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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

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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

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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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!

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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.

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• 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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20 Best Things To Do In Kentucky: The Ultimate KY Bucket List

August 14, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for the ultimate list of the best things to do in Kentucky? Look no further! Our bucket list spans the state with so many exciting excursions to try that you’ll want to extend your stay to get to them all!

From family-friendly outings to grown-up adventures, there is something for everyone in each corner of Kentucky. Our list will take you to the most outstanding museums, highlighting Kentucky’s abundant history, to the most breathtaking landscapes, showcasing Kentucky’s natural beauty.

And we didn’t forget the food! Many of the stops on this list include a taste test to satisfy any appetite. Here we’ve got you covered with Kentucky’s most famous landmarks and little-known hidden gems.

Read on to find out what to do in Kentucky!

20 Best Things To Do In Kentucky: The Ultimate Bucket List

Head underground at mammoth cave national park.

One of the ultimate bucket list fun things to do in Kentucky is Mammoth Cave National Park. This makes our list of the abundant activities and awe-inspiring natural wonder that exists deep in the heart of Kentucky.

Known as the world’s longest cave system, there is so much to explore when you visit Mammoth Cave. Check out diverse ecosystems surrounding the area, and see a variety of animal and plant life above and below ground. Cave tours are the best way to go underground. Tickets are required in advance to reserve your tour, and dates and times are subject to change throughout the seasons, so make sure you plan in advance.

If you’d rather stay above ground, ranger-led tours take you through the forest habitats on the surface. Guests are also invited to take advantage of the 80 miles of hiking trails for solo exploration. Looking to extend your stay? Book a room or a cottage at the Lodge to stay near the entrance to the caves. You can also bring your camping gear to one of the campsites inside the park.

Canoeing, horseback riding, and bicycling are also popular pastimes at Mammoth Cave National Park. With so much to do, you’ll agree a visit to this Southern national park is one of the most amazing attractions in Kentucky.

Visit Churchill Downs & the Kentucky Derby Museum

No trip to Kentucky would be complete without a stop at Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum. This is one of the most exciting things to do in Louisville . The Kentucky Derby is one of the most celebrated events in the state, and guests are invited to learn about the Derby’s origins and its storied history of horse racing.

The Kentucky Derby proudly holds the distinction of being the longest continuously-running sporting event in America. The first Kentucky Derby was held in 1875 and has been going strong ever since.

The museum boasts a wide range of exhibits showcasing the life stages of racing horses, the beginnings of the first Kentucky Derby, and the traditions that have evolved over time to make the race what it is today. Guests can view stories from the jockeys, test Derby knowledge, and observe icons of Derby fashion.

When you’ve made your way through the museum exhibit, stop at Churchill Downs and take in their Historic Walking Tour, which is complimentary with your museum ticket. This 30-minute guided tour will take you behind the scenes of America’s most famous racetrack, and you’ll learn plenty of fun facts along the way!

Hike at the Red River Gorge

If you’re looking to make the great outdoors the focus of your trip to Kentucky, a stop at Red River Gorge is a must-do. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge is known for its outstanding natural beauty and its many best activities in Kentucky sure to satisfy every traveler in your group.

Red River Gorge is most famous for its many rock climbing sites, some of the best in the country! There are so many places to climb in the area. A guidebook has been published detailing over 1600 climbs. This is a true climbing paradise.

Other adventures include various hiking trails over different kinds of terrain, ranging from easy to difficult. To view the gorge from a different angle, try zip lining across it! Take to the skies, zipping at 55 miles per hour around 300 feet above the gorge. You’ll never look at this area the same way again!

Speaking of seeing things in a new way, take advantage of Red River Gorge’s Underground Adventure. This kayak trip explores the gorge’s caverns in the water. It is a truly unique experience, and one of the best things to do in KY!

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

Step Back in Time at the Mary Todd Lincoln House

To step into the early life of one of the nation’s most famous first ladies, explore the Mary Todd Lincoln House in Lexington. Mrs. Lincoln grew up in Lexington before she became the wife of our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln.

The Mary Todd Lincoln House has been lovingly preserved and restored to its original splendor and is the first house opened to honor the early life of an American first lady. The home was built in 1803. It was intended to serve the Lexington community as an inn but became the Todd family home in 1832. The family lived here until patriarch Robert Todd’s death in 1849, and family disputes lead to the property and its contents being auctioned off in the aftermath. Over the years, the property saw many uses including a grocery store, brothel, and storage facility, before it was reclaimed and opened to the public as the Mary Todd Lincoln House in 1977.

The home is open seasonally, from March 15-November 30, and hosts a self-guided tour to explore the home’s 14 rooms dedicated to the life of Mrs. Lincoln. To take in more of Mrs. Lincoln’s experience in the city, move from the house onto the walking tour of Lincoln’s Lexington, a one-mile journey taking visitors past other locations from Mrs. Lincoln’s childhood and highlighting places she brought her husband when they would visit.

The museum also hosts many spectacular special programs throughout the year, so make sure to check the website to make the most of your visit!

Learn About Baseball at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

If you love baseball, then a trip to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a true bucket list experience! Because baseball is a favorite American pastime, this museum experiences high traffic year-round. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to ensure your spot to check out the history of the nation’s most famous baseball bat.

The Louisville Slugger Factory has been operating and making the best bats in the business for the past 137 years – producing over 1.8 million bats per year. In addition to an exciting bat factory tour, guests are treated to a variety of rotating exhibits featuring many of the epic stories surrounding America’s history with baseball.

A trip to the factory is not complete without a stop to see the world’s largest baseball bat. Weighing in at 68,000 pounds, and towering over guests at 124 tall, the bat is a replica of the Louisville Slugger used by famous player Babe Ruth.

Finish your trip with a try at the batting cages to test the latest line of Louisville Sluggers, used by today’s top players. Called one of the best sports museums in the nation, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory definitely makes our list of best things to do in Kentucky.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours & Museum

Enjoying an afternoon in Frankfort? Make sure to satisfy your sweet tooth at the Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours & Museum. This is definitely the tastiest thing to do in Frankfort! With a 100-year history of producing the yummiest chocolate in Kentucky, Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours is a truly delicious way to discover Frankfort’s history.

It was opened in 1919 by two former substitute teachers, Ruth Hanley Booe and Rebecca Gooch. The women stepped outside of social convention at the time to go into business for themselves without the assistance of a husband. The women experienced much success and hardship throughout their time in business but proved to be resilient and inventive business owners, which is why their enterprise continues to thrive today.

Visitors to the factory are treated to a tour into the candy-making world, with a special focus on Rebecca Ruth’s 100-year history. Visitors are invited to join tours on a walk-in basis but can make reservations on their website up to two days in advance.

If you’re hoping to witness their candy-making process, you’ll want to visit on Mondays-Thursdays. Tours operate on Fridays and Saturdays, but candy is not made on these days. Bring a curious mind and an empty stomach to make the most of your visit to Rebecca Ruth, one of the best places to go in Kentucky!

Visit the Aviation Museum of Kentucky

Take to the skies of Kentucky at the state’s outstanding Aviation Museum, located at the Blue Grass Airport near Lexington. In fact, the Aviation Museum is so exciting, it makes our list of best things to do in Lexington!

The museum offers aviation enthusiasts a chance to get up close and personal with many different aircraft like a McDonnell RF-101 Voodoo, a U.S. Navy Blue Angels A-4 Skyhawk, and an AH-1 Cobra Helicopter among others. The museum hosts these crafts in a permanent exhibit, in addition to a library and an aircraft restoration and repair shop.

