places to visit in kentucky for families

23 Incredible Things to Do in Kentucky with Kids

Trip Planner: Best Things to do in Kentucky With Kids

Looking for your next family getaway? Kentucky is the hidden gem of Midwest vacations and needs to be on your short list. There are things to do in Kentucky with kids at any time of year.

No matter what the kids love to do, you’ll find something fun and exciting in Kentucky – from zipline adventures to horseback rides, hikes to bikes, and all kinds of on-the-water adventures. 

Kentucky family attractions include aquariums, amusement and water parks, zoos, and adventure parks where kids can dig for dino fossils and hunt for gems.

And when it comes to finding your perfect home base for adventure, there are countless hotels, lodges, campgrounds, cabins, and other  places to stay   that can accommodate families of every size.

Read on to learn about 23 fantastic things to do in Kentucky with kids.

feature image is Red River Gorge

Article Contents

• Things to Do in Kentucky with Kids

Kentucky FAQs

Map of things to do in kentucky with kids, more travel ideas, 23 things to do in kentucky with kids.

We’re pretty sure we’ve found some of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids. Read through this list of 23 ideas and see which resonate with your family. At the risk of sounding cliché, there really is something for everyone!

1 – Mammoth Cave National Park

1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259-0007

2 – Hidden River Cave & The American Cave Museum

119 E. Main St, Horse Cave, KY 42765

Speaking of underground adventures, there’s also a cave hiding in the middle of Horse Cave, Kentucky. It’s open for exploration and you can choose how adventurous you’d like your visit to be. If you choose a tour, you’ll climb down lots of steps to an underground river and learn from the well-trained guides as you go. Visit the cave and you can walk across the world’s longest swinging underground bridge. Take it the next level and zipline across or rappel past the cave’s sinkhole entrance. Be sure to visit the American Cave Museum before leaving town – it’s the only museum of its kind in the US, dedicated strictly to caves and issues surrounding caves.

3 – Lost River Cave Underground Boat Tours

  2818 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101

Find Kentucky’s only underground boat tour at Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This unique seven-mile cave system offers a remarkable 45-minute experience that combines a 20-minute guided walk to the cave’s entrance with a 25-minute boat ride through its serene waters, all at a constant, comfortable temperature of 57 degrees. The adventure continues with Lost River’s zipline, their two miles of nature trails, and seasonal butterfly habitat. Open year round, 7 days a week.

4 – Dinosaur World

711 Mammoth Cave Rd, Cave City, KY 42127

Get face-to-face with life-sized dinosaur replicas at Dinosaur World in Cave City. Where else can you dig up a life-size dinosaur skeleton in the Boneyard, learn about fossils, and walk through Mammoth Gardens among 150 larger-than-life dinosaur replicas? These interactive exhibits are sure to capture your kids’ imaginations (and yours!). The dinosaur models, up to eighty feet in length and based on the latest scientific discoveries, are made of fiberglass, steel, and concrete. The lifelike dinosaurs are arranged in groups in a variety of settings. Before you leave, be sure to spend time playing on their dino-themed playground.

5 – Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo

3700 L and N Turnpike Rd, Horse Cave, KY 42749

Spend the afternoon at Kentucky Down Under, an Australian Animal Park in Kentucky that is all about hands on adventure. Located in Horse Cave, this amusement park gives families the chance to pet kangaroos in the Outback, feed colorful Rainbow Lorikeets and Australian Budgies, help with chores at the wool shed and learn about life on an Australian sheep farm. Visitors can also play a didgeridoo while learning about Aboriginal culture and attend hands-on animal shows. Bonus: You can go ‘Down Under’ and take a 30-minute guided Mammoth Onyx Cave tour (it was discovered by a young girl in 1799). 

6 – Louisville Zoo

1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213

Level up your your travel adventure with a visit to the Louisville Zoo. You’ll get a close-up view of more than 1,700 exotic animals in naturalistic habitats on 134 rolling acres. This iconic stop is one of the most beloved things to do in Kentucky with kids. Get close to an Amur tiger during a training demonstration or spend time watching gorillas play at Gorilla Forest. Or sign up for the Sloth Experience, where you’ll have an encounter with Sunni the Sloth, photo ops included. Also, don’t miss the Zoo’s newest exhibit – Glacier Run – the polar and grizzly bear habitat. In addition to seeing animals, visitors are also invited to experience their dynamic 4-D theater, ZooTram, a High Adventure Ropes Course, and a children’s waterpark. Playgrounds, the African petting zoo, gift shops, restaurants, and fun rides on an antique carousel are more things to look forward to. This Kentucky zoo has everything kids and parents could ask for!

7 – Belle of Louisville

401 W. River Rd., Louisville, KY 40202

You can step onto the oldest Mississippi River-style steamboat in the World, the Belle of Louisville, and go sightseeing. Built in 1914, this steamer is a National Historic Landmark. Going on the riverboat and having dinner is one of the great things to do in Kentucky with kids. Visitor opportunities include weekend sightseeing and meal excursions, Memorial Day through the end of October. Check their website for an up-to-date cruise schedule.

Belle of Louisville, the oldest Mississippi River-style steamboat in the World

8 – Louisville Slugger Museum

800 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202

This tour packs a punch. It’s not too long (a little over 30 minutes) and it’s interesting, making it one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids. The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory guides visitors through the process of making the Official Bats of Major League Baseball, starting with how they select the trees used in making the bats. Informative and educational, even for those that aren’t big baseball fans, the Louisville Slugger Museum is a hit with everyone. While you’re there, you can also see the World’s Biggest Baseball Bat and get a free mini-bat at the end of your tour. Bonus: Create your own personalized full-sized bat at the museum store.

9 – Kentucky Horse Park

4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, Kentucky 40511

If horseback riding is on your list, visit the Kentucky Horse Park just outside of Lexington for trail rides and pony rides. Bonus: This expansive, picturesque working farm doubles as an equine theme park. You’ll learn about Kentucky’s famous horse culture firsthand: get up close and personal with many breeds of horse, visit museums and take barn tours and horseback tours through 1200 acres of lovely rolling hills. All of this, plus the kids barn and playground, make a stop at the Kentucky Horse Park one of the fantastic things to do in Kentucky with kids.

10 – Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm

1841 Paynes Depot Rd, Georgetown, KY 40324

After giving their best on the race track, thoroughbred race horses are cared for at this 136-acre Thoroughbred Retirement Farm sanctuary. Get up close and personal with racings stars like Silver Charm (Kentucky Derby winner) or Hall of Fame member Lava Man. Old Friends tours will have you interacting with the horses and learning their stories. Visitors are provided with carrots to feed the horses as you walk through the farm. The $30 general guided walking tour is 1.5 miles long and takes you to around 15 retirees. If Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm is on your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids, please know that tour reservations are required and only children ages 10 and up are permitted.

11 – Newport Aquarium

1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 410 71

Newport Aquarium is very family-friendly and exciting, making it one of the top things to do in Kentucky with kids. There’s a reason the aquarium has been ranked among the top aquariums in the country – it has 70 exhibits and 14 galleries, including five see-through, walk-through tunnels! You can touch a shark, turtle or stingray, play in the interactive frog bog and even pet a penguin during the Penguin Encounter. Each day begins with a special penguin parade, a show featuring one of the aquarium’s African Penguins. There are dive shows, feedings and ‘meet the biologist’ sessions scheduled throughout the day, too. The bridge over the shark tank is a family favorite. Don’t miss the new Hatchling Harbor – a bustling 25-foot-long habitat filled with hundreds of colorful and curious young animals! Newport Aquarium is open 365 days of the year and is only two minutes from downtown Cincinnati, Ohio.

12 – Earthjoy Treehouse Adventures

3400 Bridgeville Rd, Brooksville, KY 41004

Looking for an incredibly cool, incredibly unique outdoor adventure for your family? Check that box with a visit to Earthjoy Treehouse Adventures in northern Kentucky (near the Indiana/Ohio/Kentucky state line). Choose your level of adventure, from staying in a treehouse to participating in tree climbing adventures and tree climb training. Guided canopy tours are available for children, teens and adults. Contact them to learn what the best tour is for your group. They will take you safely, step by step into the trees where swinging in tree chairs, surfing branches, and high-up hammocking await. It safe to say that this is one of the most thrilling things to do in Kentucky with kids. When you return to land, enjoy hiking the trails through 200 acres of rolling woodlands.

13 – Ark Encounter

1 Ark Encounter Drive, Williamstown, KY 41097

The jaw-dropping, Bible-scale replica of Noah’s Ark is tucked away in Williamstown, KY, and is home to a hands-on animal park. Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah’s Ark (largest timber-frame structure in the U.S.) that was built according to the dimensions listed in the Bible. At 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this is one of the  Northern Kentucky Biblical Wonders . For an immersive encounter, sign up for the 4K virtual reality experience. Visitors travel back to the time of Noah, visually experiencing the ark via a state-of-the-art VR headset. A moving seat, coordinated with what you see and hear, adds to the sensory adventure.

14 – Smothers Park

199 West Veterans Blvd, Owensboro, KY 42301

Smothers Park is in the mid-sized Kentucky town of  Owensboro  and is a wonderful example of how a public space can transform an area. In 2012, the riverfront park was renovated and expanded as part of a multi-million dollar upgrade. At five acres in size, it spans five city blocks. The park now features: – An outdoor children’s museum and award-winning, huge playground with accessible overhead ramps  – Splash pad – Three signature fountains with shows every 15 minutes – A cascading waterfall – Concessions – Riverside porch swings for adults – Concert pavilion Smothers Park is a true hidden gem and one of the must-do things to do in Kentucky with kids.

15 – Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay

937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY 40209

With more than 70 rides and attractions, including six world-class roller coasters, a huge water park, children’s rides, games, shows, and so much more, Kentucky Kingdom is one of the favorite things to do in Kentucky with kids. King Louie’s Playland, the special children’s area in the park, is one of the largest in the country, with more than a dozen beautiful rides geared to kids. Many of these rides allow parents to ride along. To top it all off, there’s Hurricane Bay, a huge water park the whole family can enjoy! Hurricane Bay has two wave pools, over a dozen water slides, plus an adventure river and a lazy river. In the summer, animal shows round out the experience. Kentucky Kingdom opens weekends in April and is open daily starting Memorial Day weekend. Visit their website for the complete operating schedule, ticket prices, and other information.

16 – Beech Bend Raceway, Amusement Park & Splash Lagoon

798 Beech Bend Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101

When you’re done at the amusement park and splash lagoon, head over to neighboring Beech Bend Raceway Park to watch racing on one of America’s oldest, continuously operating drag strips. This nationally recognized quarter-mile drag strip hosts over 100 days of on-track excitement each season.

17 – Kentucky State Parks

18 – Canopy Tree Walk & Forest Giants at Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest

2075 Clermont Road, Clermont, KY 40110

Stop in to see the larger-than-life sculptures, built using just recycled wood from the region, at this beautiful park. Follow the easy two-mile walking trail loop to see all three Forest Giants. As Kentucky’s Official State Arboretum, Bernheim is a 16,000 acre wildlife sanctuary, landscaped arboretum and visitor center. You’ll be attracted to the indoor and outdoor exhibits – including the Forest Giants, canopy tree walk, scent and sound mazes, and trails and walkways. Pro Tips: – It is free to see the Forest Giants. – A $15 donation is suggested per car for non-members. – Photos are allowed and you may touch the giants, but please treat them with respect. Hours of Operation Park Grounds are open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Days

19 – “Big Twigs” at Lake Malone State Park

331 State Route 8001, Dunmor, KY 42339

In addition to the beautiful Lake Malone lake views and neat limestone formations, Lake Malone State Park is also home to “Big Twigs.” Visit with the 14-foot wooden giants “Happy Malone” at his campsite, “Bobber Malone” lakeside, or “Oakley Malone” along Laurel Trail. After visiting, hike the easy trail and be treated to scenic views of rock walls and a waterfall. A boat ramp is available for those who enjoy water sports and catching channel catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. This state park also has a 25-site campground. Hours of Operation Park Grounds: Open 7 days a week, dawn to dusk Campground: Open mid-March through mid-November. Boat Ramp: Open year-round.

20 – Cumberland Gap National Park

91 Bartlett Park Road, Middlesboro, KY 40965

Tucked away at the border of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia, Cumberland Gap National Park is a prime example of Kentucky’s wild frontier. In fact, you can see all three states from the Pinnacle overlook! Considered the first great gateway to the west, Cumberland Gap National Park is worth your travel time. It’s an off-the-beaten path destination that isn’t over-trafficked. It’s a Kentucky hidden gem. Home to  Daniel Boone , the park’s rich history is entwined with the stunning overlooks, awe-inspiring underground caverns, and dramatic rock formations. Cumberland Gap National Park offers many family experiences, making it one of the favorite things to do in Kentucky with kids. Hands-on exhibits at the visitor center museum are popular with kids, as is the exciting two-hour ranger-led adventure exploring Gap Cave, a majestic underground cavern in the park. Definitely take time to see the view at the visitor’s center. Then, take the Wilderness Road Trail (just a fraction of the park’s 70 miles of hiking trails) and walk in the footsteps of Native Americans, early settlers and Civil War soldiers.

21 – Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

2995 Lincoln Farm Rd, Hodgenville, KY 42748

22 – National Corvette Museum

350 Corvette Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42101

23 – NCM Motorsports Park

505 Kimberlee A. Fast Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42103

Kentucky’s Location

What is Kentucky known for?

When people think of Kentucky, iconic images of horse racing and the Kentucky Derby, bourbon, and Louisville Slugger baseball bats come to mind. Beyond that, Mammoth Caves National Park is a famous Kentucky place most people have heard of or have visited. Kentucky’s nickname, the  Bluegrass State , comes from the bluegrass found in many of its pastures. Famous people  born or raised (or both) in the Kentucky include pioneer Daniel Boone, athlete Muhammad Ali, movie star George Clooney, musician Loretta Lynn, and president Abraham Lincoln. 

What is the best time of year to visit Kentucky?

You’ll find great things to do in Kentucky with kids year-round. That said, spring and fall are wonderful times to visit if you enjoy bursts of color. Fall colors typically peak in Kentucky around mid-October. The  weather  changes with the seasons in Kentucky, and sometimes, from hour to hour on a given day. Expect warm summers (87 degrees ave high) and moderately cold winters (23 degrees ave low). Snow and ice do visit the region on occasion, but it’s nothing like the snow or cold experienced by the north.

WIN! Disney On Ice Tickets Up for Grabs, Courtesy of Adventures by Lori!

48 hours in indy fun stuff to do on your indianapolis weekend getaway for couples, besties, 5 wonderful girls weekend getaways in the midwest & great lakes, 10 best disney travel agents for an unforgettable trip & how using a disney agent works, fun places 14 best things to do in fort wayne with kids, free & affordable activities included, looking to take the train to chicago here are 2 easy ways to take the train from grand rapids to chicago, about the author.

Melody VanderWeide

1 thought on “23 incredible things to do in kentucky with kids”.

Love this list! My family and I are planning a trip to Kentucky in the spring and this gave me some great ideas for activities to do with my kids. Can’t wait to try the Kentucky Derby experience and visit the Louisville MEGA Cavern. Thanks for the tips!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Event Calendar
• List Your Event
• Weekend Roundup
• Mega Idea List
• Summer Things to Do
• Eat & Drink
• Toddler Stuff
• Zipline, Putt Putt, Etc
• Indoor Play
• GR Attractions
• Birthday Parties
• Parks & Playgrounds
• Splash Pads & Outdoor Pools
• Indoor Pools
• Michigan Beaches
• Best Doctors
• Neighborhoods
• Parenting Groups
• Disability Resources
• Area Schools
• Field Trips
• Water Parks
• Campgrounds

11 Favorite Things To Do In Kentucky With Kids

There are many vacation spots in the United States that come to mind when planning an exciting vacation for the family, but for many, the state of Kentucky may not come to mind – they would be wrong. There are so many attractions across the bluegrass state that will not only entertain the adults in the family, but many places have exciting things to do in Kentucky with kids. 

The top cities we recommend you visit are: Lexington | Louisville | Bowling Green | Elizabethtown

Now lets get into the top things you will want to do when you visit Kentucky!

Table of Contents

Things To Do In Kentucky

Mammoth cave national park.

Kids love to explore the outdoors, and what better way than making your way through the cave systems at Mammoth Cave National Park. Here you will experience 350-million-year-old rocks as you venture into the dark underground caves in the world’s longest known cave system!

Mammoth Caves National Park has over 400 miles of known cave trails explored, and you can view a portion of that when you go on guided tours at Mammoth Cave. There are trails, and even a walking tour, for all activity levels from easy kid-friendly hikes to strenuous hikes deep inside the cave system.

Quick Tip – Be sure to bring a jacket with you since the average temperature is 55 degrees year-round once you’re underground.

For more info check out Mammoth Cave here.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park

Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace needs to be on your list of historic sites worth visiting. Things to do in Kentucky with kids come easy when you can blend together historical and educational lessons.

President Abraham Lincoln played an integral role in the dissolution of slavery. Here you will also learn all about how he was an important figure before, during, and after the Civil War. 

For more info check out Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park here.

Newport Aquarium

Get ready to explore the underwater world when visiting the Newport Aquarium. Located in Newport, KY, right across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, OH. The Newport Aquarium is a great day trip idea, or if you have more time to visit, it’s a great area to explore all that Northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati area have to offer.

Thousands of animals are on display at the Newport Aquarium for you to enjoy during your visit. Spend time watching the penguins waddle on the ice or dive into the water, meet rare white alligators, or watch the many fish swimming in their tanks. 

When you’re ready for a more up-close adventure, you will want to head to the Shark Central exhibit. Here you can cross the world’s very first shark bridge, walking just inches above swimming sharks on a rope bridge. While there, be sure to explore the touch tank where you’re able to touch sharks!

If you have any questions, a stop at the visitors center will answer any questions you may have. They will let you know which exhibits are open, as well as provide a map to help you get the most out of your aquarium day.

Looking to bring home a souvenir? The gift shops will not disappoint. With clothing merchandise, stuffed animals, and more! Remember your trip by taking home a memmento to help you recall the wonderful memories made.

When hen you get start to get hungry or need to take a break, head over to Sharky’s Cafe. Located just through the shark tunnel, they offer quick snacks and sweets, even coffee. If you’re ready to eat lunch they offer burgers, wraps, and a kid’s menu.

For more info check out Newport Aquarium here.

Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom Amusement Park

The ultimate family adventure day! Get ready for some thrills, excitement, and quality family fun when at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom Amusement Park. The theme park is more than just thrill rides, the park hosts two parks in one – the amusement park and Hurricane Bay Water Park.

The amusement park at Kentucky Kingdom is one worth checking out for any amusement park enthusiasts. The park is located in Louisville KY and has smaller kid-friendly rides and fast roller coasters for the thrill-seekers. 

There is no shortage of things to do in Kentucky with kids at Kentucky Kingdom Amusement Park. The park is home to 5 thrill roller coasters and 1 kiddie roller coaster, where you will enjoy twists and turns and flips along the way. If you’re a fan of wooden roller coasters, you won’t be disappointed either – the Thunder Run is a world-renowned wooden coaster with a 74-foot drop and negative airtime, sure to excite the roller coaster lover in your family. 

Kentucky Kingdom Amusement Park is more than just thrill rides. If you’re visiting on a day when Kentucky humidity is high, plan to visit the other half of the park.

Hurricane Bay Water Park offers everything you look for in a water park. The water parks include one large wave pool, and a separate more family-friendly, smaller wave pool. They offer the same options when it comes to a lazy river. 

The water park offers a regular lazy river where you can float your way along and relax, or if you’re looking for more excitement, they offer a ride called Adventure River. The Adventure River is a chance to experience wild water adventure, moving at speeds 6 times faster than their original lazy river ride. This ride provides entertainment throughout the entire ride!

For more info check out Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom Amusement Park here.

Muhammad Ali Center

The Muhammad Ali Center, located on museum row in Louisville, is a multi-cultural center and museum to remember his life and legacy and is used to encourage other generations to strive for more.

The Muhammad Ali Center includes exhibits, videos, and artifacts to give you a glimpse into the life of Muhammad Ali. His life principles were: Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Giving, Respect, and Spirituality, and all are explored in the museum.

While there are 18 permanent exhibits in the Muhammad Ali Center, when planning your visit, be sure to check out their temporary exhibits, which change regularly to offer deeper educational opportunities. 

For more info check out Muhammad Ali Center here.

Louisville Zoo

Lions, and tigers and bears, oh my! Louisville Zoo has over 1,700 animals in 8 exhibits at any given time; The Islands, Africa, Glacier Run, Australia, South America, HerpAquarium, Gorilla world, and The Cats of the Americas. The Louisville Zoo needs to be at the top of your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids!

The Louisville Zoo offers family-friendly fun and education, and don’t forget healthy physical activity for the entire family. There is a 1-mile paved walking trail through the zoo so you can see the amazing animals while getting those steps!

Be sure to bring lots of sunscreen during the summer, and even some swim clothes or clothes that can get wet! When the Kentucky humidity goes up, the kids will find themselves wanting to splash in the nautical-themed splash park inside the zoo. It’s free with paid zoo admission.

For more info check out Louisville Zoo here.

Louisville Slugger Museum

Baseball is as American as apple pie, and in Louisville, baseball is no different. Louisville Ky is home to the Minor league baseball team, Louisville Bats. But did you know that one of the greatest sports museums in the world is located in downtown Louisville, KY?

The Louisville Slugger Museum is where all of the action takes place and will entertain sports fans young and old. You will not want to miss the Louisville Slugger Museum Factory Tour, where they actually make the bats. Tickets sell out fast so be sure to buy your tour tickets early!

During the factory tour you walk through the production line for the Louisville Slugger bats, where you will see in the making, the famous wooden bats up close and personal, sure to delight any sports fan. Explore their collection of famous baseball bats – A baseball bat used by Babe Ruth is even on display in the museum!

The Louisville Slugger history museum is located across the street from Louisville Slugger Field, where the Louisville Bats play. Be sure to add this to your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids if you have a baseball lover in the family. 

For more info check out Louisville Slugger Museum here.

Kentucky Derby Museum

Horses and horse racing are engrained in the hearts of all Kentuckians, and no trip to Kentucky is complete without an authentic experience at The Kentucky Derby Museum. Located next to Churchill Downs, The Kentucky Derby Museum prides itself on preserving the history of the Kentucky Derby. 

The museum offers two floors of interactive exhibits sharing history dating back to the very first Kentucky Derby. The museum features artifacts showcased from the Kentucky Derby Champion winning horses over the years.

Horseback riding is a popular sport in Kentucky, but you will not find this opportunity at the Kentucky Derby Museum. If you’re looking to saddle up, check out a family farm in Louisville or visit the Kentucky Horse Park. The Kentucky Horse Park offers horseback rides for families at a reasonable price.

Included in your general admission ticket, you will also want to go on the Churchill Downs Historic Walking Tour, where you will have a tour guide take you through the property and even down by the track. Have your camera ready. To say you have experienced the bluegrass state, the Kentucky Derby Museum is a must on your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids!

For more info check out Kentucky Derby Museum here.

National Corvette Museum

Home of America’s sports car, the National Corvette Museum, located in Bowling Green, KY , is a great place in Central Kentucky to make a pit stop. This stop is so much more than just a museum, although the museum of corvettes is worth touring! The National Corvette Museum is a top-notch activity to check off your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids.

Located in the lobby of the museum is the first attraction that will get the kid’s (and any car lover’s) attention. The C6 Corvette Simulator is your chance to get behind the wheel of a fancy sports car. As long as you’re tall enough to reach the gas pedal, for only $10, you’re in for excitement as you drive around the virtual track in their sports car simulator – and passengers are welcome!

If you’re visiting with kiddos who are under 8 years old, the KidZone may be what you’re looking for. They have designed an area for kids to be creative and design their own cars. Be sure to snap a picture capturing their very own driver’s license. 

In the KidZone, turn their car drawings into reality using lego-style blocks. Have your littles give their car a test drive – there is a pedal car they can use to knock over foam blocks.

Don’t miss out on the go-kart experience while visiting the National Corvette Museum. At the Motorsports Park in the Karting area, junior drivers and adults can race around the track in go-karts.

You will want to make sure you take a step into the iconic landmark, the Skydome, and visit the exhibits. Take this time with your family teaching them to appreciate the history of corvettes and the history of cars in America. See over 70 corvettes from all time periods while visiting the country’s largest museum dedicated to one car model.

For more info check out the National Corvette Museum here.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Known as the “Niagara Of The South”, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is one of the most beautiful vacation spots in Kentucky and surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest. There are so many outdoor activities and things to do in Kentucky with kids who love to get out and explore nature.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers many birding opportunities that visitors will enjoy. You can witness many bird species on any visit, with the most common being the red-bellied woodpecker, downy woodpecker, chipping sparrow, and many more.

While spending the day at the park, you will be able to explore the area by taking one of their many hiking trails, or even horseback riding, if it is in season. Gem mining is an activity that is available seasonally that the kids always enjoy. 

If you’ve been hiking all day and getting tired, spend the night and continue your adventure the next day. There are wonderful accommodations at their lodge. If you have a bigger family, cottages are also available to rent. Campground sites are also available at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.

For more info check out Cumberland Falls State Resort Park here. 

Green River Lake State Park

Located in Campbellsville, KY, Green River Lake State Park is a beautiful state park that the whole family will love. Green River Lake offers many fishing opportunities, and if boating is more your thing, stop by their marina to rent a pontoon for a day on the water. 

This State Park also offers many other outdoor activities, such as hiking trails, picnic areas, a playground, an 18-hole miniature golf course, and even a beach area, perfect for lake swimming. Green River will entertain the whole family so plan a visit when making your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids.

For more info check out Green River Lake State Park here.

Where To Eat

Dave and Busters Such a fun restaurant with great food and atmosphere with two locations in Kentucky; Florence and Louisville. They offer arcade-type games in the play area. You won’t be disappointed in the restaurant either, where they serve typical restaurant food, such as chicken tenders, burgers, steaks, and many appetizers. They also offer a great kid’s menu!

The Old Spaghetti Factory When you’re looking for a unique experience and great Italian food, you will want to give The Old Spaghetti Factory a visit. It is a family-friendly restaurant located in downtown Louisville. If you’re lucky, you will get a table inside a real caboose to eat dinner!

The Cheesecake Factory Who doesn’t want to eat at a restaurant that is called The Cheesecake Factory? As you can imagine, as you walk into the restaurant there is a huge display of the many cheesecake offerings. They also offer a full entree menu. Kentucky offers two locations; Lexington and Louisville.

Where To Stay

Victorian Louisville Loft Stay in this beautiful victorian loft in the heart of downtown Louisville. It is 1000 sq ft of elegance in the loft of a historic glassworks building. Only a 2-minute walk to Museum Row, and sleeps 8.

Historic Home in Downtown Lexington This charming historic home in downtown Lexington offers 3 bedrooms, 3 baths. It is within steps from restaurants and shops, and only a short 10-20 minute drive to most other activities. The location is so convenient, if you do not have a car, a Uber is readily available to take you around town while visiting.

Hampton Inn Cave City The Hampton Inn located in Cave City is only a 15-minute walk to Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum. The hotel accommodations are clean and comfortable. A hot breakfast is included, as well as free parking and wi-fi.

Omni Louisville Hotel This property location is amazing, being close to Louisville Slugger Museum, Muhammad Ali Center, and more. You will enjoy first-class accommodations, a roof-top pool, and a restaurant on site.

Campgrounds

Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort: Mammoth Cave Just 30 minutes from Elizabethtown , you can enjoy the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort, near Mammoth Cave. The campground offers RV and tent sites, as well as cabin rentals for all groups. Check out the campground’s planned events to take part in the fun without even leaving your campground!

Mammoth Cave Horse Camp Mammoth Cave Horse Camp is near Clay City, KY. Don’t worry, you don’t have to have a horse to camp here. Their campsites offer electricity and water, fire rings, and picnic tables.

For More Info Check Out

Top 13 Fun Things To Do In Elizabethtown KY

9 Fun Things To Do In Louisville KY With Kids

12 Best Things To Do In Bowling Green KY

14 Fun Things To Do In Lexington KY With Kids

5 Things To Do With Your Kids When Visiting Mammoth Cave Kentucky

9 Favorite Things To Do In Memphis With Kids

6 Top Tips On Visiting Gateway Arch National Park

10 Top Tips on Visiting City Museum St Louis

Top 12 Indoor Water Parks in Ohio You Will Want to Visit

Pin This Post

• Recent Posts

• Top 9 Things To Do In Pigeon Forge With Kids - May 4, 2023
• Top 8 Fun Things To Do In Knoxville With Kids - April 20, 2023
• 12 Best Things To Do In Bowling Green KY - April 19, 2023

DISCLOSURE : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

45 Things to Do in Kentucky

Explore top fun activities for kids in Kentucky: Water parks, museums & outdoor adventures! Perfect for family trips. Plan a memorable visit with our guide.

Planning your next trip with the kiddos, but worried about keeping them entertained? No need to worry, Kentucky has something for everyone, regardless of their age. Whether you’re looking for a fun bonding experience, or hoping to teach them a bit about history, Kentucky has it and more.

Home to historic landmarks, museums, waterparks, go-karts, and much more, Kentucky will keep everyone engaged. Go marvel at underwater creatures in an aquarium, ride through scenic vistas on a train, or teach the kids about science. Thrill seekers will find zip-lines, amusement parks, and unique accommodations. There’s plenty for little ones and adults too. Kentucky has it all.

However, covering the expanse of a whole state in a single trip isn’t feasible for most. So here are some of the best things to look out for in a few different parts of the state. This way you can plan for your family and needs.

1. Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum

Map It: 119 E Main St, Horse Cave, KY 42749

‍ Phone: (270) 786-1466

‍ Hours: 9:30am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Museum: Free, Cave Tour Ages 6 - 14: $12, Ages 15+: $25

‍ Age Group: All Ages

As one of Kentucky’s largest and most scenic caves, this trip has multiple interesting stops on its tour. View subterranean river flows, cross rope bridges, and glimpse technology from the turn of the century. In the museum, everyone is sure to learn something from their incredible exhibits. 

Kids and adults alike will marvel at the sheer magnitude and beauty of the hidden river cave. Guests will get the chance to view two different flowing underground rivers, gigantic caverns, and unique rock formations. 

In the cave, guests will also be treated to a view into the past with the remains of an old hydroelectric generating system. Plus with several different tours to pick from, newbies and seasoned spelunkers can enjoy themselves in equal amounts.

In the museum, everyone is sure to learn something about the fascinating world of caves. This museum is the only one solely dedicated to caves in the United States. Guests will have a chance to learn about archaeology, geology, history, and more. 

2. Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay

Map It: 937 Phillips Ln, Louisville, KY 40209

‍ Phone: (502) 813-8200

‍ Hours: Sat - Sun: 11am to 7pm

‍ Entrance: $42.99+

‍ Age Group: 3+

Get your heart pumping and let the fun flow at this amusement and water park combo. Death defying falls, loads of g-force, water slides, and family rides await guests. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely float through the river, or butterflies in your stomach, you’ll find it.

This destination is great for the whole family. With plenty of attractions for all rides, everyone is sure to find what they want. Get spun around high in the air, or let the little ones splash in the shallow pre-k buccaneer beach. Soak up the sun, float the river, or feel the rush as you race down a slide. 

3. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Map It: 800 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

‍ Phone: (877) 775-8443

‍ Hours: Mon - Sat: 9am to 5pm, Sun: 10am to 4pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 6 - 12: $11, Ages 13+: $18

‍ Age Group: 5+

The Louisville Slugger Museum is a must for baseball and history enthusiasts. Enjoy a tour of the factory or go for the All-Star experience and get a customized tour focusing on your favorite players. Kids and adults alike will be thrilled by the wealth of history and knowledge.

While the tour of the factory alone is already impressive, the museum is home to some unique “collection curveballs.” Guests will enjoy seeing unique bats from throughout history, learn about their favorite players, and of course take home a piece of history of their own.

4. Bluegrass Railroad Museum

Map It: 175 Beasley Rd, Versailles, KY 40383

‍ Phone: (859) 873-2476

‍ Hours: Sat: 10am to 4pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 2 - 12: $12+, Ages 13+: $14+

Those looking for a more peaceful but fun experience will find exactly what they’re looking for at this museum. Enjoy several different tour types, each with their own unique flair. There’s even holiday themed rides depending on the season. 

Guests will have the option to enjoy a tour that fits their traveling party’s interest. Whether you’re looking for historical civil war uniforms and cannons, Santa holiday rides, or a stop in a pumpkin patch, you’ll find the right one for you. 

5. Mammoth Cave National Park

Map It: 1 Visitor Center Parkway Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

‍ Phone: 270-758-2180

‍ Hours: Open 24 hours

‍ Entrance: Free

‍ Age Group: All ages

This national park is home to a thriving and diverse ecosystem of plant and animal life to marvel at. It also has the world’s longest known cave system and is filled with thousands of years of human history.

Enjoy being outdoors as you look out at scenic vistas, learn about the area, or engage in a multitude of outdoor activities. Go hiking, biking, canoeing, and much more. Explore the cave system with an audio tour or enjoy the stars above the park. 

6. Newport Aquarium

Map It: 1 Levee Wy, Newport, KY 41071

‍ Phone: (800) 406-3474

‍ Hours: Mon - Fri: 10am to 5pm, Sat: 9am to 6pm, Sun: 9am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 2 - 12: $14.99 - $31.99, Ages 13+: $22.99 - $39.99

The whole family is sure to enjoy themselves as they view thousands of unique and marvelous sea creatures. Walk through a coral tunnel, cross a rope bridge over a pool of sharks, and more.

Kids and adults of all ages are sure to form lasting memories as they pet stingrays and explore a network of underwater acrylic tunnels. Here everyone can safely interact with some of the world's most fascinating underwater creatures, and learn about them too.

7. Beech Bend Amusement Park

Map It: 798 Beech Bend Park Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101

‍ Phone: (270) 781-7634

‍ Hours: Sat: 11am to 6pm

‍ Entrance: Under 48in: $34.99, Over 48in: $44.99

Spread over an expanse of almost 400 acres, this massive amusement area has thrills and fun to spare. Stay the night in a lovely campground, ride rollercoasters, make a splash in the park, and watch races. 

Guests to Beech Bend will have a multitude of attractions to pick from in the park. From family friendly rides to heart racing drops, to watery fun, and more. 

Outside the park, guests will get to enjoy regularly scheduled races and unique vehicles on the drag strip. Plus, with a campground on site, guests will have everything they need only minutes from the fun.

8. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

Map It: 2995 Lincoln Farm Rd, Hodgenville, KY 42728

‍ Phone: ( 270) 358-3137

‍ Hours: 9am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Free:

Learn about one of America’s most known historical figures at the first Lincoln Memorial. Learn about his life from childhood to his involvement as a prominent figure during the civil war. There’s plenty of history, nature, and activities for kids too.

Visiting this national historical park has several options for activities. Guests will get to visit the memorial and learn about Lincoln in reenactments and lectures. There’s even special programs and activities specific for kids.

Besides history and lectures, the park also has several scenic vistas to enjoy. Enjoy the waters at Sinking Spring and Knob Creek, or watch the local wildlife roam the surrounding forest.

9. Kentucky Horse Park

Map It: 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511

‍ Phone: (859) 233-4303

‍ Hours: Wed - Sun: 9am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 6 - 12: $6, Ages 13+: $12

Any kid in your life that loves animals, and especially horses, are in for a treat at this park. Here guests can engage with horses and their unique relationship with humans in a variety of ways. Watch spectacular shows, go on a horse ride, and learn some history.

Walk through the Smithsonian affiliated International Museum of the Horse. Here kids and adults alike can learn all about the history of horses through exhibits and interactive multimedia experiences. There’s also sections on antique memorabilia, films, art, and more.

Outside of the museum, guests can go on horse rides, stay at the campsite, and watch shows with Hall of Champion steeds. This is an ideal trip for the horse lover in your life.

10. Cumberland Falls

Map It: 7351 Highway 90, Corbin, KY 40701

‍ Phone: ( 606) 528-4121

Breathtaking views, scenic hiking trails, gem mines, and horseback rides are waiting for you and your kids at Cumberland Falls. Active outdoorsy families will find exactly what they’re looking for here. Stay in DuPont Lodge, engage in outdoors fun, and more.

At Cumberland Falls, guests will have plenty of opportunity for hikes suited for any level, fishing, swimming, horseback riding and more. There’s also gem mining, a lovely riverview restaurant, and a gift shop so you can take a piece of this unforgettable place back home.

11. Dinosaur World

Map It: 711 Mammoth Cave Rd, Cave City, KY 42127

‍ Phone: (270) 773-4345

‍ Hours: 8:30am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 3 - 12: $12.75+, Ages 13+: $15.75+

‍ Age Group: Under 12

The dino lovers in your life are in for a treat at this fun and interactive park. Kids will love the over 150 life size dinosaurs, skeletal playground, and dino themed activities. This is the perfect blend of education and fun for the little ones in your life.

Dinosaur World has several activities for kids to participate in. They’ll get to walk through the Prehistoric museum and learn a bit about our world through fossils and bones. There’s a fossil dig in a specially stocked area for some archaeological fun, gem excavation, and more.

12. National Corvette Museum

Map It: 350 Corvette Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42101

‍ Phone: (270) 781-7973

‍ Entrance: Ages 5 -12: $13, Ages 13+: $18

Car lovers rejoice, because this incredible museum has years of history honoring this legendary vehicle. There’s plenty of cool cars to look at, activities for the kids, and even an option to drive a corvette for the adults.

Guests will get to explore the plant and watch these incredible vehicles built. The museum has a multitude of exhibits showcasing the company’s unique history. It’s not just walking and watching though.

There’s a Corvette Simulator where guests of all ages can experience the fun of driving a Corvette on a racetrack. There’s also go-karts, a Corvette store, and an option for the adults to drive an actual Corvette. Plus, with the Stingray Grill inside the museum, you’re in for hours of food and fun.  

13. Kentucky Derby Museum

Map It: 704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208

‍ Phone: (502) 637-1111

‍ Hours: Mon - Sat: 8am to 5pm, Sun: 11am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Varies by activity

Learn about one of Kentucky’s most renowned events at the Kentucky Derby Museum. Explore a multitude of educational and interactive exhibits across two floors, celebrating this event’s unique history. When you’re done exploring, enjoy some Kentucky themed food.

Guests to the museum, and especially Derby enthusiasts, will be thrilled at the multitude of exhibits and interactivity offered inside. Learn about everything from black heritage in racing, to jockey stories, and beyond. You can even test your “Derby IQ” with an interactive quiz game.

Walk around the store to find some Kentucky Derby themed merchandise to commemorate the trip. When you’re all done exploring, watching videos, playing games, and shopping, head to the Derby Cafe for food and drinks.

14. Diamond Caverns

Map It: 1900 Mammoth Cave Pkwy, Park City, KY 42160

‍ Phone: (270) 749-2233

‍ Hours: 9am to 4pm

‍ Entrance: Age 4 -12: $11, Age 13+: $22

Marvel at the natural beauty of this World Heritage Site filled with drapery deposits, colorful calcite, and unique rock formations. Walk through half a mile of beautiful cave any time of the year and enjoy several unique vistas on a guided tour.

Going on a guided tour of these caverns will treat guests to views of dripping stalactites, drapery formations, “cave bacon,” and more. Kids will love the fun educational commentary and interactive elements of the tour. This is a great educational, scenic, and active visit for your trip.

15. Explorium of Lexington

Map It: 440 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507

‍ Phone: (859) 258-3253

‍ Hours: Tue - Sat: 10am to 5pm, Sun: 1pm to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 2+: $10

‍ Age Group: Under 10  

This interactive and educational destination promises to inspire imagination and curiosity through play. Built for kids to interact with each other and explore their creativity, this is a great place for any kid. Adults will learn to play again, and kids will learn about the world.

The Explorium is filled with unique and fun activities built for kids. Here they can learn about homes around the world, study archaeology, learn about physics and space, and much more. Best of all, these are all taught in fun interactive settings, perfect for burning energy and having fun.

16. Muhammad Ali Center

Map It: 144 N 6th St, