, and a lazy river, there is something for everyone at Kentucky Kingdom.

Louisville Zoo

Thomas Kelley / Getty Images

Many families head to a local zoo when they are on vacation and the Louisville Zoo is a popular destination. Glacier Run, home to polar and grizzly bears is fun as well as the Gorilla Forest. There are opportunities to learn about nature conservation and plenty of seasonal events take place, too. For example, the Louisville Zoo Halloween Party, also known as the World's Largest Halloween Party, is an annual event for children who want a not-too-scary Halloween experience. Kids trick-or-treat and meet characters from their favorite books and movies.

Kentucky Horse Park

Kentucky Horse Park 

Horse lovers don’t have to go to the track, there are plenty of places to see these majestic creatures in Kentucky. The best of these is the Kentucky Horse Park. There are horseback riding opportunities and a Horses of the World display, an informative show filled with light and sound.

Added bonus: if you are a camping family, you can stay in the park. The KHP campground has access to electricity if you want it, and many modern conveniences including a store, two bathhouses, tennis, basketball, and volleyball courts. Also, there is a junior Olympic-size swimming pool.

Enjoy the grounds with a family walk on the Legacy Trail, a 12-mile-long paved walking and biking trail. The path takes visitors from the Kentucky Horse Park Campground to downtown Lexington. 

Keeneland National Historic Landmark

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

As horse racing fans know, Churchill Downs isn’t the only important track in Kentucky. In the heart of Kentucky’s famed Bluegrass region is Keeneland. Keeneland is a National Historic Landmark and it continues to play an important role in Thoroughbred racing and breeding. Founded in 1936, Keeneland was designated a National Historic Landmark fifty years later, in1986.

The track hosted the Breeders' Cup in 2015, that was the race won by American Pharoah, a Triple Crown winner! A Triple Crown means a horse has won the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes. For American Pharoah to win all three of these and the Breeders' Cup is what horse racers call the Grand Slam of horse racing. 

Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

Joel Kramer / Flickr

If you are a fan of Kentucky Fried Chicken, it will be worth the drive to Corbin, Kentucky, to see where the chicken mecca began. This is the site of Colonel Harland Sanders' first restaurant. It is a KFC, so you can order lunch, but the location looks different than other Kentucky Fried Chicken dining establishments. There is a replica of Sanders’ 40s kitchen and cafe as well as information on how this cafe in Corbin became a household name. The Sanders Court and Cafe was the first restaurant to serve what we all now know as Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill 

History buffs will enjoy Shaker Village, home to the third largest Shaker community in the USA from 1805 to 1910. Learn about farming and gardening techniques of the Shaker community and hike through some, or all, of the 30-mile trails on the land.

Make a weekend of it and stay at The Inn where guest rooms, suites, and private cottages are housed in 13 restored Shaker buildings. Enjoy Shaker reproduction furniture, original hardwood floors, and countryside views. If you love old-fashioned fresh air adventures, with some historical information, be sure to visit Historic Locust Grove , too.

Newport Aquarium

Getty Images / Getty Images

Just across the river from Cincinnati , the Newport Aquarium is your go-to destination for interacting with and learning about sea creatures. There are exhibits to admire and opportunities to have personal encounters with sharks, stingrays, and penguins. Walk through five seamless tunnels and feel like you are swimming with the fishes and marine life.

The attraction is open to the public every day. Visit the website for information on special exhibits and to see which days strollers are allowed (the aquarium, at times, restricts stroller usage due to crowd issues).

Gallatin County

 Tim Rodenberg / Flickr

A small county, Gallatin is located on the Ohio River. Although it is a rural beauty with lovely, waterways, country roads, and close-knit communities, Gallatin County is also known as the Motorsports Capital of Kentucky as the Kentucky Speedway is there.

It’s a quiet, charming spot, rich in history, auto racing, and water sports. Campers might enjoy one of the scenic campgrounds and there are fishing opportunities, too.

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Kentucky

Brimming with Southern hospitality and charm, Kentucky is a captivating place that lives up to the hype. From the rolling hills that surround Lexington and the grand farms that welcome visitors to the generations-old distilleries that do things the old-fashioned way and the stunning outdoor spaces that look like they were specifically crafted for outdoor adventure, Kentucky is a dream destination!

Whether you plan to spend your visit watching Thoroughbred horses gallop around racetracks, sipping locally-made bourbon, or exploring the many unspoiled forests, you’ll never get bored in Kentucky. 

You’ll find farm-to-table restaurants, trendy cocktail bars, and world-class museums in Kentucky’s major cities, such as Lexington and Louisville . Explore further afield, and you’ll quickly learn that most of the state is made up of small, rustic towns where people enjoy the slower way of life. For something even more peaceful, there are plenty of untouched natural spaces where you can escape hectic city life with hiking, rock climbing, and caving.

With so many cool things to see and do, you may not know where to begin. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of the absolute best things to do in Kentucky. Add these fun activities and attractions to your Kentucky bucket list, and you’re guaranteed to have an amazing time exploring the Bluegrass State!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to Do in Kentucky

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Kentucky

1. see where kentucky fried chicken was invented.

One of the most unique things to do in Kentucky is to visit the Sanders Cafe & Museum . Before it was transformed into a museum, this building was the very first restaurant that Colonel Harland Sanders (the man behind the finger-lickin’ Kentucky Fried Chicken) opened. 

Located in Corbin, the museum is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been beautifully restored to look just like it did in the 1940s. Inside you’ll find a replica of the kitchen where Sanders invented his signature dish more than 75 years ago.

There’s also a replica dining room where you can dig into his delicious creation in surroundings from the 1940s. If you’d prefer a more up-to-date dining experience, you’ll find a modern KFC next to the museum.

In addition to the kitchen and restaurant, Sanders Cafe & Museum is also full of exhibits of memorabilia and artifacts from the early days of KFC.

2. See Cascading Waterfalls At Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

When you need to get back to nature, head to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park . Tucked inside the Daniel Boone National Forest, this giant park spans more than 1,600 acres and is named after the thundering Cumberland Falls, which is an absolute must on your Kentucky bucket list!

These waterfalls crash 60 feet into a boulder-strewn gorge, creating a wonderfully cooling mist to refresh anyone standing nearby. Nicknamed the Niagara of the South, the curtain of water is 125 feet wide and creates the ideal conditions for canoeing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting.

For one of the most stunning things you’ll ever see, plan to visit Cumberland Falls State Resort Park at night during a full moon. At these times of the year, you can see the spectacular moonbow – a unique phenomenon you can’t see anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere.

Best described as a lunar rainbow, this natural attraction is guaranteed to take your breath away. Check the website to see the dates when you’re most likely to see it!

3. Walk Over The Big Four Bridge

Located in Louisville, the Big Four Bridge is one of the biggest Kentucky attractions. Originally a simple railroad truss bridge, today, the major landmark features a pedestrian and bicycle trail you can follow to get from Louisville, Kentucky, to Jefferson, Indiana. 

The bridge spans just short of 0.5 miles and crosses the Ohio River, rewarding everyone who passes over it with stunning views of the surrounding environment. Even if you don’t have the energy to walk or cycle over the bridge, it still looks stunning from the ground.

For a free colorful show, check out the Big Four Bridge after dark. When the sun sets, the bridge is illuminated with brightly colored lights that stand out starkly against the black night sky. It makes for a great photo!

While you’re in the area, it’s worth checking out the Louisville Waterfront Park , too. This park covers 85 acres of green open spaces, picnic areas, beautifully-maintained trees, an amphitheater, and several walking and cycling paths. It also hosts concerts, outdoor fairs, and fireworks displays throughout the year.

4.  Sip Your Way Through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

If you want to get into the local Kentucky spirit, taking a road trip along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is always a fun idea!

Not only will you get the chance to tour some of the Bluegrass State’s best distilleries, but you’ll pass through small towns, beautiful landscapes, and all sorts of quirky roadside attractions along the way. 

From Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville and Bardstown Bourbon Company in Bardstown to Wilderness Trail Distillery in Danville and Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, you’ll find 37 completely unique distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. No matter which ones you decide to stop at, it’s well worth taking some time to take a tour of each distillery and sample their best spirits. 

If you don’t know where to start, you can always map out your route with the help of an expert at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center in downtown Louisville. Wherever you decide to stop first, be sure to pick up your Bourbon Trail Passport, so you can collect stamps as you go!

5. Find Comfort In The Original Hot Brown

When lunchtime rolls around, one of the must-do things in Kentucky is to head for the Brown Hotel in Louisville and order yourself a Hot Brown. This iconic sandwich was invented in the Brown Hotel by Fred K. Schmidt in 1926 and is one of the most delicious things you’ll eat during your vacation!

Much more than a simple sandwich, a Hot Brown is a variation of a traditional Welsh rarebit. It’s a hot open-faced sandwich made with a thick piece of bread topped with slices of turkey breast, ham, and crispy bacon. The whole thing is smothered in a creamy Mornay sauce before being baked or grilled until the bread is wonderfully crisp and the sauce just starts to brown.

Different establishments put their own twist on the classic Hot Brown. Some places add American or cheddar cheese to make the sauce even richer, while other places garnish the sandwich with sliced mushrooms, tomatoes, or even canned peaches. 

For the original Hot Brown, order it from J.Graham’s Cafe or the English Grill, both of which are inside the Brown Hotel. 

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6. See Life-Sized Dinosaurs At Dinosaur World

If you’re visiting Kentucky with kids, Dinosaur World is a great place to visit. Tucked away in Cave City, this outdoor museum is teeming with life-sized replica dinosaurs, which are scattered across wilderness trails hidden in the forest.

There are more than 100 dinosaurs to discover throughout the museum, each of which is accompanied by interesting information and fascinating facts about the remarkable creatures. As well as the giant dinosaurs, Dinosaur World also hides replica dinosaur claws, bones, and eggs all over the place for you to find. 

You can easily spend a whole day here, which is why the park invites you to bring your own cooler. There are tons of peaceful places where you can enjoy a picnic in the shade. Dogs are welcome, too, so the whole family can come along!

As well as the replicas, Dinosaur World also boasts interactive exhibits, dino-themed playgrounds, fossil digs for kids, and a great gift shop. Even if you don’t have kids, a trip to Dinosaur World is a great way to spend the day if you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Kentucky. 

7. Dress Up For The Kentucky Derby

The coolest thing to do in Kentucky in May is to head to Churchill Downs in Louisville and watch the Kentucky Derby . One of the most famous and prestigious horse racing events in the world, the Kentucky Derby is an incredibly exciting event to attend. 

Held each year in the beginning of May, the event takes place over multiple days and involves a number of races. There are 11 to 14 races held each day that you can bet on and try your luck. If you’re not really into gambling or you’re on a tight budget, the stunning thoroughbred horses are still fascinating to see.

One of our favorite parts of the Kentucky Derby is dressing up. During the distinguished event, you’ll see men dressed in colorful suits and women in spectacular dresses with dramatic hats. If you happen to be traveling to Kentucky in May, pull your fanciest clothes out of your suitcase and join in!

Even if you’re not visiting Kentucky in May, you can still tour the grounds during the rest of the year. 

8. Discover The Historical Treasures Of Fort Knox

Fort Knox is one of the most important landmarks in Kentucky. The famous attraction is a United States Army post that covers 109,000 acres and is known for being the location of a number of important organizations, including the United States Bullion Depository and the Accessions Command.

Head inside Fort Knox, and you’ll discover the captivating General George Patton Museum . It’s full of historical and educational exhibits that take you on a journey through the various branches of the United States military.

Although you can’t visit the fort’s gold depository and admire the 5,000 tons of gold guarded inside, there are still tons of incredible things to see inside the museum. Here you’ll find exhibits including weapons designed by Leonardo da Vinci, military uniforms, military vehicles, medals, and several remembrance walls. 

Various military- and veteran-related events take place inside the museum throughout the year. So check the website to find out if anything’s going on during your visit!

9. Tour The Kentucky State Capitol

One of the most popular things to do in Kentucky is to take a tour of the Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort. This important building is home to the judicial, legislative, and executive branches of Kentucky’s state government. 

The eye-catching building is more than 100 years old and was designed by decorated architect, Frank Mills Andrews. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is instantly recognizable, thanks to its Beau-Arts design.

While the Kentucky State Capitol is pretty mesmerizing from the outside, it’s even more beautiful when you step through the entrance. Inside you’ll find stunning decor inspired by charming locations from across France and wonderful paintings by world-famous artists.

Throughout the building, you’ll discover many statues of noteworthy figures from Kentucky’s history. There are also several displays dedicated to the state’s past, including Kentucky Women Remembered.

Gorgeous artwork is strewn throughout the building. Keep an eye out for the oil murals by T. Gilbert White! They’re truly spectacular and are located in both the east and west wings of the building.

10. Snack On Rolled Oysters

When you need a break from all the Kentucky sightseeing, stop by a bar and order some rolled oysters. This local seafood dish is probably unlike any other type of oyster you’ve ever had, but it’s incredibly addictive and makes the perfect snack.

Popular throughout Louisville, this typical bar nibble is made of raw oysters, which are repeatedly rolled in fine breadcrumbs until they’re about the size of a baseball. When they reach their desired size, they’re deep-fried until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Rolled oysters were invented by Italian immigrant Phillip Mazzoni and his brothers in the late 19th century. The siblings started selling them at Mazzoni’s Café, and they became hugely popular. Rolled oysters remained on their menu until 2008, when the restaurant closed after 125 years of business. 

While you can no longer try the original rolled oysters, you’ll still find them in many bars and restaurants throughout Louisville. Kingfish is our favorite place for this classic dish. You’ll find them on the appetizer section of the main menu!

11. Explore The Kentucky Derby Museum

If your trip doesn’t coincide with the Kentucky Derby, or you want to find out more about the prestigious race, spend a few hours at the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville. Established in 1985, this striking museum is dedicated to protecting and preserving the Kentucky Derby’s history.

There are two floors of exhibits to discover laid out in an easy-to-follow and family-friendly way. Here you can find out about every stage of a Thoroughbred horse’s life, from the moment it’s born to the day it takes part in the Kentucky Derby. You’ll also get to learn all about the history of the races, which began way back in 1875.

You can check out short movies in a 360-degree theater, many displays dedicated to trainers and jockeys, and a cemetery where past champions have been laid to rest. There are also exhibits on the fashion worn by jockeys and spectators, spoken stories about outstanding events that have happened over the years, and incredible artwork of the horses and races.

12. See the Ventriloquism Dummies At The Vent Haven Museum

For one of the most unusual Kentucky activities, make plans to visit the Vent Haven Museum in Fort Mitchell, just across the border from Cincinnati, Ohio. The only museum in the world that’s entirely dedicated to ventriloquism, this unique museum boasts a staggering range of ventriloquism artifacts that were kindly donated from Cincinnati native William Shakespeare Berger’s collection.

The collector was a well-known businessman and the president of the International Brotherhood of Ventriloquists. He spent over 60 years amassing his grand collection, and, today the museum boasts some of the best-preserved and rarest ventriloquism dummies in the world!

Take a look around, and you’ll discover more than 700 different dummies, almost all of which are in remarkable condition. You may even recognize some of them from old TV shows. 

If you’re planning your Kentucky trip for July, you’ve got to attend the ventriloquist convention at the Vent Haven Museum. During this special event, more than 400 talented ventriloquists flock to the museum and put on a spectacular show. Note that Vent Haven Museum is closed for renovations. We will re-open in the spring of 2023.

13. Celebrate Oktoberfest in Downtown Harrodsburg

One of the most fun things to do in Kentucky in September is to celebrate Oktoberfest . Held in Downtown Harrodsburg at the end of September each year, this event is the largest Oktoberfest celebration in Central Kentucky and attracts more than 15,000 people eager to have a great time.

Oktoberfest in Downtown Harrodsburg is an excellent time to sample a huge range of German and international beers, as well as traditional German food. The festival lasts for three days, so you’ve got plenty of time to sample as much as you want!

When you’ve had your fill of beer, pretzels, and sausages, you’ll find plenty more to entertain you at Oktoberfest. Throughout the festival, around 13 bands will take the stage to perform everything from ‘80s pop music to funk and bluegrass. 

You’ll also find dazzling art displays with the opportunity to purchase everything you see, fun children’s carnival rides, and challenging games for adults.

14. Go Rock Climbing At Red River Gorge

If you’re into outdoor adventure sports, head to Red River Gorge and go rock climbing. One of the most beautiful parts of Kentucky, Red River Gorge is a system of canyons on the Red River within Daniel Boone National Forest. 

Every inch of this wonder boasts incredible beauty, from natural rock bridges, unique geological formations, and dramatic sandstone cliffs to cascading waterfalls, stunning rocky arches, and thick tree canopies.

You can admire these stunning panoramas from the various hiking, cycling, and horseback riding trails. But for something a little bit more challenging, we recommend trying your hand at rock climbing. 

Red River Gorge is one of the best rock climbing spots in the world. There’s a huge variety of different climbing trails to choose between, from short and easy routes with a gentle incline to long and difficult routes that are incredibly steep. Whether you’ve been rock climbing a million times or you’ve never done it before, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect spot here.

15. Become Addicted To Beer Cheese

States all over the US serve beer cheese, but none of it is quite like the beer cheese they serve in Kentucky. This local specialty is the perfect combination of thick, cheesy, and spicy goodness!

Kentucky beer cheese gets its unique flavor and texture by mixing melted sharp cheddar cheese with beer, garlic, and spices. Like all the best recipes, each chef and home cook usually has their own version, so you’re unlikely to find two types of beer cheese that taste the same.

The rich, indulgent dip is usually served with crackers or celery sticks. But it makes a wonderful dip for any crunchy snack, like potato chips or pretzels.

If you’re planning your trip for June, you’ll find all kinds of incredible beer cheese at the Beer Cheese Festival in Winchester.

For any other time of year, we recommend ordering the local dish from Hall’s on the River . This long-established restaurant serves an amazing beer cheese platter with fresh veggies and crispy crackers. You can choose between regular and hot – if you like a bit of spice, we definitely recommend the hot!

16. Get Outside At Mammoth Cave National Park

For some of the best things to see in Kentucky, visit Mammoth Cave National Park . Tucked away inside the Caveland Corridor of Kentucky, this natural wonder is home to some of the oldest cave systems on the planet.

Here you’ll find more than 400 miles of secret caves to explore, but that’s not all. The park is also home to the giant 200-foot-tall Mammoth Dome, the glistening Crystal Lake, the fascinating limestone pillars of the Ruins of Karnack, and the mesmerizing Frozen Niagara. 

There are plenty of fun activities to enjoy in the park, too. Here you can try horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and cycling. If you’ve got more time, camping, fishing, cave tours, and stargazing are also possible.

If you’d prefer something a little more high-speed, check out Adventures of Mammoth Cave , where you’ll find a five-line canopy zip tour. Here the ziplines run 300 to 990 feet and are as high as 100 feet off the ground!

17. Marvel At The Grand Canyon Of The South

If you’ve never seen the Grand Canyon before, now’s your chance to see the second-best thing – the Grand Canyon of the South! Hidden inside Jefferson National Forest, which is shared between Virginia and Kentucky, Breaks Interstate Park boasts one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Kentucky.  

The best way to experience Breaks Interstate Park is by road tripping from Kentucky across the border to Virginia. Along the way, you’ll come across countless viewpoints where you can take incredible photos and get the most dazzling views. The star attraction of this park is the five-mile-long gorge which drops a whopping 1,650 to the canyon floor.

Visit at sunrise or sunset for a spectacular panorama you’ll never forget. The scene before you looks more like a painting than something created by nature.

There are plenty of other things to do in the Breaks Interstate Park. From rock climbing, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking to paddle boarding, canoeing, hydro biking, and fishing, you’ll find tons of outdoorsy things to do here.

18. Have A Family Fun Day At Kentucky Kingdom

If you’re traveling with little ones, one of the top things to do in Kentucky is to spend the day at Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville. Although this theme park opened way back in 1987, it’s been renovated several times and is now a modern park with tons of exciting, family-friendly attractions.

The park is split into two sections – one which is a theme park and one that’s a water park. The theme park boasts a huge number of attractions, with everything from high-speed rollercoasters for adults to gentle swings for kids. The water park features an equally great variety of water slides, plus children’s mini water parks and wave pools. 

As well as all the rides and attractions, Kentucky Kingdom also has a bunch of great places to grab a snack, plus a gift shop where you can pick up a memento of your visit. Exciting events are also held throughout the year, so check the website to see if there’s anything fun going on during your visit.

19. See Where Abraham Lincoln Was Born

Did you know that Abraham Lincoln, the 16th American president, was born in Kentucky? Visit the Bluegrass State, and you’ll have the chance to see his birthplace in what is now known as LaRue County. A National Historic Site, Lincoln’s birthplace is one of the most important and popular tourist attractions for miles. 

Known as the First Lincoln Memorial , this imposing building was built in Hodgenville, where the president was born, by the Lincoln Farm Association. You can see a replica cabin inside the Neo-Classical building, which was designed to look like the place where the president took his very first breath!

There are 56 pink granite steps leading up to the First Lincoln Memorial – each step represents one year of his life. Other points of interest include the Sinking Spring, the main water source for Lincoln and his family, as well as the nearby Knob Creek, where the family moved later on in their lives.

20. Sip A Mint Julep

If you’re a fan of cocktails, one of the best things to do in Kentucky is to try a mint julep. The official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the mint julep was first invented in 1784 and was originally given to people who had stomach issues. But by 1803, it had been transformed from a medical remedy to a delicious cocktail people enjoyed for fun.

The classic cocktail is made from sugar, bourbon, soda water, and mint leaves. It’s a little like a mojito, but the bourbon gives it a distinctive Kentucky flavor. 

During the Kentucky Derby, around 120,000 mint juleps are served! If you can’t attend the races, there are plenty of other great places you can try this classic cocktail.

Not only is the Brown Hotel an excellent spot to try the iconic Hot Brown open-faced sandwich, but it’s also the perfect place to try a classic mint julep. The Brown Hotel Lobby Bar takes extra care when it comes to presentation, which – considering the sumptuous surroundings – is particularly fitting.

21. Welcome Summer With The International Bar-B-Q Festival

If you can never say no to a good BBQ, you’ve got to check out the International Bar-B-Q Festival in Owensboro. Held each year on the second weekend in May (just after the Kentucky Derby), this foodie feast marks the start of Kentucky’s summer.

There’s so much food to try that you’ve definitely got to go on an empty stomach. You’ll find all of Kentucky’s legendary meats prepared by the best chefs in the state.

Teams from all over gather to compete for the title of “Best Overall Bar-B-Q Cooking Team,” with more than 10 tons of mutton, 5,000 chickens, and 1,500 gallons of burgoo being cooked over the weekend. There are picnic tables up and down the side streets where you can relax and enjoy all the delicious eats. 

Despite what the name may suggest, the International Bar-B-Q Festival isn’t all about food. There’s also live music, kids’ activities, a car show, arts and crafts, and a 5K race. 

22. Spend The Night In A Castle

If you’re looking for something totally unique to do in Kentucky, you’ll find it at the Kentucky Castle in Versailles. The best-kept secret in Central Kentucky, the castle is surrounded by lush green countryside and is the perfect place to go when you need to take a break from all that Kentucky sightseeing.

The 100-acre grounds are home to 15 guest rooms, including a stunning farm view cabin and four beautiful tower suites. If you want to truly feel like royalty, this is the place to stay! If you’re short on time and can’t stay overnight, there are plenty of other things you can do at Kentucky Castle.

The magnificent fortress boasts a farm-to-table restaurant that serves incredible dishes made from local produce. Some ingredients are even made on the castle’s grounds. There’s also a luxurious spa where you can unwind and let professionals pamper you.

If you time your visit right, you may be able to take part in one of the exciting activities. From relaxing horseback rides and rooftop yoga classes to exquisite tasting menus and thrilling murder mystery dinners, there’s always something going on here.

23. Go Underground At The Louisville Mega Cavern

Have one of the most exciting days of your Kentucky vacation at the Louisville Mega Cavern . A human-made network of caverns and corridors that span 17 miles underneath the city, this fascinating attraction is a must on your Kentucky bucket list if you’re looking for something cool and memorable to do.

Inside the cavern, you’ll find all kinds of adventurous activities. Sign up for a 2-hour zipline tour and zoom over deep rocky drops in the world’s only fully underground zipline course. Or take a ride on the mega tram and learn all about the history and geology of the fascinating cavern.

There are also compelling walking tours you can join to see the more incredible parts of the cavern up close, as well as bike tours that take you behind the scenes of the cavern to the parts that most visitors don’t get to see.

The mega quest is great fun if you’re up for a challenge. The only fully underground aerial ropes course in the world, this part of the cavern will test your balancing skills with all kinds of physical obstacles!

24. Admire One Of The Most Impressive Homes From The 1800s

For some of the best sights in Kentucky, visit Ashland – the Henry Clay Estate in Lexington. A gorgeous National History Landmark, the estate was originally a 600-acre plantation where slaves would work as staff inside the mansion and as workers on the farm.

Although today the estate is a beautiful tourist attraction, it still remembers its roots. Visitors are invited to learn about the estate’s dark past in the frank yet fascinating “Traces: Slavery at Ashland” tour.

There are several other tours you can join to discover the remarkable mansion and its grounds. Sign up, and you’ll have the chance to step inside the Federal-style home, where you can admire all the stunning Italianate details which were added in later renovations.

The tours also give you an insight into the life of Henry Clay, the 19th-century Kentucky statesman who lived in the mansion.

Book an Ashland Henry Clay Estate Ticket with Tour

25. Go On A Ghost Tour Around Waverly Hills Sanatorium

If you’re feeling brave, sign up for a ghost tour at Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville. Once dedicated to healing tuberculosis patients over 100 years ago, today, the sanatorium is said to be haunted and has become a hugely popular tourist attraction among ghost hunters.

When it was a functioning sanatorium, tuberculosis was incurable. As the disease spread to more people, the sanatorium had to be expanded again and again. By 1912, it included open-air pavilions, wards for children, and underground tunnels connecting the various buildings. 

In 1962, the building was transformed into a nursing home. It went through multiple changes in the following years before eventually being abandoned. Because of its macabre past and several reported ghost sightings, the sanatorium has been declared one of the most haunted places in the world!

Ghost tours are organized regularly throughout the year. Led by paranormal investigators, the tours give you the chance to learn all about what went on in the sanatorium while hunting for the ghosts of the patients who may still reside within it.

There you have it! The 25 best things to do in Kentucky. What’s your favorite thing to do in the Bluegrass State? 

Planning a trip to Kentucky? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Nicola is a freelance writer with an insatiable hunger for travel. She swapped her home in the UK for the sunny Canary Islands when she was just 11 and she has been based there ever since. From crawling on her hands and knees inside pyramids in Egypt to swimming with baby sharks in Bali and searching (fruitlessly!) for the Northern Lights in Iceland, Nicola takes every chance she gets to explore new places. The incredible experiences she has around the world fuels her writing and inspires her to plan even more adventures for the future.

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What? No Louisville Slugger Museum? Everything listed is cool though. 🙂

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The 8 best things to see and do in Kentucky from bourbon to bluegrass

May 9, 2022 • 6 min read

The Kentucky Derby is just one of the highlights of the Bluegrass State © Cheryl Ann Quigley / Shutterstock

Thoroughbred horses might dominate the headlines in Kentucky , but the state packs more into its stables than high-speed horses. Straddling a geographic and cultural crossroads between two distinct and fiercely proud American heartlands, Kentucky is a place of bucolic landscapes and alluring national parks with a transforming culinary scene that beckons between the bourbon and bluegrass.

Here's a guide to the best things to see and do in Kentucky.

See the "Greatest Two Minutes in Sports" at the Kentucky Derby

The Kentucky Derby , which takes place on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville , is not only the world's greatest horse race, it's the longest-running continuous sporting event in North America. A visit here is a bucket list bonanza of sport, style, bourbon and betting.

Join a who's who of upper-crust America – decked to the nines in seersucker suits and the most decadent hats you ever did see – for a mint julep-fueled race-day blowout. And after all the build-up, it culminates in a blink of an eye: the main event is over in just two minutes.

Even if you fail to wangle a ticket on race day, the Kentucky Derby Museum and its guided tours around the Churchill Downs racetrack remain some of Kentucky's most interesting cultural diversions.

Line up glasses on the bar on the Bourbon Trail

Bourbon is one of the world's most prized spirits, with the state of Kentucky distilling 95% of the world’s inventory. Embarking on a connoisseur's tasting journey through the postcard-perfect bourbon country around Bardstown and Frankfort is one of Kentucky's top highlights.

Once you've worked out the logistics of sampling bourbon on a tasting tour in bourbon country – designated drivers, ride-sharing apps and organized tours are your new best friends – Kentucky's best distilleries are at the ready to showcase the subtle differences of their bourbons, which you can sample surrounded by the horse farms of Central Kentucky.

New laws now allow 1¾-ounce sample pours and sales by the glass, so visits to our favorite distilleries ­­– Woodford Reserve , Heaven Hill , Buffalo Trace , and Maker's Mark , among others – just got a whole lot more gratifying.

Step into the batter's box at the Louisville Slugger Museum

The Louisville Slugger baseball bat is the most iconic 42 inches of hardwood in baseball. At the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory , you can see how baseball's most famous bat is made, alongside displays on the great players who wielded it. Babe Ruth's 1926 record-setting Louisville Slugger is on display, complete with notches for every home run carved by the Bambino himself. Both museums are part of Louisville's cultural cradle, Museum Row on Main, which includes nine museums and distilleries spread across four historic downtown blocks.

Go caving – and more! – at Mammoth Cave National Park

Cave enthusiasts flock to Mammoth Cave National Park , which boasts the longest cave system on earth, with some 400 miles of surveyed passageways. Located 23 miles northeast of Bowling Green, this massive cavern is worth a detour not only for fascinating ranger-guided subterranean tours and serious day-long spelunking excursions (reservations recommended) but also for its lesser-known hiking trails. There are 85 miles of hiking tracks, 60 miles of horse-riding trails, and 25 miles of mountain biking routes. So yep, there's a little something for everyone at this central Kentucky outdoor adventure juggernaut.

Soak up the country air in beautiful Bluegrass Country

There are few American landscapes as unexpectedly gorgeous as north-central Kentucky's Bluegrass Country. Like a painting brought to life, the brilliant-green hills are dotted with ponds, poplar trees and handsome estate houses and strewn with never-ending fences safeguarding prized thoroughbred horses – it's rural Americana at its finest.

Just driving around aimlessly during summer or winter is as fine a day as you can spend in America's heartland, but WinStar Farm makes an excellent destination. Founded in the 1700s, this prestigious horse farm has bred numerous champions (you can tour its stallion complex several days a week). Base yourself in hip Lexington , a hotbed of culture, craft beer and historic distractions.

Be awed by Ali at the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville

The greatest and most charismatic boxer to ever grace the ring, Muhammad Ali is captivatingly chronicled at the riveting Muhammad Ali Center , one of a number of outstanding museums on Louisville's Museum Row on Main. Ali was born in Louisville in 1942, and the museum exploring his life makes for an outstanding afternoon at any time of year. It's at its liveliest during the newish Ali Festival , which commemorates the boxer's great achievements for a week in June.

Feast on Kentucky culinary delights like the Hot Brown

No trip to Kentucky would be complete without a taste of the state's most famous contribution to American gastronomy, the Hot Brown – an open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon, tomato and Mornay sauce, invented in 1926 at Louisville's Brown Hotel. But Kentucky's culinary landscape has evolved; some of middle America's most exciting bites and brews are being forged here, contributing to an ongoing redefinition of what America eats and drinks.

Dining at Modern American eateries such as Proof on Main or Decca in Louisville and Carson's Food & Drink in Lexington will quickly convince you this is not your grandma's Kentucky night out. Bookend a meal with a craft beer at Louisville's Holy Grale or Monnik Beer Company (with the best beer cheese dip in Kentucky), or Lexington's Country Boy Brewing .

Feel the need for speed at Bowling Green's National Corvette Museum

Ever since it was featured in the 1960s television show Route 66, the Chevrolet Corvette has captivated even the most casual car buff, building the legend of "America's Sports Car." Bowling Green's National Corvette Museum displays some 80 Corvette models – including one-off concept cars and prototypes – in an enthralling space that will leave the average Joe slackjawed (while bringing tears to the eyes of superfans).

Highlights include the world's only 1983 Corvette (production was halted that year due to a change in California emissions laws), wrecked vehicles crushed when a sinkhole opened under the museum in 2014 (kids will get a kick out of peering into the cave via a manhole in the floor) and loads of classic convertibles, guaranteed to instill a sense of they-don't-make-them-like-they-used-to nostalgia.

Hike and climb in Daniel Boone National Forest

Rock climbers from across the world are lured to Red River Gorge inside Daniel Boone National Forest some 70 miles southeast of Lexington. This expansive area of forest features 700,000 acres of rugged ravines and gravity-defying sandstone arches spread across the Appalachian foothills, but it's the gorge that stands out as one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the country.

At the adjacent Natural Bridge State Resort Park – famed for its stunning sandstone arch, with a 78ft span and 65ft opening – many more hiking and climbing routes beckon to adventurers. The whole area is just far enough off the beaten path to instill a real sense of discovery and adventure for those who visit.

You may also like: How to visit Louisville on a budget How to get around Louisville, Kentucky The complete guide to Mammoth Cave National Park

This article was first published February 2019 and updated May 2022

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40 Incredible Places to Visit in Kentucky

10/19/2021 by Emily Becker 2 Comments

To be honest, Kentucky wasn’t always on my travel radar. Like many people unfamiliar with the Bluegrass State, I previously had a lot of assumptions about it. However, the state is much more than meets the eye, and it is home to some incredible destinations. This list breaks down the best, including wonderful cities, neat towns, beautiful parks, unique stops, and more:

Table of Contents

Cities & Towns

40. louisville.

As Kentucky’s largest city, Louisville is a hub for nearly everything that makes this state special. You’ll find countless venues to see live bluegrass shows, race tracks with the country’s most impressive horses, and some amazing Southern cooking. Not only that, but Louisville is bursting with culture and has a thriving art community.

Here are a few must-visit spots in this vibrant city:

39. Frankfort Avenue

As far as places to go in Louisville , this is one of the best to check out as soon as you get into town. Frankfort Avenue, aka “The Avenue,” is a long corridor that connects the city’s most hip and happening neighborhoods. Along it, you’ll see local businesses galore, from boutiques to galleries to mom ‘n’ pop restaurants.

38. Fairmount Falls Park

On the outskirts of Louisville is Fairmount Falls, one of the city’s hidden natural gems. Visiting feels like discovering a Louisville secret that not many other tourists get to experience. The waterfall is tucked away in the forest, about a mile’s hike from the trail entrance.

To get to this gorgeous waterfall, you can make a reservation to access the park at Jefferson Memorial Forest Welcome Center . Since only three cars are allowed in the park per day, a reservation nearly guarantees you’ll have the falls almost all to yourself.

37. Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs is as famous as it gets when it comes to Louisville institutions. The two longest continuously running sporting events in the US are held at Churchill Downs: the Kentucky Derby and the all-female Kentucky Oaks races. Even if you aren’t in town during one of those, check the events calendar  to see what else is going on at the race track during your visit.

36. Muhammad Ali Center

The famous boxer-turned-philanthropist Muhammad Ali is a Louisville native and certainly engenders a generous amount of hometown pride. Opened in 2005, the Muhammad Ali Center is a nonprofit museum that serves to demonstrate Ali’s six core principles: confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect, and spirituality. It’s one of the most inspirational museums in Kentucky. Find more information here .

35. Louisville Mega Cavern

Adventure seekers will not want to miss out on a visit to the Louisville Mega Cavern, the world’s only fully  underground aerial ropes course . This former 1930s mine site has 100 acres (part of a citywide 17 mile array of underground corridors) that you can explore via Historic Tram Tour or  walking tour , on which you can learn about the history and geology of the caverns. This is one of the top places to see in all of Kentucky, let alone Louisville!

34. Cherokee Park

Did you know that Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed NYC’s Central Park, also designed Cherokee Park in Louisville? It’s true! His eye for design is evident in the Park, which features quaint woodlands, open meadows, rolling hills, and trickling streams. That’s right, you can enjoy all of that natural beauty without having to leave Louisville’s city limits.

33. Lexington

Lexington is Kentucky’s second largest city and is spilling over with history, Southern charm, and unique places to visit. As the country’s horse capital, you’ll find loads of opportunities to learn about the city’s horse racing and breeding legacy. Not only that but Lexington is in the heart of bluegrass country and packs a big punch with its rich bourbon culture.

Here are some of the best places to visit in or near Lexington:

32. Keeneland Race Track

Keeneland is an internationally renowned racecourse committed to preserving the tradition of thoroughbred horse racing. The track is open to the public, so you don’t have to attend an actual race to take in its beautifully landscaped gardens and pristine grandstand. The place captures the essence of horse racing culture and prestige. This tour includes a stop at Keeneland with an expert guide.

31. Ashland: Henry Clay Estate

As far as historic places in Kentucky, this is easily one of the most famous. Henry Clay was one of Kentucky’s most well-known statesmen, and Ashland was his home during the height of his career. The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation has an interesting way of telling the stories of people who lived, worked, and were enslaved at the Ashland estate.  This guided tour  is a great way to get the most out of your visit.

30. Kentucky Horse Park

If you can’t get enough of horse-related attractions, Kentucky Horse Park is the ultimate destination. Not only does the park have a fully operational horse farm, but it also houses the Smithsonian International Museum of the Horse. You could easily spend a day visiting this equine treasure in Lexington.

29. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

This pristinely preserved nature sanctuary in Lexington is the ultimate nature lover’s paradise. Across 734 acres, there are over 10 miles of trails to enjoy. Spend a warm summer afternoon hiking, biking, or picnicking here. Visiting in fall? The autumn colors in Raven Run Nature Sanctuary are gorgeous!

28. Jacobson Park

On 216 acres of land,  Jacobson Park includes a large reservoir perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or just hanging out on the grass near the shore. The park also has volleyball courts, a disc golf course, and more. Of all the green spaces in Lexington, this one is one of the best for a quiet afternoon in nature.

27. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Just 45 minutes outside of Lexington is Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. Travelers from all over the world visit Shaker Village each year to get a glimpse into the past of a society that was able to thrive off the land.The Shakers were a religious community that was active in Pleasant Hill from 1805 to 1910.

This 3,000-acre landmark is one of the most well-preserved sites of Shaker history. The nonprofit organization Shaker Village has worked hard to maintain the 34 original historic structures, a nature preserve, and conserved farmland on the site. You can even stay in Shaker Village’s inn !

26. Bardstown

As the home of nine famous bourbon distilleries, Bardstown is one of Kentucky’s most notable bourbon destinations. Not only that, but the town also has the Bardstown Civil War Museum , the fourth-largest such museum in the country. It is also home to Kentucky’s “official outdoor drama” (“The Stephen Foster Story”) and even has an entire exhibit dedicated to women’s roles in the war.

Bardstown has a picturesque town square and is overall a beautiful little town to visit. You can book an entire weekend getaway there, complete with plenty of bourbon-filled experiences, here .

25. Frankfort

Known to have one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the country, this small capital city deserves a spot on your Kentucky bucket list. Located along the Kentucky River between Louisville and Lexington, Frankfort is perfectly tucked into the green hills and is surrounded by nature. Here you’ll find outdoor adventure , historical relics, and, of course, plenty of bourbon.

24. Bowling Green

As one of Kentucky’s many bustling college towns, Bowling Green has a unique mix of new and old, historic and innovative. You’ll find venerable neighborhoods complete with colonial architecture and manicured lawns, as well as some of Kentucky’s best museums. One of them is the National Corvette Museum , which takes visitors on a journey through the iconic history of America’s sports car.

Bowling Green is also the perfect launching point for Mammoth Cave National Park (more on that later!), so consider staying here a night or two during your Kentucky adventure to make the most of this attraction-filled area.

23. Newport

If you are an American history enthusiast, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to Newport. This quaint riverside community was once set to become what is now Las Vegas . In fact, the town was once home to many casinos and was frequented by none other than Frank Sinatra, who performed there. Even Las Vegas’s nickname, “Sin City,” was first applied to Newport before it was given to Las Vegas.

Since Newport is so close to Cincinnati, Ohio, you can take a sunset cruise to see the Cincinnati skyline from Newport.

This one is for all the cyclists out there! London is one of Kentucky’s designated “trail towns,” because of its access to road cycling, mountain biking, and hiking trails. It’s next to Daniel Boone National Forest, so nature lovers find London the perfect place to stay while they explore nearby parks, trails, and forests.

21. Paducah

Known as “The Quilt City,” Paducah is America’s quilt-making capital. In fact, UNESCO dubbed Paducah a City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2013. You can learn about this legacy at the National Quilt Museum .

As soon as you arrive in Paducah, you’ll realize that this small town is anything but ordinary. The visitor’s center is housed in a restored 1860s mansion, which truly sets the stage for a historic adventure. Enjoy the town’s peace and quiet with a walk along the river and a stroll through town to see the historic buildings.

20. Owensboro

Owensboro is a small city packed full of all the things that make Kentucky great. It has some of the state’s best barbecue joints, bluegrass music venues, and art museums.

Check out the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, where you’ll find a sculpture park and folk art dating back to the 15th century.

Owensboro is famous for its mutton barbeque, so if you’re a meat eater you shouldn’t leave town without trying it at either Old Hickory Bar-B-Que or Ole South Bar-B-Q.

19. International Bluegrass Music Museum

No trip to Owensboro is complete without a stop at the International Bluegrass Music Museum. We are listing this place all on its own because it’s easily one of the top attractions in the state. Even if you’re new to bluegrass music, this museum is sure to keep you entertained all day long with its interactive exhibits and nuggets of history throughout. You’ll see a variety of neat vintage instruments, learn about the genre’s most influential musicians, and see the evolution of the genre over the years.

Get your tickets here .

18. Stanton

This is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers in Kentucky. Stanton is the perfect launching point for hiking and biking trails, with direct access to the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway. The Red River Gorge has over a hundred stone arches and several waterfalls, along with the picturesque Nada Tunnel. It also has a unique landscape that is waiting to be explored.

National Parks, State Parks, and More

17. mammoth cave national park.

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Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the most beloved places in Kentucky. This amazing natural wonder is home to the longest recorded cave system in the world, at over 400 miles explored and mapped. Cave tours are an excellent way to get familiar with some of the park’s most notable caves.

Not only is the park adored for its natural beauty, but it also holds many stories from the people who used to reside there, from the original settlements of Native Americans to colonial settlers to the African Americans who were the most important guides and explorers of the caves in the 19th and 20th centuries.

16. Daniel Boone National Forest

You may recognize the name Daniel Boone if you’re into outdoorsman history. This massive forest spans more than two million acres and offers over 600 miles of trails to explore. Sandstone cliffs are perfect for rock climbing, and the abundance of rivers and lakes creates the perfect environment for those who enjoy getting out on the water. Although many of the trails were originally intended only for hiking, mountain biking is possible in many locations. Backpackers and other campers will enjoy the many forest campgrounds .

15. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

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The mountainous scenery at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is just one of the many reasons to pay a visit. Beyond the stunning views from hidden overlooks, you’ll find epic sandstone formations, abundant underground caverns, and plenty of plant and animal life everywhere.

There’s a wealth of history to uncover here. This amazing national historical park is home to the Hensley Settlement, which gives visitors a time-warping look at a 20th century mountain community settlement. The Wilderness Road Trail will take you on an equally exciting journey in the footsteps of Native Americans, early settlers, and Civil War soldiers.

14. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

As one of the largest areas of undeveloped forest in the United States, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is about as rugged as it gets. Stretching over 170,000 acres of forests and wetlands, there’s plenty of nature to admire here. There are 300 miles of natural shoreline, offering opportunities to camp, picnic, hike, and bike.

In addition to over 500 miles of trails throughout the park to enjoy, you can visit the Woodlands Nature Station, Elk & Bison Prairie, Homeplace 1850s Working Farm, or Golden Pond Planetarium and Observatory for authentic educational experiences.

Land Between the Lakes is also the ideal place for a road trip, with incredible scenic drives and walks.

13. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

If you want to see something nearly as majestic as Niagara Falls without leaving the South, make sure to add Cumberland Falls State Park to your Kentucky itinerary. It gets its nickname, “the Niagara of the South,” due to the 68-foot tall and 125-foot wide waterfall. One of the coolest things about this waterfall, besides its immense size, is that it’s one of the few places in the world where you can see a moonbow, aka a lunar rainbow. If the sky is clear on the night of a full moon, you might be able to see one in all of its magnificent glory.

In addition to the obvious visit to the falls, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is overflowing with adventurous things to do (see what I did there?). Go birding in the park, rafting on the Cumberland River, camping at one of the 50 campsites, or hiking on 17 miles of trails. You can even try your hand at gem mining.

12. Breaks Interstate Park

Located right on the Kentucky-Virginia state border is the severely underrated Breaks Interstate Park. Spanning 4,500 acres of greenwood lands full of mountainous scenery, this is one of only two interstate parks in the country where park rangers of both states have authority in the park no matter what side of the border. This gorgeous natural area has the largest canyon east of the Mississippi River, which spans five miles and is 1,650 feet deep, earning its nickname “the Grand Canyon of the South.”

Breaks Interstate Park is a haven for rock climbers, campers, and hikers alike. No matter how you choose to enjoy the park, you’re certainly in for a treat.

11. Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area is often referred to as a giant outdoor playground, and for good reason. This 125,000-acre recreation area features rugged gorges and pristine forests, along with numerous streams and, of course, the thunderous Big South Fork of the Cumberland River.

Outdoor activities at the Big South Fork National River include hiking through forests and gorges, horseback riding, rock climbing sandstone cliffs, and paddling and swimming in crystal-clear waters. This recreation area is also an ideal place to camp and backpack.

10. The Pinnacles of Berea

In 2019, Outside Magazine named the Pinnacles of Berea hike the #1 hike in Kentucky. If that isn’t enough to spark your curiosity, visitors who enjoy peace and quiet love this hike because of its sparse crowds and incredible views of the Daniel Boone National Forest.

This stellar hike is easy to get to from Berea, Kentucky, and is even a great spot to stay while you visit Red River Gorge and other big nearby attractions. Having such an awesome hike like the Pinnacles Hike is just the cherry on top.

9. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

This is a state park unlike any other. You probably associate state parks with hiking trails and the great outdoors, but some of this park’s best features are actually indoors. It’s home to the estate of US Sen. John Rowan, which holds two hundred years of stories, from duels to horse racing to family fortunes and everything in between. You can tour the mansion and hear guides sing a special song on every tour.

Horse Farms

8. sun valley horse farm.

This classic horse farm’s slogan is “At the Crossroad of Bourbon & Horses.” It makes a neat connection between horses and bourbon through its ties to bourbon pioneer Elijah Pepper. The best way to experience Sun Valley is on a guided tour , which leads guests through the farm to witness the inner workings of an award-winning thoroughbred horse farm nursery.

7. Hermitage Farm

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Hermitage Farm is more than just a horse farm and nursery. Beyond running a renowned thoroughbred operation, the farm also prides itself on its sustainable and organic agriculture. You can even get a taste of Heritage Farm’s farm-fresh produce at its Barn8 Farm Restaurant.

In the mood for some bourbon? You can do a bourbon tasting featuring products from any of the distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon trail.

This farm offers a truly well-rounded view of Kentucky’s rich agricultural culture and history. Choose from a number of tours and tastings at Hermitage Farm to get the most out of your visit.

6. Claiborne Farm

This one is for the history buffs out there. Claiborne Farm is one of the most iconic thoroughbred horse farms in Kentucky, best known for being the final resting place of one of the most famous horses in history, Secretariat.

Claiborne Farm offers historic tours of the on-site facilities, taking guests on a journey through the farm’s origin story up until present day with a look at how the working farm takes care of the stunning beauties that live there.

Unique Stops

5. the pete treehouse.

This completely off-grid treehouse was part of Animal Planet’s  Treehouse Masters and is now one of the coolest Airbnbs you’ll find in Kentucky. Pete Nelson is the mastermind behind the construction of the treehouse, which is tucked away in nature about 1.5 hours from Lexington. The place is full of thoughtful touches, including a fire pit and balcony.

After watching Kristin’s treehouse adventure , you’re probably getting excited about staying in a treehouse, so don’t miss out on this one when you visit Kentucky!

4. Harland Sanders Café and Museum

Nowadays, you can find a KFC in just about any country in the world. Have you wondered about how it all started, though? At the Harland Sanders Café and Museum in Corbin, you’ll be able to see the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken at Colonel Sanders’ original restaurant.

Not only can you actually dine at the Harland Sanders Café and Museum, but you can then tour the building and see all kinds of artifacts and memorabilia from the famous restaurateur’s legacy.

3. Vent Haven Museum

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In the small town of Fort Mitchell is the world’s only museum dedicated to ventriloquism: the Vent Haven Museum . This is by far one of the strangest places I’ve ever seen while researching a destination, and now it has been bumped up pretty high on my bucket list.

The museum has over 900 dummies, featuring some that have been on TV and in movies, all from the personal collection of William Shakespeare Berger. If you’re a fan of weird museums and happen to be driving through Fort Mitchell, you’ll definitely want to make a pit stop here.

2. Historic Diamond Caverns

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Located right next to Mammoth Cave National Park, this unique attraction is a must-visit while you’re in the area. Its cathedral-like caverns feature cascades of naturally colorful calcite and other mind-blowing formations. Guided tours are available and are the perfect way to see the gorgeous caverns and learn about their interesting history.

1. Kentucky Kingdom

I’m a big fan of roller coasters, so I can’t skip out on adding Kentucky Kingdom to this list. This theme park may be small compared to megaparks like Six Flags and Disney World, but it’s a charming homegrown spot that locals adore. There are five roller coasters, a 5-D cinema, and plenty of other fun attractions to enjoy .

As you can see, Kentucky is full of quirky surprises and abundant natural beauty. There are plenty of amazing places just waiting to be discovered by travelers who are new to the state and also by locals looking to learn more about what there is to do near them!

Are you a Kentucky native? Which places did we miss this time? Let us know where your secret spots are!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

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Mary Ann Strehle says

10/27/2021 at 10:02 am

Need to visit Camp Breckinridge Museum and Art Center in Morganfield, Ky. There are 30 Bavarian murals painted by the German POW’s during WW11 and other historic memorabilia housed in a restored Officers Club from the base. The base was a training center for US troops and a German prison camp. Very beautiful place to visit.

11/05/2021 at 9:41 am

As a Louisville native, Bardstown Road in the Highlands really is the heart of Louisville. The restaurants, bars, shops, etc. make for a perfect street to walk down. Great place to take pics too!

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

Last Updated By VacationIdea on March 18, 2024 in Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville is also home to a handful of Fortune 500 companies and several water and rail transportation giants. Ideal for tourists, the city is packed with museums, event centers, sports stadiums, historical sites, restaurants, and other attractions. There are more than 120 city parks in the Louisville Metro area. More Romantic Weekend Getaways in Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky

Lexington has imposed a unique urban growth boundary in order to protect the miles of pastures where horses are kept. This means that large swaths of green fields can be found throughout Lexington. In the heart of the city, visitors will find plenty of intriguing places to explore, including the Aviation Museum of Kentucky, Kentucky Theatre, the Mary-Todd Lincoln House, and Martin Castle. More things to do in Kentucky

Bowling Green, Kentucky

More ideas: Best Water Parks in Kentucky

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Frankfort

Frankfort primarily serves as the governmental center of the state, but its economy benefits from several large shopping malls and a couple of famous distilleries. Tourists will find plenty to do in the city since there are numerous museums, parks, shopping centers, entertainment venues, and restaurants.

Owensboro, Kentucky

Outdoor concerts, fundraisers, jamborees, and other get-togethers draw visitors from all around the area. Some interesting attractions in the city include Owensboro Bridge, Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, and the International Bluegrass Music Museum. More things to do in Owensboro

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Paducah

It is known for being the birthplace of many famous musicians and sports icons. Some of the most prominent musicians from Paducah include Ray Smith, Terry Mike Jeffrey, Mark Evitts, and Steven Curtis Chapman. Things to do in Paducah

Elizabethtown, Kentucky

Elizabethtown was also the site of a dramatic Civil War battle in 1862. Modern Elizabethtown boasts a variety of cultural and natural attractions. There is a cluster of museums and event centers in the downtown area, and for outdoor adventures, visitors can check out the Bourbon Trail, Mammoth Cave, and the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. Another popular attraction in town is Abraham Lincoln's boyhood home, which visitors can see throughout the year. More things to do in Elizabethtown

Richmond, Kentucky

More ideas: Kentucky Waterfalls

London, Kentucky

More ideas: Beaches in Kentucky

Florence, Kentucky

Florence is on of the fastest-growing cities in Kentucky, and there are plenty of options for entertainment as a tourist. Florence has nature parks, city parks, an extensive trails system, and a lively downtown district with stores, restaurants, museums, theaters, and more. The city also boasts a large aquatic center as well as a popular golf facility.

Pikeville, Kentucky

Pikeville experienced a development boom in the 1990s, and it now houses several prominent schools and businesses. It hosts a popular annual cultural festival called Hillbilly Days. The boisterous festival, which attracts craftspeople, artists, and musicians, was primarily created to raise funds for Shriners Hospitals for Children. Scores of out-of-town visitors flock to Pikeville to participate in the lively gathering.

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Henderson

The “Great Sleet of 1901” drenched the city in icy rain for three weeks straight, and the city has experienced cyclones, flooding, and other intense phenomena. For tourists, Henderson presents plenty of opportunities for entertainment because of its unique festivals. The Handy Blues and Barbecue Festival and the Bluegrass in the Park Folklife Festival are some of the most popular in the area.

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Winchester

The Blackfish Bison Ranch is another popular destination, along with the Bluegrass Heritage Museum, the Civil War Fort at Boonesboro, the Hamon Haven Winery, and Lower Howard's Creek Nature Preserve. The city also boasts art galleries, entertainment venues, museums, yearly festivals, and other popular attractions.

KY Places to Visit: Mammoth Cave National Park

During the Mammoth Passage tour, guests can see the immense cave rotunda as well as prehistoric cave drawings. Mammoth Cave National Park also hosts the Frozen Niagara tour, where visitors can join a short walk to see how dripstone forms. The park is open year-round, and there are no entry fees.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

There are also backcountry trails in the park that lead to remote wilderness areas. Additionally, the park has plenty of spots for wildlife spotting, sightseeing, and camping . For indoor activities, travelers can spend time learning about Cumberland Gap National Historical Park at the visitor's center, a space that is filled with interactive and informative exhibits.

Diamond Caverns, Kentucky

Tours are offered at Diamond Caverns year-round, although they are limited in certain seasons. During the tour, visitors follow a paved cement path that winds its way beneath the stalactite-covered ceiling. The specially designed lighting throughout the cave emphasizes the most stunning features the Diamond Caverns area has to offer.

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Red River Gorge

Hunting and trapping are allowed in the region, and there are designated spots for camping. Part of the Red River Gorge area is known as the Clifty Wilderness, a 12,000+ swath of forest that contains all sorts of hidden trails.

Bob Noble Park, Kentucky

Sports enthusiasts can stay busy at the tennis courts, basketball courts, the volleyball court, and the nearby skate park. Bob Noble Park is a popular venue for festivals, events, 5K races, community get-togethers, and other social functions. The Robert Cherry Civic Center, the Arts and Crafts Building, and the Anna Baumer Community Center are all located on park property.

KY Places to Visit: Cove Springs Park

There is an archery range within the park where visitors can practice shooting a bow. Along the three-mile-long trail inside of Cove Springs Park, visitors will find interpretive signs that discuss the history and significance of the area.

Elizabethtown Nature Park, Kentucky

The Hardin County Veterans Tribute, a granite star with bronze sculptures that honor local veterans, is located within the Elizabethtown Nature Park. The park is the perfect spot for walking, jogging, hiking, playing sports, picnicking, and relaxing with family and friends. The nature park is open daily from dawn until dusk.

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Laurel River Lake

The lake is loaded with all types of fish, and summer trout-catching events are popular among locals. In the winter, there are areas for skiing and snowshoeing around the lake. Laurel River Lake also has campgrounds that can accommodate individuals, groups, and campers with boats. The lake is open to the public all year long.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

300 miles of natural shoreline surround the lake within the recreational area. Fishing, hunting, boating, kayaking, and picnicking are some of the pastimes that people like to enjoy here. For a historical experience, guests can visit the Homeplace 1850s Working Farm or head to the Woodlands Nature Station.

Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

For tourists, Daniel Boone National Forest is an ideal place for hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, boating, rock climbing, hunting, nature watching, and other outdoor activities. More than twenty-one counties are part of the Daniel Boone National Forest, and the recreational area is open all throughout the year. More weekend getaways from Louisville

Places to Visit Near Me: Fairmount Falls

The eight-acre park includes a mile-long walking trail that provides visitors with some excellent views of Fairmount Falls and the surrounding landscape. In order to obtain permits to Fairmount Falls, visitors need to download a permit form from the website below and send it into the address provided on the form. The Natural Areas Management office is in charge of processing applications.

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

The Big South Fork Recreation Area is an ideal place for rock climbing, horseback riding, kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking, and other adventurous outdoor sports. The park also contains designated spots for camping and picnicking. The Big South Form National River and Recreation Area is open year-round, although some facilities are inaccessible in the winter months.

3044 U.S. 127 South, Danville, KY 40422, Phone: 859-326-0193

• 1. Louisville, Kentucky
• 2. Lexington, Kentucky
• 3. Bowling Green, Kentucky
• 4. Places to Visit in Kentucky: Frankfort
• 5. Owensboro, Kentucky
• 6. Places to Visit in Kentucky: Paducah
• 7. Elizabethtown, Kentucky
• 8. Richmond, Kentucky
• 9. London, Kentucky
• 10. Florence, Kentucky
• 11. Pikeville, Kentucky
• 12. Places to Visit in Kentucky: Henderson
• 13. Places to Visit in Kentucky: Winchester
• 14. KY Places to Visit: Mammoth Cave National Park
• 15. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
• 16. Diamond Caverns, Kentucky
• 17. Places to Visit in Kentucky: Red River Gorge
• 18. Bob Noble Park, Kentucky
• 19. KY Places to Visit: Cove Springs Park
• 20. Elizabethtown Nature Park, Kentucky
• 21. Places to Visit in Kentucky: Laurel River Lake
• 22. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
• 23. Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky
• 24. Places to Visit Near Me: Fairmount Falls
• 25. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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10 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

Kentucky is more than fried chicken and bourbon, though these rank high on the list of things to eat and drink. But horse racing also features prominently in Kentucky culture. The state has five tracks, of which Churchill Downs is the most famous. Settled by frontiersman Daniel Boone and the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, Kentucky offers a plethora of activities to keep you on the go.

There are panoramic vistas just waiting to be viewed, caves to be explored and bluegrass festivals to attend. Kentucky is where creamy gravy is elevated to an art form, making an ideal companion for that fried chicken. An overview of the best places to visit in Kentucky:

10. Bowling Green

Bowling Green might be dubbed the “motor city” of Kentucky since Chevrolet has manufactured the Corvette here since 1981; you can take a factory tour or visit the National Corvette Museum which is located here. Founded in1798, the city served as the Confederate capital of Kentucky during the Civil War.

In 2014, Forbes named it a top place to retire. The city has many parks, making it a good place to enjoy nature in an urban setting. Other top attractions in Bowling Green include Fountain Square with its Victorian fountain, the hands-on Barren River Imaginative Museum of Science and Aviation Heritage Park.

9. Big South Fork National River

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is a good place for you to get up-close and personal with nature. Located in the Cumberland Plateau in northeastern Kentucky, the national park offers miles of hiking trails, rock climbing and whitewater rafting adventures, horseback riding and camping. And don’t forget the stupendous scenery.

The Big South Fork region has many natural bridges caused by erosion as well as stunning views of the river gorge as it cuts through ancient rock. It also has hoodoos that are similar to those found in the western United States.

8. Land Between the Lakes

The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is aptly named: It’s located between Kentucky and Barkley lakes, which are connected by a canal. Located in Kentucky and Tennessee, President John Kennedy designated it a national recreation area in 1963. This scenic area offers you plenty to see and do, from hiking trails to driving through an elk and bison prairie.

Additionally, you’ll want to visit the Homeplace, a recreated 1850 farm where staff wears period costumes and uses period implements and techniques to grow crops. There’s also a planetarium that offers good viewing of any eclipses.

7. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Spirited travelers will definitely want to journey along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The road trip takes in nine of the state’s major distillers, including Wild Turkey, Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark and Four Roses, as well as some of the smaller craft distilleries.

You’ll learn how America’s native spirit is made, view the distilleries and maybe even do a little sampling of the state’s best. Kentuckians have been making bourbon since the 1700s when farmers realized it was easier to get their crops of corn and grain to market if they were in liquid form.

Paducah is a small city located at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee rivers. Paducah was first settled in 1821 but it wasn’t until 1827 that William Clark (think Lewis and Clark Expedition) designed the town’s layout.

The city’s top attraction is the National Quilt Museum, which hosts an annual international quilt exhibition. Just a walk away are the Floodwall murals that trace Paducah’s history in 50 panels. Paducah also is known for its historic district – 20 blocks are on the National Register of Historic Places. The city is known, too, for its vibrant music and arts scene.

5. Cumberland Gap

When we think of buffalo roaming the range, we think of the prairie states. Yet, buffalo once roamed Cumberland Gap since the trail is based on buffalo trails. The Cumberland Gap is a major break in the Appalachian Mountains and in the early years of settlement was a gateway to the west. Between 1775 and 1810 an estimated 300,000 settlers entered Kentucky.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park not only preserves the area’s natural beauty but its history as well. Be sure to visit Hensley Settlement, an old mining village that is representative of the early 20th century.

4. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, add Natural Bridge State Resort Park to your bucket list of places to visit in Kentucky. Natural Bridge, one of Kentucky’s first state parks, offers 19 miles (30 km) of hiking trails (Note: pets are not permitted on most trails) and a small lake for fishing and paddling.

This is in addition to Red River Gorge scenery and some spectacular sandstone formations, including a natural bridge that is 66 feet (20 meters) high. About half the park is a nature reserve. Square dancers: The park hosts twice weekly Appalachian square dances during the summer.

3. Lexington

Kentucky’s second largest city, Lexington , is the heart of the Bluegrass region. It is also known as the horse capital of the world; it’s been a center for thoroughbred racing for more than 200 years. Its Bluegrass Stakes is considered a rehearsal for the Kentucky Derby. The city was once dubbed the “Athens of the West” by an early 19th century poet.

Lexington has a vibrant arts scene, hosting music and arts festivals. throughout the year. Notable personages with ties to Lexington include 19th century politico Henry Clay, Confederate president Jefferson Davis and actor George Clooney.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park

Spelunkers probably already know this: Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the known world. To date, 405 miles (652 km) of passageways have been surveyed; this figure increases with new discoveries every year. Discovered by hunters in 1797, the caves were mined for calcium nitrate in the War of 1912.

Several caves are open to visitors, with electric-lit tours. Hardier explorers can opt for a lantern tour that involves crawling though muddy passageways. One of the most popular places to visit in Kentucky, about two million people visit the national park every year, with around 500,000 taking a cave tour.

1. Louisville

Named for King Louis XVI, Louisville was founded on the Falls of Ohio in 1778, making it one of the oldest towns west of the Appalachians. It is Kentucky’s largest city. Louisville is best known as the home of the Kentucky Derby, a leg of the Triple Crown that’s called the “greatest two minutes in sports.” The annual derby dates back to 1875.

Just prior to the derby is Thunder over Louisville, the largest fireworks display in North America. But take a gander through the city’s historic district, the largest historic preservation district in the United States that features Victorian homes and buildings.

Map of Kentucky

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

17 Best Places To Visit In Kentucky (+ Unique Vacation Spots)

December 29, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Kentucky, we’ve got you covered! There are so many amazing things to do in Kentucky. The state is known for its Bluegrass, the kindness of its citizens, beautiful mountains, horse country and racing, Bluegrass music, and more! The state is often overlooked, but it shouldn’t be! You can find exciting adventures, lovely beaches, romantic wineries, hiking experiences, waterfalls, intriguing museums, and fun cities to explore in the fantastic southeastern state. What’s so wonderful about Kentucky is that there truly is something for everyone. No matter what type of travel experience you are looking for, rest assured, you can find it in Kentucky. Keep reading to discover these amazing places in Kentucky! Which will you visit first?

Make sure to check out our list of the best resorts in Kentucky for more inspiration for your Kentucky vacation!

17 Best Places To Visit In Kentucky

Grimes mill winery.

When visiting The Bluegrass state you may have a few bourbon distilleries on your list of things to do. The bourbon in Kentucky is amazing, however, make sure that you don’t overlook the wineries in Kentucky ! Grimes Mill Winery is one of the best. This winery is located in Lexington, Kentucky and it has an amazing tasting room. You can find a complete menu of cheeses, salads, appetizers, and entrees. Having a large selection of food to choose from is always a plus when you are traveling to a new destination! Grimes Mill Winery is one of the coolest attractions in Kentucky because not only do they have fantastic wines, they also have events and entertainment while you are there. You can enjoy happy hour every Friday from 2-4 pm where you can get 50% off glasses of wine. You will also enjoy the grounds of the winery as they have two bocce ball courts and a farm that is complete with burrows, horses, and other animals that make your time spent at Grimes Mill a memorable one. This beautiful winery is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Where to stay: Downtown Townhouse Near Rupp Arena

Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

Of all the things to do in Louisville , KY, the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory is arguably the most popular attraction in the city. When it comes to unique places to visit in Kentucky, watching baseball bats be made would definitely be at the top of that list! Just a one-minute walk from the popular Frazier History Museum, The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory can’t be missed. The huge statue of one of their baseball bats sits outside of the museum and can be seen from down the street. Louisville Slugger baseball bats are used by more than 15% of MLB players and the factor produced around 1.8 million bats each year. The museum is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky because it is a place where you can learn about the history of the Louisville Slugger bats and also see how they are made in real-time. Forbes has called this museum “one of the greatest sports museums in the world.” Some of the most exciting parts about your visit to the museum will be holding pieces of history. You can hold bats that have been used by some of the greatest players in baseball history. Bats used by Derek Jeter, Mickey Mantle, Johnny Bench, and David Ortiz can all be held at the museum, along with bats from other past and present players. Where to stay: Germantown Getaway

Waverly Hills Sanatorium

Are you looking for haunted places in Kentucky to visit ? Are you the kind of traveler who thinks of haunted locations when researching vacation spots in Kentucky? If so, the Waverly Hills Sanatorium is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky for you! It’s not only one of the most haunted places in Kentucky but in the world! Waverly Hills was opened in 1901 as a hospital to help tackle tuberculosis. More than 63,000 people died in the hospital! There were so many deaths in the hospital that they created tunnels to help get all of the bodies out. Many of the patients at Waverly Hills were subjected to terrible procedures and many didn’t survive them. Ghost hunters and supernatural enthusiasts say that many of the tortured souls that lost their lives within the walls of the sanatorium are still there roaming the halls to this day. People who visit the Waverly Hills Sanatorium have reported seeing black shadows, hearing voices and whistles, as well as being touched by something or someone that they cannot see. For those who love the supernatural, there are few places to visit in Kentucky that are better than the Waverly Hills Sanatorium. Where to stay: Relax and Put Your Feet Up!

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

When it comes to things to do in Lexington , Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is a must-see! The Raven Run Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Kentucky. If you are looking for the best Kentucky tourist attractions as someone who loves to spend time in the great outdoors, you should definitely check out the Raven Run Sanctuary. In the sanctuary there are seven trails that you can spend time exploring and enjoying being in nature, making it one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! The area that is now known as the Raven Run Sanctuary was owned by the Prather family during the 1800s. You can see their original homestead on the grounds to this day. Within the sanctuary, their homestead, along with the Moore Grave, Evans Mill, and the Kentucky River Overlook are among the most prominent features. The mill was a central point for local farmers who used it to mill their corn back in the day. While you are at Raven Run you will want to be sure to stop at the overlook to enjoy the beautiful Kentucky River Palisades. Where to stay: The Kentucky Bourbon Suite

Green River Bluffs Route

Hiking in Kentucky is so much fun! The world-renowned Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the best places for hiking in Kentucky. In the park, you will find the Green River Bluffs Route. This trail is one of the best in the national park. The Green River Bluffs Route consists of a combination of different trails within the park, Many of these trails are short and you can combine them in whatever way you wish to make an experience tailored to your needs as a traveler and as a hiker. This fun option for personalization makes this one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! (This is also a fun opportunity in Kentucky for couples!) A popular route along the Green River Bluffs Route involves taking the Green River Bluffs Trail, Echo River Springs Trail, Sinkhole Trail, and Heritage Trail. The loop is four miles long and features geological features and of course some of those outstanding Kentucky views. Along the way, you can see Dixon Cave, natural sinkholes, and a bright blue bubbling river! Where to stay: My Old Kentucky Hideaway- Lakeview Cabin

Forest Edge Winery

The Forest Edge Winery is another one of the amazing wineries in Kentucky ! Located in Shepherdsville, the Forest Edge Winery is roughly a half-hour from Louisville and is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! At this winery, you will find award-winning wines for the low price of just five dollars! They also offer assorted cheeses made from Kentucky Proud products. If you are traveling with dogs or children, Forest Edge Winery is the winery for you as they are friendly to non-drinking family members. There is a playroom complete with toys and a TV to entertain kids while you enjoy. Although this is not a restaurant, you are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and basket with a meal to enjoy with your wine. If you love wine and are excited to explore The Bluegrass State, the Forest Edge Winery is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Where to stay: The Clubhouse

Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls is one of the best waterfalls in Kentucky! When looking for places to go in Kentucky, the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park should make the cut! Cumberland Falls is the most iconic waterfall in The Bluegrass State.

The park is a Mecca for outdoor adventurers. Whether you’re into hiking, fishing, swimming, camping, white water rafting, canoeing, or horseback riding, you can do them all at Cumberland Falls. The views in the park are to die for and between 800,000 and one million people visit the falls each year. This is also one of the best places to see Fall Foliage In Kentucky! At certain points in the year, you can see moonbows above the falls. Moonbows are like rainbows at night. They are seriously beautiful and the rare and exciting nature of moonbows draws visitors in droves when they are present. There are various hiking trails, beaches, and viewpoints in the park where you can get different views of Cumberland Falls. At night time you can also catch a glimpse at the bats that fly away from the bridge in the park as they like to sleep in the cracks during the day, then come out to play at night. Cumberland Falls is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Where to stay: Lake Retreat at Lake Cumberland Resort

Cumberland Gap National Park

Cumberland Gap National Park is one of the best places to experience fall in Kentucky. The Cumberland Gap is one of the cool places to visit in Kentucky as it is so striking visually and is also full of thrilling history. You can camp, backpack, hike, and take guided tours in the park. Also, guided tours of the caves and settlements are available to visitors as well. For those who like to hike, there is every type of trail available to you. You can find short trails that have little to no elevation gain as well as more strenuous trails. This park is particularly beautiful in the fall when the orange and red fall colors are popping on the trees. The viewpoints in the Cumberland Gap offer some of the best views of the fall colors in the whole state. The entire park actually covers ground in not only Kentucky but Virginia and Tennessee as well. Around the park, there are a few museums that would great additions to your Kentucky bucket list! There is the Little Congress Bicycle Museum which showcases bikes from a bygone era, and the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum that is the best way to learn about the history of the area. Where to stay: 1928 Home in the Heart of Cumberland Gap

Double Arch Trail at Red River Gorge

For the adventure-loving traveler who enjoys being in nature when traveling, the double arch trail at Red River Gorge is an amazing experience. This trail is one of the very best trails for hiking in Kentucky ! The Double Arch Trail is also one of the most amazing places to see in Kentucky it is one of the most beautiful parts of the state and the arches are truly remarkable natural wonders. It’s often that the arches in Arizona and Utah are talked about, but did you know that there are countless arches in Kentucky as well? There are more than 100 arches in the Red River Gorge alone. The Double Arch trail starts on a flat gravel road, then, after descending down stone steps you will reach the Double Arch. Through the arch, you will have a view over the treetops and views of Courthouse Rock and Haystack Rock as well. This hike is great no matter what time of year, but it is particularly magical in the fall months, making it one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Where to stay: Shipping Container Cabin

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park Beach

When it comes to The Bluegrass State, you probably aren’t thinking about beaches. However, there are a lot of cool beaches in Kentucky ! The beach at the Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park is one of the best public access beaches in the state. Kentucky Dam is in Gilbertsville, Kentucky, and has a golf course and restaurant in the vicinity. The restaurant is called Harbor Lights and gives patrons views of the water from the large floor-to-ceiling windows. They have a salad bar, breakfast options, and of course, fried fish. Of course, you can take part in the usual swimming and sunbathing, but there is more to do in the area. The beach is next to a walking and bike path which is great to get those legs moving after soaking up the sun for hours on the beach. Fishing and water sports such as tubing and water skiing are also popular. This beach is open from ten in the morning to seven in the evening from Memorial Day to Labor Day. You’ll also have access to a really fantastic gift shop. Where to stay: Lovely Home w/View & Private Dock on Kentucky Lake

If you are looking for weekend getaways in Kentucky, Newport is a great option. Located in the northernmost part of the state, Newport is a family-friendly town that is perfect for a weekend getaway.

This northern Kentucky town is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Located along the Kentucky and Ohio border, Newport is so fun and offers opportunities to try seriously delicious food and explore family-friendly attractions. The town was founded in 1795 and provides the perfect mix of modernity and history. Since Newport is right on the border with Ohio, it lends itself to a getaway to Cincinnati as well. This is truly one of the best small towns in Kentucky! Some of the best places to visit in Newport include the Newport Aquarium and walking around at Newport On The Levee. When you’re looking for things to do in Newport, most of the exciting things to do can be found on the levee. You can grab a meal overlooking the river, let your kids play at the playground by the river, or try the unique restaurant called Tom + Chee. This restaurant was on Shark Tank and is home to the grilled cheese donut. You can find some mind glowingly good grilled cheeses there and they’re the perfect fuel for a day spent walking around Newport. Where to stay: Farmhouse in the City!

Broke Leg Falls

Waterfalls in Kentucky are plentiful! If you plan on visiting the Red River Gorge, you may be interested in traveling just 20 miles northeast to see the stunning Broke Leg Falls. This waterfall is one of the many beautiful places to visit in Kentucky! Waterfalls and other natural features are so cool to see for yourself, but when you aren’t a big fan of hiking, these types of sites can be difficult to experience. Broke Leg Falls is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky as it is only 0.3 miles from your car to the waterfall, making it perfect for those traveling with young kids and those who don’t want to hike long distances to see a beautiful piece of Kentucky nature. You don’t need hiking boots for this Kentucky hiking trail. You will be able to see a series of falls once you arrive. The main waterfall drops around 60 feet into the scenic canyon below. An F-3 tornado went through the area around the falls and you can see debris in the area to this day. This powerful display was an example of the strength of mother nature and helps us appreciate beautiful sites like Broke Leg Falls even more. Where to stay: Cave Run Red River Gorge Cabin

One of the best places to visit in Kentucky is the capital city of Frankfort. A trip to the capital city gives you a dive into the culture, history, and essence of the state that other places just can’t give you. Of course, the best way to learn the history of the state is by visiting the historical sites in the area. You can visit the Liberty Hall Historic Site and enjoy its lovely gardens and river proximity, The State Capitol Building to learn about how the state was formed, the Kentucky History Center &  Museums to learn about prominent Kentuckians over time, and the Capitol City Museum where there is an abundance of historical information about the city of Frankfort. If you want to spend some time outside while in Frankfort, check out Cover Spring Park which has around 140 acres of wetlands, waterfalls, streams, springs, and ravines. You can search for waterfalls and hike until your heart’s content in this Frankfort park! To enjoy the Kentucky River that runs through Frankfort you can enjoy the views from River View Park or take it a step further and see it up close on The Bourbon Boat with Kentucky River Tours.  Where to stay: Peaceful Farmhouse Retreat Frankfort, Kentucky

Explore The Bourbon Trail

Kentucky is known for its bourbon and there is no better way to truly dive into bourbon culture than by exploring the Bourbon Trail. There are more than forty bourbon distilleries in Kentucky and they produce more than two hundred different brands.

Some of the most famous distilleries include Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Angel’s Envy Distillery. There is so much to do on the trail. You can, of course, taste test bourbon, but you can also try cocktails, stay in cute accommodation, take classes and workshops, eat fine dining cuisine, and more, making the Bourbon Trail one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Don’t forget to check out our post about Visting The Kentucky Bourbon Trail as well as the Best Bourbon Distilleries in Kentucky! There’s amazing food along the trail at places like The Garden & Gun Club and the Rooftop Bar & Restaurant in the Louisville area, The Kitchen At BBC, and Star Hill Provisions in the Bardstown area, and Elkhorn Tavern and Beyond Grits in the Lexington area.

To complete your ultimate bourbon experience you will need around 8-10 days. During this time you will learn and experience the rich traditions behind the distilleries, collect bourbon passport stamps, eat outstanding food, and see beautiful landscapes along the way. Where to stay: Beautiful apartment in the heart of Bardstown, KY

Paducah is a town in the far west of Kentucky. Paducah has true small-town charm and will leave you feeling relaxed and renewed after your visit. For family travelers, Paducah is a good option due to the museums and outdoor activities that it has. If you don’t have kids, don’t let this deter you as the town is very interesting and also has one of the best wineries in Kentucky, the Purple Toad Winery! You will feel as though you have stepped back in time when you are in Paducah as many of the attractions are dedicated to a past life. This is noticeable at the National Quilt Museum where there are exhibits that show the history of quilt making as well as displays of truly amazing quilts that show the talent of their artists. Another popular site near Paducah is Fort Massac State Park. It is French colonial and early national-era fort that sits on the Ohio River just over the border into Illinois. The Yeiser Art Center is a great option for those traveling as a part of a couple! If you’re traveling with your children you will want to check out the Paducah Railroad Museum where they can check out the locomotive simulator for kids of all ages. The River Discovery Center is highly interactive and is great for kids as well. When it’s time for lunch or dinner you can check out some local cuisine.

You will find cajun food at Broussard’s, wood-fired pizzas at Max’s Brick Oven Cafe, Italian fare at Cynthia’s Ristorante, and down-home American fare at the Gold Rush Cafe. Paducah is a city that you never expect to be a top destination in the area then it surprises you with its charm, food, waterfront, and fun activities. Paducah is planted firmly on the list of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Don’t forget to check out our list of best things to do in Paducah! Where to stay: Convenient Cozy & Modern Getaway

Kentucky Down Under

Kentucky Down Under is an Australian-themed adventure zoo in Horse Cave, Kentucky. It’s located in the western part of central Kentucky near Mammoth Cave, Cave City, and just forty minutes east of Bowling Green. If you’ve ever wanted to feed a kangaroo, roam with emus, have a Lorrie land on your shoulder, or gem for beautiful gems and stones, then you will love Kentucky Down Under. Children especially will love the opportunities to pet animals in the petting zoo and get close to kangaroos and emus in the park. This Kentucky attraction was started in 1990 by an Australian woman and her American husband who both had a passion for animals. Their dedication to the park and to the animals that call it home can be seen through the fun activities that they carefully set up there to inspire the next generation of animal lovers. The wonderful thing about Kentucky Down Under is that it is so close to other exciting Kentucky attractions so you can easily fill your weekend with tons of fun adventures. Kentucky Down Under is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky for family travelers! Where to stay: Blue Heron Hideaway Lake House

Tour The Worlds Longest Cave

The world’s longest caves system is located in The Bluegrass State and is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky! Taking part in a cave tour is must-add activity to your Kentucky bucket list. You have several options to choose from as the National Park Service offers different tours to meet the needs of different travelers. (Keep in mind that there is an accessible tour option!) One option is the Cleaveland Avenue Tour which provides bus transport, has over 200 steps, lasts an hour, and is super informative for anyone interested in learning in-depth about the cave system. Another popular option is the Frozen Niagra Tour. This is a wonderful option for anyone who doesn’t want to do much walking as it’s only .25 miles and there are only 12 steps to traverse on the tour. The Mammoth Cave System has 346 miles of cave passageways, with some areas still unexplored. The cave features a dome that is 192 feet high and a pit that is 105 feet deep. The system is simply remarkable and taking a tour of the cave is an adventurous experience! Where to stay: Gorgeous Cabin on Lake Nolin

Now that you have learned about some of the best places to visit in Kentucky you may find your Kentucky bucket list to be overflowing! That’s okay! Kentucky is a state full of fun music, stunning natural beauty, kind people, and delicious food. Of all the things to do in Kentucky, you are sure to find something to fit your wishlist! Which of these places will you visit first?

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Kentucky (KY) » 21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky

Kentucky , the Bluegrass State , offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Dog Slaughter Falls

Perfect for a family hike, Dog Slaughter Falls is one of Kentucky’s best known natural sights. The 15-foot waterfall is one of the most impressive in the state and great views of the falls are provided from the Dog Slaughter Falls Trail. The two-mile trek is rated at moderate and is an ideal spot for dog-walking. Hemlock and rhododendrons are among the plants visitors can expect to see on the trail, but Dog Slaughter Falls is without a doubt the highlight of any trip to this part of Kentucky.

2. The Appalachians

Once upon a time the Appalachians were as massive as the Rocky Mountains and the Alps, but over the years they have been slowly eroded away to their present state. Extending for almost 2,000 miles, the mountain range acts as a natural barrier between the interior lowlands of North America and the eastern coastal plain.

In Kentucky itself the peaks of the Appalachians are not particularly high, but the terrain is regarded as very rugged and is for experienced hikers only. The views from the top are still awe-inspiring, regardless of the hills’ lack of height and physical stature.

3. Breaks Interstate Park

Known as the Grand Canyon of the South, Breaks Interstate Park spans the border of Kentucky and Virginia. The park is famous for being home to the deepest gorge east of the Mississippi, with Virginia State Route 80 the best way to reach the area. Explorer Daniel Boone is credited with being the first to discover the beauty of Breaks Interstate Park and today there are dozens of lodges where people can stay to appreciate the sights of the area up close.

4. Fairmount Falls

Despite being only small at eight acres, Fairmount Falls is home to an incredible 40-foot waterfall that draws visitors from many, many miles. Easily reachable within minutes from the Gene Snyder and Bardstown Road interchange, this superb Kentucky landmark is accessible by permit only to protect the natural landscape. The best time to visit is either in spring or in winter, as this is when the flow of water at Fairmount Falls is at its most impressive.

5. Gallatin County

A great spot to visit for people interested in learning about the Civil War, Gallatin County is also where some of Kentucky’s most beautiful places are located. The historically important county may be the smallest in Kentucky by area, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in its own unique charm. Sparta is one of the Gallatin County communities that are well worth visiting, as this is where the Kentucky Speedway is held.

6. Sunset on Kentucky Lake

Kentucky Lake is one of the largest man-made artificial lakes in the United States, holding up to 4,008,000 acre-feet of water. But, more importantly, the sunsets over the lake are out of this world. Bass and crappie fishing are popular in Kentucky Lake and its neighbor Lake Barkley, with the land between the two lakes housing an elk and bison prairie, which is free to enter and is open all year round. Kenlake State Resort Park can also be found to the west of Kentucky Lake, with Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park to the north.

7. George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge

The George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge, which Kentucky locals call Second Street Bridge, provides a crossing over the Ohio River between Louisville and Jeffersonville, Indiana . The bridge famously features in a scene from the movie Stripes, where the character played by Bill Murray gets out of a cab and throws his keys into the river. The bridge is also the centerpoint of the annual Thunder Over Louisville event, where a waterfall of fireworks lights up the sky. The bridge is named in honour of the founder of Louisville, George Rogers Clark.

8. Mammoth Cave

The Mammoth Cave National Park is the longest known cave system in the world, with more than 400 miles of caves having been plotted to date. Keen explorers should definitely take some time to check out Mammoth Cave and its surroundings, as new caves are regularly being discovered.

A United Nations World Heritage site, Mammoth Cave attracts around 400,000 tourists every year. During tours, rangers typically turn off their guiding lights, making Mammoth Cave National Park one of the few places in the world where people can experience the wonder of true darkness.

9. Perryville

Perryville is another must-visit Kentucky location for people who are interested in Civil War history. The Battle of Perryville – which is sometimes referred to as the Battle of Chaplin Hills – is regarded as one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles. Today, Perryville is a National Historic Landmark area and it is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Some of the first buildings to be built in Perryville still stand today, even though they are now close to 200 years old.

10. Kentucky State Capitol

Home to Kentucky’s government, the state capitol is located in the city of Frankfort . The state capitol building houses a glorious marble staircase, making it one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in the whole state. The staircases are without a doubt one of the main reasons to visit the state capitol, with the marble interiors having been inspired by the Opera Garnier in Paris.

Guided tours of the Kentucky State Capitol are available and come highly recommended, with the First Lady Doll Collection among the most noteworthy attractions housed in the building.

11. Pinnacles of Berea

The Pinnacles of Berea provide not just some of the best hiking trails in the state, but in the whole of the South. The main trail consists of a loop 6.6 miles long, which typically takes around three to four hours to complete depending on your hiking experience and fitness levels. Beautiful wild flowers are present throughout the trail, which is accessible from April until October and is open to dog-walkers too. Check out the West Pinnacle and Indian Fort Outlook for some of the best views of the stunning scenery at the Pinnacles of Berea.

12. Big South Fork National River

Established in 1974, visiting the Big South Fork National River is a must for anyone exploring Kentucky. Hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting and stargazing are all popular activities at Big South Fork, which also hosts a huge collection of natural bridges that are well worth exploring and provide some fantastic opportunities for photography. Wilderness lodge Charit Creek Lodge is among the many places people can stay while visiting the Big South Fork National River.

13. Red River Gorge

Located within the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge is famous for its natural stone arches. The gorge is also designated as a national geological area due to its sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations. The Red River Gorge has developed into one of the world’s hottest rock climbing spots, with climbing enthusiasts giving the area the nickname ‘Red’. The Red River Gorge’s Sky Bridge features in the 1955 movie The Kentuckian, which starred Burt Lancaster.

14. Newport

Once known as Sin City due to its many casinos, Newport today is a much more family-friendly destination, with the Newport on the Levee entertainment complex one of the busiest leisure and retail sites in the whole of Kentucky. Newport is also home to one of the 20 World Peace Bells. In fact, the Newport bell was the largest swinging bell in the world between 2000 and 2006.

Local places worth visiting include Newport Aquarium, music venue Thompson House, the Northern Kentucky Gambling Museum, General James Taylor Park and Newport Southbank Bridge.

15. Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls is sometimes called the Niagara of the South or the Little Niagara, with the falls the main attraction of the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Visitors should try to time their visit to Cumberland Falls when there is a full moon and a clear sky, as this is when a gorgeous elusive lunar rainbow – also known as a moonbow – can often be spotted. The arch of white light that makes up the moonbow is an unforgettable sight and one of the most beautiful things in Kentucky.

16. Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek may be more famous as an Australian horror movie, but in Kentucky the name refers to a huge dam in Russell County. The area is also home to Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, which is free for visitors, with the Visitor/Environmental Education Center open 364 days a year. More than 100,000 people visit Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery every year and the local area is home to some of the state’s most special scenery as well.

17. Kentucky River

The Kentucky River flows all the way through the state, starting in Lee County at Beattyville before windings its slow route through the state’s mountains. The river takes in the Daniel Boone National Forest and flows through Boonesborough and Irvine before eventually linking up with the Ohio River.

Perhaps the best place in the state to experience the magnificence of the Kentucky River is at the Kentucky River Palisades, between Frankfort and Clays Ferry in Madison County. This is where a series of gargantuan steep gorges as long as 100 miles long can be viewed.

18. Lexington

Known as the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Kentucky. The second largest city in Kentucky, Lexington is home to a huge array of historic sites, such as the Waveland State Historic Site and Kentucky statesman Henry Clay’s Ashland estate. But if horses are your thing, Lexington is a fantastic place to visit.

The American Saddle Horse Museum and the Kentucky Horse Park are both worth checking out, while there are few places better to watch racing than at the Keeneland Race Course. The Festival of the Bluegrass also takes place in Lexington every June and hikers should head to the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary.

19. Bardstown

Bardstown was described by Rand McNally and USA Today as the Most Beautiful Small Town in America and it is hard to argue with that description. The county seat of Nelson County, Bardstown is famous around the world for its bourbon, while its eclectic shops are well worth exploring too. There are five bourbon distilleries in Bardstown, with Heaven Hill, Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam all based in the area.

The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History is among the top attractions Bardstown boasts, the Kentucky Railway Museum. The Civil War Museum in Bardstown is one of the biggest in the United States and tourists should also go to Wickland, a private residence that three Kentucky Governors have lived in, which offers public tours.

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky:

• Dog Slaughter Falls
• The Appalachians
• Breaks Interstate Park
• Fairmount Falls
• Gallatin County
• Sunset on Kentucky Lake
• George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge
• Mammoth Cave
• Kentucky State Capitol
• Pinnacles of Berea
• Big South Fork National River
• Red River Gorge
• Cumberland Falls
• Kentucky River

Top 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky

Mostly known for its moonshine, bourbon, bluegrass music, and acres of gorgeous farmland, Kentucky is a state with both character and soul.

It’s not always a major destination for tourists, but that’s a shame, as those who don’t visit, I think, are seriously missing out! It’s home to scenic countryside, limestone hills, unspoiled parks, forests, and roads seemingly made for extraordinary road trips. Here are my personal favorite spots to explore in the state…

1. Cumberland Falls

Known as the Niagara of the South, these falls include a 125-foot-wide area of water that is nothing short of spectacular.

Located in the southeastern part of the state, Cumberland Falls is gorgeous and has one other distinction – it is one of only two places on the planet that experiences moonbows.

Moonbows are rainbows created by the moon’s light. One is in Zambia on the continent of Africa. If you want to take full advantage of the falls, I highly recommend renting a raft and visiting them when there is a full moon outside!

• Visitor’s Center Address: Cumberland Falls Rd, Williamsburg, KY 40769
• Peak times to visit: I’d recommend visiting during the full moon to catch the magical moonbow

My must-do highlights…

• Perfect spot for birdwatching, especially for woodpecker lovers!
• Engage in activities such as hiking, cycling and swimming. 

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2. Bourbon Distilleries

Kentucky is known for its bourbon and is home to nearly 70 different distilleries.

This includes Buffalo Trace, where you can enjoy a tour of the entire process, from cooking to distilling; Maker’s Mark, where you can hand-dip your bottle with their famous red wax; and the Bardstown Bourbon Company, where you can taste bourbon straight from the barrel! 

If you love bourbon or are just curious how they make this amazing drink, this state allows you to learn more about it every day of the week! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 829 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
• Peak times to visit: From March to May

3. Appalachian Mountains 

If you love the mountains, I recommend heading out to the Eastern part of the state and looking at the Appalachian Mountains.

You can hike, visit overlooks, and see some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve likely seen in a long time! I would also recommend hiking or boating on the beautiful forest trails, which offer seriously scenic views!

The Appalachian Mountains cover a very large section of Eastern Kentucky, and it is one sight you should plan on seeing on your next visit.

• Peak times to visit: October

4. Louisville

This is the largest and busiest city in the state, and I personally think one of the most underrated cities in the USA. It’s an easy-on-the-eye place with an impressive skyline, a booming arts scene, and a long-established bluegrass music scene.

Add excellent restaurants, lively bars, and a good handful of distilleries, and you have a seriously cool city!

My favorite highlights include the 21C Museum Hotel, the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft , the Muhammad Ali Center , the Louisville Mega Cavern , and the Kentucky Science Center. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 301 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202
• Peak times to visit: From March to November

5. Kentucky Lake

Located in the southwestern part of the state, Kentucky Lake covers 184 miles and has more than 2,000 miles of shoreline. But this lake doesn’t just offer your usual boating and fishing opportunities.

It also offers poker runs, open regattas, drag boat races, and cabins you can rent for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation!

You can also ski, swim, and take your favourite ski jet out on the water, and if you’re an active type, I would highly recommend trying them all! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 93 Carroll Rd. Benton KY 42025
• Peak times to visit: From September to December

6. Frankfort

A charming town beautifully located on the Kentucky River, this place seems to embody everything great about this state in a compact form! 

It’s known for having one of the most beautiful Capitol buildings in the country. Still, my other favorite highlights include its bourbon distilleries, wine, and new and old governor mansions. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 300 St Clair St #102, Frankfort, KY 40601

7. Dixie Belle Paddle Wheels

If you’re curious about old-fashioned Southern paddlewheel boats, I suggest heading to the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill and cruising through the Kentucky River Palisades on one of these boats.

After you’re done cruising, come back ashore and visit the village itself. You can enjoy nature preserves, organic gardens, and more than 40 miles of trails here.

This is an original Shaker village that still has 34 of its original buildings. Whether you’re on the site enjoying everything it offers or on a paddlewheel boat cruise, I’d highly recommend adding this to your Kentucky itinerary!

8. Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge

With a 65-foot-high natural bridge made mostly of sandstone, the beautiful Red River Gorge is spectacular.

Nearby, you can rent some cute cabins for the night, go camping at one of the many campgrounds in the area, hike some great scenic nature trails, go zip lining if you feel extra adventurous, and even rock-climbing when the desire hits you.

With this amazing tourist spot, You can enjoy some beautiful views and fulfil your dream of being an explorer in the 1800s.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 3451 Sky Bridge Rd Hwy 715, Stanton, KY 40380
• Peak times to visit: From March to May and from September to December

9. Daniel Boone National Forest

This stunning area has been a national park since 1937. It sprawls across a vast 708,000 acres in the most rugged area west of the Appalachian Mountains, home to forested slopes, sandstone cliffs, and narrow ravines.

This is a nature lover’s dream. Here, you can hike, camp, picnic, rock climb, or go boating, although I recommend relaxing and enjoying the wonderful scenery! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1700 Bypass Road, Winchester, KY 40391
• Peak times to visit: September

10. Dale Hollow Lake

Beautiful Dale Hollow Lake offers hiking and boating activities, bird-watching opportunities, mountain bike trails, and much more.

It is located in south-central Kentucky and has over 27,000 acres of land. Erected in 1943, Dale Hollow Lake is a great place to visit if you love being on the water or merely standing on the sidelines and enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll ever find.

Because of its beauty, this is a must-see location whenever you’re visiting the Bluegrass State.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1005 Livingston Hwy, Byrdstown, TN 38549
• Peak times to visit: Between September and May

11. John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge

This old bridge was completed in the 1860s, and it sits on the Ohio River between the Ohio city of Cincinnati and the Kentucky city of Covington. It is a spectacular site with majestic-looking spires and an almost Art Deco look.

If you see the bridge and think you’ve seen it before, you don’t have to get spooked because this bridge was the inspiration behind the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.

If you live in northern Kentucky and are interested in attending a sporting event in Cincinnati, this is one of the best ways to get there.

• Visitor’s Center Address: John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Covington, KY 41011
• Peak times to visit: Anytime

12. Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area

Consisting of more than 170,000 acres, the Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve run by the Forest Service. My favorite highlights include the fascinating wildlife and the fascinating history.

You also get to enjoy more than 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline that is nothing short of spectacular, and through it all, you get to enjoy animals such as bison, elk, buffalo, and wild turkeys.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211

13. Bardstown

Perfectly positioned on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, this charming and attractive town offers a Napa Valley-style experience—swap the wine for whiskey! 

It’s a very easy-on-the-eye place, which USA Today called the “Most Beautiful Small Town in America.” It has also been named America’s Most Beautiful Town Square.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Court Square # 102, Bardstown, KY 40004

14. Mammoth Cave National Park

A natural setting with more than 400 miles of passageways, Mammoth Cave is spectacular and has some of the longest-known caves in the entire world.

These subterranean passageways are home to stalagmites, stalactites, helictites, and travertine dams, which you can view up close without any problems. You can explore the cave on your own or go on one of the ranger-led tours so that nothing important is overlooked.

Located in central Kentucky, this national park is the place to be if you love the ultimate beauty that Mother Nature can only supply.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
• Peak times to visit: From November to February

15. Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Located in Owensboro, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame is just a few miles from the birthplace of the Father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe.

Interactive exhibits, jam sessions, concerts, lessons, and special events are included, including the three-day ROMP Fest, which is usually held in June each year.

The Hall of Fame currently has 60 inductees and houses the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. If you love bluegrass music, I recommend visiting this place!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 2590 Richmond St, Mt Vernon, KY 40456
• Peak times to visit: Anytime apart from Mondays, as it’s closed

16. Western Kentucky Botanical Garden

Located in Owensboro, the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden is the perfect place to visit if you love it when nature decides to show off a bit.

Some of its attractions include lots of flowers and plants to enjoy, and they specialize in events that teach you everything you need to know about your favorite flower to new ways to enjoy everything growing indoors and outdoors in this spectacular garden.

They offer special activities for kids, events for special holidays such as Christmas, and much more.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 2731 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301

17. Nolin Lake

This stunning place, which covers 5,795 acres, was opened to the public in 1996. If you need time to reconnect with nature, Nolin Lake offers activities such as boating, swimming, and relaxing on the sandy beach!

The park has 32 campsites, great facilities for all, and is open year-round. It also has a private beach and plenty of space for a relaxing vacation.

• Going camping near a beautiful sandy beach.
• Go hiking on the Waterfall Loop on Brier Creek Trail.
• Explore nature and wildlife displays.

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20 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky This Year

Kentucky, also known as the “Bluegrass State,” is a hidden gem in the United States with a wealth of natural beauty, historical attractions, and cultural experiences. From the rolling bluegrass fields to the underground wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park, there is something for everyone in this diverse state.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Kentucky has it all. In this blog, we will explore the 20 best places to visit in Kentucky, including national parks, museums, bourbon distilleries, and more. So, grab your map, and let’s start exploring the top attractions of this beautiful state!

Table of Contents

1. Big South Fork National River

Located in the southeastern part of the state, the Big South Fork National River offers a stunning display of natural beauty. With its rugged landscapes, towering cliffs, and rushing rivers, this national park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

The main street of the park, also known as the “Gateway to the Big South Fork,” is lined with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it the perfect place to explore after a day of hiking or horseback riding.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking to reconnect with nature, the Big South Fork National River is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

2. Land Between the Lakes

Situated in western Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a nature lover’s dream come true.

This vast area is home to numerous recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

Explore the miles of trails that wind through the forest, encounter native wildlife such as elk and bison at the Elk & Bison Prairie, or relax by the serene shores of Lake Barkley. With its diverse natural landscapes and abundant wildlife, Land Between the Lakes is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, Paducah is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the National Quilt Museum, which showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of quilted art from around the world.

Explore the downtown area, filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants, and admire the colorful murals that line the streets.

Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll along the riverfront, where you can enjoy scenic views of the river and watch the riverboats go by. With its blend of history, art, and natural beauty, Paducah is a must-visit destination .

4. Lexington

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is a city steeped in equestrian history and home to some of the most beautiful horse farms in the world. Take a tour of the Kentucky Horse Park, where you can learn about the history of horse racing, watch live horse shows, and even take a horseback riding lesson.

For bourbon enthusiasts, the famous Bourbon Trail awaits, offering the opportunity to visit distilleries, taste bourbon, and learn about the history of this iconic Kentucky spirit. With its rolling bluegrass fields and rich equestrian heritage, Lexington is a must-visit destination for horse lovers and bourbon enthusiasts alike.

5. Cumberland Gap

Steeped in history and hidden gems , Cumberland Gap is a destination that will transport you back in time. Explore the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which preserves the history of the early pioneers who ventured into the frontier.

Hike the historic trails that were once used by Native Americans, fur traders, and settlers, and learn about the history of the area through interpretive exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Nearby, you’ll find the Daniel Boone National Forest, home to picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and miles of trails for hiking, camping, and horseback riding. With its rich history and breathtaking scenery, Cumberland Gap is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

6. Frankfort

As the state capital of Kentucky, Frankfort is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Take a stroll through the downtown area, filled with historic landmarks, charming shops, and local restaurants. Visit the Kentucky State Capitol, an architectural masterpiece that offers stunning views of the city and the Kentucky River.

Immerse yourself in the history of the state at the Kentucky Historical Society, where you can explore exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Kentucky’s past.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Frankfort offers ample opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing along the Kentucky River. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Frankfort is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

7. Owensboro

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, Owensboro is a vibrant city known for its rich musical heritage, delicious barbecue, and scenic riverfront. Explore the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can learn about the history of bluegrass music and enjoy live performances by local musicians.

Sample some of the mouthwatering barbecues the city is famous for, or take a stroll along the riverfront, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the Ohio River. With its unique blend of music, food, and natural beauty, Owensboro is a must-visit destination for music lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

8. Lakes National Recreation Area

Situated between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Hike through the picturesque forests, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes, or enjoy a relaxing day of fishing along the shoreline.

Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to see the native elk and bison at the Elk & Bison Prairie, where you can observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. With its diverse array of outdoor activities and abundant wildlife, Land Between the Lakes is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

9. Newport Aquarium

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, the Newport Aquarium is a family-friendly destination that offers an up-close encounter with marine life from around the world. Walk across the thrilling Shark Bridge, a suspension bridge that hangs just inches above a tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and other fascinating creatures.

Explore the exhibits and learn about the importance of conservation and the fragile ecosystems of our oceans. With its interactive displays, educational programs, and family-friendly attractions, the Newport Aquarium is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

10. Speed Art Museum

11. Louisville Zoo

Home to over 1,500 animals from around the world, the Louisville Zoo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Explore the various exhibits, which include the African Savannah, the North American Prairie, and the Islands, each representing different ecosystems and habitats.

The zoo is committed to wildlife conservation and offers educational programs and events that promote awareness and appreciation of the natural world. With its wide range of animal species, engaging exhibits, and educational programs, the Louisville Zoo offers a fun and educational outing for the whole family.

12. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, located in Bardstown, is home to the Federal Hill mansion, the inspiration for Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” Take a tour of the beautifully preserved plantation home and learn about the history of the area and the people who once lived there.

Explore the park’s lush gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails, or attend one of the many outdoor concerts and theater performances held at the park’s amphitheater during the summer. With its rich history, cultural significance, and picturesque setting, My Old Kentucky Home State Park is a must-visit destination.

13. Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of the Civil War at the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. This site preserves the location of one of the bloodiest battles of the war.

Take a guided tour of the battlefield and learn about the tactics, strategies, and sacrifices of the soldiers who fought here.

Visit the museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the Civil War and the local area. Throughout the year, the site hosts special events, reenactments, and historical tours, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.

14. U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of eastern Kentucky at the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum. Located in Paintsville, the museum celebrates the contributions of the area’s musicians to the world of country music.

Explore the exhibits, which feature memorabilia, artifacts, and recordings from famous country music artists who hail from the region, such as Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, and Dwight Yoakam.

Take a guided tour and learn more about the cultural heritage of eastern Kentucky and its impact on the world of music. The U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum is a must-visit destination for music lovers of all genres.

15. Take five at the Big Four Bridge

Located in Louisville, the Big Four Bridge is a must-visit destination for breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Ohio River. Take a stroll or bike ride along the pedestrian bridge, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The bridge connects the Louisville Waterfront Park to the Jeffersonville Riverside Park in Indiana, offering visitors the opportunity to explore both sides of the river. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a vibrant social scene, the Big Four Bridge is the perfect place to take in the beauty of Louisville’s waterfront.

16. Vent Haven Museum

For something truly unique, visit the Vent Haven Museum in Fort Mitchell, home to the world’s largest collection of ventriloquist figures, scripts, and memorabilia.

Explore the museum’s exhibits, which showcase the history and art of ventriloquism, from its early origins to the present day.

Learn about the famous ventriloquists who have entertained audiences throughout history, and even try your hand at operating a ventriloquist puppet. With its one-of-a-kind collection and fascinating displays, the Vent Haven Museum offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

17. Kentucky Horse Park

For horse enthusiasts, the Kentucky Horse Park is a must-visit destination. Located in Lexington, the park is a 1,200-acre equestrian theme park that celebrates the beauty, history, and importance of horses.

Watch horse shows and demonstrations, take a trail ride on horseback, or visit the museum, which showcases the history of horse racing and the Kentucky Derby.

The park also offers educational programs, workshops, and horseback riding lessons for visitors of all ages and skill levels. With its beautiful grounds, world-class facilities, and love for all things equine, the Kentucky Horse Park is a dream come true for horse lovers.

18. Muhammad Ali Center

Located in downtown Louisville, the Muhammad Ali Center is a cultural center and museum dedicated to the life and legacy of boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Explore the exhibits, which chronicle Ali’s career, his social activism, and his impact on American history and culture.

Learn about his values of respect, confidence, conviction, dedication, spirituality, and giving, which continue to inspire people around the world.

The center also hosts various events, workshops, and educational programs that promote understanding, respect, and personal growth. With its engaging exhibits, inspiring message, and dedication to promoting the values of Muhammad Ali, the Muhammad Ali Center is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

19. Lost River Cave

Discover the hidden wonders of the underground world at Lost River Cave, one of Kentucky’s best-kept secrets. Take an underground boat tour and explore the vast cave system, marveling at the stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

Above ground, the park offers nature trails, picnic areas, and a butterfly habitat, where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Lost River Cave is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

20. Mammoth Cave National Park

Last but certainly not least, no visit to Kentucky would be complete without exploring the wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park. As the longest-known cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave offers visitors the opportunity to delve into the underground world of limestone caverns, intricate rock formations, and mysterious passageways.

Embark on a guided tour, ranging from easy walks to challenging expeditions, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.

Along with the cave system, the park also offers hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-see destination that will leave you in awe of the natural wonders of Kentucky.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see attractions in Kentucky?

Some of the must-see attractions in Kentucky include the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville for horse racing enthusiasts, the Mammoth Cave National Park which offers guided tours of the world’s longest cave system, the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green showcasing the iconic American sports car’s history, and Churchill Downs racetrack, home of the Kentucky Derby.

Are there any hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path destinations in Kentucky worth visiting?

Yes, Kentucky is home to many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth a visit. From the breathtaking Red River Gorge Geological Area to the scenic Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, and the stunning Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, there is no shortage of unique places to explore in Kentucky. Don’t forget to check out Berea for its artisanal crafts and Bowling Green, where you can visit the National Corvette Museum.

What are some family-friendly places to visit in Kentucky?

The best places to visit in Kentucky, Looking for family-friendly places in Kentucky? Consider visiting the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington for an educational experience with horses, or check out the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory for hands-on exhibits dedicated to baseball.

Another option is exploring Mammoth Cave National Park, home to the world’s longest-known cave system. Plus, don’t miss the Newport Aquarium with its interactive marine life exhibits from around the world.

Are there any seasonal events or festivals in Kentucky that are worth planning a trip around?

The best places to visit in Kentucky offer a variety of seasonal events and festivals that are worth planning a trip around. From the world-famous Kentucky Derby in May to the Bourbon Festival in September, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the magical Christmas Lights Show at the Louisville Mega Caverns during the holiday season.

The best places to visit in Kentucky offer a diverse range of attractions and destinations for travelers to explore. From the natural beauty of Big South Fork National River to the historical significance of Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Bluegrass State. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or off-the-beaten-path adventures, Kentucky has it all.

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Muhammad Ali Center or take a tour of Mammoth Cave National Park. And if you have any recommendations or questions about the best places to visit in Kentucky, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy travels!

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Worth the drive: These 5 natural monuments in Kentucky you should visit

One of the best things to enjoy when the weather is nice is Kentucky’s beautiful outdoors. 

The good thing is there are many places to explore across the Bluegrass State, from caves to forests and waterfalls.  These make for a fun adventure to enjoy with your family, friends or by yourself.

Before hitting the road, see which Kentucky museums and monuments to add to your road trip.  

Here are five Kentucky natural monuments you can’t miss: 

Mammoth Cave  

Did you know that the “world’s largest known cave system” is here in Kentucky? A ccording to the National Park Foundation it’s Mammoth Cave and it sits in south central Kentucky. 

Mammoth Cave is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 10 miles inside the cave are open to the public. According to the National Parks Service website , people can also paddle and go fishing.

Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time to schedule where to stay and what tours to take.  

Related: Explore Mammoth Cave: Your guide to a unique Kentucky attraction, world's longest cave

Red River Gorge  

Red River Gorge is located within the Daniel Boone National Forest and was designated as a "National Natural Landmark” in 1976, according to the National Park Service website . Activities include rock climbing, hiking and camping.

Entrance to the trails is free, but people must have a car permit between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. if parked on Kentucky Route 15, the Indian Creek area north of KY 15 or the Gorge.  

Map: Download this map ahead of your road trip to Red River Gorge.

More: Red River Gorge: What to know about the Eastern Kentucky scenic area

Cumberland Falls  

Cumberland Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the South,” measures 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide, according to the Kentucky Tourism website .  

“The 3,600 cubic feet of water that spills over the sandstone edge every second creates a formidable roar and a breathtaking sight, day or night.,” the website states.  

When planning your trip, be sure to check lodging at the Dupont Lodge and whitewater rafting below the falls.  

More: Your guide to 17 must-see Kentucky waterfalls, plus 2 more that are close to Louisville

Big South Fork  

“ Encompassing 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries,” according to the National Park Service .  

Big South Fork has activities for everyone including whitewater paddling, rock climbing, horseback riding and hiking, the National Park Service states.  

More: Looking to get outdoors? Here's a list of Louisville's major parks

Daniel Boone National Forest  

Another great option to explore is the Daniel Boone National Forest in Winchester, Kentucky.

There are many places to stay including RV spots in the Cumberland District or cabins in the Zilpo Recreation Area, according to the Kentucky Tourism website .  

These are some of the activities you can do at the Daniel Boone National Forest:

More: Worth the Drive: Learn Kentucky history through these 5 monuments

More: Worth the Drive: 8 museums across Kentucky to visit this spring

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See what’s happening around Louisville

The Louisville community is buzzing with fun and exciting events.

No matter what time of the year you're considering visiting us, you'll discover bourbon & culinary experiences, seasonal festivals , and plenty of opportunities to experience Louisville's horse racing events including iconic races like the Kentucky Derby .

For current museum & attraction exhibits and ongoing public tour options, click here .

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17 April Events To Attend in Louisville

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Eclipse 2024: Time, best places to watch, latest weather forecast, ZIP code tool, what will you see?

• Updated: Apr. 08, 2024, 3:05 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 07, 2024, 9:16 a.m.

FILE - This combination of photos shows the path of the sun during a total eclipse by the moon Monday, Aug. 21, 2017, near Redmond, Ore. AP

• Leada Gore | [email protected]

The Great North American eclipse is Monday, April 8 and skywatchers – with proper glasses, of course – are ready to see the moon blocking out the sun during a solar eclipse.

What you will see, how long it will last and when it will take place will depend on where you live. While all states in the contiguous U.S. will experience some level of the eclipse, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, as well as small parts of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee are along the path of totality and will experience the greatest periods of darkness.

In the U.S., the path of totality will start in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CT and will end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. ET (2:25 CT.) In those states, the periods of greatest darkness will reach up to 4 minutes, 27 seconds.

Here’s everything you need to know about the total solar eclipse 2024:

2024 eclipse primer

Total solar eclipse on April 8: Why this eclipse will be much different than the 2017 version

Scientists say the sun is approaching its maximum activity of its cycle this year, meaning it will be sending off more solar flares and eruptions from its surface — potentially making this year’s total solar eclipse much more dynamic.

Best places to watch the eclipse

Total Solar Eclipse April 8: Map shows 15 best states to see April’s total solar eclipse

The path of totality will start in Mexico and move across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine before heading out over the North Atlantic. Small portions of Kentucky, Michigan and Tennessee will also experience almost the entirety of the eclipse. The eclipse will enter Canada in Southern Ontario, and continue through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Nova Scotia. The eclipse will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

Where to see solar eclipse 2024: NASA eclipse map shows best places along path of totality

During the eclipse, the sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk. Weather permitting, people in the path of totality will be able to see the sun’s corona, or outer atmosphere, which is usually obscured by the bright face of the sun, NASA explains. Outside the path of totality, viewers will see a partial eclipse with the moon covering varying degrees of the sun.

How much will you see where you live?

April 8 eclipse in Alabama: How much coverage you’ll see in your city and when

Although Alabama is not in the path of “totality” during the April 8 eclipse – meaning we won’t see total darkness when the moon covers the sun – residents will see from 78 to 92 percent coverage, depending on location.

Total solar eclipse path 2024: Search your city, ZIP code for best viewing times

People viewing the eclipse from the path of totality will be treated to the ghostly-white outer atmosphere of the sun, known as the corona, when the moon completely blocks out the sun’s disk during the total eclipse, NASA explained. Along the path, the sun will be blocked out for about 4-and-a-half minutes.

April 8 solar eclipse path of totality: What time does the eclipse start?

Wondering how much of the eclipse you will see? NASA has a tool that lets you search by city or ZIP code to see complete eclipse details. You can use this tool to see when the eclipse will start and end in every state.

Eclipse weather

Alabama solar eclipse weather: Will skies be cloudy or clear?

A big question, for a lot of the nation, is how clear the skies will be for prime eclipse viewing. An updated forecast from the National Weather Service looks like a mixed bag.

The solar eclipse forecast for Monday from AccuWeather shows a mix of low to high amounts of cloud cover across the United States. Viewers in New Jersey can expect some increasing clouds, according to the latest forecast. AccuWeather.com

Eclipse education

Solar eclipse 2024 for kids: How to enjoy the event safely at home and in class

From building your own safety glasses to taking scientific data, researchers say there are plenty of ways to make the upcoming solar eclipse a fun learning experience for children.

Why are some schools closing for the solar eclipse?

The April 8 total solar eclipse will have millions of people gazing toward the sky as the moon tracks its way in front of the sun. And while some schools have special events planned, others – especially along the 15-state path of totality – are closing their doors that day.

NASA has a game to help kids learn about the solar eclipse: Play now

To help kids learn about solar eclipses, NASA is launching Snap It! An Eclipse Photo Adventure.

Eclipse safety

Solar eclipse 2024: Where to get free glasses to watch April 8 total solar eclipse

Skygazers planning to look at the eclipse through a camera lens or binoculars still need adequate eye protection. Without proper precaution, the sun’s rays can burn your retinas and cause severe eye injury.

Solar eclipse is Monday: 7 things to do if you’re driving that day

Crowds eager to see the eclipse are expected to be huge. According to AAA, Dallas, Austin and San Antonio are the most popular cities for eclipse viewers, followed by Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo. In Dallas alone, Hertz rental car company said it is seeing six times more reservations than last year at this same time.

Solar eclipse on April 8 prompts cell phone warning

In addition to warnings about transportation systems, impacts on emergency service responses and fuel issues brought about increased demand, law enforcement said people should expect the cellular network to be strained.

How to spot fake solar eclipse glasses

Despite the ease of getting glasses, skygazers should be on the lookout for fake eclipse glasses. Real eclipse glasses are often designed with polyester film coated and coated in aluminum. Certified eclipse eyewear is designed to block all visible, and infrared light. Solar eclipse glasses must be from a vendor approved by the American Astronomical Society.

FAA issues warning ahead of April 8 total solar eclipse

The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a warning about possible travel disruptions related to the April 8 total solar eclipse.

Cell phone warning for April 8 solar eclipse: Will you be able to use your phone?

Warnings about traffic, flight congestion and emergency services are circulating ahead of the April 8 Great American Eclipse. Of particular note are concerns over cell phones and whether they will work during the eclipse.

April 8 total solar eclipse: Texas officials warn people to stock up on food ahead of solar eclipse

Mike Jones, Hays County, Texas’s direct of the Office of Emergency Services, said the area is expecting thousands of visitors to arrive to see the eclipse. To prepare for the crowds, Jones advised residents to stock up on groceries and fill up on gas. If they are out on the day of the eclipse, he recommends residents “pack your patience.”

National Guard will be deployed for total solar eclipse on April 8

At the request of local emergency management officials, the Oklahoma National Guard will have members of the 63rd Civil Support Team available to assist local governments during the eclipse, including working with first responders with additional HAZMAT responses if needed.

Total solar eclipse on April 8: How to safely look at an eclipse

Except during the brief total phase of the eclipse when the moon completely blocks the sun’s bright face, it’s not safe to look at the eclipse without specialized eye protection for solar viewing, NASA said on its eclipse information page. If you’re watching the eclipse directly, you will need solar viewing glasses – also known as eclipse glasses – or a handheld solar viewer.

Eclipse fun

Krispy Kreme is releasing a new doughnut in celebration of the solar eclipse

The doughnut chain has announced its limited-time “Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut” – an original Krispy Kreme glazed doughnut dipped in black chocolate icing and topped with silver sprinkles, piped with a buttercream made with Oreo pieces and a whole Oreo cookie in the center.

April 8 total solar eclipse: Why you should wear red or green on eclipse day

Experts have another recommendation if you’re planning on watching the eclipse in a group or public place: Skip the neutrals and wear red and green.

Sun Chips eclipse flavors: You will have less than 5 minutes to score limited-edition chips

The chip brand is releasing Pineapple Habanero and Black Bean Spicy Gouda, a blend of ingredients with a nod to " sunny skies and bright days ahead while nodding to the moon with a cheesy touch.”

Sonic has new black drink for April 8 total solar eclipse and you get free eclipse glasses, too

The drive-through chain is launching a limited-edition drink called “Blackout Slush Float” to give fans an “out-of-this world experience.”

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10 of the best places in the US to see the northern lights in 2024

Astronomers predict this year will be the best in the last decade to see the northern lights. We have the sun's current solar cycle to thank for the stronger aurora borealis in 2024. Scientists say the sun is hitting its "solar maximum," or the highest activity rate during its current solar cycle, meaning more frequent and brighter northern lights. The sun's energized particles hit Earth's upper atmosphere, which then scatter toward its north and south poles. The redirected particles are what we see as the dancing hues of green, yellow, and magenta across the sky.

There are a few things you should do to plan before your trip. Winter is typically the best season to view the northern lights because of its longer, darker nights. It's possible to take a solo trip to see the lights, but many people recommend going in a group or on a guided tour for safety, especially if you're in an unfamiliar place.

Before venturing out into the cold, dark night, be sure to check an aurora forecast to understand what will likely happen in the sky. You'll need to venture away from any strong sources of light pollution like cities. Finally, get comfortable and be patient! Sometimes the aurora is only visible for a few minutes; sometimes it'll go on for hours.

If seeing the northern lights has been on your bucket list, now could be the best time to make it happen. Though Norway, Finland, and Iceland are the usual suspects when chasing northern lights, you don't have to travel outside of the United States to do it. Many of the country's northernmost states have dark skies that give a good chance for seeing the aurora borealis.

Stacker used various sources to create this list of 10 of the best destinations in the United States to view the northern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

There are many reasons why Fairbanks, Alaska, is considered one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights. The most important reason is it's inside the "aurora oval," which sees a higher concentration of aurora lights. It also has many nights with clear skies.

Fairbanks is home to some of the world's best aurora forecasters at the Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska Fairbanks . The season for viewing the lights in Fairbanks is from Aug. 21 to April 21. During that time frame, late August through early September usually have the best chances for viewing the aurora borealis while enjoying summer activities.

New Town, North Dakota

The nice thing about North Dakota is that if the aurora borealis is going to show up here, it will likely be visible across the entire state. The only things you'll need to ensure are clear skies and a low-light moon because sometimes a radiant moon can make the sky too bright to see the faint glow of the northern lights.

If you're looking for a nice vantage point to take in the night sky, Crow Flies High State Recreation Area near New Town, North Dakota, in the western part of the state, is an ideal place. The scenic stop overlooks Lake Sakakawea and gives an unobstructed view of the night sky. You could also chase the northern lights inside Theodore Roosevelt National Park near Medora, North Dakota.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana's Rocky Mountains puts travelers just south of the U.S.-Canada border. It's a certified International Dark Sky Park, so light pollution won't get in the way of viewing the aurora. The national park has many ideal lookout locations, such as Lake McDonald, a popular destination for kayaking during the day. For those who prefer a less remote viewing party, The Northern Lights Saloon in nearby Polebridge, Montana, offers live music while you skywatch.

Aroostook County, Maine

The earliest written account of seeing the northern lights in Maine dates back to 1719. It described the colorful display as both dreadful and indescribable. Today, the aurora borealis still leaves people breathless, but thankfully they seem to enjoy it more than those who viewed it more than 300 years ago.

Aroostook County, Maine's northernmost county bordered by Canada, is one of the best places on the U.S. east coast to try to catch the northern lights. It has some of the darkest skies east of the Mississippi. Visit in September or October to ensure the dark skies are clear of clouds. For those who like to gaze at other natural wonders, the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is also a great place to birdwatch and spot other wildlife.

Newport State Park, Wisconsin

Nearly two hours from Green Bay, Wisconsin, the state's only dark-sky park sits on the edge of the Door peninsula. Late December through early March bring the best chances to see the aurora borealis during high auroral activity. Being on the shore of Lake Michigan gives viewers a better, unobstructed view of the northern horizon, which is important in catching the northern lights from the lower 48. People can also use the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's aurora forecast tool to get a 30-minute heads-up on whether the northern lights will be visible near their position in northern Michigan.

Upper Peninsula of Michigan

North of Wisconsin's Door peninsula is Michigan's Upper Peninsula, another ideal place to see the northern lights. The remote peninsula has hundreds of miles of shoreline along Lake Superior, making it easy to view the sky. If you find yourself in Michigan's Lower Peninsula instead, Port Crescent State Park and the Headlands International Dark Sky Park are good options. October, November, and April are the best months to see the aurora borealis in Michigan, although viewers have spotted it earlier in the fall and spring.

Duluth, Minnesota

It's safe to say spots all along Lake Superior are great for viewing the aurora in the lower 48 because Duluth, Minnesota, is another place that gives visitors a good chance to see the northern lights.

Duluth is to the west of Wisconsin's and Michigan's viewing areas but sits at roughly the same latitude, which means chances for seeing the northern lights go up when there's increased solar activity. Duluth has prime places to see the northern lights, including Hawk Ridge, White Sky Rock, and Little Stone Lake.

Idaho Panhandle National Forests

Go to the northernmost tip of Idaho for your best chance at capturing a glimpse of the aurora borealis. About 120 miles from Spokane, Washington, the Idaho Panhandle National Forests—which also cover small regions of eastern Washington and western Montana—are also a camper's and hiker's paradise. Check out Priest Lake for one of the best vantage points in the state. Add to the beauty of the lights by watching them both in the sky and their reflection on the lake.

If you'd prefer to stay a little further south, Heyburn State Park near Chatcolet Lake is also a great place for chasing the northern lights. Opt for a spot along the Trail of the Coeur d'Alenes' bridge on the lake.

Utqiaġvik, Alaska

The northern lights are visible across most of Alaska. Still, those looking for a more adventurous journey may consider traveling to Utqiaġvik, the most northern community in the U.S. During the winter months, the sun sets on Utqiaġvik on Nov. 17. It doesn't rise again until Jan. 24, giving the small town 67 days of darkness, with only a little bit of sunlight shining on the horizon. That little bit of twilight means northern lights chasers will still need to wait for the night hours to see the celestial phenomenon. The aurora borealis typically isn't as strong in Utqiaġvik compared to Fairbanks since this small northern Alaska town is at the edge of the zone that tends to get visible lights.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The archipelago off the northwest coast of Washington State is known for many things: ferry rides, uncrowded beaches, and world-class whale watching. Stargazing may not be at the top of visitors' lists, but it should be, especially during the solar maximum. The islands have low light pollution and get more than 247 days of clear skies, giving it the perfect combination for viewing the northern lights. There's usually increased aurora activity in September and March, although there are several local reports of catching the northern lights year-round, including in midsummer.

Story editing by Carren Jao. Copy editing by Paris Close. Photo selection by Clarese Moller.

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This Arizona city is 1 of the 50 best places to live, and it's not in metro Phoenix

Bisbee, a historic copper mining town nestled in the Mule Mountains about 10 miles north of the Mexican border, was named one of the 50 best places to live in the U.S. by the finance magazine Money. It was the only Arizona city to make this year’s list.

The southern Arizona town of just under 5,000 residents spans about five square miles, according to the 2020 U.S. Census. Additionally, a Cochise County Tourism Study conducted from 2019 to 2020 revealed that 62.1% of county visitors went to Bisbee, more than any nearby communities.

The magazine, which has been producing its best places to live list for over 30 years, analyzes the state of the job market, average housing costs, poverty rates, public school quality and reader opinion to measure whether a city or town is deserving of a spot.

“Our final list spotlights 50 places built around thoughtful policy, civic engagement and community spirit — each with its own identity, and each embodying what it means to be a ‘best place to live’ in 2024,” Money said in a description of its methodology.

Bisbee is one of the ‘best-kept secrets’ in the US

Money praised Bisbee for its culture of color, art and slow living. Bisbee started as a mining town and transformed into a place where the creative and unconventional could find refuge, a theme that runs through the town just as much now as it did in the ‘70s.

The finance magazine also looked at some other aspects of Bisbee living, such as housing costs and unemployment rates. According to a Dec. 2023 article from Arizona Public Media , a southern Arizona-based PBS and NPR news affiliate, a local house renovation program makes it so that Bisbee homes can be sold for 20% below market value.

The median price for a house is $290,000 and the unemployment rate hangs at 3.6%, Money reported.

More Bisbee news: The haunted 116-year-old Copper Queen Hotel is up for sale

These cities and towns are the US' 'best kept secret'

• Milford, Connecticut
• Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
• Fruita, Colorado
• Brevard, North Carolina
• Eureka Springs, Arkansas
• Camas, Washington
• Thomasville, Georgia
• La Crosse, Wisconsin
• Babcock Ranch, Florida

What other places made Money's list of best places to live?

Money.com did not rank places numerically. Instead, the cities and towns were divided into five categories: “Suburbs with Soul,” “New Boomtowns,” “Culture Hubs,” “Not Just College Towns” and “Best Kept Secrets.”

These US cities and towns are 'suburbs with soul'

• Prairie Crossing, Illinois
• Metuchen, New Jersey
• Ferndale, Michigan
• Northfield, Minnesota
• Temecula, California
• Covington, Kentucky
• Troy, New York
• Media, Pennsylvania
• Yellow Springs, Ohio
• Pawtucket, Rhode Island

These US cities are 'new boomtowns'

• Buffalo, New York
• Rock Hill, South Carolina
• New Braunfels, Texas
• Port St. Lucie, Florida
• Lancaster, Pennsylvania
• Clarksville, Tennessee
• Tulsa, Oklahoma
• Rogers, Arkansas
• Frederick, Maryland
• Boise, Idaho

These US cities were ranked as 'culture hubs'

• Detroit, Michigan
• Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Las Cruces, New Mexico
• Richmond, Virginia
• Sacramento, California
• Cincinnati, Ohio
• Atlanta, Georgia
• Portland, Maine
• Chattanooga, Tennessee
• Ybor City (Tampa), Florida

These US cities are 'not just college towns'

• Lawrence, Kansas
• Northampton, Massachusetts
• Knoxville, Tennessee
• Oneonta, New York
• Fayetteville, Arkansas
• Eugene, Oregon
• Lexington, Kentucky
• Kalamazoo, Michigan
• Ogden, Utah
• Durham, North Carolina

Solar eclipse chasers scattered across the US map. This town in Kentucky hosted the most

Millions of people filled U.S. cities and towns along the path of Monday's eclipse , according to data from Advan Research, a location intelligence analytics company.

In some smaller Northeastern towns, the number of visitors on Monday grew nearly 30 times. Paducah, Kentucky, which was on the path of totality, more than doubled its visitor count in recent weeks. Two of its ZIP codes drew an additional quarter-million visitors.

Advan used location data to determine the number of visitors within every ZIP code where some percentage of the sun was eclipsed by the moon. They found the average number of visitors on the previous two Mondays and compared it to April 8.

Another good reason to look up: The horned devil comet

Areas along path of totality filled with visitors

Unable to view our graphics? Click here to see them .

Places with the largest increases in visitors Monday

More than 12 million people visited Texas on Monday compared to the previous two weeks. Not unsurprising half of the 10 ZIP codes with the biggest increases in visitors were in Texas, according to Advan data.

Where Americans viewed Monday's eclipse

While it's impossible to know why every person was visiting any of these locations on Monday, it's likely many, if not most, along the path of totality were there for the eclipse. Among the ZIP codes that Advan tracked, an additional 92 million people were visiting compared to the previous two weeks.

Advan's release on Tuesday were part of its initial findings. CEO Grigorios Reppas says he expects Advan to have a more detailed analysis in the coming days of the economic impact the eclipse had on local businesses.

Perryman Group, an economic analysis firm , estimated in late March that the economic ripple effects from the eclipse could amount to $6 billion, including as much as a $1.4 billion flowing into the Texas economy.

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Zvonimir Ivišić transfers to Arkansas: Ex-Kentucky big man follows John Calipari in splash acquisition

Former kentucky big man zvonimir ivišić is john calipari's first arkansas commitment.

Former Kentucky center Zvonimir Ivišić announced Monday that he is transferring to Arkansas to reunite with coach John Calipari. Ivišić is Arkansas' first commitment since Calipari was introduced as the coach of the Razorbacks last week following 15 seasons at UK.

Landing the Croatian big man makes for a splashy beginning to what will be an intense couple of months of roster building for Calipari, who quipped on Wednesday that "there is no team"  at Arkansas. With the Razorbacks' entire 2023-24 roster either out of eligibility, in the transfer portal or turning pro following coach Eric Musselman's departure for USC , Calipari has a lot of work to do.

Ivišić showed tantalizing flashes of potential for the Wildcats after missing the first 16 games of the season while awaiting NCAA clearance. The 7-foot-2 stretch big man finished with 13 points, five rebounds, three blocks and two assists while knocking down 3 of 4 attempts from 3-point range in just 16 minutes during his first game against Georgia on Jan. 20.

That sterling debut set an impossibly high standard for Ivišić, who struggled to carve out a steady role over the following weeks. Still, with a rare combination of size, skill and shooting ability, Ivišić obviously has the tools to be a high-level starter in college basketball.

pic.twitter.com/9WxWiFsd92 — Zvonimir Ivisic (@zvonimir_ivisic) April 15, 2024

Given that Ivišić blocked 1.3 shots per game in just 11.7 minutes per game, it's easy to envision him blossoming into one of the top shot blockers in the SEC or even the country. Key to his continued development will be physical maturation. With a full offseason to spend in Arkansas' strength and conditioning program, Ivišić should develop the strength required to bruise on the block in a rugged conference.

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