The museum celebrates the histories of both civilian and military aviation and treats viewers to pictures and histories of some of the greatest aircraft and aviation stories of all time. The Aviation Museum is open year-round but closed on Mondays and holidays. Take your camera, and enjoy the most beautiful historic aircraft in Kentucky.

Photograph Creation Falls

Located near Campton, Creation Falls is one of the most peaceful spots to visit and one of the most picturesque things to do in Kentucky. The falls are located off the Rock Bridge Trail, a 1.4-mile hike in Red River Gorge. The hike is easy and dog-friendly including views of the arch (or the “Rock Bridge”) so there are many scenic takeaways on a visit to this site.

Hikers have noted that the trail is pretty accessible and safe in all types of weather. Since the trail is near a creek for much of the hike, it can become slippery and muddy in wet weather, so make sure you are prepared. Creation Falls happens to be Red River Gorge’s only example of a “waterfall natural bridge.”

Many picnic areas exist along the trail, so pack your favorite lunch for a meal surrounded by the scenic beauty of Creation Falls, one of the loveliest waterfalls in Kentucky .

Learn About Boxing at the Muhammed Ali Center

Situated right in his hometown of Louisville, the Muhammed Ali Center is a museum dedicated to the famed boxer’s life and legacy. Stroll the museum’s many interactive galleries to gain insight into Ali’s early life and his impressive career. This attraction is one of the best things to do in Louisville. It is truly one of the best small towns in Kentucky!

The museum employs photos, videos, artifacts, and interactive exhibits to bring Muhammed Ali’s story to life for each and every guest. Throughout the museum, visitors will learn about Ali’s goals and training sessions, view his work as an artist and poet, and learn about his dedication to the civil rights movement.

The many galleries on display are dedicated to Ali’s six core principles: confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect, and spirituality. The museum is open to visitors on Wednesdays thru Sundays. Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance online.

While you’re there, make sure to view the museum’s rotating exhibitions that connect to Ali’s core principles, but highlight other prolific Americans or groups. No matter when you visit, it will be the greatest!

Kayak at Green River Lake State Park

For a family-friendly beach outing, a trip to Green River Lake State Park tops our list for one of the best things to do in Kentucky. This is one of the best beaches in Kentucky ! It provides visitors a place to lounge on a sunny afternoon, with an ample swimming area and picnic tables to make a day of it!

While the beautiful beach is the highlight of the trip, Green River Lake State Park also offers a variety of activities for guests to enjoy. With 28 miles of all-purpose trails in the park, you can hike, bike, or horseback ride along all of them. You can also treat your group to 18 holes of mini-golf after your day at the beach.

Guests are invited to fish, kayak, or go boating, with water skiing and tubing all allowed on the lake. You can really make the most of these activities during a beach trip at Green River Lake. If it all seems like too much to pack into one day, RV and primitive camping sites are available within the park to extend the outdoor fun!

Check Out the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum

For one of the most iconic things to do in Owensboro, you must visit the Bluegrass Hall of Fame and Museum. This attraction celebrates the best bluegrass musicians in the business and preserves the history of the genre.

The Hall of Fame hosts live music performances year-round, so no matter when you visit, you are guaranteed to catch an amazing act performing here. Start your tour among the many exhibits detailing the origin of the genre, and learn about the people, instruments, and culture that turned bluegrass into the musical phenomenon it is today.

After checking out the museum, make your way over to one of the many stages to hear bluegrass come to life in a live concert from some musical legends and some bluegrass newcomers. Inductees into their Hall of Fame include Earl Scruggs, the Carter Family, Ricky Skaggs, and New Grass Revival.

The museum is open to visitors from Wednesdays thru Saturdays, though performances are scheduled throughout the week. Make sure to check the calendar prior to your visit so you can make sure to catch your favorite musical act!

Hike the Chain Rock Trail at Pine Mountain

If you’re looking for the best hiking in Kentucky , look no further than the Chain Rock Trail at Pine Mountain. It’s an outstanding spot for a nature walk with some stunning views to reward hikers for their efforts!

The “chained rock,” from which the trail gets its name, was secured to the side of the mountain in 1933 to protect the city of Pineville down below from disaster should the boulder come tumbling down. A hike up to the summit affords guests panoramic views of Pineville and neighboring mountains as far as the eye can see.

The trail is not terribly long to suit a variety of different hikers, though it’s not the easiest trail in the state. Guests should expect it to be around a moderate difficulty level. Chain Rock Trail is open year-round, and is dog friendly, though dogs must be kept on a leash. Grab your folks and enjoy a day on top of Kentucky!

Bring the Kids to Dinosaur World

If you’re traveling through Kentucky with little ones, or with dinosaur enthusiasts, then a trip to Dinosaur World is an absolute must. It’s one of the most enjoyable things to do in Cave City!

As you step back to a time before people walked the planet, visitors are treated to life-sized dinosaurs on view in a setting that represents what their habitats would have looked like when they were the kings of the earth! Check out the Prehistoric Museum on-site to view real-life fossils, including dinosaur skulls and claws!

After viewing all of the dinosaur displays, make your way over the interactive activities like the Fossil Dig (yes, you can really dig for fossils!), the Dino Gem Excavation, and the Bone Yard, to learn the proper way paleontologists uncover long dinosaur bones from under the sand.

Dinosaur World is open seven days a week, and tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance online. There is no food service inside the park, so guests are encouraged to bring coolers with their own snacks to enjoy during their visit. Dogs are also welcome on a visit to Dinosaur World, as long as they are friendly and leashed.

This attraction is great fun for the whole family and is one of the fun things to do in Kentucky with kids!

Visit Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Enjoying a trip through Kentucky in the autumn ? There is no better place to view Kentucky’s stunning fall foliage than Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. With leaves of every beautiful autumn hue, you can truly appreciate the season, while immersing yourself in Kentucky’s rich history.

Cumberland Gap is known as “the first great gateway to the west.” Visitors can learn about the many people who walked these trails in search of great adventures and opportunities so many years ago.

The park offers many guided tours for an expert’s view of the history of the area. Choose from the Gap Cave Tours, to explore the outstanding underground cathedral, or the Hensley Settlement Tours, to learn about the small town that was inhabited on-site from 1903 to 1951.

Visitors are also free to hike on their own through the many miles of trails throughout the park. The trails range from quick sightseeing tours to multi-day excursions in the Cumberland Gap backcountry.

If you’d like to see the stunning fall foliage at different times of day, consider taking advantage of the park’s many campsites, with both drive-in and backcountry hike-in access. Stargazing here is one of the best things to do in Kentucky at night!

Visit the World of Golf

No matter your golfing experience, World of Golf makes for a wonderful visit. It provides fun activities for golf aficionados to golfing newbies. Its 48-year history serving the community makes it one of the most fun things to do in Florence.

World of Golf features a full 18-hole executive course for avid golfers and an 18-hole mini-golf course for casual golfers and families. It is also one of the only places in the area to host FootGolf. What is FootGolf, you ask? It’s basically a combination of soccer and golf – think rules of golf played with a soccer ball. This unique opportunity is open to all ages and is played at World of Golf on Sundays.

If you’re looking to learn how to play or practice your swing, guests can book an instruction time with a coach. Visitors can also reserve time to practice on both their indoor and outdoor driving ranges. There is also an indoor simulator, which replicates courses on the PGA Tour.

