kentucky tourism things to do

45 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Kentucky

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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

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

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

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

35. Floodwall Murals

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

36. Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Great American Dollhouse Museum

The Great American Dollhouse Museum

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

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

There are also room boxes and little miniature buildings.

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

There are three different major areas within the exhibition hall.

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

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

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

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

38. Kentucky Horse Park

ehrlif / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. Louisville Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

Just check the zoo’s event calendar in advance!

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

40. USS Sachem Ruins

BrittanyMosley / Shutterstock

Looking for unusual vacation ideas to enjoy in Kentucky?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Countless people are attracted to its mystery and eerieness.

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

41. National Corvette Museum

Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

42. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

43. Grave of Daniel Boone

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

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

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

The Grave of Daniel Boone rests in Frankfort Cemetery.

He is buried next to Rebecca, his wife.

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

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

Even just the view from his grave is amazing.

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

44. Joe Ley Antiques

Louisville Images / flickr

Love antiques?

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

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

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

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

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

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

45. Waverly Hills Sanatorium

The Waverly Hills Sanatorium

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

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

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

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

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

It went through many different changes before eventually being abandoned.

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Kentucky

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

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

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

25 Best Things to Do in Kentucky — Fun Activities & Stuff to Do!

By: Author Logan Edwards

Posted on Published: February 18, 2021  - Last updated: August 11, 2023

Kentucky is more than just fried chicken and mint juleps (though, seriously, who could resist?). 

As a local, I’ve explored its rolling hills, and I have to say horse racing, bourbon sipping, and toe-tapping to bluegrass are just the tip of the ice-cold mint julep. 

The Bluegrass State boasts a tapestry of history waiting to be unraveled, trails that could fill your Instagram feed for days, and museums that are anything but yawn-inducing. 

And famous sights? 

It’s got them in spades. 

In a state that’s brimming with Southern charm, you’ll need a roadmap. 

Here is your essential guide to the best things to do in Kentucky – from someone who’s been there, done that.

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Best Things To Do In Kentucky Compared 

Welcome to Kentucky. 

Explore our top picks for family-friendly activities, from horseback riding at Churchill Downs to discovering history at the Kentucky Derby Museum. 

Unforgettable experiences await.

Editor’s Choice

Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Race Track Visit

The Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Race Track Visit in Kentucky offer visitors a chance to experience the breeding, training, and history of thoroughbred horses. 

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Muhammad Ali Center

The Muhammad Ali Center is a non-profit museum dedicated to The Greatest.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

National Corvette Museum

The National Corvette Museum features models of the Chevrolet Corvette since its debut in 1953.

Here are the top 25 things to do in Kentucky.

1. Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Race Track Visit (Editor’s Choice)

1900 Clays Mill Rd  Lexington, KY 40503 (859) 260-8687 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

And it also lets you witness live horse racing at one of the country’s most prestigious tracks.

Ratings Criteria

• Up-close experience with horses: It offers a unique opportunity to interact with horses, learn about their training, breeding, and care, and gain insights into the world of horse racing.
• Rich history and tradition: Visiting the track provides a chance to immerse oneself in the rich history and tradition of thoroughbred racing in Kentucky. 
• Seasonal limitations: Depending on the time of year, there might be limitations on the availability of horse farm tours and race events. 
• Limited appeal for non-horse racing enthusiasts: Those who are not interested in the sport may find limited appeal in these activities.

Why You’ll Enjoy This Activity

Embarking on a Horse Farm Tour in Kentucky promises an unforgettable experience for horse lovers and racing enthusiasts. Kentucky’s sprawling landscapes and picturesque horse farms create a captivating backdrop, showcasing the beauty of these magnificent creatures. 

Visitors can witness the daily routines of the horses, learn about their breeding and training processes, and marvel at the meticulous care and attention given to them. 

Meanwhile, a visit to Keeneland Race Track immerses visitors in the heart-pounding world of horse racing. 

The electrifying atmosphere, coupled with the track’s rich history and stunning architecture, adds to the allure, making it an exciting destination for all who appreciate the grace and power of these incredible animals.

During a Horse Farm Tour in Kentucky, visitors can witness the breeding and training of thoroughbred horses, interact with the horses themselves, explore historic barns, and learn about the rich equestrian culture of the region.

It’s a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of horse racing and experience the beauty of these magnificent animals.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Campbell House Lexington, Curio Collection by Hilton

2. Muhammad Ali Center

144 N 6th Street Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 584-9254 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

It was opened in 2005.

• Celebrating an iconic athlete: Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase Ali’s boxing career, his commitment to social justice, and his impact on the world. 
• Inspirational and educational experience: It offers interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and engaging displays that promote understanding, tolerance, and the pursuit of personal greatness.
• Limited appeal for non-sports fans: Visitors who are not interested in sports or boxing may find limited appeal in visiting the Muhammad Ali Center.
• Relatively niche attraction: It may not have the same broad appeal as other museums or attractions that cover a wider range of subjects.

One of the top places to go in Kentucky if you’re a boxing and sports fan is the Muhammad Ali Center.

Its interactive museum shows the life and career of one of the most celebrated boxers globally, Muhammad Ali.

Feel closer to the greatest boxer in history when you complete the permanent exhibits in the museum.

It incorporates the six principles that Muhammad Ali followed in his life.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Galt House Hotel, A Trademark Collection Hotel

3. National Corvette Museum

350 Corvette Drive Bowling Green, KY 42101 (270) 781-7973 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The museum was founded in 1994.

• Automotive history and enthusiasm: Car enthusiasts can marvel at the extensive collection of Corvettes on display, learn about the evolution of the model, and gain insights into the automotive industry.
• Interactive exhibits and engaging activities: From virtual racing simulators to hands-on displays, it offers an immersive experience that can be enjoyable for both car enthusiasts and casual visitors.
• Limited appeal for non-car enthusiasts: Those without a passion for cars or automotive history might find the museum less engaging compared to attractions with broader themes.
• Geographical accessibility: The National Corvette Museum is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, which might be less accessible for visitors who are not already in the area.

The Chevrolet Corvette has come down in history as the classic American sports car.

Auto enthusiasts are sure to lose their heads with the many models of this cool ride displayed in the museum.

Even kids will enjoy their visit to the museum because of the Kid Zone.

Here, they’ll be able to get their driver’s license after driving on a mini street, pump fuel in their car, and even try their hand at servicing a miniature Corvette.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ramada by Wyndham Bowling Green

4. Castle Post

230 Pisgah Pike Versailles, KY 40383 (859) 256-0322 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Castle Post, or The Kentucky Castle, was built in 1969 by the Martins after they were inspired by European architecture from their trip.

Today, the castle is a destination bed and breakfast.

For couples looking for where to go in Kentucky, this bed and breakfast is an excellent way to feel like you’re in a European getaway without having to leave the country.

You can book a room, eat your fill in the restaurant, relax away in the spa, and more.

Besides staying in their rooms, you can also book a guided tour around the castle and its grounds.

You can even choose to add lunch to your tour if you’re not staying in the castle.

Related: Best Restaurants in Versailles

5. Creation Museum

2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd Petersburg, KY 41080 (888) 582-4253 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Creation Museum in Kentucky is a religious-themed museum that presents a literal interpretation of the Bible’s creation story. 

It showcases exhibits on Earth’s history, dinosaurs, and the Garden of Eden.

The Creation Museum in Kentucky offers a unique and captivating experience that appeals to a wide range of individuals. 

With its stunning exhibits and immersive displays, visitors can explore the wonders of biblical creation, scientific discoveries, and the intersection of faith and science. 

The museum’s attention to detail and engaging storytelling provide an enlightening and thought-provoking journey that encourages critical thinking and fosters a deeper understanding of the origins of life. 

Whether you’re a believer, a skeptic, or simply curious, the Creation Museum offers an unforgettable experience that leaves visitors with a newfound appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

At the Creation Museum in Kentucky, visitors can explore captivating exhibits showcasing the biblical account of creation. 

They can engage with thought-provoking presentations, planetarium shows, and educational workshops that delve into topics like Noah’s Ark, human origins, and the age of the Earth. 

Additionally, guests can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy outdoor attractions such as zip lines and a petting zoo.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Glasgow

Related: Best Family Vacations in Kentucky

6. Cumberland Falls State Park

7351 Highway 90 Corbin, KY 40701 (606) 528-4121 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Cumberland Falls State Park is 1,657-acres big and is near Corbin.

It is located inside the Daniel Boone National Forest.

The Cumberland Falls is called Little Niagara for its beautiful curved downstream shape, much like the Niagara Falls.

It is also one of the must see tourist spots in the state during a full moon.

When the night is clear, the falls can create a moonbow or a lunar rainbow.

Another fun activity to do in Cumberland Falls State Park besides going to the waterfall is bird watching.

You can catch many avian species here like Wood Warblers, Carolina Chickadee, Northern Cardinal, Downy Woodpecker, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Corbin

7. Wigwam Village #2

601 N Dixie Highway Cave City KY 42127 (833) 944-9267 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Wigwam Village #2 is a roadside motel unique to the state and is definitely one of the cool places to stay during your road trip this weekend .

Add sleeping in a concrete wigwam (teepee) to your list of stuff to do in Kentucky.

If you ever find yourself on US Highway 31, make sure to spend a night in this roadside motel.

Fans of the Old Roadside America era are sure to enjoy their stay here.

Though it isn’t the most comfortable place to sleep in, nothing beats the experience of staying in Wigwam Village #2 as you won’t find a lot of old roadside motels anymore.

Just be ready as it can get hot in the summers or super cold in the winters.

8. USS Sachem Ruins

2478 Lawrenceburg Ferry Road Petersburg, KY 4108 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The USS Sachem was a converted yacht that belonged to the US Navy during the two World Wars.

It changed names and owners a lot through the years until it was bought by Robert Miller in 1986.

Though the ship rotted away because it was just too expensive to repair and maintain, no one’s stopping the locals from calling it the Ghost Ship because of its eerie look.

It’ll definitely look good in photos with a haunted or castaway theme.

When you find yourself kayaking on the Ohio River near Taylor Creek, make sure to stop by the USS Sachem for a cheap but fun attraction.

Fans of Madonna will be tickled to learn that this ship was used for her Papa Don’t Preach music video.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Cincinnati Airport

9. Monroe Moosnick Medical & Science Museum

300 N Broadway Lexington, KY 40507 (859) 233-8228 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Monroe Moosnick Medical and Science Museum is a medical museum that would be one of the things to see in Kentucky if you’re a medical student or if you like unique exhibits.

The museum has tons of vintage medical instruments from the 18th and 19th centuries, which were considered state-of-the-art back then.

Today, you’d think they came straight out of a science fiction work.

You’ll be able to see many interesting artifacts during your visit.

An example would be the largest hairball in the world (it’s 14 inches in diameter) and a Medical Venus (a wax figure with organs and tissues from approximately 200 cadavers).

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites Lexington

10. Kentucky’s Stonehenge

201 Lynn Avenue Munfordville KY 42765 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Kentucky’s Stonehenge was created by Chester Fry, who was inspired by the European landmark.

Though not to scale, it is still a fun replica to visit when you’re in Munfordville.

Ever wanted to visit Stonehenge but haven’t been to Europe?

You can skip the trip abroad and nip over to Kentucky instead.

One of the popular tourist attractions in Munfordville is this Stonehenge replica.

You can take tons of fun pictures with this roadside attraction.

There are also other features around Stonehenge, so don’t leave after taking photos with it.

You can also have fun posing with a giant cross, a desk and chair, and cannons created from stone.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Horse Cave

Related: Best Family Hotels in Kentucky

11. Colonel Sanders’ Grave

701 Baxter Avenue Louisville, KY 40204 (502) 451-5630 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Colonel Sanders was the founder of the famous fast-food chicken restaurant Kentucky Fried Chicken or KFC.

He died in 1980 and is buried in Cave Hill Cemetery.

Lovers of fried chicken can pay their respects to the ultimate fried chicken king, Colonel Sanders.

Sanders is buried with his wife, and you can visit them when you’re in the cemetery.

You can even pose with this bust.

There are other famous people buried in Cave Hill Cemetery if you want to visit them after the colonel.

Muhammad Ali is also here and is open to the public.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Seelbach Hilton Louisville

Related: Top Things to Do in Louisville

12. Mantle Rock

Mantle Rock Road Smithland, KY 42081 (859) 259-9655 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Mantle Rock is a 30-foot-high sandstone bridge inside the Mantle Rock Nature Preserve.

It is about 188 feet long.

To get to Mantle Rock, follow the 4.2-kilometer Mantle Rock loop trail.

It is primarily easy and can be done by all skill levels. It even has a cave and tons of cool rock formations along the way.

Though relatively easy, make sure to wear proper shoes on the trail as you might have to scramble a bit on a few rocks.

Also, put on bug spray as there might be ticks and spiders during your visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Regency Inn Eddyville

13. Tri-State Peak

Middlesboro, KY 40965 Open in Google Maps

Tri-State Peak is located inside the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

It is named Tri-State because its peak is where three states meet; namely, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Be in three places at once when you reach the top of the Tri-State Peak Trail.

It might look normal and just beautifully natural, but you could go home and boast about visiting three states simultaneously.

The Tri-State Peak Trail is a short 2.2-mile out and back trail.

It has genuinely scenic views that you’ll appreciate while you’re hiking.

It is a bit steep but nothing too hard to do.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Middlesboro

14. Ark Encounter

1 Ark Encounter Drive Williamstown, KY 41097 (859) 727-2222 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ark Encounter is a theme park based on Noah’s Ark in the Bible.

It is 510 feet long and 51 feet high. It opened in 2016.

Ever wonder what it was like in Noah’s Ark?

Now you can live it out for yourself in Ark Encounter.

This is definitely one of the places to see in Kentucky, whether you’re a Christian or not.

Besides the fun and informative exhibits, Ark Encounter also has a zoo and thrilling zip lines for you to enjoy.

It even has a timber-framed restaurant to really make you feel like you’re in the Ark.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Dry Ridge

15. Broke Leg Falls

US-460 Wellington, KY 40387 (606) 768-9000 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Broke Leg Falls is located in Morgan and Menifee counties.

It is also found in the Daniel Boone National Forest.

The main attraction of the park is the 60-foot waterfall in Broke Leg Creek.

It has tons of abandoned trails that give off spooky, tragic vibes after the park was hit by a tornado in 2012.

Instead of being a turn-off, the creepy trails add to the adventure when visiting the beautiful falls.

Keep informed before you visit the falls. It’s better to visit when it’s not having a dry spell so that you can really see the water actually falling.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red River Gorge Kentucky

16. Lost River Cave

2818 Nashville Road Bowling Green, KY 42101 (270) 393-0077 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lost River Cave is a cave system in Kentucky that’s about seven miles long.

Touring Lost River Cave is a short yet fun way to pass the time when in the area.

The tour is only 45 minutes long.

You’ll be able to walk along the river, the famous blue hole, and the actual cave with the guide.

Then, your guide will lead you around the river on a boat so that you can explore the inside of the cave.

Besides the boat tour, the Lost River Cave Park also has nature trails that you can explore.

You can even go gem mining, bird watching, and geocaching.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baymont by Wyndham Bowling Green

Related: Things to Do in Bowling Green, KY

17. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

800 W Main Street Louisville, KY 40202 (877) 775-8443 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory features the story of the famous Louisville Slugger baseball bats. It was founded in 1996.

One of the best places to visit in Kentucky when you’re an avid baseball fan is this museum.

It has lots of exhibits that show the history of Louisville Slugger bats and other baseball artifacts.

You’ll even see one of the bats used by Babe Ruth in 1927 here on display.

Make sure to take a picture with the world’s largest baseball bat outside.

Fans will also love the Signature Wall, where every Louiseville Slugger player is showcased.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Museum Hotel Louisville

Related: Restaurants: Louisville, Kentucky

18. Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

1402 St. James Court Louisville, KY 40208 (502) 636-5023 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Conrad-Caldwell House was built in 1893 and has a Richardsonian Romanesque style of architecture.

Feel like you’ve been transported into another era when you visit this picturesque Victorian house.

Fans of architecture and Victorian history are sure to enjoy touring around the house.

Want to see how people lived during the Gilded Age of Louisville?

The museum still has tons of personal possessions from the original owners of the Conrad-Caldwell House.

You’ll be able to see them on display during your visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Brown Hotel

19. Dinosaur World

711 Mammoth Cave Road Cave City, KY 42127 (270) 773-4345 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Dinosaur World is a theme park that’s all about dinosaurs and the prehistoric era.

It has over 150 life-size dinosaurs and other fun activities for the young and the young-at-heart.

Traveling with kids?

Spending the day in Dinosaur World is definitely one of the fun things to do in Kentucky.

You and your family can wander around the park and take pictures with life-sized dinosaurs.

You can also explore and learn new information from the interactive exhibits.

Besides fun photos and cool shows, your little ones are sure to enjoy the dinosaur-themed playground in the park.

It has fantastic slides, swings, and other play equipment.

Plus, you can even bring your dog when you visit.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Red Roof Inn & Suites Cave City

Related: Fun Things to Do in Kentucky with Kids

20. Waverly Hills Sanatorium

4400 Paralee Drive Louisville, KY 40272 (502) 690-7880 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Waverly Hills Sanatorium was a former hospital for tuberculosis patients in 1910.

It closed down in 1961.

The Tudor Gothic Revival architecture of the old building is enough to give anyone the creeps.

But the story of its ‘death tunnel’ and ‘body chute’ will make this one of the fun places in Kentucky for lovers of horror and the paranormal.

While you can view the sanatorium from afar, it is private property, so don’t trespass if you don’t have permission.

You can always wait for Historical Society events and Halloween as the place opens then.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Airport/Expo Center Hotel

21. Daniel Boone National Forest

1700 Bypass Road Winchester, KY 40391 (859) 745-3100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Daniel Boone National Forest is about 708,000 acres big and was established in 1937.

It was named after American explorer Daniel Boone.

Lovers of the outdoors are sure to find the Daniel Boone National Forest’s expansive lands a treat.

You could choose to hike the many trails in the area as the forest has over 600 miles of hiking trails to choose from.

Besides hiking, there are tons of other outdoor activities that you can do.

Don’t want to get out of the car?

Go scenic driving.

Want to be as near to nature as possible?

Go camping, biking, horseback riding, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Historic Boone Tavern

22. Kentucky Derby Museum

704 Central Avenue Louisville, KY 40208 (502) 637-1111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Kentucky Derby Museum is a racing museum in Churchill Downs that opened in 1985.

Kentucky is known to be the mecca of horse racing, so it’s not surprising that they have a museum dedicated to it.

Learn more about the history of horse racing through the museum’s permanent collections with artifacts dating back to the mid-19th century.

The museum has two floors worth of interactive exhibits that you’re to enjoy.

You can see what it was like for a Thoroughbred, discover new facts about the Kentucky Derby, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Center

23. Louisville Mega Cavern

1841 Taylor Avenue Louisville, KY 40213 (877) 614-6342 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Louisville Mega Cavern is a former limestone mine that was turned into a tourist attraction.

Dare to climb and cross the world’s only underground zip line course when you visit the Mega Cavern.

You’ll be crossing rickety bridges, going to never-before-seen areas of the cavern, and even getting the chance to race your friend in the dual racing zip.

There are other fun activities to enjoy during your trip to the Mega Cavern.

Climb around the underground aerial rope course, ride the 17-mile tram tour, or go on a 90-minute walking tour around the cavern.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Tru By Hilton Louisville Airport

24. Kentucky Horse Park

4089 Iron Works Parkway Lexington, KY 40511 (859) 233-4303 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Kentucky Horse Park is a farm, equestrian competition venue, and theme park in Lexington.

It opened in 1978.

Spend the day with horses when you visit the Horse Park.

You can go horseback riding through the Horseback Trail.

You can also explore the Hall of Champions and watch the Parade of Breeds Show.

Make your visit as fun and informative as possible by spending a bit of your time in the park’s museum.

You’ll be able to learn more about horse history and even discover the world’s greatest horses throughout time.

Related: Top Things to Do in Lexington, KY

25. Great American Dollhouse Museum

344 Swope Drive Danville, KY 40422 (859) 236-1883 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Great American Dollhouse Museum features miniature houses and buildings that depict American social history.

Fans of miniature buildings will find this stop as one of the best things to do in Kentucky.

You’ll be able to learn more about American history, from Native American, Colonial, Old West, and all the way to the present, by checking out the miniature displays.

The museum also houses fictional and fantastical displays that depict dragon caves, witches’ lairs, and other fun scenes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Danville

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

As a friendly family travel writer, I’m thrilled to share my Kentucky adventures with you.

We embarked on a Horse Farm Tour, where the rolling hills and majestic horses took our breath away. 

At Keeneland Race Track, we cheered on the thundering horses, feeling the excitement in the air.

The Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville immersed us in the legend’s life. 

We saw his championship belts, watched his fights, and even tried boxing. It left us inspired.

The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green amazed my car enthusiast husband. 

The sleek Corvettes and their history fascinated us all.

Kentucky’s experiences were personal and filled with storytelling. 

From racing horses to powerful punches and gleaming cars, it’s our go-to destination for unforgettable family memories.

How I Picked The Activities

During my time in Kentucky, I’ve explored a myriad of attractions that cater to all ages. 

From the iconic Mammoth Cave National Park, where underground wonders await, to the thrilling roller coasters of Kentucky Kingdom, there’s no shortage of adventure. 

Engaging with locals and fellow travelers has enriched my experience and helped me uncover hidden gems across the state. 

Kentucky truly offers something for everyone.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number 1 attraction in kentucky.

The number 1 attraction in Kentucky is Mammoth Cave National Park, which is the world’s longest known cave system. It offers visitors a chance to explore its vast underground chambers and enjoy various recreational activities within the park’s scenic surroundings.

What Is Kentucky Most Famous For?

Kentucky is most famous for its bourbon whiskey production. The state is renowned for its distilleries and is considered the birthplace of bourbon. Visitors can explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to learn about the history and production of this iconic American spirit.

Is There Anything Worth Seeing In Kentucky?

Kentucky offers several attractions worth seeing, including the horse racing events at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the historic and picturesque city of Lexington known as the Horse Capital of the World, and the natural beauty of the Red River Gorge Geological Area, which is popular for hiking, rock climbing, and camping.

What Is Something Unique To Kentucky?

One thing unique to Kentucky is its rich horse culture. The state is home to world-famous horse farms and hosts prestigious horse racing events such as the Kentucky Derby. Horse enthusiasts can visit the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington and experience the equestrian heritage and traditions deeply ingrained in the state’s identity.

Conclusion 

When it comes to the best things to do in Kentucky, our top choice is undoubtedly the Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Race Track Visit. 

I had the pleasure of exploring numerous activities in the area, and nothing quite compared to the thrill and charm of this experience. 

The Horse Farm Tour allowed us to immerse ourselves in the rich equestrian heritage of Kentucky, while the visit to Keeneland Race Track added an exciting touch with its exhilarating races. 

From delectable dining options to cozy accommodations, Kentucky offers a plethora of choices. 

But for an unforgettable family adventure, the Horse Farm Tour and Keeneland Race Track Visit take the crown as the absolute best.

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.

Kentucky Derby

Louisville slugger museum & factory, daniel boone national forest, cumberland gap national historical park, abraham lincoln birthplace national historic park, mammoth cave national park, kentucky horse park, muhammad ali center, the kentucky derby museum, lost river cave, louisville mega cavern, cumberland falls state resort park, shaker village of pleasant hill, newport aquarium, ark encounter, national corvette museum, waverly hills sanitorium, great american dollhouse museum, danville.

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

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

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

Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.kentuckyderby.com

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

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

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

Address: 800 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.sluggermuseum.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 2995 Lincoln Farm Road, Hodgenville, Kentucky

Official site: www.nps.gov/abli

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, Kentucky

Official site: http://kyhorsepark.com/

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

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

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

Address: 144 N 6th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: https://alicenter.org/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky

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

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

Address: 1841 Taylor Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.louisvillemegacavern.com

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

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

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

Address: 7351 Hwy 90, Corbin, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, Kentucky

Official site: www.shakervillageky.org

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

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

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

Address: 1, Levee Way, Newport, Kentucky

Official site: www.newportaquarium.com

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

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

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

Address: 1 Encounter Drive, Williamstown, Kentucky

Official site: https://arkencounter.com/

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

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

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

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

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 344 Swope Drive, Danville, Kentucky

Official site: www.thedollhousemuseum.com

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

More on Kentucky

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

May 9, 2022 • 6 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Line up glasses on the bar on the Bourbon Trail

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Soak up the country air in beautiful Bluegrass Country

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

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

Be awed by Ali at the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville

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

Feast on Kentucky culinary delights like the Hot Brown

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

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

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

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

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

Hike and climb in Daniel Boone National Forest

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

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

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

This article was first published Feb 25, 2019 and updated May 9, 2022.

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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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35 Best & Fun Things to Do in Kentucky

The great state of Kentucky, popularly known as the Bluegrass State, is home to a wide range of attractive locations.

The bustling cities, amusement parks, wedding venues, peaceful natural parks, waterfalls, breweries galleries, unending pastures, and many more will keep you excited.

There are quite some fun things to do in Kentucky which includes its many unique spots, serene waters, fun areas, historical sites like the world’s most extended cave system, Mary Todd Lincoln House, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, and not forgetting Kentucky Fried Chicken.

Any vacation in Kentucky leaves the visitor not lacking in excitement and satisfaction, be it the bluegrass music played at one of the many concerts and fairs or learning more from the museums.

Are you planning a trip to Kentucky? Here are the best things to do in Kentucky.

Things to Do in Kentucky

1. big four bridge – louisville waterfront park.

One of the top things to do in Kentucky is a view of one of the top Kentucky attractions, Big Four Bridge . This Bridge was originally a railroad truss bridge but now a bicycle and pedestrian bridge that links Louisville, Kentucky to Jefferson, Indiana. It is one of the top attractions here in Kentucky.

Join other visitors in walking down the 2,525-ft span, which crosses over the Ohio River, while taking some scenic views of their environment.

You will observe that this bridge’s arms add to its beauty and even play a significant role aside strength, just like one arm takes you to the Louisville Waterfront Park.

The Louisville Waterfront Park is an 85-acre park in Louisville, beautified with tree groves, many lawn areas, picnic areas, an amphitheater, walking/cycling/jogging paths, and an esplanade by the river.

Louisville Waterfront Park also plays host to many fireworks exhibitions, outdoor fairs, concerts, and other events all through the year.

Address: 401 River Road, Louisville, KY, 40208

2. Fort Knox

Fort Knox is a United States Army post that occupies 109,000 acres of space in the great state of Kentucky.

There is a lot for which this post is known, which includes it being the location of the United States Bullion Depository, Cadet Command, Accessions Command, and Army Human Resources Command.

In the Fort Knox museum, you will find educational and historical exhibits that take you on a ride, exploring the numerous branches of the United States military.

You will find popular attractions and displays. Some of them are an assemblage of weapons that Leonardo da Vinci designed, the Remembrance Walls, Veterans Appreciation Day Car Show, amongst other special events.

Address: 4554 Fayette Ave, Fort Knox, KY 40121

3. Kentucky Kingdom

Opened in 1987, the Kentucky Kingdom theme park has undergone various development phases and improvements to reach the stage it is today.

Initially, this theme park was out of phase until the year it was purchased by Ed Hart, who then reopened it in 1990. He introduced an array of diverse new rides and coasters, but unfortunately, it was altered again in 1998 – when Six Flags took over.

Hart didn’t still give up. He eventually repurchased the theme park and got it open once more in 2004. He has built and established it to what visitors can see now.

Currently, you will find five roller coasters, which include the Storm Chaser. The Storm Chaser was brought in May 2016 and is a highlight of the park.

There is something for every family member, from toddlers to the aged. Equipment including a gigantic Ferris Wheel, a 5-D cinema, the Raging Rapids River Ride, and a good number of rides and rollercoasters that will make your heart beat.

More Kentucky attractions here are the King Louie’s Playground, built with rides for the younger visitors, and then Hurricane Bay, which boasts a collection of water rides and a large wave pool.

Address: 937 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY 40209

4. Louisville Mega Cavern

Do you know that there are manmade caverns and corridors stretching 17 miles below the city of Louisville, Kentucky? Would you not want to join other visitors (of all ages) in exploring this space.

The Louisville Mega Cavern rekindles history, science, and a memorable adventure beneath the ground, full of pure magic. It is sure to be an area of interest for any trip made to Kentucky.

One can tour the Cavern in different ways – the Mega Tram conducts this underground adventure in an SUV-pulled tram, while the Mega Zips tour is an inclusion of the only fully underground zip line course in the world.

If you visit this Cavern in the holiday season, you will likely experience Lights Under Louisville – an underground light show. This 30-minute show is voted one of the top ten in America.

Address: 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213

5. The State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky Arboretum is a botanical garden open to the public all through the year. Also known as the State Botanical Garden of Kentucky, this arboretum occupies more than a hundred acres of land space.

The garden is split into various units such as a vegetable garden, an herb garden, a home demonstration garden, a nut, and a home fruit garden – this has Chinese Chestnuts, pecans, and Persian walnuts.

You can join other visitors in exploring multiple other sites such as the “Walk Across Kentucky.” The “Walk Across Kentucky” permits visitors to fully experience the seven regional landscapes such as the Cumberland Mountains, the Appalachian Plateaus, and Bluegrass.

Your trip to Kentucky may not be complete without you visiting the State Botanical Garden of Kentucky.

Address: 500 Alumni Drive, Lexington, KY 40503

6. Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory is one of the unique museums visitors will find on the list of best museums in Kentucky.

It makes an exciting list of best to do when you are in Kentucky, as the museum has a display of interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Louisville Slugger baseball bats.

You will learn of their role in baseball and the history of America at large.

Louisville Slugger Museum, which lies within the factory, gives visitors an opportunity to see the numerous exhibits and even take a factory tour. The tour will teach you the processes involved in the making of bats.

Visitors get the opportunity to take a grip of the bat used by players such as Andre Dawson or Micky Mantle.

Another exciting thing to do, amongst others, is seeing the world’s largest baseball bat, which weighs 68,000 pounds.

Address: 800 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

7. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park is one park that comprises many elements to spice up your park experience, it makes one of the best things to do in KY.

Here you will find a 39-site campground, the 18-hole Kenny Rapier Golf Course, wedding and conference space, an amphitheater, and more.

However, there is a house for which the park is most famed, called the Federal Hill. It is also known as the “My Old Kentucky Home,” it is a historic mansion that visitors love to explore. John Rowan, a US Senator, once owned this mansion.

The truth is, this site was influential in the politics of the United States but was famous for its association with the anti-slavery ballad led by Stephen Forster and inspired by the home.

Visitors can learn more about this amazing architecture and brick-based structure, which features mantels and hand-carved windowsills, a garden house, and a stable.

There are guides who are all dressed in period costumes and are ready to take you on a fun and fact tour of the home. So, go for this awesome experience of a lifetime.

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

8. Kentucky Derby Museum

The Kentucky Derby Museum , established in 1985, is a museum dedicated to preserving and protecting the Kentucky Derby history.

Some people might not be familiar with this Kentucky attraction. So, without jumping to a conclusion, the Kentucky Derby is a popular sports attraction that involves thoroughly bred horse racing.

Visiting this museum is one of the most exciting things to do here, with the museum taking visitors on an interesting journey. You will learn of derby’s history with diverse photographs, films, and exhibits telling the story.

Guests are shown how foals are birthed, bred, and trained. This process is what eventually prepares them for the Kentucky Derby’s winner circle.

You can enjoy the theatre (a 360-degree space), view exhibits on jockeys and trainers, and also visit a cemetery where Sunny’s Halo, Dust Commander, and other past champions were laid to rest.

This makes one of the best places to visit in Kentucky, consider an addition to your list of Kentucky attractions to visit.

Address: Churchill Downs, 704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208

9. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Site

Abraham Lincoln was a great man and is well recognized in the history of America. Hence, a site, a museum, a sculpture, or any other structure in honor of this icon is no error.

Existing in respect of Abraham Lincoln, the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Site is a collection of sites dedicated to the 16th president of the United States.

Guests can always explore the First Lincoln Memorial in memory of Abraham Lincoln. This memorial was designed by John Russell Pope, and it is the symbolic birth cabin of Abraham Lincoln.

In this single room cabin, the future President had his life and character shaped before leading America during the Civil War. There is still another site, called the Sinking Spring, located on the land where Lincoln was born, and This site is most likely was the initial source of water for Lincoln.

The future President later moved with his family to Knob Creek. This is another section of the historical sites and is where the log cabin is thought to be originally situated.

Address: 2995 Lincoln Farm Rd, Hodgenville, KY 42748

10. Ashland Henry Clay Estate

Visiting the Ashland Henry Clay Estate is one of the best things to do in Kentucky. This registered National History Landmark is a plantation situated at the center of the Bluegrass region.

In this plantation mansion, Henry Clay (a 19th-century Kentucky statesman) lived with his family until he died in 1852. He owned it as well!

While touring this mansion, you will learn of this building in full detail, even the additional Italianate details due to renovations. You can as well walk through the surrounding lands.

Aside from the captivating architecture, you will learn comprehensively about Henry Clay and his iconic history. Several events such as the Candlelight Tour at Ashland. are also held here all through the year, most significantly, the holiday season.

Address: 120 Sycamore Rd, Lexington, KY 40502

11. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Kentucky does not lack in intriguing attractions, and these are in addition to the many historical sites. The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is one of the latter.

Having been active for more than a hundred years until 1910, the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a preserved community site from the Shaker religion.

This area is registered in the list of National Historic Landmarks and is one of the biggest historic communities of its kind in the country. The Shaker Village has farmland of over 2,800 acres available for visitors to discover.

There are 34 original buildings from the 19th century on this land, which tell the story of this community’s culture and history. These buildings were built through methods and tools used by the olden Shaker community.

The village is continuously maintained by historians, naturalists, farmers, and many others. This is in a bid to keep the land flourishing and close to -if not- its original state.

You can enjoy any of the tours, activities, rides, and events on the yearly calendar schedule.

Address: 3501 Lexington Rd, Harrodsburg, KY 40330

12. Newport Aquarium

The Newport Aquarium is one of the most exciting places to visit in Kentucky. It is a family-friendly attraction, open every day of the year to visitors and locals alike. You should not miss out on Newport Aquarium if you don’t want some fun for your family.

In this place, there are more than fourteen awesome galleries with seventy displayed exhibits. These displayed exhibits are full of interactive activities to give everyone in the family an interesting experience no matter the age.

Passing through this aquarium are five tunnels that show diverse animals in their thousands. These animals are gathered from around the world and include Sunshine – a shark ray from Taiwan.

You can also explore the largest jellyfish gallery in the Midwest, the Amazon, the rainforest, Gator Alley, Shark Central, Kroger Penguin Palooza, amongst other things.

Address: 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071

13. Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland is a historical family, business, and farm background.

It was in 1928 that Grandpa Oral Wallace purchased a six-acre apple orchard. He lived in the on-site two-room home with his family while making and selling apple cider to customers.

As years went by, an auto camp, a barbershop, a small zoo, a gas station, a convenience store, and a diner were among the additions to this orchard space.

After some generations, the new museum was reopened by Keith Holt with a collection of hillbilly art and toys. You can also explore the varied and weird assembly of diverse items found at this toy and folk art museum.

You are sure to have one of the most interesting experiences in the whole of Kentucky when you visit Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland. This attraction will leave you with memorable thoughts of your vacation.

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

14. National Corvette Museum

Are you an automobile aficionado? If yes, the National Corvette Museum is definitely something to thrill you. Visiting this museum is sure to excite every member of the family, whether an automobile freak or not.

The Corvette is a highly sought-after vehicle and is recognized as America’s sports car. This museum is situated in Bowling Green, Kentucky – the location that saw this legendary car’s production.

Visitors are welcomed to see more than 80 different Corvettes, designed and built-in America and at different periods of her history.

Here, you will see mint classics, unique prototypes that can’t be found anywhere in the world, and a closeby NCM Motorsports Park where visitors can take a race in a lap of their own or just be a spectator.

The museum host several raving events all through the year, so you can be a part. Some of these events include the MiM Nascar and the Michelin NCM Bash in the South race.

This makes what to do in Kentucky for a fun time, consider including in your list of places to visit in Kentucky.

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY, 42101

15. Yew Dell Botanical Gardens

Yew Dell Botanical Gardens used to be the garden, nursery, and home of Theodore Klein and his family. Currently, it is internationally recognized as a center for gardening, plants, and everything surrounding that scope.

Yew Dell Botanical Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is open to the general public. Guest are allowed to enjoy the special floral displays and gardens. You can hike on the trails and as well be a part of the many events hosted here.

Events such as the Holiday Wreath Making Workshop and the Yuletide light display are on the list of amazing programs here.

Aside from the various community events, one can partake in one of the numerous workshops and classes available or even be a part of one of the current garden plant research that is taken on.

Address: 6220 Old Lagrange Rd, Crestwood, KY 40014

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16. Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm

One out of the many captivating activities in Kentucky is the Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm. It makes our list of best things to do in Kentucky and is worth every inch.

There is a lot about the Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm. Things like a museum that provides visitors with education on horse breeding and racing, a group that is poised on promoting awareness on equines – their love and care- and a place where thoroughbreds would retire.

Do visit to see any horses that breed or are no longer on the racing track. Also, you can build a close and personal relationship with Kentucky Derby winners, Popcorn Deelites, and other stars who can be seen in the Seabiscuit movie.

You can visit the farm whenever you are in Kentucky, as it is open to the public. The farm also organizes guided walking tours, which are made available multiple times a day.

Address: 1841 Paynes Depot Road, Georgetown, KY, 40324

17. White Hall State Historic Site

The Whitehall is a feature in one of the most stunning parks in the state. Invariably, your vacation in Kentucky would be incomplete without you paying a visit to this famously loved park.

The White Hall State Historic Site is a 14-acre park located at the center of Richmond, Kentucky, and does attract tourists from around the world. Of other Kentucky attractions, the Whitehall captures the attention of visitors the more.

The reason is that this was the residence of Cassius Marcellus Clay, a politician of the 19th century, an abolitionist, and a Kentucky legislature.

This 44-room mansion was built, say 1799, in the Italianate style and with attractive features. You can join other visitors in touring the majestic home, which has undergone some restoration. The mansion is being preserved and maintained by the Kentucky Mansions Preservation Foundation.

You will love the many period furnishings, and heirlooms see in and around the mansion.

Address: 500 White Hall Shrine Rd, Richmond, KY 40475

18. Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is a walk back in history. It is one favorite location for historians, academia, and lovers of structures. There is no way it does not make a list of the fun things to do in Kentucky.

This museum takes visitors back to the late 1800s. Particularly, in 1893, the year Arthur Loomis (a very famous local architect) built this house for Theophile Conrad and his wife.

These two and family members lived in the house for twelve good years until William E. Caldwell bought the building he made his family residence for a further 35 years.

Since that time till now, this house, aside from being a museum, has also been a retirement home. This museum is taken care of by the St. James Court Historical Foundation. This foundation does a great job in retaining the original features of this house.

This home is built in the Richardsonian-Romanesque style, and visitors enjoy exploring its decoration and architecture. There are corner towers, high ceilings, parquet flooring, properly carved fireplaces, stained-glass windows, carvings of gargoyles, and other animals.

You will also find an extensive collection of period items and antiquities in this house, coupled with the catchy garden surrounding it.

Address: 1402 St. James Court, Louisville, KY, 40208

19. Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

We are all familiar with Kentucky Fried Chicken, the luxuriant fast food that has amassed huge popularity worldwide. But, do you know a thing about Colonel Harland Sanders, the brain behind this KFC crave? Now, we will get a picture of him.

Harland Sanders Cafe and Museu m was the initial restaurant ever opened by Colonel, and it’s just different from most of these KFC outlets around today.

Here, you will find a close call to the kitchen in which Sanders worked during the 1940s. It is full historical data that shows gradual but steady rise to fame of this cafe

It is no error if we say that visiting the spot where KFC chicken was first served in its glory (of 11 herbs and spices) is among the cool things to do in Kentucky.

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

20. Mammoth Cave Adventures

Kentucky offers classy outdoor fun experiences, and the Mammoth Cave Adventures is just one of the massive channels available.

Have a great outdoor experience in a safe and fun-filled environment with your entire family at Mammoth Cave Adventures while exploring Kentucky.

There are two zipline courses offered here: a tower drop and a Tarzan Swing. You can choose from any of them, as they ensure you have a memorable time out.

The Tarzan is a spectacular experience where visitors are attached to a pendulum swing. This 40-foot swing has its support from a Hickory tree that is 80-foot tall, thereby giving you a never-before experience.

The two zipline courses include the very first zipline style canopy tour in Kentucky and a course that provides impressive views of the Mammoth Cave National Park and the mountains in it.

If you wish to try something less thrilling, you can spend your day riding on horseback into the picturesque Mammoth Cave trails.

This is a place to see in Kentucky, consider an addition to your bucket list of cool things to do in Kentucky.

Address: 1994 Roy Hunter Road, Cave City, KY, 42127

21. Kentucky State Capitol

The Kentucky State Capitol located in Frankfort is widely considered one of the top 10 most beautiful capitols in America. This structure has its architectural design done by Frank Mills Andrews and revels in luxury alongside magnificence.

Its most loved opulent feature is probably its massive marble staircase in the addendum to other staircases within. If ever you feel like having a rich, cool experience, the Capitol is available. You’ll feel as though you are out of the state already!

You can as well take a guided tour if you wish. This tour shows you around the capitol building, and you will be amazed by the Opera Garnier-inspired designs within.

This also makes one of the best places to visit in Kentucky. Don’t forget to see the First Lady Doll Collection too!

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

22. Mary Todd Lincoln House

The Mary Todd Lincoln House , located in the center of downtown Lexington, was Mary Todd Lincoln’s home.

For sure, this name sounds familiar. For those still in thoughts, Mary Todd Lincoln was the wife of Abraham Lincoln – the 16th President of the United States. She occupied the office of the first lady during her husband’s tenure.

In the early 1800s, this house was initially built as a tavern and an inn until 1832, when the Todd family purchased it.

Lincoln paid several visits to this two-story home after their marriage, and now you can join other guests in visiting this historic home too.

Mary Todd Lincoln House has fourteen rooms, and this exceptional home, now a museum, encloses the remnants of the properties and lives that the Todd and Lincoln families lived.

Contained here are artifacts ranging from personal belongings to portraits to period furniture to decors. Everything you find has a special story of its own.

The museum conduct tours, which are scheduled all through the year for bigger groups. There are also private tours. Aside from this, the museum is closed between December and March.

Address: 578 West Main Street, Lexington, KY, 40508

23. Keeneland

Can you make it to Churchill Downs for the Kentucky Derby? Then, there is another awesome race track around, Keeneland !

Not only is it one of the tourist or fun Kentucky attractions , but it is also a National Historic Landmark!

Originally established in 1936, Keeneland has since gone on to be an important player in the sector and industry of thorough horse breeding and racing.

In 2015, Keeneland hosted the Breeders’ Cup, and that saw American Pharoah (a triple crown winner) win the number one rank.

In Keeneland, races run in April and in October, giving spectators the opportunity of watching champion horse train hard right from dawn. Don’t miss out if you are in the state.

During this time, horse auctions take place too, and you can enjoy the bread pudding offered to you while you watch.

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

24. Creation Museum

The Creation Museum is a 75,000 sq ft museum situated in Petersburg, Kentucky. This one-of-a-kind facility takes visitors on a ride through some exciting and unique exhibits documented in biblical history.

Aside from these exhibits, one can explore the botanical gardens around (which have a resemblance to the Garden of Eden), the planetarium, the zip line adventure, the petting zoo, and the tower of Babel.

The kids will love exploring the dragons and dinosaurs, which can be found at this museum. They would even enjoy the opportunity of feeling a real dinosaur fossil and digging to find their own dinosaur bones.

The Creation Museum is full of excitement for everyone, and during the festive, it is more fun. In December, visitors do enjoy walking down Christmas Town with a dazzling native scene light show, adding more gloss to the moment.

Address: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd, Petersburg, KY 41080

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25. Breaks Interstate Park

Generally referred to as the unofficial Grand Canyon of the south of America, Breaks Interstate Park is an area covering the border between Kentucky and Virginia.

This park has nestled in it, the deepest gorge you can find in the Mississippi east area.

Behind its original discovery is the man, Daniel Boone. Now, it is a great place to go sightseeing if you are a tourist.

You can decide to go rafting, relax in one of the lodges or ride the novelty of being on a state line. It is indeed a unique spot for lovers of nature!

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

26. Muhammad Ali Center

The Muhammad Ali Center , like you would easily guess, is a museum devoted to the late legendary boxer, Muhammad Ali.

This museum and cultural center is dedicated to educating guests about the boxing icon, his life, beliefs, and core values.

Here, you will see exhibitions that display the numerous achievement accomplished by Ali in his lifetime. Both on and off the ring, these achievements include, his philanthropic life, the way he helped others, and inspire people across the globe.

The museum is a six-story building, so you can explore the numerous exciting displays here as a visitor. There is also a plaza and an amphitheater in this museum.

You will see videos of Ali’s greatest fights, various boxing memorabilia, and then two art galleries characterized by rotating exhibits.

This makes what to do in Kentucky for lovers of the boxing sport, get to know this legend in the sport by visiting this Kentucky attraction.

Address: 144 North Sixth Street, Louisville, KY 40202

27. Red River Gorge

The Red River Gorge is one of the most awesome locations to go site seeing while in Kentucky. This spot is situated in the Daniel Boone National Forest and is reckoned with some of the most famous natural arches of stone across the globe.

Tourists and rock climbers are often drawn to see these formations of unique rock and sandstone cliffs alike. Aside from being an incredible sight to behold, the Red River Gorge is officially a national geological area.

You can go hiking, row a canoe, hunt or trap animals in the area (according to the guidelines of the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife) or even have a picnic!

Don’t miss out on the Sky Bridge too, if you want a thrilling experience

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

28. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

The Natural Bridge State Resort Park has its name coined from its most famous landmark, an arch bridge composed of natural sandstone.

This bridge has a span of 78 feet and is 65 feet in height. The bridge is quite historical as a result of its origin. It was formed by a natural weathering process, over millions of years and is indeed a fantastic sight to behold.

The bridge has sandstone rocks formed on it, and one of the most amazing rock formations is Balanced Rock.

You must have heard of this popular site before now, in movies, books, shirts, and likes. The Balanced Rock is a sandstone block balanced on the edge of a cliff.

Visitors can explore the different trails in this park, running through about 20 miles. It is fun at Natural Bridge State Resort Park, so don’t miss it for a reason.

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

29. Diamond Caverns

The Diamond Caverns are indeed a must-see site in Kentucky. The caverns were initially found in 1859 and is open to the public for exploration and tours for more than a century.

The cave is lined with lightning sources while gorgeous stalactites make up the ceiling in full.

You will walk on a paved cement floor which guides you through the twisting caves.

If you’ve ever thought of seeing a beautiful and unique site, the Diamond Caverns is definitely up there in Kentucky.

This makes one of the fun things to do in Kentucky, do join the tours available all through the year.

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

30. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

The Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is situated within the Daniel Boone National Forest. This park occupies 1,657 acres of space and has excellent facilities fitted on this land.

There is a 50-site campground, a visitor’s center, a restaurant, a lodge, and the river’s catchy views. You can spend your time exploring areas in this park without getting bored one bit. You could decide to walk through the land, go hiking, try fishing, mountain biking, white water rafting, or still take a ride on horseback.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is full of unique natural features. Some of the most exciting features found here include the 44-foot-tall Eagle Falls, the 68-foot-tall Cumberland Falls, and a moonbow – clearly seen on full moon nights.

All through the year, several events are held at this park, and you can always partake in it depending on when you visit. Some of these events are Overnight Canoe Adventures, the Native American Weekend in March, Nature Photography Weekend in April, and the Kentucky Hills Craft Festival hosted in September.

Address: 7351 Hwy 90, Corbin, KY 40701

31. Vent Haven Museum

One of the most interesting and strange places to visit in Kentucky is the Vent Haven Museum . This museum is home to a vast range of ventriloquist artifacts, coming from William Shakespeare Berger’s collection.

Berger was the President of, International Brotherhood of Ventriloquists and also a businessman.

His collection grew massively for over six decades, with this museum holding many of them, including some of the rarest and best artifacts.

Go have a sight of about 700 lined up dolls, with their big heads made of wood. You are likely to recognize many of them from the old famous TV shows!

Add more entertainment gloss when you drop by in July. There is a ventriloquist convention hosted here at the museum, which sees over 400 of these performers come on to put up a special show!

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

32. The National Quilt Museum

The National Quilt Museum is surely making a list of the fun things to do in Kentucky.

It is a museum as well as a center that lays emphasis on not just showcasing extraordinary quilted works. The museum advocates and educates the populace on quilting and the essence of introducing this art to future generations.

This museum records over 100,000 visitors from around the world who visits to see the three galleries in constant rotation. These galleries display dazzling exhibits, and there is always something new for you to see anytime you visit.

Some of the most recognized exhibits here include a collection of smaller quits (no bigger than 24×24) and Kaffe Fassett’s Heritage Quilts.

The museum also hosts different programs for students and other events like Quilt Camp or School Block Challenge. These programs are at no cost and explain the technique of quilting.

Address: 215 Jefferson Street, Paducah, KY, 42001

33. Mystic Dragon Fun Center

Mystic Dragon Fun Center is a popular indoor entertainment venue in Georgetown-Lexington. It is a perfect place to enjoy fun moments with your kids and loved ones.

Some of the attractions in this indoor facility are a Nerf War Arena, inflatables and obstacle courses, and an interaction beam where guests can tread on coconuts.

Other fun amenities include a Cannon Ball Blaster. Visitors can play soccer and go axe throwing and bouncing in the bounce house, which has a slide.

The Mystic Dragon Fun Center is also an ideal place to host your events, such as your children’s birthday parties, and they have different packages.

Address: 751 Slone Dr., Suite 5, Georgetown, KY 40324, United States

34. Round1 Bowling & Amusement

A little history about this company goes as far back as the 1980s when the owner of Round One Japan, Masahiko Sugino, set up an establishment called the Sugino Kosan.

He also included arcade games and a roller skate facility. The company grew in popularity, and a Bowling alley was incorporated, which made it more famous. Eventually, in 1993 this particular venue became the official Round 1 store, and the company spread to many areas in Japan.

The company also moved on to establishing its store in the US, with its first location in Los Angeles, California. After a few years, it opened four locations in California and currently has more than 50 locations in various parts of the country. 

Arcade games, karaoke, billiards, bowling, darts, Ping Pong, and others are some activities to indulge in this indoor facility complex. It also offers delicious foods and drinks as well.

This place is ideal for a fun family trip and should make your list of the best places to visit in Kentucky. 

Address: 4801 Outer Loop Building B, Louisville, KY 40219, United States

35. Ark Encounter

This advanced engineering marvel is located in the scenic Grant County in Williamstown, KY, between Lexington and Cincinnati, right off I-75.

This Ark Encounter showcases the large-sized Noah’s Ark, constructed with the measurements as said in the Bible. The Ark covers a length of 510 feet, an elevation of 51 feet, and a width of 85 feet.

A tour inside the enormous Ark takes you around three decks brimming with many renowned exhibit bays. All of these beautiful exhibits provide a detailed history of what transpired in the life of Noah.

There is so much experience to gain during your tour in this art, ranging from dynamic presentations to quality dining, hands-on experience, concerts, and more.

The Ark Encounter has many unique features to give you an educative, fun, and memorable trip. The Ark admission is free, and many of its activities come at no cost, whereas some come with an extra charge.

The Ark is a delight to see and should make your bucket list of the best places to visit in Kentucky.

Address: 1 Ark Encounter Dr, Williamstown, KY 41097, United States

Planning to explore Paducah Kentucky? do not miss our list of things to do in Paducah ,  for a fun time here

Plan a Trip to Kentucky

Kentucky is indeed blessed with many attractions unique to the state. Everyday pops up with new sites and activities for you to exhaust. And you really may not!

It is a top tourist’ pick and one place that promises you a memorable vacation experience. I’m pretty sure you wouldn’t want to miss it for a reason.

So, start making plans on spending your next vacation in Kentucky with this list of things to do in Kentucky.

Have a fun trip!

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30 top things to do in lexington, kentucky.

Horse racing, whiskey and the world's largest mural of Abraham Lincoln are just a few of the many things you can enjoy on a trip to the Bluegrass region.

30 Top Things to Do in Lexington

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From racing horses to enjoying a whiskey at a distillery, Lexington, Kentucky, offers a variety of unique activities and sites for your next vacation.

Lexington, Kentucky, is known as the Horse Capital of the World. But the city, which resides in the state's inner Bluegrass region, is also home to a wealth of history and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in watching a horse race at one of the city's racetracks, making a stop along Kentucky's historic Bourbon Trail or simply looking for a dose of Southern charm, you'll find it in Lexington. This guide to some of the top things to do in Lexington can help you make the most of your trip. (Note: Some tours, events and attractions may be impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park is an operating horse farm, a theme park and the venue for the annual High Hope Steeplechase, which takes place on the third Sunday in May. Visitors will learn about the history of horses and human's relationship to them through the park's four museums and numerous memorials and statues. The park also hosts shows, demonstrations and even presentations from the prize-winning horses that reside in the property's Hall of Champions. Horseback trail rides and pony rides are among the activities available to visitors. The Kentucky Horse Park also shelters a campground, but for those who don't want to rough it, there are a variety of hotels located nearby, such as the Lexington Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa , Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington/UK Coldstream or even the upscale Kentucky Castle in nearby Versailles.

[Read: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State .]

Headley-Whitney Museum

This museum was founded in 1968, initially as a private gallery to showcase the creations of its founders, jewelry designer George Headley III and his wife Barbara Whitney. The museum is home to various collections, including jewelry, bibelots and mounted semiprecious stones designed and collected by Headley, as well as dollhouses designed by craftsmen for Whitney's daughter. It's also home to the couple's collection of fine and decorative arts from around the world. There are also workshops for children and adults who wish to develop skills like flower arranging and jewelry making. Keep in mind that the museum is not open year-round and is closed for winter. Visitors have called it a hidden gem and a truly unique experience in an area where horses and bourbon are often the main attractions.

Hunt-Morgan House

Also known as Hopemont, the Hunt-Morgan House was built in 1814 by John Wesley Hunt, the first millionaire west of the Allegheny Mountains. The home is also named for Hunt's great-grandson, Dr. Thomas Hunt Morgan, who is one of few Kentucky residents to win the Nobel Prize for his work in genetics. Visitors can admire the Federal-style architecture and craftsmanship of the home, along with period furniture that provides a glimpse into what life was like in the early 19th-century in what was then called the Athens of the West. Hopemont also provides a lecture series, where visitors can learn about things like historical mixology, the state's involvement with slavery and hemp production, historical innovations and more. Past visitors have remarked on the rich history the museum provides of the family, the Civil War and hemp production at the time.

See the world's largest ceiling clock at the Lexington Public Library

In 2001, construction began on the world's largest ceiling clock, which features a massive, five-story-tall Foucault pendulum. The history of the Foucault pendulum dates back to 1851, when it was used to demonstrate the earth's rotation without using astronomical observations. The ceiling clock at the Lexington Public Library uses a series of lit panels instead of hands to provide the current time. As you admire the clock (or simply check the time), you'll also want to study the frieze that surrounds the pendulum. It depicts the history of the horse in the Bluegrass region. The frieze, along with the clock, shows that the concept of time can be viewed in seconds, minutes and hours, or by the collection of historical events.

Jacobson Park

Jacobson Park provides opportunities for the whole family to play and enjoy the outdoors. The 216-acre park, which is located in east Lexington, is home to a reservoir, the Lakeside Golf Course, basketball and volleyball courts, a dog park, playgrounds and more. What's more, pedal boats or kayaks can be rented for those that want to spend time out on the water. There are also several fishing docks surrounding the reservoir. Both travelers and residents highlight the park as a great place to take children, potentially as a full-day excursion or as a midday break from other trip activities.

Browse at Joseph-Beth Booksellers

If you're a bookworm, Joseph-Beth Booksellers might as well feel like home. The independent bookstore is located in the Lexington Green shopping center and offers a broad range of books that you can easily spend hours perusing. The bookstore also hosts a wide variety of activities, including author signings, wine tastings, customer appreciation days, book fairs and more. Before you visit, check the Joseph-Beth Booksellers website to learn about upcoming events. Visitors have described the privately-owned bookstore as a wonderland for readers, especially on a cold or rainy day.

Tour the Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company

The Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company was founded in 1999 and provides a long list of craft beers, malt beverages, spirits and whiskeys. A tour of the brewery and distillery takes you through the brewing and distilling processes and includes four tasting tokens that you can use to sample some of the products you see. It's also the only location on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail where you can sample both beer and bourbon at the same time. After the tour is finished, you can spend some time in the beer garden relaxing with a pint. If you decide to take something home from the shop, be sure to check out some recipes on the company's website.

The Lexington Cemetery

Just north of the city's downtown area, the Lexington Cemetery isn't just a favorite haunt of visitors who enjoy spooky surroundings. The cemetery grounds are a stunning sample of natural beauty, with more than 200 species of trees, 16,000 tulips and an avenue of dogwood trees, magnolia trees, pink weeping cherry trees and more. It can be especially worthwhile to visit the cemetery during the winter or spring months to experience a winter wonderland or watch the spring flowers and trees bloom. History buffs will be pleased to hear this 19th-century cemetery is home to a variety of Civil War statues, memorials and mausoleums. The cemetery is also the final resting place of many local and national historical figures, including former Secretary of State Henry Clay.

McConnell Springs Park

McConnell Springs Park was the site of the founding and naming of the city of Lexington in 1775. The park is home to two natural springs and historical structures that are still visible. Visitors can check out old stone fences, the foundation of a creamery, the remains of a dam, a small rock quarry and more. The 26-acre park also offers 2 miles of hiking trails for those in search of a leisurely stroll.

Take in a game or concert at Rupp Arena

Rupp Arena is primarily known as the home of the University of Kentucky Wildcats men's and women's basketball teams. But the arena also hosts an array of cultural events, including concerts, bull riding competitions, comedy tours, monster truck shows and more. There are many hotels within walking distance of the arena, including the Hyatt Regency Lexington, the Hilton Lexington Downtown and the 21c Museum Hotel Lexington .

Waveland State Historic Site

The Waveland State Historic Site provides a preserved look into the history of the city, particularly the plantation era of old Lexington. The site focuses on the everyday life of the property's owner, Joseph Bryan, and his family, as well as the enslaved people who worked on the plantation. Visitors can tour the antebellum mansion, take a stroll on the grounds, admire the beauty of the flower and herb gardens, and learn about the hemp industry in the 1850s. The site also hosts events, such as Tuesday Tea and vintage baseball games.

Take a horse farm tour

There are roughly 450 horse farms throughout the region surrounding Lexington, but you generally can't visit without making prior arrangements. While some farms welcome visitors by appointment, others may require you to book a tour with a professional company. Most horse farms in Kentucky specialize in a specific breed, with some focused on racing and others on dressage, jumping, driving and other skills. If you're a big fan of equestrian sports, you may even be able to visit some of the champion horses. Plan to contact the farm in advance to make sure that the horse you want to see will be available for viewing. If you're looking for a tour of one or more farms, compare the different local touring operations to find the best fit for you, and make sure you book in advance because tours can sell out. Unique Horse Farm Tours and Thoroughbred Heritage Horse Farm Tours are both highly rated by fellow travelers.

Mary Todd Lincoln House

The first lady to the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, was born in what's now the heart of downtown Lexington. Her childhood home has been converted to a museum that offers self-guided tours. Travelers can learn about the house's history, which included a stint as an inn before the Todd family made it their home. The property was eventually sold at a public auction, after which it was used as a grocery store, a boarding house and even a brothel. You can also learn about the life of the first lady and her family, which includes their status as slaveowners, Mary's life at the White House, and her life after the death of her husband, including her insanity trial. Keep in mind that the museum closes for the winter.

Henry Clay is one of the country's most prominent historical figures. Clay was an attorney before he entered politics, where he was the speaker of the House of Representatives, a U.S. senator and the secretary of state to John Quincy Adams. Ashland is Clay's estate, offering tours to visitors who want to explore the grounds, learn about the history of the property and the family that called it home, as well as the people who were enslaved at the estate. At its largest, the Henry Clay estate included 600 acres, but only 17 acres remain today. Note that tours may not be available during your planned visit. Check the Ashland estate website to find out what options are available during your trip.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Located roughly 25 miles southwest of Lexington, Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill was home to the third-largest Shaker community in the U.S. for a span of 105 years. Shaker Village is Kentucky's largest National Historic Landmark and boasts the largest private collection of original 19th-century buildings in the country – 34 of the original 260 structures are still standing. The 3,000-acre village features a hotel, a farm-to-table restaurant, a nature preserve, a farm, hiking trails, shops and more. You can also visit the Historic Centre to learn about the history of the village, take in the architecture and craftsmanship, and learn about the people that built and lived there.

Shop at the Summit at Fritz Farm

If you're looking for a place to shop and dine, the Summit at Fritz Farm is the place to be. The mixed-use development is home to more than 60 shops and more than 20 restaurants. All of the shops and restaurants are at street level, and dining options include a mix of well-known brands like Starbucks, Apple and Pottery Barn, as well as local and regional flavors. Some of the more highly-rated options include 33 Staves and Honeywood.

Keeneland Race Course

Keeneland is not only a world-renowned racecourse, but also an auction house. If you've never witnessed a live horse race, it can be a great place to take in the experience and maybe even put in a bet on your favorite to win. You can also attend an auction to learn about the process of buying and selling racehorses. And if you want to find out more about the history of horse racing, consider a guided or self-guided tour of the grounds. You'll enjoy an intimate view of morning workouts, visit the jockey quarters, browse the shops and more. If Keeneland is your reason for visiting Lexington, consider a hotel in the area, such as the Origin Hotel Lexington or the Eighth Pole Inn.

Woodford Reserve Distillery

The Woodford Reserve Distillery is located in Versailles, Kentucky, which sits about 20 miles west of Lexington. The Woodford Reserve brand was first introduced in 1996, but distilling first occurred on the site in 1812, making it one of the state's oldest distilleries. During the 70-minute tour, visitors will learn about the historic distillery, understand what makes Woodford Reserve unique and get the chance to taste its craft bourbon at the tour's conclusion. Those who don't have time for a tour can sign up for a 30-minute tasting, which features five different samples. Note that according to the distillery, tours are booking out three months in advance.

Tour the James E. Pepper Distillery

James E. Pepper whiskey was first produced during the American Revolution – making it the oldest brand of whiskey made in Kentucky. Though the distillery closed in 1967 when the bourbon industry fell on hard times, the brand was revived in 2008. With an hourlong distillery tour, you can learn about the history of James E. Pepper whiskey and the process of researching and collecting the original recipes and other materials needed to bring it back to life. You'll also learn about the distillery building, which was neglected for 50 years and has since been rebuilt and restored. At the end of the tour, you'll receive a sample of some of the distillery's award-winning whiskeys, as well as a complimentary tasting glass. Note, however, that hours are limited during the winter months. If you don't have time for a tour, you can enjoy tasting flights and cocktails at the distillery's bar or outside on the patio.

Bluegrass Farmers' Market

If you like to get a taste of the local foods and goods when you travel, the Bluegrass Farmers' Market – the largest, 100% homegrown market in Lexington – is an excellent place to satisfy your appetite. Plan a stop here to peruse seasonal fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers, baked goods, jams, honey, meats and cheeses, handmade soaps, woodworking pieces and more. The market is open from April to October.

Take the Lexington Mural Challenge

Lexington has more than 30 street murals. While some of the artists are known, others are anonymous. As you go about your day exploring the city, keep your eye out for some of these beautiful pieces of art. Some of the murals depict the city's long history and love of horses, but others include a tribute to Louis Armstrong, the world's largest mural of Abraham Lincoln and many more. The Lexington Mural Challenge, one of the more unique things to do in Lexington , involves snapping pictures of at least five of the murals you see around town. If you email your photos to [email protected] with the subject line "Mural Challenge," you'll get a free poster to commemorate your visit.

Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

Operated by the University of Kentucky, the arboretum is a must-see attraction year-round. The 100-acre public garden has three main features: the Walk Across Kentucky, the Horticultural Gardens and the Kentucky Children's Garden. In the Walk Across Kentucky area, you'll find a 2-mile paved loop that winds through a collection of native plants sourced from around the state. The Horticultural Gardens contain four gardens, each with a different theme, and the Kentucky Children's Garden is a place where children and families can learn about plants and the environment. It's free to visit the arboretum grounds, but donations are welcome. Note that the Kentucky Children's Garden closes during the winter months. If you're looking for accommodations near the college campus, which is located in the heart of Lexington, consider The Campbell House Lexington, Curio Collection by Hilton, among others.

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is one of the best things to do in Lexington, especially for nature lovers. What’s more, it's free to access. The 734-acre woodland preserve boasts seven hiking trails that span more than 10 miles, along with several points of interest, including an overlook of the Kentucky River, the site of a historic grist mill, the headstone of a 19th-century inhabitant of the area, and the Prather Homestead, where the family that owned much of the preserve in the early 1800s lived. The sanctuary is also home to a native plant garden, where visitors can learn about local flora and fauna. Plus, the sanctuary offers different programs throughout the year for children and families, such as the Owl Prowl, the Salamander Search and the Woodcock Walk.

The Aviation Museum of Kentucky

Located at the Blue Grass Airport, the Aviation Museum of Kentucky offers a glimpse into aviation history. You'll be able to view various aircraft, including a Blue Angels A-4 Skyhawk and a Crosley "Moonbeam" biplane. The museum also includes artifacts and equipment, documents, interactive displays and flight simulators. The museum is also home to a library, an aircraft restoration and repair facility, and the Kentucky Aviation Hall of Fame. If you're looking for accommodations near the airport, options include the Comfort Suites Keeneland and the Fairfield Inn and Suites Lexington Keeneland Airport, among others.

