As one of Kentucky\u2019s many bustling college towns, Bowling Green has a unique mix of new and old, historic and innovative. You\u2019ll find venerable neighborhoods complete with colonial architecture and manicured lawns, as well as some of Kentucky\u2019s best museums. One of them is the National Corvette Museum, which takes visitors on a journey through the iconic history of America\u2019s sports car.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
23. Newport<\/h3>\n If you are an American history enthusiast, you won\u2019t 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\u2019s nickname, \u201cSin City,\u201d was first applied to Newport before it was given to Las Vegas.<\/p>\n
Since Newport is so close to Cincinnati, Ohio, you can take a sunset cruise to see the Cincinnati skyline from Newport.<\/p>\n
22. London<\/h3>\n This one is for all the cyclists out there! London is one of Kentucky\u2019s designated \u201ctrail towns,\u201d because of its access to road cycling, mountain biking, and hiking trails. It\u2019s next to Daniel Boone National Forest, so nature lovers find London the perfect place to stay while they explore nearby parks, trails, and forests.<\/p>\n
21. Paducah<\/h3>\n Known as \u201cThe Quilt City,\u201d Paducah is America\u2019s 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. <\/p>\n
As soon as you arrive in Paducah, you\u2019ll realize that this small town is anything but ordinary. The visitor\u2019s center is housed in a restored 1860s mansion, which truly sets the stage for a historic adventure. Enjoy the town\u2019s peace and quiet with a walk along the river and a stroll through town to see the historic buildings.<\/p>\n
20. Owensboro<\/h3>\n Owensboro is a small city packed full of all the things that make Kentucky great. It has some of the state\u2019s best barbecue joints, bluegrass music venues, and art museums. <\/p>\n
Check out the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, where you\u2019ll find a sculpture park and folk art dating back to the 15th century. <\/p>\n
Owensboro is famous for its mutton barbeque, so if you\u2019re a meat eater you shouldn\u2019t leave town without trying it at either Old Hickory Bar-B-Que or Ole South Bar-B-Q.<\/p>\n
19. International Bluegrass Music Museum<\/h4>\n 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\u2019s easily one of the top attractions in the state. Even if you\u2019re 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\u2019ll see a variety of neat vintage instruments, learn about the genre\u2019s most influential musicians, and see the evolution of the genre over the years.<\/p>\n
Get your tickets here.<\/p>\n
18. Stanton<\/h3>\n 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 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. <\/p>\n
National Parks, State Parks, and More<\/h2>\n17. Mammoth Cave National Park<\/h3>\n 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\u2019s most notable caves.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
16. Daniel Boone National Forest<\/h3>\n You may recognize the name Daniel Boone if you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n
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\u2019ll find epic sandstone formations, abundant underground caverns, and plenty of plant and animal life everywhere.<\/p>\n
14. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area<\/h3>\n 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\u2019s plenty of nature to admire here. There are 300 miles of natural shoreline, offering opportunities to camp, picnic, hike, and bike. <\/p>\n
In addition to 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. <\/p>\n
Land Between the Lakes is also the ideal place for a road trip, with incredible scenic drives and walks.<\/p>\n
13. Cumberland Falls State Park<\/h3>\n\n
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, \u201cthe Niagara of the South,\u201d 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\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
In addition to the obvious visit to the falls, Cumberland Falls State 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.<\/p>\n
12. Breaks Interstate Park<\/h3>\n Located right on the Kentucky-Virginia state border is the severely underrated Breaks Interstate Park. Spanning 3,500 acres of greenwood lands full of mountainous scenery, this is one of only two interstate parks in the country. 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 \u201cthe Grand Canyon of the South.\u201d<\/p>\n
Breaks Interstate Park is a haven for rock climbers, campers, and hikers alike. No matter how you choose to enjoy the park, you\u2019re certainly in for a treat.<\/p>\n
11. Big South Fork National River<\/h3>\n\n
Big South Fork National River 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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
10. The Pinnacles of Berea<\/h3>\n In 2019, Outside <\/em>Magazine named the Pinnacles of Berea hike the #1 hike in Kentucky. If that isn\u2019t 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.<\/p>\nThis 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.<\/p>\n