Try Whiskey at Buffalo Trace Distillery

A trip to Buffalo Trace Distillery is an opportunity to witness the timeless craft of producing delicious Kentucky whiskey. For over 200 years, this distillery has been leading the way for true Kentucky bourbon, making a visit here one of the most fun things to do in Frankfort .

With a variety of tours and tastings on-site, there is something here for every palette. The Trace Tour introduces visitors to the history and production of bourbon. The Botanical Gardens Tour offers guests a chance to walk through the distillery’s repurposed gardens and enjoy a tasting outdoors. In the mood for something spooky? Try their Ghost Tour, to get to know all the “spirits” aging in Buffalo Trace’s warehouses.

For history buffs, Buffalo Trace offers a National Historic Landmark Tour, detailing the company’s 200-year history and the success and challenges that come with running a distillery over that time span. The tour dives into topics like Prohibition, and the architecture and technology used by the company over those many years.

And those are just a few of the tour options hosted by Buffalo Trace! A stop at a distillery is one of the best things to do in Kentucky for adults!

Don’t forget to check out our post about Visting The Kentucky Bourbon Trail as well as the Best Bourbon Distilleries in Kentucky!

Admire Cars at the National Corvette Museum

Visiting the National Corvette Museum is one of the top things to do in Bowling Green, KY ! Vintage car lovers will want to visit the “Home of America’s Sports Car.”

The first Corvette was introduced in 1953 and it has since become a coveted car type. Tour the museum to see over 80 models from throughout the years including mint classics and one-of-a-kind prototypes.

One of the coolest aspects of the museum is the chance to test drive a Corvette yourself! Get behind the wheel and race around the NCM Motorsports Park track for multiple laps! This is one of the most heart-pumping Kentucky attractions!

The museum also has many events and races throughout the year, so check the calendar before you visit!

Explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park

The last two best things to do in Kentucky on our list are for the history buffs out there!

Step back in time at My Old Kentucky Home State Park near Bardstown. In the park, you will find Federal Hill, also known as My Old Kentucky Home. This three-story, brick building was built between 1812 and 1818. It was once the home of US Senator John Rowan.

The building was also the inspiration for the song “My Old Kentucky Home, Good-Night!” by Stephen Foster. Written in 1852, this ballad is known for its anti-slavery sentiments.

After touring the historic home, there are many other Kentucky activities in the park to enjoy. There is an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, and an outdoor theater.

This is also one of the best places to visit in Kentucky for a camping trip! There is a 39-site campground for RVs and tents.

Visit the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Site

Abraham Lincoln was born in 1809 in Hodgenville, Kentucky, and spent the first few years of his life on a rural farm.

Anyone interested in American history will want to stop by the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Site which honors the early life of the sixteenth president of the US. This attraction is split into two locations, the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Unit and the Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home Unit.

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Unit is on the site of the Sinking Spring Farm where Lincoln was born. You will find a visitor’s center and the First Lincoln Memorial. Similar to the larger one in Washington D.C., this memorial was built in the early 1900s. Inside, you will find the recreation of Lincoln’s log birth cabin. On this property, you can also see the Sinking Spring which the family used as a water source.

The Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home Unit is found along Knob Creek and features historic buildings. Both sites have hiking trails as well.

This is also one of the best free things to do in Kentucky since there is no admission fee for either site!

With so many twists and turns around every corner, Kentucky is a great place for any traveler to visit. By starting at Kentucky’s most famous landmarks, visitors can often find themselves discovering little-known treasures that are unique to each city in the state.

With so much to suit a variety of preferences, you’ll treasure the memories of your visit here for a lifetime. Whether you’re looking to explore natural wonders, connect with history, or expand your sports knowledge, there are cool things to do in Kentucky for you.

So, what are you waiting for? Hop in your car, book your ticket, and begin your Kentucky adventure!

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 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.

Bordered by seven states, including Indiana and Ohio, 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. Here, you can enjoy nature preserves, organic gardens, and more than 40 miles of trails.

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 chiefly 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.

This amazing tourist spot offers beautiful views and the opportunity to 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 fantastic 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, completed in the 1860s, sits on the Ohio River between Cincinnati, Ohio, and Covington, Kentucky. 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 5,795-acre park 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.

Michael Cowley - writer and photographer Ever since he was knee-high to a grasshopper Michael has always had an affinity for adventure. Growing up he was lucky enough to live in a handful of exotic far flung locations including Hong Kong, Pakistan, Kenya and Tanzania and since then he’s continued seeking out new places and cultures. In his spare time he explores everywhere from the sizzling street markets in Bangkok to random back alleys in Sri Lanka and everything in between! He also has a special fondness for Cohibas, trying all kinds of street food, playing carrom with random strangers, and fine wine - he knows his clarets from his chiantis. He counts Cuba, Amsterdam, Indonesia, Goa, Cambodia and Italy as his favourite destinations. Find Michael on Instagram or Twitter . Hotel Reviewing Experience –Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Discover Greece, Barcelo Hotels, and Rickshaw Travel. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Also mentioned as a top UK travel journalist .

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Kentucky (KY) » 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky

It’s the perfect destination for those wanting to see the small-town side of the USA, where you’re likely to find friendly locals, beautiful nature reserves, and quirky restaurants and shops at just about any small town that you wander into.

The birthplace of both President Lincoln and Bill Monroe, the bourbon capital of the world, and a perfect place to embark on adventures, Kentucky is one of the most underrated states to visit during your time in the USA.

Aside from small towns, Kentucky is also renowned for having over hundreds of miles of national parks, lakes, rivers, and even caves for adventure travellers to get their outdoor thrill.

Of course, the famous Kentucky Derby horse race is a popular time to visit Kentucky, though its truly a fun place to visit all-year-around. Visit during a public holiday and there’s sure to be some local festivity taking place. Visiting during spring, summer, and autumn will help you get a well-rounded experience of Kentucky where you can pair outdoor activities seamlessly with indoor options.

Each small-town listed has its own personality and offers a one-of-a-kind perspective to Kentucky. From trail towns to hubs for artists to towns that border the Appalachians to those nestling next to Daniel Boone country, these towns might not be great in population are rich in history, hospitality, and culture.

Here are the top fifteen small towns to visit in Kentucky.

1. Somerset

What better way to have fun with your friends and family than to rent a houseboat? Residents of Kentucky love houseboating and frequently hop on deck at Lake Cumberland, located in the small town of Somerset. Travellers can rent boats of all sizes and that will suit most budgets for their water-bound vacation.

Even if you don’t use Somerset as a houseboat hub, you can have a great time exploring Lake Cumberland via its shores by fishing, lounging, kayaking, swimming, skiing, and more. Other natural sights include the Big South Fork Rivers and a gargantuan sandstone bridge.

Somerset is also a convenient point to stay and venture to Daniel Boone National Forest, Big South Fork National River, and board a train to see the Big South Fork Scenic Railway that drives through the surrounding areas.

And all that doesn’t even account for all there is to do in town, like going to SomerSplash water park, attending music festivals, drive-in movies, dining, and visiting the museums!

2. Shelbyville

If you’re an equestrian rider or obsessed with horses, Shelbyville is a must stop destination while in Kentucky. Though Louisville, home to the Kentucky Derby, boasts the largest claim to fame when it comes to equestrian events, there’s fun to be had in Shelbyville, a small town that hosts a yearly horse show. Shelbyville also is known for breeding regal American Saddlebred horses.

Additionally, visitors can pick fruit at the Mulberry Orchard, go wine tasting, browse through antiques at the Ruby Rooster Antique Mall, and Gallrein Farms, a farm that hosts activities for children and adults alike.

No stop to Shelbyville would be complete without a tour of the local distilleries located along the “Bourbon Trail.”

3. Bardstown

Bardstown is for bourbon lovers, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Home to three well-known distilleries of Barton 1792, Heaven Hill, and Willett Distillery, it’d be a good idea to find a designated driver to take you around this small town’s tasting rooms.

When sober, read up on bourbon’s history at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History to find out more about this state’s golden export that features exhibits from the pre-Colonial days through the Prohibition to the present.

For additional information on the region, you can also check out the Civil War Museum that hosts relics of one of America’s most influential times in history. There are a few historical and heritage tours that can cover main points of interests and the museums all within a few hours.

Off-beat travellers will love camping at My Old Kentucky Home State Park and searching for the ghosts of Bardstown – allegedly there are many. Come for the bourbon, stay for the local flair.

Bluegrass fans from all around the globe pour into Rosine, the small town where Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass, first created his musical magic. Bluegrass pilgrims can visit the home of Bill Monroe, the venues he used to play at, and his grave. Visitors can even view his family photographs out on display.

Additionally, the Rosin Barn Jamboree was once where Bill Monroe fine-tuned his craft and played his last show. Even those who don’t listen to bluegrass can appreciate the atmosphere that the stage still holds today. Next door, fans can go to the Rosine General Store, where locals play music on its front steps.

To complete the bluegrass tour, then head to nearby Owensboro where fans can learn even more about the new music genre at the International Bluegrass Music Museum where an assortment of all types of bluegrass memorabilia are out for everyone to enjoy.

Berea is one of Kentucky’s art hubs of the state that attracts various types of painters, musicians, textile designers, and sculptors. It hosts a vibrant community that is constantly innovating and supporting one another to put out their best work. This all comes together at the annual Berea Craft Festival and can be seen all year long at the Kentucky Artisan Center and the Square Gallery.

The town itself has many historical sites like Berea College built in 1855 that was the region’s first interracial college and a slew of historic restaurants, buildings, and private homes.

6. Hodgenville

Birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, Hodgenville has held an important tie to history throughout the decades. Those who want to trace Lincoln’s heritage can do so by exploring the lush forest trails in the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park and the Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home, where Honest Abe learned the basics of his education. In town is the Lincoln Museum, a tiny building that features Civil War mementos, newspaper clippings, and even wax statues! Of course, you can also take your picture with a bronze statue of President Lincoln in the town square.

Hodgenville is a small town that transports you back in time where you can see the perspective from one of the nation’s most influential leaders that can be seen within one day.

London, Kentucky, is a small town that caters to residents and travellers alike who are obsessed with the outdoor lifestyle. London is the perfect home base to explore natural features like the Daniel Boone National Forest, Rockcastle River, Laurel River and Laurel Lake, Levi Jackson State Park, and more.

Hikers can trek through the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail while cyclists can weave through the many London-Laurel County cycling routes. For those who like a little fuel with their fun, there’s the Wildcat Mountain ATV Park.

There is also the historical treasure of the Camp Wildcat Battlefield, a field that has been altered very little since its battlefield days – unlike many of the others nearby, which have drastically changed. For an interesting live view of history, go to watch or participate in a battle re-enactment.

8. Pikeville

If you wanted to see a well-rounded view of all that Kentucky has to offer but could only visit one town, Pikeville would be an incredible contender.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Appalachian Mountains, go horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and even ziplining.

Also, there are constant performing arts shows playing at the Jenny Wiley Theatre and the Artists Collaborative Theatre. Live music – especially of the country variety — can be heard all throughout the town, either as an organize performance or spontaneously on the streets.

History buffs can attend historical Hatfield and McCoy feud site, where two rival families fought strategically over local land and business – developing some of the state’s strongest points of interests along the way.

With the tagline of “A little bit of Scotland in Kentucky,” Glasgow surely is a small town that’s unlike anywhere else in the state. Its nod to Scotland takes place during the annual Scottish Highland Games.

Glasgow is the perfect home base to explore some of Kentucky’s most notable natural landmarks like Mammoth Cave National Park — a spelunker’s paradise, the Brigadoon State Nature Reserve, the Diamond Caverns, and the Barren River Lake. Adventure travellers will love all the hiking, camping, swimming, and other outdoor activities that the town is the perfect portal to.

There is also the Historic Plaza Theatre, Museum of the Barrens, Veterans Wall of Honor, and Fort Williams, where you can put yourself back in time and imagine what life was like during the Civil War.

Named the “Friendliest Small Town in America” by USA Today, you have to stop by Murray when in Kentucky to see whether the town lives up to its accolade.

What makes Murray so welcoming? Well, its proximity to Kentucky Lake and Land Between Lakes recreation area probably makes its residents feel always at ease. There, you can fish, hike, kayak, watch wildlife, and play golf all around bodies of water that turn pink as soon as its sunset.

Or, maybe the locals partake in a bit of retail therapy and support their small businesses at Murray’s strip of boutique shops. The plethora of live music of course helps residents stay upbeat as well.

The best way to experience Murray is to wander around and ask the locals what their favorite things to do are.

11. Greenville

Postcard perfect, Greenville is a manicured small town with stunning heritage buildings, locally owned boutiques, and a vibrant community with regular activities for locals and visitors to join in on. Though you can count your accommodation options on one hand, visitors often come back time and time again just because of Greenville’s hospitality.

Some of its small-town highlights include the 12-acre forest at Brizendine Brothers Nature Park, the six mile Rails to Trails walk, the vast Lake Malone State Park, and a one-of-a-kind gazebo called the Summerhouse perfect for picnics at the city park.

There are also local theatre performances, veteran tributes, and restaurants serving classic Kentucky fare.

12. Lebanon

The heart of the Bourbon Belt Trail, which spans over eighty miles long and links ten bourbon distilleries, is Lebanon. Lebanon hosts the famous bourbon distilleries of Maker’s Mark and Limestone Branch as well as the bourbon barrel making company of Kentucky Cooperage which makes over 600,000 bourbon barrels per year. If wine is your alcoholic vice of choice, there is also the Whitemoon Winery.

Lebanon is a lively small town with civil war sites, a heritage center, Pope’s Creek Ranch, and the Turtleman museum, a museum created after a local folk hero, Ernie Lee Brown Jr., who wrangles turtles and has his own show on Animal Planet.

Bizarre but interesting, Lebanon has quite a bit to see for being such a small town.

13. La Grange

La Grange, Kentucky is a small town that takes pride in the fact that there might well be more resident farm animals than humans in its population. There are multiple nearby hands-on farm tours where visitors can learn to care for farm animals, farm sustainably, ride horses, and even create a meal with local farm fare!

For a locomotive spin, La Grange is also the only town in the country where a freight train chugs along the main street – meaning that you’ll hear a loud noise and probably feel a rumble as it passes through while you visit.

Couples will love staying in antique, spacious, and tastefully decorated B&Bs that are away from any semblance of a busy life. Best of all, La Grange is near attractions like the Kentucky Derby Museum, Whiskey Row, and live bluegrass music venues.

14. Maysville

Maysville residents love to have fun and it shows. This small town located on the banks of the Ohio River is easily accessible and has many historic sites, dining venues, and outdoor activities that will welcome any type of traveller.

Theatre buffs will love watching live performances at the Washington Opera House, built in 1889 and at the Russell Theatre, currently being restored to feature a star-studded ceiling. For visual artists, there is also the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center featuring a stunning 1/12 miniature collection.

With zip lining, a constant roster of festivals, and a handful of old-timer bars, Maysville residents simply love to have a good time.

Picturesque with under 2,000 residents, Midway has postcard perfect buildings, antique shops, wildlife sanctuaries, galleries, and restaurants with top notch customer service.

The town of Midway has catered to tourists by offering a cell phone walking tour, where you can hear in depth about the town’s highlights by picking up a map at City Hall and dialling a phone number for a guided experience. A historical city tapping into the technology era? Now that’s innovative.

Aside from the town square, there are museums, orchards, vineyards, and even an adventure center to round out your time at this interesting small town.

15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky:

• Shelbyville
• Hodgenville

14 Best Distilleries To Visit Along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail

There may not be another drink more mysterious than bourbon. It's known for caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, yet each bottle is unique, carrying different tastes, aromas, and surprising finishes. The amber-colored whiskey has been around since the 1700s when settlers in Kentucky (mainly Scottish, Irish, and German) realized they had the perfect soil for growing grains that would eventually be distilled as bourbon, according to History.com . Today, Kentucky still reigns as the number one producer of bourbon, claiming 95% of all bourbon distilleries. 

It seems Kentucky was destined for the job. It isn't just the soil that makes the land perfect. Fred Minnick, author of "Whiskey Women" and "Bourbon Curious: A Simple Tasting Guide for the Savvy Drinker" tells History.com  that the water plays a big factor because of how the natural limestone works to filter out minerals. That's right — even the water is perfect. All of that is to say if you love bourbon, Kentucky's Bourbon Trail is the place to be. With 37 distilleries, there is truly nowhere else on earth where you will find more bourbon within a 250-mile radius. Feel free to visit them all, but if you find it tough to choose, read on as we look at the best distilleries to visit along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. Pack your bags and get started.

Evan Williams

According to Explore Kentucky History , Evan Williams is said to be the first commercial distillery in Kentucky. Evan Williams himself came to Louisville, Kentucky from Wales in 1780. You'll find a historical marker (#2445) in his honor in Louisville. Just three years later, after realizing he'd settled in a land where the soil and water were perfect for distilling bourbon, he opened a distillery. 

The brand's website  explains that its bourbon, named after Evan Williams himself, is aged even longer than required by law, creating a Kentucky Straight Bourbon with bold character. As the first distillery in Kentucky, placed along the banks of the Ohio River way back in 1783, Evan Williams is proud to still be delivering one of the smoothest bourbons for novices and connoisseurs alike to enjoy. Today, Evan Williams bourbon is distilled at Heaven Hill Distillery, and you can enjoy the Evan Williams experience in downtown Louisville where they offer tours, tastings, and a fun speakeasy area as well (via Bourbon Trail Tours ).

Angel's Envy

If anything, you've got to visit Angel's Envy to hear the story of such a fantastic name. During the aging process of bourbon, some alcohol evaporates. It's said that the missing bourbon is the "angel's share," per Vine Pair , hence what's left is the angel's envy. You'll notice that Angel's Envy has a beautifully shaped bottle that is inspired by Angel's wings. Angel's Envy distillery is one of the youngest on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, as it began in only 2011. Today, you'll find the distillery in downtown Louisville, as the first full-production distillery to open its doors in that city. 

If you are looking for one of the smoothest bourbons in the world , you'll be in the right place at Angel's Envy. The distillery is known for bending rules in a good way, such as using second-barrel finishing techniques, which are usually only seen in the making of Scotch. Gentleman Ranter's explains that Angel's ages its bourbon in charred American oak barrels for up to six years and in the last few months it is moved to port wine casks, creating a drink that is ridiculously smooth and easy to sip.

According to Michter's , George Washington bought bottles of their bourbon straight from the distillery back during the Revolutionary War to keep his men warm through the long winter at Valley Forge. If President Washington visited, you probably should as well. Michter's began its journey in Pennsylvania back in 1753. It was founded by a Swiss Mennonite farmer named John Shenk.

It wasn't until the 1990s that Michter's found its home in Kentucky, after a long history of dealing with issues such as prohibition, bankruptcy, and the near disappearance of the Michter name. This delightful and sometimes hard-to-find bourbon owes its rareness to barrels that are toasted before they are charred, which helps to expose deeper layers of the interior of the barrels, offering greater levels of flavor to the bourbon, per Cocktails and Bars . You can visit Michter's distillery along the Bourbon Trail in Louisville, right across from the Louisville Slugger Museum.

Old Forester

In case you haven't noticed, most bourbon is steeped in history and heritage, and that's one of the reasons bourbon drinkers love it. Old Forester doesn't disappoint in this area. The founder, George Garvin Brown of Munfordville, Kentucky, created the first bottle of Forester in 1870, according to the brand's website . After purchasing the Mattingly Distillery, George created the first double-barreled bourbon, called "Very Old Fine Whisky," in 1910. A fire shut down production, so the whisky was all dumped, and although it was ready to bottle, he decided to put it all into second barrels. The stories just get better. In the 1940s, during World War II, the Old Forester distillery converted the entire production line so they could produce industrial-grade alcohol. This was done to help out the troops and the entire war effort. You just have to love bourbon stories. 

A fun tidbit about Old Forester is that it is the only bourbon that has remained in the same company before, during, and after prohibition. Tour Old Forester and hear all the great stories about George Garvin Brown on Whiskey Row in Louisville, Kentucky.

Everything you need to know about Bulleit bourbon is summed up by the distillers on its website , which reads "Our aging philosophy is simple: We wait until our bourbon is ready." Simple, yet essential words that describe a bourbon known for its extra spice and smoothness. Bulleit's claim to fame is their higher use of rye in the mash.

As with many bourbons, the story starts out a bit sad but has a happy ending. The Rum Howler Blog writes that Augustus Bulleit, the creator of Bulleit bourbon back in 1830, disappeared while transporting the bourbon across the country, and Bulleit bourbon disappeared as well for over 100 years. Thankfully, generations later, Thomas E. Bulleit, Jr. said enough is enough and brought Bulleit bourbon back to life. According to Bourbonr , it's not a whiskey that is difficult to run across. You'll see it in most bars and liquor stores; however, as a common shelf bourbon, it gives novices and connoisseurs a unique taste, unlike some of the others on the shelf. Check out Bulleit bourbon at the Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Ready for a little romance? Four Roses has you covered. It starts with a tempting beauty and ends with a "yes" to a proposal. According to Four Roses Bourbon , Paul Jones, Jr. fell in love with a Southern belle and had to have her. In the most romantic gesture ever, he wrote a letter to her, asking for her hand in marriage. To top his amorous proposal, she replied by writing that she would wear a rose corsage to the grand ball they would both be attending if her answer were "yes." And, you guessed it — she wore four roses. Jones was certainly relieved to not be humiliated with a "no" and we are all relieved he continued to make fine bourbon, aptly naming it Four Roses.

Four Roses is known for the fact that it has 10 different bourbon recipes, and each has its own notes. This is done by creating different yeast strains and separate mash bills. The distillery is as gorgeous as the romantic rose label and can be toured along the Kentucky Bourbon trail in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Woodford Reserve

If you drink bourbon, you've heard of Woodford Reserve. It's one of the most popular bourbons out there. And although the price point is a decent one at around $50 a bottle, Woodford Reserve is considered a premium bourbon. 

According to The Spirits Educator , the story of Woodford Reserve begins in the cute little Kentucky town of Versailles. There, a man named Elijah Pepper began to distill corn into whiskey in 1797. His son would then take over in 1835 and hire a Scottish scientist to help with the distilling process. That scientist, Dr. James C. Crow, is credited with inventing the sour mash that is still used in bourbon fermenting today. After a few more changes in hand, the distillery would eventually end up with Brown-Forman in 1994 and the bourbon was named Woodford after the county in which it resides.

The distillery, which is along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, is considered one of the most beautiful ones to see. Woodford Reserve's website  explains that they offer several different tour options and you should aim to book them a few months in advance because they sell out.

The history of Jim Beam began with the American dream and some corn. The Boehm family hailed from Germany and arrived in America in 1740 when the country was still 13 colonies. Fast forward 48 years and the family not only moved to Kentucky to take advantage of government incentives that were offered for farming corn, but they also Americanized their name as many immigrants did back then, to Beam (via JimBeam.com ). 

Whiskey, namely rye whiskey, was already popular by then, but Jacob Beam made the decision to start using up excess corn and turned it into a mash for distilling. Their bourbon whiskey was born and folks all over loved Jim Beam. He sold his first barrel in 1795, and the story continues today. By the way, Kentucky already had 2,000 distilleries by the early 1800s, so selling a barrel of a new one you've made was no easy task.

Bourbon law says you must age the whiskey at least two years for it to be considered bourbon. However, Jim Beam is known for its four-year aging process to bring bourbon fans a satisfyingly smooth spirit. Seeing the Jim Beam distillery is seeing a business that began two centuries ago. You'll find them in Clermont, Kentucky where they offer tours and Kentucky hospitality.

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark begins with Bill Samuels, Sr., who is quoted as saying he wanted a bourbon "that won't blow my ears off," per the brand's website . And that's what happened, but let's back it up a little first. Bill's family already had a bourbon recipe that was 170 years old. He decided to experiment with it, determined to create a bourbon that wouldn't blow his ears off and he, well ... set the drapes on fire, along with the ancient family recipe, while doing so. Thankfully, Bill had spunk and he continued on. He wisely used bread making to experiment with grains and soon he'd find the secret that would make Maker's Mark stand out amongst the bourbon crowd — red winter wheat instead of rye. Brilliant.

It's the red winter wheat that gives Maker's its sweet notes, making it an excellent bourbon in cocktails like the Old Fashioned , and also perfect for sipping neat so you can enjoy Maker's Mark's delicately sweet notes.

We can't end without discussing the dripping red wax that seals the bottle. It's purely decorative and was designed by one of the first women in the bourbon industry, Margie Samuels, whose name resides in the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. The red wax makes Maker's Mark stand out on the shelves and consumers can't help but be curious. Visit Maker's Mark in Loretto, Kentucky along the Bourbon Trail. 

Heaven Hill

Prohibition ended and the Shapira family got busy making bourbon. Heaven Hill Brands writes that the family was taking quite a risk. The Great Depression was at its peak, the family had no whiskey at the time, and no brand of their own. Today, something people often don't realize about Heaven Hill is that it's the largest, independent, family-owned distillery in the world today, making 19 different bourbons and whiskeys, including Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. The distillery makes a whopping 1,300 barrels a day. Hard work and a dream pay off.

Heaven Hill Distillery explains that the business began in Bardstown, Kentucky by a gentleman named William Heavenhill. The name was misspelled one time as "Heaven Hill" while filling out official paperwork as the business was being formed. It would have cost $10 to fix it, so the separated words of the name remained.

One of the Shapira brothers, Max, was once quoted as saying, "When you're in the business of making products that you can't sell for four years or longer, it takes patience and perseverance" (via Heaven Hill Distillery ). It certainly does. Eventually, the Jim Beam family entered the picture and helped make Heaven Hill the world-renowned distillery it is today. You can visit this amazing place in downtown Louisville, Kentucky.

Willet Distillery is one of the last truly family-owned distilleries in Kentucky. They are very proud of it and believe so highly in their family-owned business that they regularly turn down investors. At one point, the distillery closed because of the financial pressures that came in the 1980s when clear spirits, such as vodka, were king. Fast forward to 1984, when the Kulsveen couple purchased the property from the Willets and brought the Willet Distillery back to life. From there, Willet would become seriously premium. It's one of the most expensive bourbons in the world , with some bottles selling for $4,000.

Willet is known for its willingness to share things, such as its mash bill, with the public. Most distilleries keep those numbers a secret. Because of the past history of Willet, especially having to close the doors at one time, Drew Kulsveen was quoted in Whisky Magazine as saying that customer tastes dictate their business. If people have a change of taste, we have to protect ourselves." That's why they are now seeking the distilling of other spirits as well. Visit the Willet Distillery, rich in history, in Bardstown, Kentucky.

Wild Turkey

It took three different stories to merge and bring us the beloved American bourbon called Wild Turkey, according to The Whiskey Jug . It includes the Ripy family who began a distillery called Old Moore in 1850. Then the story continues with a change in name to Austin Nichols, since the Ripys merged with that distillery, and finally, in 1940 we see the first bottle that's named Wild Turkey, which Austin Nichols came up with while hunting turkeys. By the way, in 2016, Matthew McConaughey became the creative director for the distillery.

Wild Turkey prides itself in using only non-GMO corn in their mash bill (which is kept quite secretive). Bourbon Obsessed points out that Wild Turkey is a classic bourbon, delivering those bourbon notes you'd expect while also hitting your nose and palate with a surprising spiciness.

The distillery is located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and offers plenty of tours for Kentucky Bourbon Trail visitors. Wild Turkey writes that its new visitors' site is something to see, and it has even received several awards.

Green River

Along the bourbon trail, you'll find craft distilleries, which are smaller distilleries that are motivated by innovation and creativity, obeying the laws of bourbon production, of course, but also looking for new ways to make it even better. When it comes to innovation today, Green River Distillery is at the forefront. 

Green River believes in doing things correctly because bourbon is bourbon. Master distiller at Green River Distillery, Jacob Call explains that making good bourbon doesn't require a magic bullet. There are certain processes that have to be followed and the right ingredients have to be used. On the other hand, the distillery also believes in shaking up the bourbon world by trying new things, such as aging bourbon in unique barrels. Green River is currently experimenting with wine and rum barrels. 

If that isn't enticing enough, all of Green River Distillery's corn is locally sourced, often within just a few miles of the distillery. On top of that, they give 1% of their sales to environmental causes. It's not just a distillery in Kentucky. It's a part of Kentucky and cares about the environment. Visit this innovative craft distillery along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Castle and Key

The distillery, Old Taylor, which once housed the infamous bourbon Colonel G.H. Taylor, was left abandoned until Castle and Key purchased the property and restored it into something beautiful, according to Sipping History . It was Will Arvin, in 2012, who visited the grounds of the old distillery and found roofs caving in, weeds growing wild, and, all in all, a historical place that was falling apart. He fell in love and the site for Castle and Key was born. Castle and Key is another new craft distillery, but the building and grounds that house it are full of rich history. Thanks to the restoration, tours are now happening again, and visitors hear not only the new Castle and Key story but the stories of Old Taylor as well. 

Castle and Key writes that quality is of the utmost importance to the distillery. After all, it's practically on hallowed ground. The distillery make this promise clear by encouraging customers to let them know how they feel about the bourbon and their experiences. Although this craft distillery is along the bourbon trail, Castle and Key offers more than bourbon. It also distills gin, vodka, and rye whiskey. There's something for everyone. Visit Castle and Key in Frankfort, Kentucky. 

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• Sunday Headlines: Amari Williams Visit Edition

The Cats are hosting one of the top centers in the transfer portal this weekend.

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Good morning BBN!

Things are starting to take shape for Mark Pope and the Kentucky Wildcats , as they have started to lock in on their top targets to fill out the coaching staff, as well as their top players to help fill out the roster.

A lot of attention has been paid to what 5-star recruit Liam McNeeley will do as the top uncommitted incoming freshman, but it is one transfer center that the fanbase should become familiar with.

Who is it? Drexel transfer, Amari Williams.

Williams arrived in Lexington for a visit on Saturday afternoon as he looks to make his choice between the Cats and Mississippi State in the near future.

It isn’t the best-kept secret, but with the way things are trending, it appears that Kentucky is in a great position to land the talented big man, which would give the Cats potentially the top defensive big man in the SEC.

A three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year, Williams this past season for the Dragons averaged 12.2 PPG on 51.7% shooting from the field. He also added 7.8 rebounds. 1.9 assists and 1.8 blocks per game.

Adding Williams would be a great way to kick off the portal season for Pope. Let’s get it done.

Tweet of the Day

Mark Pope and Amari Williams at Keeneland pic.twitter.com/4PWP44da1d — Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) April 20, 2024

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Kentucky transfer g maddie scherr cancels iowa visit following lucy olsen commitment, share this article.

The Iowa Hawkeyes originally had a visitor scheduled for Thursday.

Instead, Kentucky transfer point guard Maddie Scherr will look elsewhere. The 5-foot-10 senior guard canceled her visit after Iowa picked up a commitment from Villanova transfer point guard Lucy Olsen.

Hawkeye Report ‘s Kyle Huesmann confirmed that news on Wednesday night.

As expected, I have confirmed that Kentucky point guard Maddie Scherr will not visit tomorrow. Hawkeyes are full at 15 players barring an unexpected transfer out. — Kyle Huesmann (@HuesmannKyle) April 18, 2024

It makes sense. Olsen steps right in as Iowa’s incumbent starting point guard, which would have been the starting slot Scherr was seeking. Plus, with Olsen’s commitment, Iowa is at the full 15 scholarship players.

That group features incoming freshmen Ava Heiden, Taylor Stremlow, Teagan Mallegni, Callie Levin and Aaliyah Guyton, redshirt freshman Ava Jones, sophomore Kennise Johnson, juniors Taylor McCabe, Jada Gyamfi and Hannah Stuelke and seniors Lucy Olsen, Sydney Affolter, Kylie Feuerbach, AJ Ediger and Addison O’Grady.

Scherr averaged 12.5 points, 4.8 rebounds and 3.4 assists last season with the Wildcats. The Florence, Ky., native shot 33.5% from the field, 28.8% from 3-point range and 81.6% from the charity stripe.

While the Hawkeyes don’t have another roster spot for Scherr, Iowa fans will no doubt be excited about adding last season’s No. 3 leading scorer nationally in Olsen.

Olsen averaged 23.3 points per game last season with Villanova. The junior shot 43.8% from the field, 29.4% from 3-point range and 80.7% from the line. Olsen also averaged 4.8 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 1.9 steals per game.

Contact/Follow us  @HawkeyesWire on X and like our page on  Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Iowa news, notes and opinions.

Follow Josh on X:   @JoshOnREF

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An ever-changing ‘heartbeat.' How Churchill Downs’ Paddock has changed over 150 years

As Churchill Downs enters its 150th year of racing, one of its most well-known and highly trafficked areas is getting its biggest facelift ever.

The $200 million re-imagining of the paddock is nearing the finish line, significantly enlarging its footprint and relocating the pre-race gathering space to a prime position between the iconic twin spires.

“If you look at what has happened at the track long before our time, they've always continuously improved the property,” said Ryan Jordan, senior vice president of real estate development with Churchill Downs Inc. “We feel responsible to be good stewards of that, to carry that history forward, to make sure that we are continually relevant, while at the same time making sure that we honor, respect and maintain the history and tradition of the event.”

After a 2023 spring meet marred by a dozen horse deaths (including two on Kentucky Derby day), the completion of the paddock project is a major milestone and welcome news for the racetrack and its Louisville-headquartered parent company, Churchill Downs Inc., representing the culmination of years of planning, design and construction.

Timeline: How the Churchill Downs paddock has changed over 150 years

In replacing a paddock that stood for more than 35 years, Churchill Downs promises an improved experience for its guests, from better views and improved traffic flow to one-of-a-kind experiences for premium ticket holders.

“The thing that I've been saying to people who are like, ‘Oh, I’m going to miss the 1986 paddock,’ is we’ve had this change so many times over the last 150 years because it has to,” said Jessica Whitehead, curator of collections at the nonprofit Kentucky Derby Museum . “Just like the grandstand has had to change so many times and all different kinds of structures have had to change. The success of Churchill Downs necessitates it.”

From its humble beginnings as a small wooden structure to a colossal centerpiece that company officials call the "heartbeat" of the track, much has changed for the Churchill Down paddock, while still more has stayed the same.

The paddock at the dawn of Churchill Downs

Now a focal point of the track, Churchill Downs’ paddock started 150 years ago in a very different place with a more narrow purpose than we think of today.

A November 1874 article in The Courier Journal highlights features of the new Louisville Jockey Club, founded by Meriwether Lewis Clark Jr., the grandson of famed explorer William Clark.

Adjoining the clubhouse was the betting shed and the paddock, where horses are saddled before each race.

That structure was likely a simple one made of wood, Whitehead said. It, along with the grandstand, were not in the same locations as their modern-day counterparts. Until 1895, the layout of the grandstand on the track’s north end and stables on the south side were inversed.

The original layout had spectators facing the setting sun, one factor leading track owners to build a new grandstand on the site it stands today.

An article the day after the 1889 Kentucky Derby called the race day scene in the paddock “next to indescribable.”

“Across the track the scene was in many instances extremely ludicrous,” it read. “Nearly up to the turn in the stretch and as far as the first furlong post down the track, the paddock was lined with people, twenty-five to fifty feet deep, all struggling to get an advantageous stand near the fence.”

A scene from the 17th Kentucky Derby in 1891 seems just as hectic.

“A dead heat had just been run, but the people did not wait even to see whose number was posted, so eager were they to see the colts that were to compete for the famous prize,” read a newspaper account. “Packed along the iron fence separating the lawn and betting shed from the new saddling paddock were hundreds of men , peeping over the shoulders of one another to catch a hasty peep at the blanketed horses walking around the square of turf in front of the covered shed.”

A view of the 19th-century-era paddock comes not from photos but from fire insurance maps from The Sanborn Map Company. An 1892 map shows the paddock off the betting shed, which was adjacent to the grandstand.

When the grandstand moved to the north side of the racetrack, a new paddock was built underneath it, specifically, under the ladies’ section.

“That didn't stay very long,” Whitehead said. “Probably for obvious reasons. It probably stank to high heaven for the ladies, so they probably didn't like that. I'm sure nobody liked that.”

A few years later, the paddock appears to have expanded by at least double, according to The Courier Journal reporting. Growing from six stalls to 12, the paddock could better accommodate the full field of horses.

“Immediately after the third race there was a rush to the paddock by the lucky ones who had badges admitting them to its sacred precincts," reads a May 5, 1898, article, "and those who were less favored contented themselves with lining up against the outside fence, for the colts that were to race in the race of all Kentucky races of 1898, the Kentucky Derby, were the next ones that would enter the paddock gates and every true lover of the sport of kings wanted to get a look at the colts that were to battle for a small fortune and a lasting name in the annals of American turfdom."

The paddock floodgates open

The early 1900s brought more changes to the paddock, bringing it closer to the version seen today.

In its early decades, the paddock wasn’t a gathering spot for all racegoers. At first, it was a space for men as it wasn’t considered ladylike for women to be seen in a space so heavily connected to gambling.

Whitehead said the racetrack was focused on facilitating gatherings of social elites and testing thoroughbred bloodlines.

“So the paddock in that sense would have been very important to a certain set of people, but of course, not everybody was allowed in the paddock at that time,” she said.

Often on the move in its early years, a freestanding wooden paddock made its debut in time for the 29th Kentucky Derby in May 1903, attended by some 25,000. The Courier Journal reported it, and the betting shed, were “stuffed with men wedged in until they formed an impenetrable barrier to the late-comers who desired to wager..."

The next big shake-up for the paddock came in 1917, when future track president Matt Winn, in a bid to better accommodate anticipated Kentucky Derby crowds in the 30,000-40,000 range, removed a fence between the paddock and grandstand and dropped a separate paddock entry fee.

“That was a big sort of democratizing step to open the paddock up because it sort of demystified what was going on ... for most of the regular racegoers,” Whitehead said.

Yet another big change came ahead of the 50th running of the Kentucky Derby in 1924, when a larger, 22-stall steel paddock was built behind the grandstand, between the twin spires.

An electronic odds board was installed near this paddock in 1941, only to be replaced in 1946 by a much larger tote board that lasted into the 1980s.

Though the paddock shifted with both these installations — sometimes closer to the grandstand, other times closer to the modern-day museum — it would go on to be the longest-standing paddock in the track’s history, lasting more than 60 years.

“As they kept expanding and building new additions, this structure stayed, but they ... sort of shuffled it around based on the Tetris that was going on in that larger property,” Whitehead said.

A modern-era paddock rises

The paddock that Churchill Downs regulars and once-a-year Derby-goers have come to know was the result of a $2.6-million project in the mid-1980s.

The 1986 running of the Kentucky Derby was the last Run for the Roses for the steel paddock structure that saw 10 horses begin their Triple Crown journey.

In its place rose a new 20-stall paddock structure with a giant toteboard. The white-bricked building, the walking ring, and the grassy center opened in time for the fall meet.

Track officials at the time said a bigger paddock was needed.  

“I’ve always thought this paddock was inadequate for this place … I’d say nine-tenths of the tracks in the country had a better paddock than Churchill Downs had. I was always about half-ashamed of our paddock,” said then-Churchill Chairman Warner L. Jones Jr. “I think we’ve been fortunate nobody really got hurt. On Derby Day, there’s hardly room to get your breath, let alone get out of the way of some wild horse.”

The old steel paddock structure, however, didn’t go away. Churchill Downs rebranded it as the Paddock Pavilion and used it as a beer garden with a stage, dancing area and seating for more than 500 people.

That use continued until 1997 when the racetrack converted the open-air paddock building into an enclosed simulcast watering center in a $1 million project.

The old 1920s-era paddock finally met its end as part of a $9 million capital improvement project in 2012 that also included the creation of The Mansion.

The demolition freed up space in the paddock plaza, opening up the paved area between the museum and the 1986 paddock.

The $200 million upgrade nears the finish line

When racegoers walk into Churchill Downs for the historic 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, they’ll be greeted by the track’s largest capital investment in recent memory.

Gone is the 1986 paddock and in its place is a multi-level, horseshoe-shaped structure that rises above the recessed horse stalls, walking ring and center green.

New double-sided video screens will show the action in the paddock, and a new digital ribbon running above the stalls will show horses’ statistical information.

More than doubling from 5,000 square feet to 12,000 square feet, the paddock will be able to accommodate 2,400, up from about 1,000 people.

Turned 180 degrees, with stables now facing outward from the grandstand, the new paddock has moved much closer to the grandstand and is centered between the twin spires.

At the ground level are Club SI and the Woodford Reserve Paddock Club, luxury seating areas promising unparalleled up-close paddock views in addition to open-air terraced standing-room-only space for any frontside Derby goer.

Above, a host of loges, terraces and balconies are set to offer an elevated view of the paddock, not to mention the Spires Terrace and Suites, nestled between the spires with a 360-degree view of the racetrack.

“We really wanted to make sure that we could create an impactful project that doesn't just speak to a few ticket purchasers or guests, but could transform the experience for everyone,” said Jordan, with Churchill Downs.

The prior paddock was demolished in 2022, allowing the track to start on much of the underground work for the future paddock. A temporary paddock, roughly in the place where the new permanent structure is located, was set up for the 2023 Kentucky Derby only to be ripped up for full-on construction that’s lasted the better part of a year.

The new paddock checks a few different boxes for Churchill Downs Inc.

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Churchill Downs Inc. CEO Bill Carstanjen said in the company’s 2023 fourth-quarter earnings call in February that the paddock project was the most significant undertaking at the racetrack in his nearly two decades with the company, adding it would help “drive increases in the profitability of the Kentucky Derby,” though he declined to share projections at the time.

Of the approximately $1 billion worth of construction projects ongoing at Churchill Downs’ properties across the country, about 20% is tied to the paddock project. Since 2010, Churchill Downs Inc. has poured about $550 million into its namesake racetrack.

Churchill Downs has told investors the project will pay for itself in less than eight years.

In designing the project, Churchill Downs looked at other “marquee” events and studied their offerings, including high-end, one-of-a-kind bucket list experiences, Jordan said.

“These projects, and making sure that we stay relevant, is important,” he said. “We don't want to become irrelevant or we don't want people to keep coming to the Derby and say, ‘You know, I've done that.’”

About 3,600 new seats are being added to the paddock across all its spaces.

“That very much speaks to the trend in racing to stay viable, is you want to cater to everyone but you also want to continue dangling the carrot to people who can shell out for a magnificent experience on Derby,” Whitehead said. “So I think you're seeing a lot of these incredible social experiences coming available that maybe aren't accessible to everyone.”

Track officials also hope the reconfigured paddock allows for a better, less confusing flow from the grandstand to the clubhouse. Gone is the “choke point” of the fenced pathway that led horses between the racetrack and the paddock.

“It's much more intentional and logical compared to what we had previously, which was a bunch of buildings built around the paddock, which was difficult to move around," Jordan said.

Pieces of history have been revealed through the project, which stripped away decades of additions and exposed century-old features that had been covered.

A drywalled narrow second-floor hallway beneath the spires has been opened up, revealing red brick that is part of the original 1895 grandstand. The new paddock’s second-floor terrace gets guests much closer to the twin spires and detailing on the backside of the grandstand.

These revealed and spotlighted bits of history nod to the longevity of the Louisville institution while blending with the new construction.  

“We are always very intentional at Churchill Downs racetrack to try and create projects that celebrate and highlight our history and tradition,” Jordan said. “So much of the history that was covered up, we're exposing, getting people closer to that history, closer to the tradition, providing more spaces for people to create memories ... I think we're set up for people to really, really enjoy their time.”

Reach business and development reporter Matthew Glowicki at [email protected].