places to visit around kentucky

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21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky

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

1. Dog Slaughter Falls

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

2. The Appalachians

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

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

3. Breaks Interstate Park

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

4. Fairmount Falls

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

5. Gallatin County

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

6. Sunset on Kentucky Lake

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

7. George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge

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

8. Mammoth Cave

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

A United Nations World Heritage site, Mammoth Cave attracts around 400,000 tourists every year. During tours, rangers typically turn off their guiding lights, making Mammoth Cave National Park one of the few places in the world where people can experience the wonder of true darkness.

9. Perryville

Perryville is another must-visit Kentucky location for people who are interested in Civil War history. The Battle of Perryville – which is sometimes referred to as the Battle of Chaplin Hills – is regarded as one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles. Today, Perryville is a National Historic Landmark area and it is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Some of the first buildings to be built in Perryville still stand today, even though they are now close to 200 years old.

10. Kentucky State Capitol

Home to Kentucky’s government, the state capitol is located in the city of Frankfort . The state capitol building houses a glorious marble staircase, making it one of the most beautiful pieces of architecture in the whole state. The staircases are without a doubt one of the main reasons to visit the state capitol, with the marble interiors having been inspired by the Opera Garnier in Paris.

Guided tours of the Kentucky State Capitol are available and come highly recommended, with the First Lady Doll Collection among the most noteworthy attractions housed in the building.

11. Pinnacles of Berea

The Pinnacles of Berea provide not just some of the best hiking trails in the state, but in the whole of the South. The main trail consists of a loop 6.6 miles long, which typically takes around three to four hours to complete depending on your hiking experience and fitness levels. Beautiful wild flowers are present throughout the trail, which is accessible from April until October and is open to dog-walkers too. Check out the West Pinnacle and Indian Fort Outlook for some of the best views of the stunning scenery at the Pinnacles of Berea.

12. Big South Fork National River

Established in 1974, visiting the Big South Fork National River is a must for anyone exploring Kentucky. Hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting and stargazing are all popular activities at Big South Fork, which also hosts a huge collection of natural bridges that are well worth exploring and provide some fantastic opportunities for photography. Wilderness lodge Charit Creek Lodge is among the many places people can stay while visiting the Big South Fork National River.

13. Red River Gorge

Located within the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge is famous for its natural stone arches. The gorge is also designated as a national geological area due to its sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations. The Red River Gorge has developed into one of the world’s hottest rock climbing spots, with climbing enthusiasts giving the area the nickname ‘Red’. The Red River Gorge’s Sky Bridge features in the 1955 movie The Kentuckian, which starred Burt Lancaster.

14. Newport

Once known as Sin City due to its many casinos, Newport today is a much more family-friendly destination, with the Newport on the Levee entertainment complex one of the busiest leisure and retail sites in the whole of Kentucky. Newport is also home to one of the 20 World Peace Bells. In fact, the Newport bell was the largest swinging bell in the world between 2000 and 2006.

Local places worth visiting include Newport Aquarium, music venue Thompson House, the Northern Kentucky Gambling Museum, General James Taylor Park and Newport Southbank Bridge.

15. Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls is sometimes called the Niagara of the South or the Little Niagara, with the falls the main attraction of the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Visitors should try to time their visit to Cumberland Falls when there is a full moon and a clear sky, as this is when a gorgeous elusive lunar rainbow – also known as a moonbow – can often be spotted. The arch of white light that makes up the moonbow is an unforgettable sight and one of the most beautiful things in Kentucky.

16. Wolf Creek

Wolf Creek may be more famous as an Australian horror movie, but in Kentucky the name refers to a huge dam in Russell County. The area is also home to Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery, which is free for visitors, with the Visitor/Environmental Education Center open 364 days a year. More than 100,000 people visit Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery every year and the local area is home to some of the state’s most special scenery as well.

17. Kentucky River

The Kentucky River flows all the way through the state, starting in Lee County at Beattyville before windings its slow route through the state’s mountains. The river takes in the Daniel Boone National Forest and flows through Boonesborough and Irvine before eventually linking up with the Ohio River.

Perhaps the best place in the state to experience the magnificence of the Kentucky River is at the Kentucky River Palisades, between Frankfort and Clays Ferry in Madison County. This is where a series of gargantuan steep gorges as long as 100 miles long can be viewed.

18. Lexington

Known as the Horse Capital of the World, Lexington is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Kentucky. The second largest city in Kentucky, Lexington is home to a huge array of historic sites, such as the Waveland State Historic Site and Kentucky statesman Henry Clay’s Ashland estate. But if horses are your thing, Lexington is a fantastic place to visit.

The American Saddle Horse Museum and the Kentucky Horse Park are both worth checking out, while there are few places better to watch racing than at the Keeneland Race Course. The Festival of the Bluegrass also takes place in Lexington every June and hikers should head to the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary.

19. Bardstown

Bardstown was described by Rand McNally and USA Today as the Most Beautiful Small Town in America and it is hard to argue with that description. The county seat of Nelson County, Bardstown is famous around the world for its bourbon, while its eclectic shops are well worth exploring too. There are five bourbon distilleries in Bardstown, with Heaven Hill, Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam all based in the area.

The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History is among the top attractions Bardstown boasts, the Kentucky Railway Museum. The Civil War Museum in Bardstown is one of the biggest in the United States and tourists should also go to Wickland, a private residence that three Kentucky Governors have lived in, which offers public tours.

21 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky:

• Dog Slaughter Falls
• The Appalachians
• Breaks Interstate Park
• Fairmount Falls
• Gallatin County
• Sunset on Kentucky Lake
• George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge
• Mammoth Cave
• Kentucky State Capitol
• Pinnacles of Berea
• Big South Fork National River
• Red River Gorge
• Cumberland Falls
• Kentucky River

45 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Kentucky

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Louisville Mega Cavern

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Kentucky State Capitol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

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

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

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

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

The Louisville Slugger Museum has plenty of fascinating exhibits.

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

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

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

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

7. Red River Gorge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

8. Keeneland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Breaks Interstate Park

Eli Christman / flickr

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

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

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

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

It’s a great spot for nature lovers!

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

11. Mary Todd Lincoln House

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

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

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

Now, the home is open to visitors.

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

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

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

12. Natural Bridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want to stay in the park?

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

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

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

13. Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Fort Knox

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

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

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

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

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

Address:  Fort Knox, KY 40121, United States

15. Cumberland Gap National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Vent Haven Museum

5chw4r7z / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. Diamond Caverns

James St. John / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

Tours are available all year round!

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

18. Newport Aquarium

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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

Nicole Bergman / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Kentucky Kingdom

VEX Robotics / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

These represent every year of Lincoln’s life.

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

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

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

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

29. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Shaker Village

Shackleford Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

31. Castle Post

Michelle Foley / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

32. Dinosaur World

Dinosaur World, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

33. National Quilt Museum

David Hedrich / Shutterstock

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

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

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

Kids can even enjoy student programs that are totally free!

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

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

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

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

34. Grave of Colonel Harland Sanders

Vicki L. Miller / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

35. Floodwall Murals

Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

36. Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

37. Great American Dollhouse Museum

The Great American Dollhouse Museum

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

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

There are also room boxes and little miniature buildings.