The Kentucky Theatre

If you're a movie buff, the Kentucky Theatre is a must-see. The historic theater originally opened 100 years ago, in 1922. It received its first substantial renovations in the 1950s, including a new marquee and the addition of shag carpet, then was closed for five years after a fire in 1987. As of early 2022, the theater is currently closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but plans are underway to reopen as a nonprofit organization. While the theater will screen current films, it'll also retain programs loved by the local community, such as midnight showings of "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," summer classics movie series and additional events. Keep an eye on the progress toward reopening the theater if you're interested in visiting.

Red Mile Racetrack

The iconic Red Mile Racetrack was established in 1875, making it the second-oldest harness racing track in the world. If you're interested in witnessing this variation on horse racing, check out the dates for live races on the clay track during your stay in Lexington. The racetrack also occasionally hosts events, such as a family fun day featuring pony rides, a petting zoo and more. Live racing at the track only occurs between August and early October, but during other times of the year, you can view workouts and check out simulcasted races while you enjoy a drink or meal from the on-site bar and grill.

Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms

Located 15 miles north of Lexington in Georgetown, Kentucky, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farms is a place for thoroughbred horses to live out their days after their racing and breeding careers end. The farm was established in 2003 when the founder, Michael Blowen, came across the news that a former Kentucky Derby winner had died in a slaughterhouse. Dubbed as a "living-history museum of horse racing," the farm has rescued and retired more than 200 horses. With a tour of the farm, you'll be able to meet between 10 and 15 retirees, including Silver Charm, the horse that won the 1997 Kentucky Derby. Note that children ages 9 and younger are only allowed on private tours.

West Sixth Brewing

Founded in 2012, West Sixth Brewing produces more than 30 different beers throughout the year, making it a must-visit for beer enthusiasts. Plus, it occupies a historic setting: The brewery is located in a 100-year-old building that previously served as a bread factory. You can visit the brewery taproom, peruse the on-site shop to grab some beers to go or take an hourlong tour of the facility. If you choose a tour, you'll enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at every step in the brewing process while sipping on some of the brewery's exclusive beers. In all, you'll enjoy four beer samples and a souvenir glass that you can take home.

Institute 193

Institute 193 is a modern art museum that aims to showcase the cultural landscape of the modern South. Founded in 2009, the mission of the museum is to highlight artists, musicians and writers that produce contemporary art outside of large metropolitan areas. The museum selects artists hailing from Kentucky and other southeastern states. In addition to displaying exhibits, Institute 193 also hosts musical performances, movie screenings, lectures and other events for the local community. If you're interested in visiting, check out the museum's website to view upcoming exhibits. Previous visitors have praised the museum for the overall experience and its focus on local artists.

Attend the Festival of the Bluegrass

If you're planning a summer trip to Lexington, you'll want to time your visit for the Festival of the Bluegrass, which is held the first full weekend in June. The festival, which started in 1974, takes place at the Kentucky Horse Park campground and features a variety of bluegrass musicians, including legends like Ricky Skaggs and Béla Fleck. In addition to the festival, there's also a bluegrass music camp designed for kids ages 6 to 18 that's held the week leading up to the festival. If you're a fan of bluegrass music, this event should be on your radar, according to past attendees. Before you book your trip, though, check out the festival's website. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Festival of the Bluegrass was canceled in 2020 and 2021.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Kentucky
• The Best Historic Destinations in the USA
• The Top Things to Do in Kentucky
• The Top Restaurants in Louisville
• The Top Things to Do in Tennessee
• The Top Lakes in Tennessee
• The Top Things to Do in West Virginia
• The Top Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina
• The Top Things to Do in Springfield, Missouri
• Scenic Train Rides to Add to Your Bucket List

Tags: Travel , Vacations , Kentucky , Tours

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

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

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Kentucky

1. see where kentucky fried chicken was invented.

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

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

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

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

2. See Cascading Waterfalls At Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

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

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

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

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

3. Walk Over The Big Four Bridge

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

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

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

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

4.  Sip Your Way Through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

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

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

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

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

5. Find Comfort In The Original Hot Brown

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

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

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

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

Check Prices on Booking.com

Check Prices on Hotels.com

6. See Life-Sized Dinosaurs At Dinosaur World

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

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

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

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

7. Dress Up For The Kentucky Derby

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

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

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

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

8. Discover The Historical Treasures Of Fort Knox

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

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

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

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

9. Tour The Kentucky State Capitol

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

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

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

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

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

10. Snack On Rolled Oysters

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

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

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

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

11. Explore The Kentucky Derby Museum

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

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

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

12. See the Ventriloquism Dummies At The Vent Haven Museum

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

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

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

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

13. Celebrate Oktoberfest in Downtown Harrodsburg

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

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

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

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

14. Go Rock Climbing At Red River Gorge

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

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

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

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

15. Become Addicted To Beer Cheese

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

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

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

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

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

16. Get Outside At Mammoth Cave National Park

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

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

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

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

17. Marvel At The Grand Canyon Of The South

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

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

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

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

18. Have A Family Fun Day At Kentucky Kingdom

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

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

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

19. See Where Abraham Lincoln Was Born

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

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

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

20. Sip A Mint Julep

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Spend The Night In A Castle

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

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

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

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

23. Go Underground At The Louisville Mega Cavern

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book an Ashland Henry Clay Estate Ticket with Tour

25. Go On A Ghost Tour Around Waverly Hills Sanatorium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

December 29, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

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

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

17 Best Places To Visit In Kentucky

Grimes mill winery.

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

Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

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

Waverly Hills Sanatorium

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

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

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

Green River Bluffs Route

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

Forest Edge Winery

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

Cumberland Falls

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

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

Cumberland Gap National Park

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

Double Arch Trail at Red River Gorge

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

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park Beach

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

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

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

Broke Leg Falls

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

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

Explore The Bourbon Trail

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

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

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

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

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

Kentucky Down Under

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

Tour The Worlds Longest Cave

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

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

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25 Best Things to do in Kentucky

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on August 30, 2024

Known as the ‘Bluegrass State,’ the Commonwealth of Kentucky (as it is officially known) is set in the Southern region of the United States. While it’s home to the large and lively cities of Louisville and Lexington , most of the state is made up of small towns, with bourbon distilleries dotting its rolling hills and rural areas.

The scenic countryside is home to some beautiful parks and forests, while its Caves and Lakes region boasts the largest known cave system in the world. With horse racing among the most popular things to do in Kentucky, this state certainly has plenty of different and equally delightful tourist attractions for visitors to explore.

25. Mary Todd Lincoln House

Set right in the center of Lexington is the lovely little Mary Todd Lincoln House which offers an unparalleled look into the life and times of the famous First Lady. At her girlhood home, guests can amble around rooms full of old photographs, artifacts and exhibits and learn all about her marriage to President Abraham Lincoln.

Built back in the early 1800s to be an inn and tavern, it was later purchased by the Todd family with Mary herself having lived in the simple brick building between 1832 and 1839. Now preserved as a historic house museum, it is packed with period pieces and portraits while interesting displays shine a light on subjects such as Mary’s childhood, her life in the White House and Abe’s assassination.

24. Dinosaur World (Cave City)

A fun day out for all the family, the delightful Dinosaur World can be found on the outskirts of Cave City, not too far from both the popular Crystal Onyx Cave and Mammoth Cave National Park. As it is home to hundreds of life-sized dinos with slides, swings and snack stands dotted about; the large outdoor theme park is definitely well worth visiting when in the area.

While wandering about its gorgeous grounds, you’ll come across life-like statues of towering T-rexes and humongous brontosauruses hidden away amidst all of the lush vegetation. Aside from informative plaques, there is also an excellent prehistoric museum on-site, full of fascinating fossils and educational exhibits. For young ones, the main appeal is the park’s fun fossil dig and bone yard where you can unearth everything from dinosaur skeletons and gems to arrowheads and shark teeth.

23. Ark Encounter (Williamstown)

Another utterly unique and unforgettable attraction in Kentucky is the incredible Ark Encounter in Williamstown. The centerpiece of the Christian creationist theme park is a massive model of Noah’s Ark which contains a huge collection of fun and informative exhibits with a zoo, zip line and theater also set on-site.

Although it has courted controversy and come in for some criticism at times, the park has proven to be a massively popular draw since opening in 2016. As well as ogling at the amazing architecture of the ark, visitors can pass bays full of model animals and displays describing the Earth’s creation and the biblical flood that struck it. After having explored its three decks, you can shoot down exciting zip lines, see kangaroos and camels at the zoo or enjoy a delicious meal at its restaurant.

22. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Sure to delight both nature lovers and outdoor aficionados alike, the lovely Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area has a staggering array of scenic landscapes for people to explore. Located in the southwest corner of the state between the long and narrow Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, the enormous inland peninsula now has all kinds of awesome outdoor activities to enjoy.

Protected as part of a nature reserve since 1963, its sprawling confines encompass everything from rugged hills and vast forests to picturesque prairies and sweeping limestone valleys. Besides boating and kayaking about its reflective lakes, visitors can hike, bike and horseback ride along its 200 or so miles of trails with fantastic fishing and camping also on offer. On top of all of this, you can also visit its various nature stations and see elk and bison roaming about their large enclosure.

21. Floodwall Murals (Paducah)

Just a short drive from the national recreation area is another superb site that is well worth checking out when in the Western Waterlands. Set in the center of the small city, the colorful and creative Floodwall Murals depict and document the rich history of Paducah and its people in beautiful detail.

Overlooking the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee rivers, the marvelous mural now has dozens of evocative images for you to explore that cover thousands of years of the city’s history. While some scenes focus on Native Americans and early settlers, others look at influential figures, impressive landmarks and important historical events. Since the visionary project started in 1996, countless artists have contributed their considerable talents to the phenomenal Floodwall Murals.

20. Kentucky Horse Park

On the northern outskirts of Lexington you can find one of the city and state’s top tourist attractions: the educational and entertaining Kentucky Horse Park. Dotted about the sprawling sports center and theme park are lots of pristine paddocks and important equestrian institutions with interesting live demonstrations, thrilling horse shows and special sporting events all regularly taking place.

The only park of its kind in the world, it was founded in 1978 and is dedicated to ‘man’s relationship with the horse’. As well as a working horse farm and a couple of large arenas, its campus includes numerous statues and the super International Museum of the Horse. After having seen a live harness maker and blacksmith demonstration, you can always go for a peaceful carriage ride about the park or watch its incredible Horses of the World show.

19. National Quilt Museum (Paducah)

Full of colorful textiles, imaginative designs and intricate embroidery, the National Quilt Museum is definitely not to be missed when visiting the southwest of the state. Located just a block from the Floodwall Murals, its captivating collection of quilts is one of the city of Paducah’s standout attractions.

Established in 1991, it is one of the biggest and best museums of its kind with over 600 quilts from all around the US and even further afield now on display. Aside from perusing its extensive exhibits and enjoying its fantastic fiber art installations, guests can also take part in workshops and classes or shop for gifts in its store. The exquisite museum also regularly hosts themed traveling exhibits on everything from abstract art and wildlife to contemporary creations and historic heirlooms.

18. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Another interesting historic site to visit in Kentucky is the centuries-old Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. Also located just outside of Lexington, the humongous living history museum shines a light on the religious community’s lifestyle with traditional architecture, crafts and clothing all on show and fun activities and live demonstrations taking place daily.

One of the largest communities of its kind, Pleasant Hill was occupied by the Shakers between 1805 and 1910 with its numerous farms, buildings and artifacts now being preserved as part of a National Historic Landmark. While ambling about the expansive site, visitors can learn about rural life in the Bluegrass region, see old tools and farming techniques and explore well-preserved houses full of handmade furniture and period pieces. Afterwards, you can always hike around its nature reserve or take buggy rides about its gorgeous grounds with riverboat rides and overnight stays also on offer.

17. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Spanning the border between Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia, the Cumberland Gap is known just as much for its sublime scenery as its age-old historic sites. A major natural break amidst the rugged Appalachians, the important passage has been used by everyone from Native Americans and early pioneers to modern-day tourists with buffalo also having once roamed about the range.

Now protected as a national historical park, it covers a huge area with its pristine forests only being punctuated here and there by steep cliffs, bubbling streams and the winding Wilderness Road that passes through the gap. Besides hiking and biking about its wonderful woods or enjoying its lovely nature and views, you can also stop by its informative visitors centre to learn more about the region and the atmospheric Hensley Settlement that was once an old mining village.

16. Kentucky Derby Museum

As the state is almost synonymous with horse racing, the excellent Kentucky Derby Museum is not to be missed when passing through Louisville. Located at the hallowed Churchill Downs race track, it offers an in-depth look at the history of the famous sporting spectacle with innumerable artifacts, exhibits and artworks coating its walls.

At the museum, visitors embark on an exciting journey as they learn about the years-long process of breeding and training thoroughbreds to win the coveted Kentucky Derby. As well as seeing glinting trophies, old harnesses and colorful jockey outfits, there are plenty of photos and short film clips that show last-gasp triumphs by legendary champions. After having explored its collection, you can also take a tour around the complex or even catch an exhilarating race if it is the right time of year,

15. Daniel Boone National Forest

Home to some of the wildest and most rugged terrain in the state, the Daniel Boone National Forest sprawls across a massive part of eastern Kentucky. As well as steep forested slopes and stupendous sandstone cliffs, it encompasses narrow ravines, lakes and streams with all kinds of exciting outdoor activities on offer.

Dotted about the almost endless forest are about a hundred developed recreation areas for people to make use of with 600 miles of trails meandering their way here and there. Besides hiking and biking amidst all its stunning scenery, visitors can camp overnight at cozy campsites, climb up sheer rocky cliffs and boat on its reflective rivers and lakes. Particularly popular and picturesque spots to stop by are Red River Gorge for its epic rock formations and Cumberland Falls for its twinkling waterfall while the large Laurel River Lake also attracts a lot of people thanks to its scenic shoreline.

14. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

As it is towered over by a giant replica of Babe Ruth’s baseball bat, the Louisville Slugger Museum couldn’t be easier to find. Set right in the center of the city of the same name, it is filled with prized memorabilia and interesting exhibitions that tell the story of the famous baseball bat brand and its impact on the hugely popular sport.

While wandering about the beautiful brick building, visitors can see autographs of all the contracted players scrawled across its Signature Wall and explore the vast Bat Vault which remarkably contains over 3,000 models of the Louisville Slugger. After having learnt about its origins in the 1880s and all the legendary players that have wielded them since, you can then take a tour around its factory to see how the iconic bats are produced before facing some fast balls yourself in its batting cages.

13. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Aside from horse racing, bluegrass music and KFC, Kentucky is also known for all the delightful distilleries that are dotted about the state. As such, no trip can ever be complete without hitting up at least one of two of the award-winning whiskey producers that make up the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

In total, there are now eighteen distilleries to visit with most of them lying between both Louisville and Lexington. At each of them, you can take tours around their state-of-the-art production facilities to see how the stiff drinks are made before sampling some brilliant bourbons in atmospheric tasting rooms. Among the most popular are those of Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark and Wild Turkey with there being plenty of charming little towns and gorgeous countryside scenes for you to enjoy as you make your way from one to the other.

12. Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Located in the heart of Old Louisville, in Kentucky’s largest city, is the captivating Conrad-Caldwell House Museum. An important and impressive landmark, it displays exquisite architecture and antiques, which visitors can check out on any one of the fascinating tours.

Built in 1895 for a local tanning magnate, ‘Conrad’s Castle’ (as it was once known) boasts an exquisite Richardsonian-Romanesque style. Alongside its towers and turrets, you can spy finely carved animals and gargoyles etched into the imposing limestone walls.

The interior is equally attractive: incredible woodwork and stained glass windows are on show, while age-old antiques and period pieces dot its halls, apartments, and parlors. After having visited the marvelous museum, it is well worth wandering around the nearby neighborhood that is full of beautiful old buildings.

11. Crystal Onyx Cave

Set on the outskirts of Cave City is Crystal Onyx Cave – one of the most magical of the many caverns dotting the state. Full of fascinating formations and spectacular stalactites and stalagmites, it is a very popular and photogenic tourist attraction.

Discovered by Cleon Turner in 1960, the cave is now owned by Scott and Sara Sendtko who restored it and turned into the awe-inspiring attraction it is today. Visitors can take tours along its scenic subterranean trails, all of which are superbly lit up and take you past lots of fabulous features.

Home to charming chambers and caverns – such as the delightfully named Enchanted Forest, Imagination Room, and Crystal Falls – the Crystal Onyx Cave really is a treat to explore.

10. Louisville Mega Cavern

Another of Kentucky’s alluring underground attractions is the lovely Louisville Mega Cavern, which runs beneath parts of the city of the same name. Once a limestone quarry, the human-made tunnels and caves stretch for more than 25 kilometers and include business, storage, and tourism facilities.

Besides boasting the world’s only underground mountain bike park and ropes course, it also has the only fully underground zipline course for visitors to try out. In addition to these exciting adventure activities, there are also terrific tram and hiking tours to take of the captivating cavern.

While the Louisville Mega Cavern is great to visit thanks to its wealth of family-friendly activities, Christmas is a particularly memorable time of year to stop by and see the special holiday show lighting up the enormous cave.

9. Maker’s Mark Distillery

Lying not far from Loretto is the magnificent Maker’s Mark Distillery, which opened all the way back in 1953. Since then, it has been producing brilliant bourbons. Visitors can learn all about it at one of its outstanding whiskey workshops or delightful distillery tours.

Set in some gorgeous grounds and gardens, it was the first distillery in the states to be designated a National Historic Landmark in 1980 due to its historic nature and well-preserved buildings. On a tour of the premises, visitors learn about its fabled past while stopping off to see its stillhouse, warehouse, and dipping and production lines.

Besides seeing how whiskey is produced, there is an excellent restaurant to check out and a gift shop and classy cellar where you can try some delicious drinks and buy souvenirs.

8. Lost River Cave

Home to the only underground boat tour in Kentucky, Lost River Cave can be found in the city of Bowling Green . Taking a tour of the cave system is an amazing experience: you’ll learn fascinating facts and folklore about what Ripley’s Believe It or Not once billed as the ‘shortest, deepest river in the world.’

Besides having been an ancient Native American hunting ground, the cave was also a campground in the Civil War for both sides – as well as a hideout for the outlaw Jesse James and a nightclub in the 1930s. In addition to all the stories swirling around the cave, guests can enjoy the stunning scenery and formations as they float along the river.

Surrounding the cave are some picturesque nature trails for visitors to explore, as well as a couple of exhilarating ziplines to try out.

7. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Centered around the beautiful waterfall of the same name, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a lovely place to visit that will delight nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Located in the south of the state, it is set within the sprawling Daniel Boone National Forest.

The park boasts beautiful landscapes and scenery, with verdant forests, dramatic gorges, and sparkling waterfalls all on show; however, the undoubted highlight is Cumberland Falls. Often called the ‘Niagara of the South,’ it reaches an impressive 21 meters in height and spans almost 40 meters. Around the time of the full moon, visitors can often spy a magical moonbow formed out of the mist of the waterfall.

Besides its outstanding beauty and nature, the park has a plethora of excellent outdoor activities on offer, with hiking, rafting and horseback riding particularly popular. In addition, there are cosy lodges and campsites for guests to stay at.

6. Muhammad Ali Center

Lying right in the heart of the city on the banks of the Ohio River are a marvelous museum and cultural center dedicated to the Louisville legend Muhammad Ali. Opened in 2005, the six-story site has lots of interesting exhibits and displays on the famous fighter for visitors to peruse.

Many of these interactive installations are on the brilliant boxer’s six core principles of confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect and spirituality. Other exhibits look at the life and times of Muhammad Ali, with memorabilia, interviews and videos on display.

As well as being home to an amphitheater and plaza, the cultural center has two art galleries to check out that feature rotating exhibits. For anyone even slightly interested in The Greatest, visiting the Muhammad Ali Center is simply a must.

5. National Corvette Museum

Full of shiny, sleek sports cars, the National Corvette Museum lies on the outskirts of Bowling Green – the city in which the classic car has been produced since 1981. Home to over 80 models and countless more convertibles, it is very easy to spot due to the huge, bright-yellow, cone-shaped Skydome that looms over its surroundings.

Both inside and outside the museum you’ll find magnificent models and one-of-a-kind cars, while exhibits and videos highlight their exquisite engineering and delightful design. Synonymous with freedom and adventure, the Corvette is widely known as ‘America’s Sports Car.’

As well as preserving the past, present, and future of the classy car, the museum has an adjoining racetrack where you can get behind the wheel and drive a classic Corvette.

4. Keeneland

Second only in the state to Churchill Downs, Keeneland is one of Kentucky’s most important and impressive race tracks. Founded way back in 1936, it lies on the outskirts of the city of Lexington, which is known as the ‘Horse Capital of the World.’

A National Historic Landmark, it exhibits lovely old architecture, with a gorgeous grandstand looking out over its race track. It is here where champion horses and thoroughbreds compete neck and neck against each other, with races taking place in April and October.

Besides placing bets on who will win and taking in the exhilarating ambience, visitors can attend some of Keeneland’s frequent horse auctions. These see everyone from local farmers to wealthy bidders from around the world buy horses and yearlings from the famed breeding facility.

3. Jim Beam’s American Outpost

Set some 40 kilometers to the south of Louisville in Clermont is Jim Beam’s American Outpost, where visitors can learn everything there is to know about the nation’s best-selling bourbon. Located in a pretty and picturesque rural setting, the delightful distillery is a treat to explore, with a terrific tour for visitors to take of its fantastic facilities.

Besides boasting a factory, warehouses, and production line, the American Outpost also offers a film on the Beam family and their brilliant bourbon. Remarkably, seven generations of the family produced and sold the superb whiskey from 1795 until the company was sold off in 2014.

As well as taking a tour of Jim Beam’s American Outpost, visitors can stop by the historic family home and sample some delicious drinks in its onsite bourbon bar.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park

An absolutely incredible place to visit, Mammoth Cave National Park boasts the longest known cave system in the world. Appropriately set in Kentucky’s Caves and Lakes region, it is home to loads of spectacular scenery and nature, with countless caves, chasms, and caverns on show.

Stretching for a staggering 640 kilometers, the mesmerizing Mammoth Cave is a delight to explore, with tours taking you on subterranean strolls past fabulous formations, dramatic domes, and stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Protected as a national park since 1941, the cave has long been a very popular place to visit due to its size, scale and splendor.

Above ground, the park has lovely trails and paths for visitors to hike along, while some great canoeing and kayaking can be enjoyed along the Green River. In addition to this, many people camp overnight and go fishing or wildlife watching in its incredible wilderness.

1. Churchill Downs

One of the most famous, fun, and festive horse-racing tracks in the world, the Kentucky Derby, takes place at Churchill Downs. Held every May in Louisville, the popular and prestigious race is an exciting event to attend, with thousands of people packing into its stands to watch the spectacle.

While cheering on champions and betting on thoroughbreds at the renowned race is the pinnacle of the racing year, many other warm-ups and competitions take place at the landmark venue. From April to June and again in September and November, visitors can watch horses and jockeys compete beneath the hallowed twin spires of its gorgeous grandstands.

In addition, you can also take tours of the grounds and visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, which will tell you all about the epic event and the charming Churchill Downs itself. Not to be missed for their awe-inspiring atmosphere, the race and racetrack are certainly one of the best things to do in the whole of Kentucky.

Map of Things to do in Kentucky

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Top 13 things to do, plant-friendly, diversity, equity & inclusion, new restaurants, convention center, request for proposal, top 7 things to do this fall in lexington, kentucky.

The Bluegrass shines in every season, but there’s really no place like Lexington in the fall. Colors are more vivid, flavors more intense, and all of Central Kentucky seems to put on a spectacular grand finale before the cold of winter sets in. Here’s our tips for making the most of this especially magical time of year.

1. Savor Amazing Autumn Flavors

The comforting flavors of fall abound in Lexington. Start your day with a stroll through the Lexington Farmers’ Market and a seasonal coffee from shops like Lussi Brown , Kenwick Table , and Manchester Coffee Co . Pick perfectly ripe apples at Reed Valley Orchard , Evan’s Orchard and Cider Mill , and Eckert's Boyd Orchard . Hit The Brewgrass Trail to find the area’s best breweries and cideries. Then grab a table at innovative restaurants like Granddam at The Manchester Hotel and Holly Hill Inn where fresh local ingredients make unforgettable dishes. 

2. Experience Horse Country at Its Finest

Rolling hills of lush Kentucky bluegrass. White picket fences. The sun’s golden glow sneaking into stables. When summer’s over, the Horse Capital of the World is in rare form. Horse Country can take you behind the scenes at many of Lexington’s iconic horse farms to get up close and personal with racing’s superstars. The Thoroughbred universe descends on Keeneland in autumn, first for their world-renowned September Sales and then for the Fall Race Meet in October. The historic, perfectly manicured grounds are an attraction in their own right.

3. Have the Ultimate Sports Weekend

Lexington is famous for horse racing, but fall offers plenty more opportunities for sports fans in search of excitement. The University of Kentucky is home to some of the greatest traditions in college sports. Tailgate all day and catch a Wildcats football game at Kroger Field. Or watch the 8-time NCAA champion men’s basketball team take the court at legendary Rupp Arena . The Lexington Sporting Club brings the thrill of both men’s and women’s professional soccer to the Bluegrass, kicking off their 2024-2025 season at a brand new stadium.

4. Get Your Spook On 

Lexington celebrates Spooky Season in style, and an almost eerie energy overtakes the historic city during fall. Every October, zombie performers flood Main Street for a Michael Jackson-inspired Thriller Parade . Catch a hairraising horror flick at the hallowed Kentucky Theater . Scarefest Weekend takes over the new convention center. PumpkinMania sets Transylvania University aglow. And, if you’re brave enough, you can grab a lantern and take a nighttime Spirit Stroll at Shaker Village to learn about the community’s secret macabre lore.  

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Enjoy a sipping stroll to three cozy downtown lounges. Enjoy filling appetizers and craft cocktails... Read More

5. Enjoy Breathtaking Fall Foliage

You swore you’d never become one of those people that travels just for fall foliage, but Lexington puts on a show that’s hard to resist. Grab a front row seat for this spellbinding performance at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary , McConnell Springs , and the Lexington Cemetery , one of America’s best arboretums. The golden gingko trees of Catalpa Road briefly turn the neighborhood into a surreal autumn wonderland. And nearby Red River Gorge is a leaf peeper’s paradise with a stunning Natural Bridge . Our Fall Foliage Guide has more tips.

6. Step Back in Time

Fall provides the perfect backdrop to discover Lexington’s rich history and charming architecture. Ashland , the wooded estate of 19th century statesman Henry Clay, boasts a gorgeous English parterre garden. The Mary Todd Lincoln House , childhood home of the former first lady, is like a time capsule with an impressive garden of its own. Waveland and Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill are surrounded by acres of Bluegrass countryside. And serene Gratz Park sits at the center of a downtown neighborhood largely unchanged since the 1800’s. 

7. Discover Bourbonland

Beneath Lexington’s rolling bluegrass hills, a rare limestone formation filters natural spring water for the world’s finest bourbon, fueling a magical culture of creativity and innovation that we call Bourbonland . Fall is the perfect time to immerse yourself in that culture. Enjoy tours and tastings at 18 nearby bourbon distilleries , sample rare bottles and inventive cocktails at world-class bourbon bars, and let the Kentucky Bourbon Trail guide you deep into the countryside for a look at the history and craft of America’s native spirit that can’t be found anywhere else.

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Kentucky (KY) » 15 Best Things to Do in Madisonville (KY)

15 Best Things to Do in Madisonville (KY)

The seat of Hopkins County in Western Kentucky dates back to 1807, and experienced a boom in the early 20th century, powered by its railroads, tobacco farms and the surrounding Western Coalfields.

Madisonville’s residents take pride in their town, to the extent that the motto is, “The Best Town on Earth”. What is certain is that few cities offer access to so much public green space.

City Park and the Mahr Park Arboretum are sweeping properties, packed with things to do in the summer, from golf to swimming, paddling, birding, fishing or sitting down to a collegiate baseball game.

1. Mahr Park Arboretum

In 2009 the late ​​Dr. Merle and Mrs. Glema Mahr gifted their 265-acre farm to the City of Madisonville. This is a lovely property, on rolling hills with tall mature trees and access to Pee Wee Lake, Madisonville’s reservoir which we’ll talk about later in this list.

Awaiting you at Mahr Park Arboretum is a natural setting, with seasonal wildflowers, 40 acres of woods, native wildlife and a mosaic of ponds, mostly for passive activities.

The nature playground is something special, with equipment carved from Douglas fir, while there are also two large barns for events. Among the recreation facilities there’s an 18-hole championship golf course and a 9-hole disc golf course.

2. Walk Madisonville!

Local bodies and organizations, including the Hopkins County Tourist & Convention Commission and Woman’s Club of Madisonville, have teamed up to produce a great brochure for three self-guided walking tours downtown.

You can pick this up at the Hopkins County Tourist and Convention Commission HQ on Sugg St downtown. There’s a History Walk, a Patriotic Walk and an Art Walk, all with accompanying maps.

The History Walk is of particular interest, detailing many of the fine commercial buildings along Main Street, and then charming residences along Union Street, Sugg Street and Scott Street, with some dating back to the mid-19th century.

3. Historical Society Museum of Hopkins County

One block east of Main Street on Union Street is the museum for the Historical Society of Hopkins County, which was founded in 1974 and today has more than 400 members.

In a grand brick building, which previously served as the Hopkins County Library, you can find out about various aspects of the area’s past, from tobacco farming to coal mining, moonshine and changing local lifestyles.

To this end there’s a preserved 1910 Buick Buggyabout, one of only three such models left in the world.

4. Governor Ruby Laffoon Log Cabin

On the grounds of the Historical Society Museum of Hopkins County is the preserved log cabin in which the 43rd Governor of Kentucky and Madisonville native, Ruby Laffoon (1869-1941) was born.

His time as governor, 1931-1934, is remembered for extensive infrastructure construction, making Harland Sanders a colonel and a bitter fight to pass a sales tax to raise extra revenue for the state treasury during the Great Depression.

The relocated cabin dates to the mid-19th century, and is furnished with pieces from this time to paint a picture of Laffoon’s early years.

5. Madisonville City Park

Brimming with recreation facilities, Madisonville City Park is on more than 250 acres and self-contained day out, especially in the summer.

For a quick summary of what you can find here, there’s a 9-hole golf course, a miniature golf course, 18-hole disc golf course, Madisonville’s outdoor pool, two stocked fishing lakes and a 9-hole footgolf course.

Added to all that you’ve got tennis courts, volleyball courts, a 70-year-old baseball stadium (more later), a 1.25-mile trail, several picnic shelters, a rentable clubhouse and an amphitheater for concerts and festivals in the summer.

6. Hopkins County Farmers’ Market

Mahr Park is the main location for the Hopkin County Farmers’ Market, taking place on Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons throughout the summer.

There’s also an additional market on Thursday mornings at Baptist Health. The farmers’ market is a convenient way to support local businesses and get hold of ultra-fresh produce grown within a matter of miles of Madisonville.

As well as fruit and vegetables, from tomatoes to zucchini, the market normally has farm direct meat, preserves, baked goods, jams, jellies, eggs, flowers, spice mixes, organic soaps and crafts you won’t find anywhere else.

7. Elmer Kelley Stadium

In Madisonville City Park, this baseball stadium was completed in 1941 and was a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, composed of bricks that were poured on-site.

The stadium was unused because of WWII until 1946, when for the next ten years it was home field for the Madisonville Miners, then a professional team, along with Madisonville/North Hopkins High School which continues to use the stadium.

Today, the Miners are a summer collegiate team and have played their Ohio Valley League games (OVL) here since 2012. The regular season gets underway in early June and is wrapped up by mid-July.

8. Lake Pee Wee

You don’t even have to leave the city to get to this 360-acre lake, just west of the Mahr Park Arboretum.

Serving as Madisonville’s primary water supply, Lake Pee Wee has nothing but parkland, woods and upscale residences on its shores.

Boats with motors aren’t permitted, but there’s a free launch at the arboretum for canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and rowboats.

As for fishing, bass, carp, crappie and trout are regularly caught at Lake Pee Wee, although you’re required to stay clear of the intake, easily spotted as a large concrete structure.

9. Melody Lanes

This 20-lane bowling alley at 1018 N Main St has been open since 1959, and the big neon sign out front certainly evokes the mid-century.

Melody Lanes is a local go-to for groups of friends, families and dates, as well as corporate outings.

Despite being well over 60 years old, the alley has moved with the times and when we wrote this article had just added another round of renovations.

Check the alley’s facebook page for details of seasonal promotions, while Rae’s Cafe inside has a selection of sandwiches, soups, burgers, hot dogs and bites like popcorn chicken and fries.

10. Glema Mahr Center for the Arts

At the Madisonville Community College’s North Campus there’s a modern performing arts center housing a 1,000-seat theater that serves as the main stage for miles around.

The schedule is packed year round with concerts by famous recording acts, as well as touring musicals, classical, jazz and folk ensembles, dance, community theatre, children’s shows, college ceremonies and much more.

When we wrote this list a couple of well-known performers taking the stage were Martina McBride and Rodney Crowell.

Also in the complex is the Anne P. Baker Gallery, with something new to see every few weeks, including the annual Glema Center Juried Photography Exhibit and Juried Art Exhibit in fall.

11. Trover Wellness Park

North of downtown Madisonville, by Baptist Health there’s a park designed to encourage healthy lifestyles. The main component at Trover Wellness Park is a half-mile trail, equipped with ten different fitness stations.

A little more relaxing, there’s also a delightful butterfly garden, planted with more than 20 varieties of flowering plants.

The children’s playground is another highlight, with multi-sensory equipment for all abilities. This park is a trailhead for the planned Healthway Trail, a long-term project that will connect Trover Wellness Park with Madisonville City Park.

12. Madisonville 4th Fest

City Park is the backdrop for the premier summer event in Hopkins County. Usually a three-day event, Madisonville 4th Fest happens on the closest weekend before July 4, and promises three days of free entertainment.

Live music is central to this event, on two stages always featuring a bill of well-known acts. To accompany all this there’s a lineup of food trucks, vendors of all descriptions, a beer garden, children’s activities and then fireworks to bring the whole event to a close.

13. Western Kentucky Speedway

During the season, April through September, this ⅜-mile semi-banked dirt oval has racing action pretty every weekend.

Gates tend to open in the afternoon and the racing normally starts by 7:00 pm. A few of the classes usually featured are Street Stock, Super Street, Bomber, Rusty Bolt, Mini Stock, Modifieds and Late Models.

Among the big annual events are Spring Fling early in the season and the annual King of the Bluegrass & “Little John” Gray Memorial in September.

14. Grapevine Lake

On the south side of City Park is another inviting public park, open April through October and centered on a sizable fishing lake.

On the shores of Grapevine Lake are dozens of acres of mature hardwood forest that you can navigate on more than eight miles of newly enhanced mountain bike trails.

The main loop has fantastic, near-constant views of the lake, and lots of interesting features from drop-in valleys to downed trees, tight turns, little bridges, roots and jumps. One of the main rules here is not to use the mountain bike trails when muddy.

15. Madisonville Christmas Parade

Organized by Madisonville Noon Kiwanis the Christmas Parade is a wholesome annual tradition downtown on the first Saturday in December.

Starting at twilight at 5:00 pm, a line of lovingly decorated vehicles, floats and marching bands will make their way along the North and South Main Street, also illuminated in festive style.

Younger children will be thrilled by the fire trucks, tractors, antique cars, horses and clowns, and that’s before Santa Claus shows up at the back of the parade, accompanied by the ever-popular jolly old elf.

15 Best Things to Do in Madisonville (KY):

• Mahr Park Arboretum
• Walk Madisonville!
• Historical Society Museum of Hopkins County
• Governor Ruby Laffoon Log Cabin
• Madisonville City Park
• Hopkins County Farmers’ Market
• Elmer Kelley Stadium
• Lake Pee Wee
• Melody Lanes
• Glema Mahr Center for the Arts
• Trover Wellness Park
• Madisonville 4th Fest
• Western Kentucky Speedway
• Grapevine Lake
• Madisonville Christmas Parade

The 22 Best Things To Do In Lexington, Kentucky

Whether you go for the bourbon trail, horse country, or a city getaway, Lexington is perfectly placed.

It's easy to overlook Lexington at first, in the shadow of Louisville, which gets most of the attention thanks to the  Kentucky Derby and Whiskey Row. Yet, Lexington quietly enjoys the spoils of being a thriving town set in the ecologically stunning Kentucky landscape. From  bourbon distilleries  and horse racing to breezy Bluegrass hills and a vibrant downtown, you're never short on places to explore and local businesses to duck into. Lexington is perfectly placed for a getaway with so many activities to put on your list, no matter if you go during the blooming spring, colorful autumn, or snowy winter.

 Here are the best things to do on your next trip to Lexington, Kentucky.

Explore Horse Country

Tour keeneland race track.

Dubbed a National Historic Landmark, Keeneland has helped keep the tradition of Thoroughbred racing alive for over eight decades. Moreover, the lush grounds are expertly crafted and kept up and worth a visit on their own. Year-round, you can book a morning tour that shows the early training sessions, as well as teaches guests about the history of Keeneland and thoroughbred racing.

keeneland.com , 4201 Versailles Rd, Lexington, KY 40510

Attend the Keeneland Races

The horse-racing events in Kentucky are set apart from other sporting events due to the pomp and circumstance that surrounds them. Spectators are expected to dress to the nines—hats, ascots, and all—to sip on mint juleps and bet on quirky-named horses. At Keeneland, you can plan a visit during the Spring Meet or Fall Meet.

Visit a Retirement Home for Racehorses

At Old Friends , a retirement farm for Thoroughbreds whose careers have ended, Michael Blowen gives racehorses the best kind of Kentucky retirement. When Blowen decided to start a retirement farm for racehorses, people were skeptical. "They all thought I was nuts," he says. Today, Blowen oversees three farms that serve as the residence for 260 retired or elderly horses. You can visit the main facility at Dream Chase Farm in Georgetown, Kentucky, and get the chance to meet past champion horses.

oldfriendsequine.org , 1841 Paynes Depot Rd, Georgetown, KY 40324

Reserve a Tour at Famed Horse Farms

Prestigious operations such as  Claiborne Farm ,  Spy Coast Farm , and  Ashford Stud  (home of Triple Crown winners American Pharoah and Justify) offer a fleeting glimpse into a largely exclusive world. You're able to book public group tours ahead of time, and therefore craft your own itinerary. During the tours, expect to learn the history of often generational horse farms, meet past champion horses, and take in the scenic views.

Take Advantage of Kentucky Horse Park

Opened in 1978, the Kentucky Horse Park is the world’s only park dedicated to teaching people about horses and helping take care of and showcase the majestic animals. During most of the year, the park is home to up to 100 horses representing more than 25 different breeds. While you can explore the museum, visitor's center, and horse stalls, there is no better way to immerse yourself in horse culture than embarking on the guided 35-minute trail ride, which is suitable for first-time riders and takes you along the outskirts of the park.

kyhorsepark.com , 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511

Follow The Bourbon Trail

Tour the reader-voted "south's best distillery".

There are 46 stops that make up the  Kentucky Bourbon Trail , but amongst the many options, make sure to plan a visit to what our readers previously voted the "South's Best:" The Woodford Reserve Distillery . The official bourbon of the Kentucky Derby, Woodford Reserve has garnered icon status since its founding in 1812, and even still uses a track system from the 1800s to roll barrels into the warehouses. Tours include bourbon tastings, and a visit to the Woodford Reserve Welcome Center comes with excellent cocktails and expert pours, as well as sweeping views from the veranda.

woodfordreserve.com , 7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Taste More Than Just Bourbon

Beyond just bourbon, there are some distilleries offering a unique range of distilled products.  Castle & Key Distillery , located half an hour from downtown Lexington in Frankfort, also offers tastings of its in-house gin and vodka that will appeal to those who don't prefer bourbon. Make sure to roam the gorgeous grounds that once housed the Old Taylor Distillery, a romantic castle built in the 1800s.

castleandkey.com , 4445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601

Explore More Well-Known Bourbon Legends

Fortunately, there is a distillery for practically every taste here. Heirloom distilleries such as Buffalo Trace and Maker's Mark are sure-fire delights for a bourbon lover. The  Maker’s Mark distillery is exactly what you hope a bourbon distillery will look like: a large black barn with cherry red shutters, the old homestead (now a visitors center) tucked beneath shade trees, landscaped paths, and a trickling stream named Whisky Creek. In downtown Frankfort, not far from Lexington, Buffalo Trace feels like an industrial frontier town, with most of the buildings on the 118-acre campus built before Prohibition.

Pay Visits to Small-Batch Bourbon Makers

Luckily, the industry hasn't stopped at the big names. Embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour to hit unique and newer small-batch labels with fresh perspectives. There are 28 stops to choose from, including Bluegrass Distillers which has a downtown Lexington location available for visits. For those hitting the road, family-run  Brough Brothers Distillery —the first Black-owned microdistillery in Kentucky—offers tasting and tours in the Park Hill area of Louisville, only a little over an hour's drive away from Lexington.

Check Out The City

Spend an evening in the distillery district.

The  Distillery District —housed in the Historic James E. Pepper Distillery, which had previously sat abandoned for five decades—is now the place to go to have a little tour of everything that Lexington has to offer, including working bourbon distilleries, restaurants, bars, and shops. Make a stop at the Barrel House Distillery , a craft distiller on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail; try authentic Kentucky burgoo at the Elkhorn Tavern ; and listen to music at Manchester Music Hall , which is located in the circa-1800s bourbon warehouse of Old Tarr Distillery.

lexingtondistillerydistrict.com , 1228 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504

If You Haven't, Try Ale-8

Ale-8-One—called Ale-8 for short—is a gingery, citrusy soft drink that tastes like a crisper, more mellowed take on ginger beer, and it's the only Kentucky-invented soft drink still being produced. The first batches were bottled in 1926, making it over 90 years old. Head to the downtown rooftop of  Belle's Cocktail House , and order a "bourbon & Ale-8."

bellesbar.com , 156 Market St, Lexington, KY 40507

Explore Downtown Lexington

Downtown Lexington has plenty of entertainment to spend a day exploring. On weekends, stop by the Lexington Farmers' Market. Peep the many murals throughout the city blocks. Head to The Square —a block of renovated Victorian-style buildings—to see the art scene at  Plymale Gallery ,  Main Cross Gallery , and the  Artist Attic . On the same block as the 21c Museum Hotel is  Bourbon on Rye , a modish take on a moody bourbon bar, where some truly well-versed bartenders will happily guide you without breaking the bank.

Where To Eat

Enjoy southern cuisine at dudley's on short.

A Lexington institution for nearly 40 years, Dudley's On Short is the perfect spot to grab a Southern-inspired upscale lunch or dinner, located in a circa-1880s bank. No meal is complete without "Dudley's Eggs," which are the perfect deviled egg bites to split. The brunch-and-lunch menu has standout shareables, including bacon beignets and smoked trout dip.

dudleysonshort.com , 259 W Short St #125, Lexington, KY 40507

Start or End Your Day at Pearl's

A bagel shop by morning and pizza-and-wine bar by evening, Pearl's in downtown Lexington is our kind of all-day café. The breakfast bagels are hand-rolled and honey-boiled, and the wood-fired pizza is delightfully poofy and charred, perfect for sharing with family and friends with a bottle of all-natural wine, which the restaurant specializes in.

pearlspizzapie.com , 133 N Limestone, Lexington, KY 40507

Indulge in Kentucky Barbecue at Blue Door Smokehouse

You'll find the best brisket in the area at Blue Door Smokehouse , hands down. Opened in 2013 by two Lexington natives, this BBQ joint doles out sandwiches and plates piled high with the smoked meats of your choice. Ask for the "Blue Door Special" to sample all the proteins in stock on any given day.

bluedoorsmokehouse.com , 226 Walton Ave, Lexington, KY 40502

Try the Latin Cuisine at Corto Lima

This Latin-inspired restaurant is run by James Beard-nominated chef Jonathan Lundy. At Corto Lima , you can expect a mix of flavor-packed dishes, such as shrimp ceviche, adobo chicken, and rock crab empanadas. Start with a batch of guacamole and a house margarita to wash it all down.

cortolima.com , 101 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507

Grab a Slice at Missy's Pies

A local favorite since 1989, Missy's Pies offers the best homemade slices of delectable pies in town. Flavors vary according to day and season, but look out for customer-beloved options such as the chocolate-and-peanut butter "Combo" Pie, Black Bottom Banana Pie, and Coconut Cream Pie.

missyspieshop.com , 502 E High St, Lexington, KY 40502

Where To Stay

Stay at an award-winning museum hotel.

Located in downtown Lexington, the artsy  21c Museum Hotel is housed in a historic bank building. Except now, it offers such contemporary perks as a contemporary art museum and a notable in-house restaurant,  Lockbox . Explore the exhibits between comings and goings.

21cmuseumhotels.com/lexington , 167 W Main St, Lexington, KY 40507

Stay in the Distillery District

Located in Lexington's restored Distillery District walkable to the many restaurants and shops, The Manchester feels perfectly suited to the historic and soulful nature of Lexington. The interiors' supple leather and rich, earthy tones mimic the surrounding Bluegrass hills and Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries. The hotel offers 125 rooms with a bespoke bottle shop, lobby bar, and two in-house dining options—Appalachian-inspired Granddam—and rooftop bar Lost Palm.

themanchesterky.com , 941 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40508

Stay at a Hip Pet-Friendly Hotel

The Elwood Hotel is adorned with a colorful mural on the front facade, and you can expect similar energy on the inside with vibrant art and decor. The 62-room boutique hotel is also welcoming to those with pets and has an in-house restaurant. Fiddletree Kitchen & Bar, located in the lobby, is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for indoor dining, as well as an outdoor terrace with firepits. 

theelwoodhotel.com , 444 Parkway Dr, Lexington, KY 40504

Make A Rural Pitstop

Stop for lunch at wallace station deli.

Make a pit stop at  Wallace Station Deli  near Midway, one of well-known Kentucky chef Ouita Michel's places. The 15-minute drive to Wallace Station from the highway will take you past some of the area's showiest horse farms. Order one of the Inside Out Hot Browns (their take on a  classic Kentucky sandwich ) and a cold bottle of Ale-8.

wallacestation.com , 3854 Old Frankfort Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

Tour the Kentucky Castle

One of the more unique landmarks you'll come across while driving around Kentucky's bourbon trail and horse country region, the Kentucky Castle offers various experiences, including tours of the castle grounds, themed dinners, or farm days. You can even stay on the grounds for an extra magical trip.

thekentuckycastle.com , 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

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Happy Fall, y'all! Here are 14 places where you can go pumpkin picking near Louisville

Looking for that perfect pumpkin to pick and carve? Or maybe you want to find your way through a corn maze? Here are more than a dozen pumpkin patches to visit in Kentucky and Indiana and many of them also offer hayrides, corn mazes, kid's zones, and more.

Happy Fall!

WHAT:  The orchard has pumpkins and apples for picking. It also has fresh-squeezed apple cider, gourds, hand-dipped caramel apples, vegetables, jams, relishes, Amish foods, candy, mums, and more.

WHERE:  9104 IN-37, Bedford, Indiana

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

WHEN:  Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 1-6 p.m. Open year-round.

MORE INFORMATION:  812-279-9721; applacres.net .

Bowling Family Farm

WHAT:  U-pick pumpkins of all colors, shapes and sizes. Free hayrides to the pumpkin patch. The market has baked goods, mums, gourds, honey and apple butter.

WHEN:  Daily, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. through October.

WHERE:  7631 Voyles Road, Greenville, Indiana

MORE INFORMATION:  812-216-1516; facebook.com/youpickpumpkins/

Buckmeadow Farm Fest

WHAT:  The farm has u-pick pumpkins, a five-acre corn maze, a barnyard petting zoo, a playground area with a straw mountain, ninja warrior course and slides, concessions and more.

• Corn Maze Trick or Treat.  Trick or Treat through the five-acre corn maze, enter the costume contest, and enjoy all the other activities the farm has to offer, including a pumpkin with each admission Oct. 26; rain date Oct. 27. $15, free for ages 2 and younger.

WHEN:  Open weekends Sept. 21 through Oct. 27. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sundays, noon to 5 p.m.

WHERE:  1323 Ninevah Road, Lawrenceburg, Kentucky

COST:  $15, free for ages 2 and younger and includes a u-pick pumpkin.

MORE INFORMATION:  502-680-1824; buckmeadowfarms.com .

Cornucopia Farm

WHAT:  U-pick and picked pumpkins, plus you can play on the tumbling tiles, straw house and giant slides, visit the petting farm, take a wagon ride, stop by the café, explore the corn and soybean mazes, take a hayride (weather permitting), visit the farm market and more.

Special events:

• Sept. 14-15:  Butterfly release in the Zinnia/Sunflower field
• Sept. 21-22:  Petting farm weekend
• Sept. 24:  Ladies Night: Flower workshop and shopping
• Sept. 28:  September Glow Maze
• Sept. 28-29:  Kids weekend
• Oct. 4-5:  Pumpkin Glow
• Oct. 7:  Fall break day
• Oct. 14:  Puzzle night
• Oct. 19:  Find the pink pumpkins
• Oct. 25:  October Glow Maze
• Oct. 26-27:  Dog daze weekend (only weekend dogs are allowed)

WHEN:  September hours: Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 1-7 p.m. October hours: Wednesday and Thursday, 5-8 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sunday, 1-7 p.m.

WHERE:  5444 N. Rutherford Hollow Road, Scottsburg, Indiana

COST:  General admission, $12 advance online, $14 at the gate, free for ages 2 and younger.; admission may increase for special events.

MORE INFORMATION:   cornucopiafarm.com .

Devine's Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch

WHAT:  U-pick pumpkins with wagon rides to the pumpkin patch, a 10-acre corn maze, zipline racers, a kids area with duck races, a hay maze, a giant slide, corn crib, tire mountain, corn hopper, board games, and more. The market has fruits, vegetables, honey, jam and relish.

WHEN:  Weekends Sept. 13 through Nov. 3. Friday, 6-10 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Zipline: Friday, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Sunday, 1:30-4:30 p.m.

WHERE : 623 Talmage-Mayo Road, Harrodsburg

COST:  Corn maze admission: $12 for ages 13 and older; $10 for ages 3-12; free for ages 2 and younger; Zipline, $10 per person; Burner Tube Slide, $5.

MORE INFORMATION : Appointments are available for groups of 50 or more. Market questions, 859-613-3489. devinescornmaze.com .

Eckert's Orchards

WHAT:  U-pick and picked pumpkins and apples, country store, bakery with homemade goods, including its famous Apple Cider Donuts, local jams, salsas, and honey. Pumpkins will be available from late Sept. 27 through late Oct. 27. Also, an ice cream shop and café, bonfires(weekends), haunted hayrides and playground. Plus, navigate your way through the corn maze and two new attractions the jumping pillow and a mega slide.

Live music, 2-4 p.m.:

• Sept. 14:  Josh Wilhoit
• Sept. 15:  Matt Castle
• Sept. 21:  Matthew Lunsford
• Sept. 22:  Matt Castle
• Sept. 28:  Jeff Blackburn
• Sept. 29:  Jimmy Ritchey
• Oct. 5:  Jeff Blackburn
• Oct. 6:  Will Padgett
• Oct. 12: Jimmy Ritchey
• Oct. 13:  Matt Castle
• Oct. 19:  Mash Grass
• Oct. 26:  Matthew Lunsford
• Oct. 27:  Josh Wilhoit

WHEN:  Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with picking available from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through late October.

WHERE:  1396 Pinckard Pike, Versailles, Kentucky

COST:  $12 weekend and $6 weekdays for field access and playground.

MORE INFORMATION:  A field access pass will be required to enter the picking areas. The all-day field access pass will allow visitors to enjoy unlimited rides to the picking areas. The playground is open Tuesday-Sunday. 800-745-0513; eckerts.com/versailles .

Evans Orchard

WHAT:  The pumpkin patch will be ready for u-pick in the third week of September. The orchard has wagon rides, you can also find your way through the corn maze, zoom down the mega slide, explore the play area, and get lunch in the café. The gift store and market have apples, apple cider donuts, fruits, vegetables and more. The play area has two jumbo jumpers, an apple cider slider, swings, and more. Hayride, corn maze, and apple cannons (available for an additional fee).

WHEN:  Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 6 p.m. Starting in November, call before you come.

WHERE:  1783 Newton Pike, Georgetown, Kentucky

COST:  $10 for play area and barnyard (Tuesday-Friday); $16 for play area and barnyard, corn maze and wagon ride (daily); $24 for play area and barnyard, corn maze and wagon ride, mega slide and 5 apples for the apple cannon (weekends only); $8 for corn maze and wagon ride; $6 for mega slide (weekends only); 5 for $5 for apples for the apple cannon.

MORE INFORMATION:  The play area is open Tuesday through Sunday. 502-863-2255; evansorchard.com .

Farmers Markets

WHAT:  Louisville-area farmers' markets will have pumpkins.

WHERE:  Throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana.

WHEN:  Most of the markets are open Saturdays and there are several that operate Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays throughout October.

MORE INFORMATION:  A full list of farmers' market details broken down by county can be found at kyproud.com . A list of Indiana farmers' markets can be found at farmersmarketonline.com/fm/Indiana.htm .

Gallrein Farms

WHAT:  Take a hayride to the pumpkin patch and make your way through the corn maze. Also jump pillows, corn pit, obstacle course, haunted house, a petting zoo, super slide and more. There will be food trucks outside, cookies, fudge, and other fall treats will still be served in the café.

WHEN:  Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, noon to 5 p.m. Sept. 21 through Oct. 31

WHERE:  1029 Vigo Road, Shelbyville, Kentucky

COST:  Wristbands are $20 per person (unlimited activities); $15 for parents and grandparents; free for ages 2 and younger. Additional fee for apple cannon, duck races, and gem mining.

MORE INFORMATION:  Cash and cards only. 502-633-4849; gallreinfarms.com .

Happy Jack's Pumpkin Farm

WHAT:  Take a wagon ride to the 20-acre pumpkin patch where there are over 75 varieties of pumpkins for u-pick, gourds, and squash. Visit with farm animals, stroll through the two-acre corn maze, and more.

WHEN:  Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; through Oct. 31.

WHERE:  966 Hickman Hill, Frankfort, Kentucky

COST:  Admission is free

MORE INFORMATION:  Farm produce is available from November through April. Call or check the website for times; 502-320-1064; happyjackspumpkins.com .

Huber's Orchard, Winery & Vineyard

WHAT:  Huber's Orchard has one of the largest selections of pumpkins and apples (including Jonathan, Gala, Red, Golden Delicious and many more). Also, gourds, decorative pumpkins, fall squash, baked goods, gifts, a winery, ice cream shop, cheese, a family farm park and more.

WHEN:  U-pick, Sunday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Family Farm Park is open Sunday-Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Oct. 31. The Farm Market and winery, ice cream factory and cheese shop are open daily (check website for times).

WHERE:  19816 Huber Road, Starlight, Indiana

COST:  U-pick: $3 Monday-Friday; $4 Saturday and Sunday, free for 12 months and younger. Family Farm Park, $6 per person; $5 per person for groups of six or more

MORE INFORMATION:  812-923-9813; 812-923-9463 (winery); huberwinery.com ; visithubers.com/upick .

McGlasson Farms

WHAT:  The roadside farm has been family-owned and operated for six generations. From July through November, it offers fresh fruits, vegetables and pumpkins grown on the farm for sale at its roadside stand. Also U-pick pumpkins and apples.

WHERE:  5832 River Road, Hebron, Kentucky

WHEN:  Monday- Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. U-pick hours may vary.

MORE INFORMATION:  859-689-5229; mcglassonfarms.com .

Mulberry Orchard

WHAT:  U-pick pumpkin patch (late September or early October) and apples (starting Sept. 14). Also wagon rides, soybean maze, 4-acre corn maze, zipline, kid's area, petting zoo, and fresh produce at the store.

• Concert:  Luke Bryan Farm Tour. Sept. 26, 6 p.m. $68 general admission, $212 VIP and includes early admission (5 p.m.), admission to VIP amenities (restrooms, bar, charging stations), parking, one Luke Bryan Farm Tour merchandise item and an on-site host. Parking $10.

WHEN:  Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Sept. 20 through Nov. 3.

WHERE:  1330 Mulberry Pike, Shelbyville, Kentucky

COST:  $9 for playground arm band (get an arm band for the playground at the market)

MORE INFORMATION:  Lunch and treats at the Mulberry Kitchen will be served Tuesday through Sunday. 502-655-2633; mulberryorchardky.com .

Slow Poke Farm

WHAT:  This family-owned farm has u-pick pumpkins. The Old Country Store has antiques, collectibles, linens, quilts, and one-of-a-kind items.

• Fall festival:  Saturdays and Sundays in October, noon to 7 p.m. Features hayrides, corn maze, hay maze, and pumpkins for sale.

WHEN:  Saturdays and Sundays in October, noon to 7 p.m. (call before you come in September)

WHERE:  8910 Cedar Grove Road, Shepherdsville, Kentucky

COST:  Pumpkins are different prices depending on size. Fall festival, $9, $4 for ages 4-12, $2 for ages 2 and 3, and $1 for ages 1 and younger

MORE INFORMATION:  Cash only; 502-921-9632; slowpokefarm.com .

Did we miss your favorite pumpkin patch or locally-owned farm? Send a message to news clerk Gege Reed at [email protected].

World Wild Schooling

12 Tourist Traps Everyone Visits (And Everyone Leaves Disappointed)

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The world is fascinating, with thousands of unique, magical, picturesque, and exciting places to explore. As such, millions travel the world yearly to experience its biggest delights. However, not all of the world’s famous places live up to expectations.

While they may look like a dream destination on Instagram, some places tell a different story when you arrive, leaving many travelers feeling cheated. To learn more, here are 12 tourist traps to avoid worldwide. These iconic destinations have been selected because they don’t meet their hype or expectations. If you want to enjoy a memorable trip, avoid these locations.

Hallstatt, Austria

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You’ll likely recognize Hallstatt, a breathtaking lakeside village on the western shore of Lake Hallstatt, from one of your devices. It’s commonly used as a default TV, laptop, and tablet screensaver. Tucked away in the Austrian Alps, this gorgeous 16th-century village and its vibrant architecture look like a dream.

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However Hallstatt has been ruined by overtourism . Tourists have overwhelmed Hallstatt to capture the perfect image of the village’s Evangelical church, quaint houses, and scenic mountain views.

Despite being home to less than 1,000 people, thousands of tourists visit this popular tourist destination yearly. Things have got so bad in the village that residents have resorted to boarding up viewpoints and roping off their properties.

Read also:  Avoid These Tourist Traps in Europe

The Spanish Steps, Rome, Italy

Rome is one of the world’s most famous, historic, and beautiful cities. It has everything from ancient Roman ruins and world-famous landmarks to world-class cuisine and designer shops. However, the city also has its fair share of tourist traps, the Spanish Steps being one of the biggest.

A short walk from the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps are a 135-step staircase that leads from Piazza di Spagna to Piazza Trinità dei Monti. They were installed in the city in 1725. Ever since, they’ve been one of the city’s most iconic points of interest. Unfortunately, a number of Google reviews point to overcrowding, littering, and tourist scams on the steps. As a result, the Italian government has implemented strict rules, such as requiring people not to sit on the steps.

Read also: Tourist Traps in Italy

Bali, Indonesia

I find it challenging to include Bali on a list of the world’s tourist traps because it’s one of my favorite places to go. This magical tropical island offers travelers glorious white sand beaches , charming towns, lush, rich terraces, and beautiful ancient temples. However, Bali’s increasing popularity has put immense pressure on the island.

The island needs help to keep up with the demand, building more resorts, restaurants, and roads. Despite the government’s best efforts, the island suffers greatly from overcrowding, environmental issues, and damage to cultural landmarks according to a number of reviews. With that in mind, I recommend visiting another Indonesian island until Bali has had a chance to recover and implement new tourism initiatives to deal with over-tourism.

Read also: Things You Shouldn’t Do as a Tourist

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

Despite offering endless volcanic landscapes to explore, picturesque national parks , one-of-a-kind natural wonders , and the opportunity to spot the Northern Lights, one of Iceland’s most famous and photographed attractions is an artificial lagoon called the Blue Lagoon. While the Blue Lagoon is an excellent place to relax, it doesn’t show you the authentic Iceland.

In fact, I’d argue it’s actually an eyesore on what is otherwise a stunning natural landscape. Furthermore, its popularity has seen the lagoon become very commercialized and expensive. The high prices and large crowds take the shine away from the lagoon. Instead, visit one of the island’s more authentic hidden gems, such as Hrunalaug Hot Spring, Hvammsvik Hot Spring, and the Kerlingarfjöll Hot Spring.

Read also: Spectacular Hot Air Balloon Rides Around the World

La Rambla, Barcelona, Spain

The following tourist trap on our list is La Rambla in Barcelona , Spain. Almost every itinerary, TikTok video, and Instagram post referring to a city break in Barcelona includes La Rambla, one of the city’s most famous streets. From the outside looking in, this street looks fascinating, lined with quaint restaurants, bars, shops, and traditional buildings.

However, La Rambla fails to live up to its hype. Admittedly, the street looks spectacular, but that’s about all it offers. Otherwise, you can expect large crowds, in-your-face restaurant staff and street vendors, unauthentic restaurants, overpriced food and drink, and several tourist scams and pickpockets . Therefore, we recommend avoiding the streets altogether and visiting quieter streets like the Gothic Quarter.

Read also: Tourist Traps in Spain

Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, United States

Hollywood Boulevard is a world-famous street in Los Angeles, California, best known for its theaters and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. For those who don’t know, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a landmark that consists of more than 2,750 five-pointed stars and the handprints of thousands of celebrities, such as Nicolas Cage and Jenifer Lopez.

Millions of tourists visit the landmark yearly to hunt down their favorite actors/actresses or performers’ stars and handprints. It’s not uncommon for the Walk of Fame to attract over 10 million visitors annually. Unfortunately, this leads to large crowds, overpriced food establishments, and expensive accommodation. That said, it’s best to avoid the area altogether.

Read more: Steer Clear Off These Tourist Traps in the US

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is one of Greece’s most famous islands. While it seems the perfect place to enjoy a luxurious island escape, the truth is very different in high season. Beyond the pristine beaches, fiery sunsets, and 5-star villas with private pools, there is a bustling island jam-packed with tourists in July and August.

From the island’s overhyped Instagram viewpoints, people queue for hours to see, to overpriced restaurants and unauthentic tourist souvenir shops, Santorini isn’t what it seems. Worse yet, the island’s popularity has seen accommodation prices soar. Unfortunately, the number of visitors has eroded Santorini’s peaceful and romantic vibes. As such, we recommend visiting a quieter island like Folengandros or Kefalonia.

Georgia Konidari from World Wild Schooling , a Greek who has visited Santorini several times, says, “The best time to visit is during the shoulder season. Santorini is still magical in May, early June, or late September without the tourist crowds.”

Read also: Avoid These Tourist Traps on the Greek Islands

The Pyramid of Giza, Egypt

The Pyramid of Giza might seem like a controversial addition to this list because it is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to remain. However, that doesn’t mean it isn’t still one of the world’s biggest tourist traps. The Giza Pyramid complex dates back to 2500 B.C. and is a sight to behold.

However, many tourists complain about how bad their experience was when they visited. Sadly, this world-famous location is filled with touts, scammers, and hecklers. Therefore, you’ll unlikely be able to explore this world wonder without being mithered the entire time. Worse yet, the Pyramids are renowned for being messy, with the surrounding area covered in litter. Fast food restaurants don’t serve as a suitable backdrop, either.

Read more:  World’s Most Iconic Places

Taj Mahal, India

The Taj Mahal, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is a fine example of how a tourist attraction can be ruined by its own success. Commissioned in 1631 by the fifth Mughal emperor to house the tomb of his late wife, it is a breathtaking white marble mausoleum in Agra, India.

Unfortunately, the enormous popularity of the structure has seen it suffer from overcrowding, tourist scams, and pushy tour guides. As such, the initial joy you experience when you glimpse the mausoleum for the first time often diminishes quickly. Not to mention, witnessing the poverty around the Taj Mahal in Agra makes the experience less enjoyable. I’ve visited the Taj Mahal, and this is how I felt.

Read more:  UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Times Square, New York, United States

Times Square is a major commercial intersection, entertainment hub, neighborhood, and tourist attraction in the Midtown Manhattan section of New York City, United States. You’ve likely seen the bright lights, towering buildings, and large TV screens of Times Square splattered all over Instagram and in the movies.

While it looks like an entertaining and exciting place to explore, it’s not somewhere you want to visit on a tight budget or if you dislike large crowds. Up to 460,000 people visit Times Square daily. As a result, you can expect to encounter enormous crowds of tourists vying for the best photograph. The square’s popularity has also increased the area’s food, drink, and accommodation prices.

Read also: Must-See Landmarks in the US

Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany

The penultimate tourist trap on our list is Oktoberfest, an annual festival across Germany from late September into early October. During this traditional event, people drink beer, watch carnivals and parades, and participate in games and dancing. In Munich, more than six million people attend the Oktoberfest.

Sadly, the shine of this once-local festival has been taken away by the sheer volume of people that attend it and the high prices. Unfortunately, this leads to much disappointment because you’ll spend way more than you wanted to and spend most of your time in a queue waiting for a beer. We don’t know about you, but that doesn’t sound like much fun.

Read also: Tourists Should Never Do These Things in Europe

The Louvre Museum, Paris, France

The final tourist trap on our list is the Louvre Museum in Paris, France’s luxurious capital city. The Louvre Museum is a beautiful place to visit, but the famous artwork inside makes it a tourist trap. For those who didn’t know, the Louvre Museum houses the Mona Lisa, a portrait painting by renowned Italian artist Leonardo Da Vinci.

Created in 1503, the Mona Lisa is widely regarded as the most famous painting ever. As such, millions of people flock to the Louvre annually. You can expect huge queues just to glimpse the painting, which you can’t even stand that close to. You’re better off looking at it online.

Read also: Things To Do in the World Before You Die

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One comment.

There is so much more to the Louvre than just the Mona Lisa. If someone is going only for the sake of seeing the Mona Lisa then their appreciation of art is limited. Art lovers, don’t be deterred, a trip to the Louvre is a must.

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