9. My Old Kentucky Home State Park<\/h3>\n 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\u2019s best feature are actually indoors. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
Horse Farms<\/h2>\n8. Sun Valley Horse Farm<\/h3>\n This classic horse farm\u2019s slogan is \u201cAt the Crossroad of Bourbon & Horses.\u201d 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. <\/p>\n
7. Hermitage Farm<\/h3>\n 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\u2019s farm-fresh produce at its Barn8 Farm Restaurant. <\/p>\n
In the mood for some bourbon? You can do a bourbon tasting featuring products from any of the distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon trail.<\/p>\n
This farm offers a truly well-rounded view of Kentucky\u2019s rich agricultural culture and history. Choose from a number of tours and tastings at Hermitage Farm to get the most out of your visit.<\/p>\n
6. Claiborne Farm<\/h3>\n 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.<\/p>\n
Claiborne Farm offers historic tours of the on-site facilities, taking guests on a journey through the farm\u2019s origin story up until present day with a look at how the working farm takes care of the stunning beauties that live there.<\/p>\n
Unique Stops<\/h2>\n5. The Pete Treehouse<\/h3>\n\n
This completely off-grid treehouse was part of Treehouse Masters<\/em> and is now one of the coolest Airbnbs you\u2019ll 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.<\/p>\nAfter watching
4. Harland Sanders Caf\u00e9 and Museum<\/h3>\n 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 Caf\u00e9 and Museum in Corbin, you\u2019ll be able to see the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken at Colonel Sanders\u2019 original restaurant.<\/p>\n
Not only can you actually dine at the Harland Sanders Caf\u00e9 and Museum, but you can then tour the building and see all kinds of artifacts and memorabilia from the famous restaurateur\u2019s legacy.<\/p>\n
3. Vent Haven Museum<\/h3>\n In the small town of Fort Mitchell is the world\u2019s only museum dedicated to ventriloquism: the Vent Haven Museum. This is by far one of the strangest places I\u2019ve ever seen while researching a destination, and now it has been bumped up pretty high on my bucket list. <\/p>\n
The museum has over 700 dolls, featuring some that have been on TV and in movies, all from the personal collection of William Shakespeare Berger. If you\u2019re a fan of weird museums and happen to be driving through Fort Mitchell, you\u2019ll definitely want to make a pit stop here.<\/p>\n
2. Historic Diamond Caverns<\/h3>\n Located right next to Mammoth Cave National Park, this unique attraction is a must-visit while you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n
1. Kentucky Kingdom<\/h3>\n I\u2019m a big fan of roller coasters, so I can\u2019t 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\u2019s a charming homegrown spot that locals adore. There are five roller coasters, a 5-D cinema, and plenty of other fun attractions to enjoy.<\/p>\n
***<\/p>\n
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! <\/p>\n
Are you a Kentucky native? Which places did we miss this time? Let us know where your secret spots are!<\/p>\n
Get every new post delivered via email (3x posts per week, no spam, ever. Read our privacy policy here.)<\/label><\/p>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-louisville-2-847x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-louisville-6-765x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-louisville-6-765x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-louisville-7-819x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-louisville-7-819x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-Lexington-Kentucky-3-683x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/things-to-do-in-Lexington-Kentucky-3-683x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Things-to-Do-in-Lexington-Kentucky-2-1024x685.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Things-to-Do-in-Lexington-Kentucky-2-1024x685.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/shutterstock_1013146063-682x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/shutterstock_1013146063-682x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/places-to-visit-in-kentucky-683x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/places-to-visit-in-kentucky-683x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/places-to-visit-in-kentucky-2-768x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/places-to-visit-in-kentucky-2-768x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/places-to-visit-in-kentucky-3-768x1024.jpg\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/places-to-visit-in-kentucky-3-768x1024.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/3673abf9-02a0-489b-84ff-e5d2c7749b06.jpg-1024x678.webp\"\/)
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.bemytravelmuse.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/3673abf9-02a0-489b-84ff-e5d2c7749b06.jpg-1024x678.webp\")