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

There are three different major areas within the exhibition hall.

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

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

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

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

38. Kentucky Horse Park

ehrlif / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

39. Louisville Zoo

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

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

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

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

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

Just check the zoo’s event calendar in advance!

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

40. USS Sachem Ruins

BrittanyMosley / Shutterstock

Looking for unusual vacation ideas to enjoy in Kentucky?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Countless people are attracted to its mystery and eerieness.

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

41. National Corvette Museum

Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

42. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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

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

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

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

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

43. Grave of Daniel Boone

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

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

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

The Grave of Daniel Boone rests in Frankfort Cemetery.

He is buried next to Rebecca, his wife.

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

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

Even just the view from his grave is amazing.

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

44. Joe Ley Antiques

Louisville Images / flickr

Love antiques?

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

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

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

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

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

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

45. Waverly Hills Sanatorium

The Waverly Hills Sanatorium

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

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

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

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

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

It went through many different changes before eventually being abandoned.

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

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

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Kentucky

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

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

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

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kentucky

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

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

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

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

1. Kentucky Derby

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

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

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

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

Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.kentuckyderby.com

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

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

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

Address: 800 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.sluggermuseum.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 2995 Lincoln Farm Road, Hodgenville, Kentucky

Official site: www.nps.gov/abli

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, Kentucky

Official site: http://kyhorsepark.com/

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

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

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

Address: 144 N 6th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: https://alicenter.org/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, Kentucky

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

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

Address: 1841 Taylor Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky

Official site: www.louisvillemegacavern.com

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

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

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

Address: 7351 Hwy 90, Corbin, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, Kentucky

Official site: www.shakervillageky.org

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

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

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

Address: 1, Levee Way, Newport, Kentucky

Official site: www.newportaquarium.com

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

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

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

Address: 1 Encounter Drive, Williamstown, Kentucky

Official site: https://arkencounter.com/

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

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

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

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

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, Kentucky

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 344 Swope Drive, Danville, Kentucky

Official site: www.thedollhousemuseum.com

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

More on Kentucky

40 Incredible Places to Visit in Kentucky

10/19/2021 by Emily Becker 2 Comments

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

Table of Contents

Cities & Towns

40. louisville.

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

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

39. Frankfort Avenue

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

38. Fairmount Falls Park

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

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

37. Churchill Downs

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

36. Muhammad Ali Center

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

35. Louisville Mega Cavern

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

34. Cherokee Park

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

33. Lexington

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

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

32. Keeneland Race Track

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

31. Ashland: Henry Clay Estate

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

30. Kentucky Horse Park

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

29. Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

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

28. Jacobson Park

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

27. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

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

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

26. Bardstown

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

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

25. Frankfort

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

24. Bowling Green

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

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

23. Newport

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

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

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

21. Paducah

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

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

20. Owensboro

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

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

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

19. International Bluegrass Music Museum

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

Get your tickets here .

18. Stanton

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

National Parks, State Parks, and More

17. mammoth cave national park.

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

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

16. Daniel Boone National Forest

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

15. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

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

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

14. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

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

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

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

13. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

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

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

12. Breaks Interstate Park

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

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

11. Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

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

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

10. The Pinnacles of Berea

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

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

9. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

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

Horse Farms

8. sun valley horse farm.

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

7. Hermitage Farm

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

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

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

6. Claiborne Farm

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

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

Unique Stops

5. the pete treehouse.

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

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

4. Harland Sanders Café and Museum

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

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

3. Vent Haven Museum

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

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

2. Historic Diamond Caverns

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

1. Kentucky Kingdom

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

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

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

About Emily Becker

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

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Mary Ann Strehle says

10/27/2021 at 10:02 am

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

11/05/2021 at 9:41 am

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

Top 17 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kentucky

Mostly known for its moonshine, bourbon, bluegrass music, and acres of gorgeous farmland, Kentucky is a state with both character and soul.

It’s not always a major destination for tourists, but that’s a shame, as those who don’t visit, I think, are seriously missing out! It’s home to scenic countryside, limestone hills, unspoiled parks, forests, and roads seemingly made for extraordinary road trips. Here are my personal favorite spots to explore in the state…

1. Cumberland Falls

Known as the Niagara of the South, these falls include a 125-foot-wide area of water that is nothing short of spectacular.

Located in the southeastern part of the state, Cumberland Falls is gorgeous and has one other distinction – it is one of only two places on the planet that experiences moonbows.

Moonbows are rainbows created by the moon’s light. One is in Zambia on the continent of Africa. If you want to take full advantage of the falls, I highly recommend renting a raft and visiting them when there is a full moon outside!

• Visitor’s Center Address: Cumberland Falls Rd, Williamsburg, KY 40769
• Peak times to visit: I’d recommend visiting during the full moon to catch the magical moonbow

My must-do highlights…

• Perfect spot for birdwatching, especially for woodpecker lovers!
• Engage in activities such as hiking, cycling and swimming. 

Book A Trip!

We can book your trip hopping around Kentucky’s beautiful places through our free, top-rated travel planning service !

2. Bourbon Distilleries

Kentucky is known for its bourbon and is home to nearly 70 different distilleries.

This includes Buffalo Trace, where you can enjoy a tour of the entire process, from cooking to distilling; Maker’s Mark, where you can hand-dip your bottle with their famous red wax; and the Bardstown Bourbon Company, where you can taste bourbon straight from the barrel! 

If you love bourbon or are just curious how they make this amazing drink, this state allows you to learn more about it every day of the week! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 829 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
• Peak times to visit: From March to May

3. Appalachian Mountains 

If you love the mountains, I recommend heading out to the Eastern part of the state and looking at the Appalachian Mountains.

You can hike, visit overlooks, and see some of the most beautiful scenery you’ve likely seen in a long time! I would also recommend hiking or boating on the beautiful forest trails, which offer seriously scenic views!

The Appalachian Mountains cover a very large section of Eastern Kentucky, and it is one sight you should plan on seeing on your next visit.

• Peak times to visit: October

4. Louisville

This is the largest and busiest city in the state, and I personally think one of the most underrated cities in the USA. It’s an easy-on-the-eye place with an impressive skyline, a booming arts scene, and a long-established bluegrass music scene.

Add excellent restaurants, lively bars, and a good handful of distilleries, and you have a seriously cool city!

My favorite highlights include the 21C Museum Hotel, the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft , the Muhammad Ali Center , the Louisville Mega Cavern , and the Kentucky Science Center. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 301 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202
• Peak times to visit: From March to November

5. Kentucky Lake

Located in the southwestern part of the state, Kentucky Lake covers 184 miles and has more than 2,000 miles of shoreline. But this lake doesn’t just offer your usual boating and fishing opportunities.

It also offers poker runs, open regattas, drag boat races, and cabins you can rent for a relaxing and fun-filled vacation!

You can also ski, swim, and take your favourite ski jet out on the water, and if you’re an active type, I would highly recommend trying them all! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 93 Carroll Rd. Benton KY 42025
• Peak times to visit: From September to December

6. Frankfort

A charming town beautifully located on the Kentucky River, this place seems to embody everything great about this state in a compact form! 

It’s known for having one of the most beautiful Capitol buildings in the country. Still, my other favorite highlights include its bourbon distilleries, wine, and new and old governor mansions. 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 300 St Clair St #102, Frankfort, KY 40601

7. Dixie Belle Paddle Wheels

If you’re curious about old-fashioned Southern paddlewheel boats, I suggest heading to the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill and cruising through the Kentucky River Palisades on one of these boats.

After you’re done cruising, come back ashore and visit the village itself. You can enjoy nature preserves, organic gardens, and more than 40 miles of trails here.

This is an original Shaker village that still has 34 of its original buildings. Whether you’re on the site enjoying everything it offers or on a paddlewheel boat cruise, I’d highly recommend adding this to your Kentucky itinerary!

8. Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge

With a 65-foot-high natural bridge made mostly of sandstone, the beautiful Red River Gorge is spectacular.

Nearby, you can rent some cute cabins for the night, go camping at one of the many campgrounds in the area, hike some great scenic nature trails, go zip lining if you feel extra adventurous, and even rock-climbing when the desire hits you.

With this amazing tourist spot, You can enjoy some beautiful views and fulfil your dream of being an explorer in the 1800s.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 3451 Sky Bridge Rd Hwy 715, Stanton, KY 40380
• Peak times to visit: From March to May and from September to December

9. Daniel Boone National Forest

This stunning area has been a national park since 1937. It sprawls across a vast 708,000 acres in the most rugged area west of the Appalachian Mountains, home to forested slopes, sandstone cliffs, and narrow ravines.

This is a nature lover’s dream. Here, you can hike, camp, picnic, rock climb, or go boating, although I recommend relaxing and enjoying the wonderful scenery! 

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1700 Bypass Road, Winchester, KY 40391
• Peak times to visit: September

10. Dale Hollow Lake

Beautiful Dale Hollow Lake offers hiking and boating activities, bird-watching opportunities, mountain bike trails, and much more.

It is located in south-central Kentucky and has over 27,000 acres of land. Erected in 1943, Dale Hollow Lake is a great place to visit if you love being on the water or merely standing on the sidelines and enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery you’ll ever find.

Because of its beauty, this is a must-see location whenever you’re visiting the Bluegrass State.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1005 Livingston Hwy, Byrdstown, TN 38549
• Peak times to visit: Between September and May

11. John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge

This old bridge was completed in the 1860s, and it sits on the Ohio River between the Ohio city of Cincinnati and the Kentucky city of Covington. It is a spectacular site with majestic-looking spires and an almost Art Deco look.

If you see the bridge and think you’ve seen it before, you don’t have to get spooked because this bridge was the inspiration behind the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.

If you live in northern Kentucky and are interested in attending a sporting event in Cincinnati, this is one of the best ways to get there.

• Visitor’s Center Address: John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, Covington, KY 41011
• Peak times to visit: Anytime

12. Land Between the Lakes Recreation Area

Consisting of more than 170,000 acres, the Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve run by the Forest Service. My favorite highlights include the fascinating wildlife and the fascinating history.

You also get to enjoy more than 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline that is nothing short of spectacular, and through it all, you get to enjoy animals such as bison, elk, buffalo, and wild turkeys.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211

13. Bardstown

Perfectly positioned on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, this charming and attractive town offers a Napa Valley-style experience—swap the wine for whiskey! 

It’s a very easy-on-the-eye place, which USA Today called the “Most Beautiful Small Town in America.” It has also been named America’s Most Beautiful Town Square.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Court Square # 102, Bardstown, KY 40004

14. Mammoth Cave National Park

A natural setting with more than 400 miles of passageways, Mammoth Cave is spectacular and has some of the longest-known caves in the entire world.

These subterranean passageways are home to stalagmites, stalactites, helictites, and travertine dams, which you can view up close without any problems. You can explore the cave on your own or go on one of the ranger-led tours so that nothing important is overlooked.

Located in central Kentucky, this national park is the place to be if you love the ultimate beauty that Mother Nature can only supply.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
• Peak times to visit: From November to February

15. Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Located in Owensboro, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame is just a few miles from the birthplace of the Father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe.

Interactive exhibits, jam sessions, concerts, lessons, and special events are included, including the three-day ROMP Fest, which is usually held in June each year.

The Hall of Fame currently has 60 inductees and houses the International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame. If you love bluegrass music, I recommend visiting this place!

• Visitor’s Center Address: 2590 Richmond St, Mt Vernon, KY 40456
• Peak times to visit: Anytime apart from Mondays, as it’s closed

16. Western Kentucky Botanical Garden

Located in Owensboro, the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden is the perfect place to visit if you love it when nature decides to show off a bit.

Some of its attractions include lots of flowers and plants to enjoy, and they specialize in events that teach you everything you need to know about your favorite flower to new ways to enjoy everything growing indoors and outdoors in this spectacular garden.

They offer special activities for kids, events for special holidays such as Christmas, and much more.

• Visitor’s Center Address: 2731 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301

17. Nolin Lake

This stunning place, which covers 5,795 acres, was opened to the public in 1996. If you need time to reconnect with nature, Nolin Lake offers activities such as boating, swimming, and relaxing on the sandy beach!

The park has 32 campsites, great facilities for all, and is open year-round. It also has a private beach and plenty of space for a relaxing vacation.

• Going camping near a beautiful sandy beach.
• Go hiking on the Waterfall Loop on Brier Creek Trail.
• Explore nature and wildlife displays.

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10 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

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

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

10. Bowling Green

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

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

9. Big South Fork National River

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

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

8. Land Between the Lakes

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

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

7. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

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

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

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

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

5. Cumberland Gap

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

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

4. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

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

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

3. Lexington

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

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

2. Mammoth Cave National Park

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

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

1. Louisville

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

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

Map of Kentucky

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

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

December 29, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

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

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

17 Best Places To Visit In Kentucky

Grimes mill winery.

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

Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory

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

Waverly Hills Sanatorium

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

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

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

Green River Bluffs Route

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

Forest Edge Winery

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

Cumberland Falls

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

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

Cumberland Gap National Park

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

Double Arch Trail at Red River Gorge

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

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park Beach

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

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

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

Broke Leg Falls

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

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

Explore The Bourbon Trail

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

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

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

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

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

Kentucky Down Under

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

Tour The Worlds Longest Cave

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

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

• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky

Last Updated By VacationIdea on March 18, 2024 in Kentucky

Louisville, Kentucky

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

Lexington, Kentucky

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

Bowling Green, Kentucky

More ideas: Best Water Parks in Kentucky

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Frankfort

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

Owensboro, Kentucky

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

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Paducah

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

Elizabethtown, Kentucky

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

Richmond, Kentucky

More ideas: Kentucky Waterfalls

London, Kentucky

More ideas: Beaches in Kentucky

Florence, Kentucky

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

Pikeville, Kentucky

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

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Henderson

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

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Winchester

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

KY Places to Visit: Mammoth Cave National Park

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

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

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

Diamond Caverns, Kentucky

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

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Red River Gorge

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

Bob Noble Park, Kentucky

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

KY Places to Visit: Cove Springs Park

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

Elizabethtown Nature Park, Kentucky

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

Places to Visit in Kentucky: Laurel River Lake

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

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

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

Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

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

Places to Visit Near Me: Fairmount Falls

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

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

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

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

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

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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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20 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky This Year

Kentucky, also known as the “Bluegrass State,” is a hidden gem in the United States with a wealth of natural beauty, historical attractions, and cultural experiences. From the rolling bluegrass fields to the underground wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park, there is something for everyone in this diverse state.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Kentucky has it all. In this blog, we will explore the 20 best places to visit in Kentucky, including national parks, museums, bourbon distilleries, and more. So, grab your map, and let’s start exploring the top attractions of this beautiful state!

Table of Contents

1. Big South Fork National River

Located in the southeastern part of the state, the Big South Fork National River offers a stunning display of natural beauty. With its rugged landscapes, towering cliffs, and rushing rivers, this national park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

The main street of the park, also known as the “Gateway to the Big South Fork,” is lined with charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it the perfect place to explore after a day of hiking or horseback riding.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just looking to reconnect with nature, the Big South Fork National River is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

2. Land Between the Lakes

Situated in western Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a nature lover’s dream come true.

This vast area is home to numerous recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

Explore the miles of trails that wind through the forest, encounter native wildlife such as elk and bison at the Elk & Bison Prairie, or relax by the serene shores of Lake Barkley. With its diverse natural landscapes and abundant wildlife, Land Between the Lakes is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.

Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, Paducah is a charming city with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the National Quilt Museum, which showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of quilted art from around the world.

Explore the downtown area, filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants, and admire the colorful murals that line the streets.

Don’t miss the chance to take a stroll along the riverfront, where you can enjoy scenic views of the river and watch the riverboats go by. With its blend of history, art, and natural beauty, Paducah is a must-visit destination .

4. Lexington

Known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” Lexington is a city steeped in equestrian history and home to some of the most beautiful horse farms in the world. Take a tour of the Kentucky Horse Park, where you can learn about the history of horse racing, watch live horse shows, and even take a horseback riding lesson.

For bourbon enthusiasts, the famous Bourbon Trail awaits, offering the opportunity to visit distilleries, taste bourbon, and learn about the history of this iconic Kentucky spirit. With its rolling bluegrass fields and rich equestrian heritage, Lexington is a must-visit destination for horse lovers and bourbon enthusiasts alike.

5. Cumberland Gap

Steeped in history and hidden gems , Cumberland Gap is a destination that will transport you back in time. Explore the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which preserves the history of the early pioneers who ventured into the frontier.

Hike the historic trails that were once used by Native Americans, fur traders, and settlers, and learn about the history of the area through interpretive exhibits and ranger-led programs.

Nearby, you’ll find the Daniel Boone National Forest, home to picturesque landscapes, pristine lakes, and miles of trails for hiking, camping, and horseback riding. With its rich history and breathtaking scenery, Cumberland Gap is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

6. Frankfort

As the state capital of Kentucky, Frankfort is a city rich in history and natural beauty. Take a stroll through the downtown area, filled with historic landmarks, charming shops, and local restaurants. Visit the Kentucky State Capitol, an architectural masterpiece that offers stunning views of the city and the Kentucky River.

Immerse yourself in the history of the state at the Kentucky Historical Society, where you can explore exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of Kentucky’s past.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Frankfort offers ample opportunities for hiking, boating, and fishing along the Kentucky River. With its blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Frankfort is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

7. Owensboro

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, Owensboro is a vibrant city known for its rich musical heritage, delicious barbecue, and scenic riverfront. Explore the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, where you can learn about the history of bluegrass music and enjoy live performances by local musicians.

Sample some of the mouthwatering barbecues the city is famous for, or take a stroll along the riverfront, where you can enjoy the scenic views of the Ohio River. With its unique blend of music, food, and natural beauty, Owensboro is a must-visit destination for music lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

8. Lakes National Recreation Area

Situated between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. Hike through the picturesque forests, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lakes, or enjoy a relaxing day of fishing along the shoreline.

Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in the chance to see the native elk and bison at the Elk & Bison Prairie, where you can observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. With its diverse array of outdoor activities and abundant wildlife, Land Between the Lakes is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

9. Newport Aquarium

Located on the banks of the Ohio River, the Newport Aquarium is a family-friendly destination that offers an up-close encounter with marine life from around the world. Walk across the thrilling Shark Bridge, a suspension bridge that hangs just inches above a tank filled with sharks, stingrays, and other fascinating creatures.

Explore the exhibits and learn about the importance of conservation and the fragile ecosystems of our oceans. With its interactive displays, educational programs, and family-friendly attractions, the Newport Aquarium is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

10. Speed Art Museum

11. Louisville Zoo

Home to over 1,500 animals from around the world, the Louisville Zoo is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts of all ages. Explore the various exhibits, which include the African Savannah, the North American Prairie, and the Islands, each representing different ecosystems and habitats.

The zoo is committed to wildlife conservation and offers educational programs and events that promote awareness and appreciation of the natural world. With its wide range of animal species, engaging exhibits, and educational programs, the Louisville Zoo offers a fun and educational outing for the whole family.

12. My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park, located in Bardstown, is home to the Federal Hill mansion, the inspiration for Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home.” Take a tour of the beautifully preserved plantation home and learn about the history of the area and the people who once lived there.

Explore the park’s lush gardens, picnic areas, and walking trails, or attend one of the many outdoor concerts and theater performances held at the park’s amphitheater during the summer. With its rich history, cultural significance, and picturesque setting, My Old Kentucky Home State Park is a must-visit destination.

13. Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of the Civil War at the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. This site preserves the location of one of the bloodiest battles of the war.

Take a guided tour of the battlefield and learn about the tactics, strategies, and sacrifices of the soldiers who fought here.

Visit the museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits related to the Civil War and the local area. Throughout the year, the site hosts special events, reenactments, and historical tours, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past.

14. U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich musical heritage of eastern Kentucky at the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum. Located in Paintsville, the museum celebrates the contributions of the area’s musicians to the world of country music.

Explore the exhibits, which feature memorabilia, artifacts, and recordings from famous country music artists who hail from the region, such as Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, and Dwight Yoakam.

Take a guided tour and learn more about the cultural heritage of eastern Kentucky and its impact on the world of music. The U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum is a must-visit destination for music lovers of all genres.

15. Take five at the Big Four Bridge

Located in Louisville, the Big Four Bridge is a must-visit destination for breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Ohio River. Take a stroll or bike ride along the pedestrian bridge, or simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

The bridge connects the Louisville Waterfront Park to the Jeffersonville Riverside Park in Indiana, offering visitors the opportunity to explore both sides of the river. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a vibrant social scene, the Big Four Bridge is the perfect place to take in the beauty of Louisville’s waterfront.

16. Vent Haven Museum

For something truly unique, visit the Vent Haven Museum in Fort Mitchell, home to the world’s largest collection of ventriloquist figures, scripts, and memorabilia.

Explore the museum’s exhibits, which showcase the history and art of ventriloquism, from its early origins to the present day.

Learn about the famous ventriloquists who have entertained audiences throughout history, and even try your hand at operating a ventriloquist puppet. With its one-of-a-kind collection and fascinating displays, the Vent Haven Museum offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

17. Kentucky Horse Park

For horse enthusiasts, the Kentucky Horse Park is a must-visit destination. Located in Lexington, the park is a 1,200-acre equestrian theme park that celebrates the beauty, history, and importance of horses.

Watch horse shows and demonstrations, take a trail ride on horseback, or visit the museum, which showcases the history of horse racing and the Kentucky Derby.

The park also offers educational programs, workshops, and horseback riding lessons for visitors of all ages and skill levels. With its beautiful grounds, world-class facilities, and love for all things equine, the Kentucky Horse Park is a dream come true for horse lovers.

18. Muhammad Ali Center

Located in downtown Louisville, the Muhammad Ali Center is a cultural center and museum dedicated to the life and legacy of boxing legend Muhammad Ali. Explore the exhibits, which chronicle Ali’s career, his social activism, and his impact on American history and culture.

Learn about his values of respect, confidence, conviction, dedication, spirituality, and giving, which continue to inspire people around the world.

The center also hosts various events, workshops, and educational programs that promote understanding, respect, and personal growth. With its engaging exhibits, inspiring message, and dedication to promoting the values of Muhammad Ali, the Muhammad Ali Center is a must-visit destination in Kentucky.

19. Lost River Cave

Discover the hidden wonders of the underground world at Lost River Cave, one of Kentucky’s best-kept secrets. Take an underground boat tour and explore the vast cave system, marveling at the stunning rock formations and crystal-clear waters.

Above ground, the park offers nature trails, picnic areas, and a butterfly habitat, where you can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. With its unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and outdoor activities, Lost River Cave is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

20. Mammoth Cave National Park

Last but certainly not least, no visit to Kentucky would be complete without exploring the wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park. As the longest-known cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave offers visitors the opportunity to delve into the underground world of limestone caverns, intricate rock formations, and mysterious passageways.

Embark on a guided tour, ranging from easy walks to challenging expeditions, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of this natural wonder.

Along with the cave system, the park also offers hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-see destination that will leave you in awe of the natural wonders of Kentucky.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some must-see attractions in Kentucky?

Some of the must-see attractions in Kentucky include the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville for horse racing enthusiasts, the Mammoth Cave National Park which offers guided tours of the world’s longest cave system, the Corvette Museum in Bowling Green showcasing the iconic American sports car’s history, and Churchill Downs racetrack, home of the Kentucky Derby.

Are there any hidden gems or off-the-beaten-path destinations in Kentucky worth visiting?

Yes, Kentucky is home to many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth a visit. From the breathtaking Red River Gorge Geological Area to the scenic Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, and the stunning Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, there is no shortage of unique places to explore in Kentucky. Don’t forget to check out Berea for its artisanal crafts and Bowling Green, where you can visit the National Corvette Museum.

What are some family-friendly places to visit in Kentucky?

The best places to visit in Kentucky, Looking for family-friendly places in Kentucky? Consider visiting the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington for an educational experience with horses, or check out the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory for hands-on exhibits dedicated to baseball.

Another option is exploring Mammoth Cave National Park, home to the world’s longest-known cave system. Plus, don’t miss the Newport Aquarium with its interactive marine life exhibits from around the world.

Are there any seasonal events or festivals in Kentucky that are worth planning a trip around?

The best places to visit in Kentucky offer a variety of seasonal events and festivals that are worth planning a trip around. From the world-famous Kentucky Derby in May to the Bourbon Festival in September, there is something for everyone. Don’t miss the magical Christmas Lights Show at the Louisville Mega Caverns during the holiday season.

The best places to visit in Kentucky offer a diverse range of attractions and destinations for travelers to explore. From the natural beauty of Big South Fork National River to the historical significance of Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Bluegrass State. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities or off-the-beaten-path adventures, Kentucky has it all.

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit the Muhammad Ali Center or take a tour of Mammoth Cave National Park. And if you have any recommendations or questions about the best places to visit in Kentucky, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy travels!

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Ferona Jose is a passionate travel writer and blogger at Travelistia. She has traveled throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Her writing focuses on cheap travel destinations, travel experiences, cultural insights, and travel hacks.

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Worth the drive: These 5 natural monuments in Kentucky you should visit

One of the best things to enjoy when the weather is nice is Kentucky’s beautiful outdoors. 

The good thing is there are many places to explore across the Bluegrass State, from caves to forests and waterfalls.  These make for a fun adventure to enjoy with your family, friends or by yourself.

Before hitting the road, see which Kentucky museums and monuments to add to your road trip.  

Here are five Kentucky natural monuments you can’t miss: 

Mammoth Cave  

Did you know that the “world’s largest known cave system” is here in Kentucky? A ccording to the National Park Foundation it’s Mammoth Cave and it sits in south central Kentucky. 

Mammoth Cave is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and 10 miles inside the cave are open to the public. According to the National Parks Service website , people can also paddle and go fishing.

Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time to schedule where to stay and what tours to take.  

Related: Explore Mammoth Cave: Your guide to a unique Kentucky attraction, world's longest cave

Red River Gorge  

Red River Gorge is located within the Daniel Boone National Forest and was designated as a "National Natural Landmark” in 1976, according to the National Park Service website . Activities include rock climbing, hiking and camping.

Entrance to the trails is free, but people must have a car permit between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. if parked on Kentucky Route 15, the Indian Creek area north of KY 15 or the Gorge.  

Map: Download this map ahead of your road trip to Red River Gorge.

More: Red River Gorge: What to know about the Eastern Kentucky scenic area

Cumberland Falls  

Cumberland Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the South,” measures 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide, according to the Kentucky Tourism website .  

“The 3,600 cubic feet of water that spills over the sandstone edge every second creates a formidable roar and a breathtaking sight, day or night.,” the website states.  

When planning your trip, be sure to check lodging at the Dupont Lodge and whitewater rafting below the falls.  

More: Your guide to 17 must-see Kentucky waterfalls, plus 2 more that are close to Louisville

Big South Fork  

“ Encompassing 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries,” according to the National Park Service .  

Big South Fork has activities for everyone including whitewater paddling, rock climbing, horseback riding and hiking, the National Park Service states.  

More: Looking to get outdoors? Here's a list of Louisville's major parks

Daniel Boone National Forest  

Another great option to explore is the Daniel Boone National Forest in Winchester, Kentucky.

There are many places to stay including RV spots in the Cumberland District or cabins in the Zilpo Recreation Area, according to the Kentucky Tourism website .  

These are some of the activities you can do at the Daniel Boone National Forest:

More: Worth the Drive: Learn Kentucky history through these 5 monuments

More: Worth the Drive: 8 museums across Kentucky to visit this spring

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Calendar of Events

See what’s happening around Louisville

The Louisville community is buzzing with fun and exciting events.

No matter what time of the year you're considering visiting us, you'll discover bourbon & culinary experiences, seasonal festivals , and plenty of opportunities to experience Louisville's horse racing events including iconic races like the Kentucky Derby .

For current museum & attraction exhibits and ongoing public tour options, click here .

Click Here to Submit Your Event to the Calendar

17 April Events To Attend in Louisville

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Shakespeare in the Parks: A Midsummer Nights Dream Louisville, Kentucky Details   Open in Google Maps

Shakespeare in the Parks: A Midsummer Nights Dream

Our multiple parks tour returns this spring 2024 with A Midsummer Night’s Dream! Grab a blanket or chair and join us! In A Midsummer Night's Dream, residents...

Louisville Taco Week Details   Open in Google Maps

Louisville Taco Week

We're bringing you $2.50 Tacos from some of Louisville's most popular taco joints. Each participating Louisville Taco Week restaurant will be offering their...

Sonic Sensation Exhibit 727 W. Main St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Sonic Sensation Exhibit

Sonic Sensation is a 1,500+ square feet hands-on interactive museum exhibition that will introduce children and their families to the science of sound and...

Shining a Light: Women in Sports 144 N. 6th St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Shining a Light: Women in Sports

The 2024 Shining A Light series featuring Women Athletes and the various ways women are making an impact in sports. The exhibition featuring international...

Hermitage Horse Tour 10500 W. Highway 42 Goshen, Kentucky 40026 Details   Open in Google Maps

Hermitage Horse Tour

Experience a closer look at the inner workings of an operational Thoroughbred Nursery! Our tours guide you through Hermitage Farm’s illustrious history in the...

Hermitage Farm Bourbon Tasting 10500 W. Hwy 42 Goshen, Kentucky 40026 Details   Open in Google Maps

Hermitage Farm Bourbon Tasting

Our guided tastings are enjoyable for bourbon connoisseurs and novices alike! Join our delightful Bourbon Stewards in learning about Kentucky’s rich bourbon...

Kentucky Rivalries 829 W. Main St. Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Kentucky Rivalries

From archrival teams like the Cats and the Cards to dueling editors, competing caves, and beefing barbecues, Kentucky Rivalries captures the most iconic...

South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art 2035 South Third St. Louisville, Kentucky 40208 Details   Open in Google Maps

South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art

India: South Asian Paintings from the San Diego Museum of Art is the first exhibition of South Asian art to be hosted by the Speed in its nearly 100-year...

Footloose 525 Marriott Drive Clarksville, Indiana 47129 Details   Open in Google Maps

The explosive movie musical with dynamic new songs and your favorite powerhouse hits! This musical celebrates the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of...

Fun City Tours Pick Up at Downtown Hotels Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

Fun City Tours

City Taste Tours presents Fun City Tours! A great overview of the city, history & neighborhoods. Includes tastings of a Mint Julep, Derby Pie, Hot Brown...

Little Loomhouse Tours 328 Kenwood Hill Rd. Louisville, Kentucky 40214 Details   Open in Google Maps

Little Loomhouse Tours

Little Loomhouse Tour Options Fiber & Spinning Tour In this 20 minute hands-on tour, we will explore the history and current practice of spinning natural...

Everything Tour! History, Sites, Sips & Bites! We Pick You Up! Louisville, Kentucky 40202 Details   Open in Google Maps

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The Best of Louisville in One Fun Tour! Our tour is a Sightseeing Tour, Hop-on/Hop-off Attractions Tour, Bourbon Tour, Wine Tour, Beer Tour, Food Tour and...

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Cincinnati's next total solar eclipse. Start planning for 3046

On April 8, the moon will slide between Earth and the sun to make a solar eclipse. And for many people at the right place and time in Mexico, the United States and Canada, they will experience the greatest show in the universe, a total solar eclipse.

The moon’s shadow will sweep across the United States at around 2,000 miles per hour. It will travel from Dallas to Cleveland in 33 minutes.

This alignment between the sun, moon and Earth is so rare that, on average, any one spot in the northern hemisphere experiences a total solar eclipse every 330 years. But for places like Cincinnati, which has not had a total solar eclipse since 1395, this is a once in a millennium astronomical event. Especially when you consider that Cincinnati proper still won't see full totality until the year 3046.

So continue reading to figure out where to go (and when) to experience this rare totality.

Cincinnati partial solar eclipse timeline

In the city of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, there will not be a total solar eclipse. Many places in the area will experience 98-99% of the sun blocked by the moon. Although the sky will likely darken and the temperature will drop a little, people outside the path of totality will not experience the full dazzling effects of the total solar eclipse.

• Partial eclipse begins: 1:52 p.m.
• Maximum eclipse: 3:09-3:10 p.m.
• Partial eclipse ends: 4:24 p.m.

Find eclipse totality near you

The narrow path of totality looks like a ribbon arcing through Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont and Maine. The closer you are to the path of totality, the greater your partial eclipse will be. But getting into totality should be your ultimate goal.

With many schools and businesses in Cincinnati closed for the eclipse, here are nearby locations to view various amounts of totality.

• Downtown Cincinnati: 0:00 (no totality at all).
• Jungle Jim's, Fairfield: 35 seconds.
• Harrison, Ohio: 1 minute, 30 seconds.
• Hamilton, Ohio: 1 minute, 41 seconds.
• Middletown, Ohio: 1 minute, 57 seconds.
• Dayton, Ohio: 2 minutes, 42 seconds.
• Oxford, Ohio: 2 minutes, 50 seconds.
• Batesville, Indiana: 2 minutes, 59 seconds.
• Richmond, Indiana: 3 minutes, 49 seconds.
• Wapakoneta, Ohio: 3 minutes, 57 seconds.

Here's what the total solar eclipse will look like

The solar eclipse begins when the leading edge of the moon appears in silhouette in front of the sun. For most locations in the United States, the moon will first cover the bottom right section of the sun and appear to slowly move up and to the left. This is called the partial solar eclipse stage. The moon will continue to cover more of the sun over the next hour, slowly building toward the total eclipse.

During the partial eclipse stages, if even a slim crescent of sunlight is shining, you need to use certified safe solar viewing methods like eclipse glasses. Even 1% of the sun shining around the moon could still cause eye damage.

Just before totality, the last rays of sunlight trickle around the mountains of the moon. The dazzling effect is called the diamond ring because you can see the outline of the moon in front of a ghostly white light.

Solar activity has ramped up lately and you may be able to see solar prominences. These extreme eruptions on the sun, if large enough, may be visible as tiny pink protuberances peaking around the edge of the moon.

Then, at totality, the wispy, ethereal tendrils of the corona of the sun extend in various directions. While the moon is completely covering the sun, that is the only time when the sky is dark enough for you to see this outer atmosphere of the sun.

For people with specially filtered binoculars or telescopes, you can zoom in seconds before or after totality to witness Bailey's Beads: the beads of sunlight coming through the valleys and around the mountains of the moon.

Annular vs. total solar eclipses

For totality to take place, everything must be lined up perfectly. The moon, at around 240,000 miles from Earth, must move directly in front of the sun, which is 93,000,000 miles away. But the moon varies its distance from us. When it is farther from Earth, it does not appear large enough in the sky to block out the entire sun. This is called an annular solar eclipse or ring of fire eclipse since the moon appears to be nestled completely inside the disc of the sun with a ring of bright sunlight surrounding it. This last happened on Oct. 14, 2023.

In order to create a total solar eclipse, the moon must be close enough to the Earth to block out the entire sun. And even under the most perfect alignment, the moon’s shadow barely reaches the Earth’s surface to be visible along a swath of the planet 80-120 miles wide. This is called the path of totality. The maximum amount of time that the moon can totally eclipse the sun is 7 1/2 minutes, while the eclipse on April 8 will last one second at the edge of the shadow to a maximum of 4 minutes, 28 seconds in Mexico.

Don’t miss it: Next total solar eclipses by state

• Ohio: Sept. 14, 2099.
• Kentucky: Oct. 17, 2153.
• Indiana: Sept. 14, 2099.
• Texas: May 11, 2078.
• Arkansas: Aug. 12, 2045.
• Missouri: Aug. 12, 2045.
• Illinois: Sept. 14, 2099.
• Pennsylvania: May 1, 2079.
• New York: May 1, 2079.
• Vermont: May 1, 2079.
• New Hampshire: May 1, 2079.
• Maine: May 1, 2079.

Dean Regas is an astronomer, host of the Looking Up podcast, and author of six books including "100 Things to See in the Night Sky." He can be reached at astrodean.com

Eclipse Chasing : Online Astronomy Class

What: The total solar eclipse is coming Monday, April 8, and you do not want to miss it! Astronomy expert and eclipse chaser, Dean Regas, shares his tips on where to go, what to look for, and how to view it safely. Plus, he will give you tools to watch the weather forecast to make sure you go to a place with clear skies.

When: Recorded April 4, your ticket allows you to watch the class at your convenience.

Tickets: $10 per household.

Register : astrodean.com/shop .

When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Solar eclipse thrills crowds in California as it darkens swath of countryside

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Bhavini Lad’s three children were so fired up to experience their first solar eclipse on Monday that standing in line to pick up protective eyewear at the California Institute of Technology campus was almost too much to bear.

The 7-year-old twins and their 5-year-old brother buzzed and jumped, chatting with people in the line around them. They spoke with great enthusiasm about their space-themed bedroom that features a replica solar system hanging from the ceiling.

“They love to learn about it because they have the stuff in their room,” said Lad, an aerospace engineer, adding that they’ve talked about how to view the phenomenon without risk of eye injury.

“You don’t look without the glasses because what will happen?” Lad asked her son.

He shouted his response: “You’ll get blind!”

Photos: Solar eclipse draws crowds of viewers in L.A. area

Millions of people across the U.S., including in Southern California, looked up at the sky to witness a rare total solar eclipse Monday.

April 8, 2024

The sense of excitement was mirrored in the rest of the crowd of roughly a thousand revelers, who donned protective eyewear to witness the scientific wonder of a partial solar eclipse at the athletic field near the Cahill Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics. It was just one of numerous eclipse-watching events, formal or otherwise, held Monday morning across the Southland.

Whereas more than a dozen states were able to experience a rare total solar eclipse, in which the moon completely blocks the face of the sun, viewers in Los Angeles saw the moon take a roughly 50% bite out of the bright mass.

Unlike elsewhere in the country, where cloudy skies risked spoiling the eclipse chasers’ view, it was a sunny, clear day in Los Angeles, with temperatures in the mid-70s. And because L.A. didn’t experience totality, the sky didn’t go dark and temperatures didn’t drop by several degrees, as they did for those places in the moon’s complete shadow.

In Los Angeles, it cooled slightly at the peak of the eclipse “because we were only receiving about half the energy from the sun,” said Kenneth E. Phillips, curator for aerospace science at the California Science Center.

Monday’s eclipse began over the South Pacific Ocean and moved diagonally across Mexico, the United States and Canada. More than 30 million Americans from Texas to Maine lived in the path of totality.

Monday’s celestial event was the last total solar eclipse that will be seen from the contiguous United States until 2044. Los Angeles will experience another partial solar eclipse in 2029, according to NASA.

World & Nation

A total eclipse is more than a spectacle. So I’m on the road to see it — again

Why would someone journey across the country to watch a total eclipse? Because it’s more than just an astronomical rarity: It may be the best show in the universe.

April 6, 2024

The buzz leading up to the total eclipse was significant, for both the scientific possibilities and the rarity.

“It’s an opportunity to see firsthand our place in the universe,” said Paul Robertson, an associate professor of physics and astronomy at UC Irvine. “We’re sitting on the surface of this rock that’s careening through space at a speed of 30 kilometers per second, and we’re doing this sort of gravitational dance with these other giant bodies.”

It’s not something that people often pause to think about, Robertson said.

Nancy Castellanos and her 5-year-old daughter, Camilla, sat on a striped picnic blanket outside the California Science Center with their eyes fixed on the sky.

Camilla smiled and pointed up to the sun, prompting her mother to remind her not to look up without her protective glasses. It was Camilla’s first eclipse and she wasn’t quite sure what to expect. They waited and watched as the moon moved in and out of partial sun-blocking position.

“It’s such a memorable event, especially for the children,” Castellanos, 39, said as Camilla cuddled in her lap. “She can remember this later on and watch the next one too.”

At Caltech, some families brought chairs and laid out blankets to relax and munch on snacks while they waited for the show to begin.

Ryan Rudes, a freshman at Caltech, skipped his math class to take photos of the eclipse, using a makeshift eclipse filter for his Canon T6 camera crafted from duct tape and lenses from his orange eclipse glasses. He had hoped to view the eclipse from Niagara Falls this year, but cloudy skies in the forecast for that region dashed his plans.

The crowd erupted in cheers as the eclipse reached its peak around 11:12 a.m. Some quickly began packing up their belongings to leave while others opted to wait in line to watch the eclipse begin its reverse journey through a large telescope set up on campus.

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Across the region, people’s creativity and scientific prowess were on display.

Zak Graff, manager for Pasadena City College’s Center for the Arts, viewed the eclipse through a makeshift pinhole camera he made using a recycled Honey Nut Cheerios box and aluminum foil.

A few times kids ran up to Graff hoping to snag a bite of the cereal, but they left disappointed. The box was for science, not snacks.

Graff also brought a spaghetti strainer he used to filter sunlight. The light reflecting on people’s clothes mirrored the eclipse happening in the sky in dozens of little crescent shadows. “Super low tech but highly effective,” Graff said.

Dani Ortuño Gudiño, a photographer working on his master’s degree in media studies, lay on the ground on his back outside the California Science Center to watch the eclipse reach its peak. He held a pair of paper glasses up to the lens of his camera, a Sony Alpha 7 III. The result was a crisp, stunning photo of the moon overlapping with the sun. The visible part of the sun was in a crescent shape overhead.

Nearby, Dalton Cantor, 16, held his glasses against his face as he gazed up at the sky.

“My family and I decided to come here to experience something unique,” he said. “It’s powerful. It pauses everything you’re going through.”

Dalton lives near the Science Center and used to visit nearly every weekend when he was younger. He was excited to be there Monday with his mother and grandmother.

“It’s a rare opportunity,” said his grandmother, Ana Rodriguez. “We couldn’t miss it.”

Edwin Lopez took advantage of the moment of calm after the eclipse’s peak to meditate.

He sat cross-legged and placed his hands on his heart as he listened to an eclipse-themed guided meditation in his earbuds. Lopez traveled to Oregon for the 2017 eclipse and has been looking forward to witnessing the event again. He took slow, steady breaths with his eyes closed as the crowd around him began to thin.

“This meditation is about finding the light inside your heart and letting it radiate through you like fire,” he said. “The eclipse is a very special moment and I wanted to feel connected to it.”

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April 9, 2024

Many eclipse visitors to northern New England pulled an all-nighter trying to leave

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Hannah Fry covers breaking news for the Los Angeles Times. She most recently covered Orange County for The Times and has written extensively about criminal trials, housing, politics and government. In 2020, Fry was part of the team that was a Pulitzer finalist for its coverage of a boat fire that killed 34 people off the coast of Santa Barbara. Fry came to The Times from the Daily Pilot, where she covered coastal cities, education and crime. An Orange County native, Fry started her career as an intern at the Orange County Register.

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Is your water system among hundreds that reported PFAS above new EPA limits? See our map.

Millions of Americans rely on drinking water systems that have recently exceeded new limits for toxic “forever chemicals” that the Environmental Protection Agency announced on Wednesday. 

USA TODAY found 608 systems across the country that have measured PFAS, or per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances, at or above the newly established limits since last year. Together, they serve nearly 35 million people. 

Another 13 million people drink water from hundreds of other systems that have recently detected the chemicals at levels that require reporting to the EPA, but not quite enough to surpass the new limits, according to USA TODAY’s analysis. 

These results represent one-time samples, and the EPA wouldn’t require water systems to make changes unless their running annual average passes the new limits. 

The chemicals are nearly indestructible and have been used widely for decades in food packaging, firefighting foam, and other nonstick and water-repellent items. PFAS can eventually build up in the environment and human bodies, increasing the risk of cancer and other serious health problems . 

Last year, the EPA began requiring thousands of water systems to test for more than two dozen types of PFAS , in the most widescale effort ever to track their spread across the United States.  

However, USA TODAY’s analysis shows more than 200 large cities’ systems aren’t yet available in the EPA data set, including Los Angeles, Chicago, Boston, Baltimore and Philadelphia. The number of affected Americans will surely grow as the EPA publishes quarterly updates to its data.  

The EPA estimates the new limits could affect up to 100 million people. 

Map: Where water systems reported PFAS levels above new EPA limits

This map shows water systems that tested at or above newly established PFAS limits since last year. It’s based on boundaries developed by SimpleLab, a water-testing company. Click on a system to see which pollutants surpassed the limits and how much the most concentrated pollutant exceeded those levels. Don’t see a map? Click here.  

Among the places where data is available, USA TODAY’s analysis shows large cities have exceeded PFAS limits at higher rates than smaller places. About a third of water systems serving over 100,000 people have surpassed the new limits. For the smallest systems, it’s 1 in 10.  

Again, these results represent single points in time – in some cases just one result that passed over the new limits among several tests. For example, the EPA data shows Louisville, Kentucky, measured PFOA at about double its limit one time in the half-dozen samples reported last year. 

“The rule is a running annual average, and one sample doesn't dictate public health,” said Kelley Dearing Smith, vice president of communications and marketing at Louisville Water Co. “It's an indicator.” 

She pointed out that Louisville’s running average for PFOA has been 1.9 parts per trillion, below the new limit of 4. 

It’s the long-term trend that matters, according to David Trueba, a chemist and president of Revive Environmental, which has patented new technology to destroy PFAS. 

“If I go to my doctor, and he tells me I have high blood pressure, OK. Is that because he tested once? Or is it because of a monthly average over many data points?” Trueba said. “If (PFAS) is consistent, pervasive and concentrated, above a certain level, that's what makes the difference.” 

Hundreds of systems within the EPA data show the same water sampling sites exceeded the new limits across more than one test date last year. For example, the Suffolk County Water Authority on Long Island, New York, reported one sample tested almost double the limit for the chemical PFOS in March 2023. The same well’s result increased to more than four times the limit in November.  Authority officials did not respond to a request for comment Thursday.

Across the country, in Fresno, California, the water utility found PFOS in one well seven times over the limit in March 2023 and again at 3.5 times over last September. In total, Fresno had 11 wells report multiple measurements over the new limits in the last year. 

Chad Colby, water system supervisor at Fresno’s department of public utilities, declined to comment. 

Other water systems have told USA TODAY they suspect their recent sample results to be false positives. That can happen, Trueba said. He estimates error rates may be as high as one in every five tests. However, with the new PFAS standards, he said cities will need to plan ahead. 

“(Faulty tests) as an excuse is no longer going to be valid with the maximum contaminant loads,” Trueba said, noting it's a best practice for cities to take multiple samples in case something goes wrong with the first test. "Instead of pulling one bottle, I should pull three.”  

“You can't explain your way out of compliance,” he added. 

How much will it cost to meet PFAS rules?  

There are thousands of forever chemicals, but the EPA has now put standards on six of the most common and most studied. Nearly 7,000 water systems may have to eventually take action to remove these PFAS from their water, according to EPA estimates. 

Doing so isn’t cheap.  

Installing new equipment to get in line with the new standards could cost $3 million for a medium-sized city, Trueba estimates. 

Collectively, the EPA estimates it will cost $1.5 billion per year for America’s 66,000 public drinking water systems to monitor their water for PFAS, inform customers of the results and find new sources of water or install equipment to treat their water. 

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included $9 billion to help places struggling with contamination from PFAS and other “emerging contaminants.” The law also includes $12 billion for general drinking water fixes, but Trueba said all that investment likely won’t solve every community’s PFAS problem. 

“There is zero funding for the ongoing operations and maintenance costs associated with keeping up on this,” Trueba said, noting some cities will have to raise customers’ rates to afford it. 

But many more utilities likely would have needed to raise rates had limits been set at levels the EPA suggested a year ago. Three of the PFAS chemicals that are harder to remove now have limits higher than originally proposed – at 10 parts per trillion, according to Shalene Thomas, a PFAS industry expert and emerging contaminants program manager at Battelle, a nonprofit research institute.  

“These higher numbers should reduce the total number of impacted utilities,” Thomas said.  “It will be a small moment of relief for the water utilities to see a double-digit" limit. 

How long until the EPA can issue fines for PFAS?  

The PFAS limits are now official, but the EPA is rolling them out in phases over the next several years to reduce the burden on cities, many of which have limited budgets and personnel. 

"We're not going to be able to react to this overnight,” said Rory Jones, director of the water department in Tampa, Florida, which measured PFOS and PFOA over the new limits multiple times last year.

In 2020, the utility began piloting a water treatment technology called suspended ion exchange, the first project of its kind in the U.S.  

The pilot program showed promising results, Jones said, but expanding to a full-scale system will require time and money.  

"I’m cautiously optimistic,” Jones said, referring to the initiative.  

In terms of timing, water systems must complete their initial monitoring for PFAS within the next three years. Then, from 2027 to 2029, systems will continue monitoring their levels at least once annually and inform customers of the results and any violations. The EPA said they should begin looking for solutions if their levels consistently violate the new limits. 

The limits can be enforced starting five years from now, but Trueba said the potential penalties for violating the limits are “uncharted territory.” 

“You have seen penalties in the past of multimillion-dollar settlements to EPA for infractions against lead – Flint, Michigan, and other places, right?” Trueba said. “I don't think monetary penalties are going to be at five years plus one day.” 

Austin Fast is a data reporter on the USA TODAY investigations team and Cecilia Garzella is a data fellow. Contact Austin at [email protected] or @a_fast on X and Cecilia at [email protected] or @ceciliagarzella on X.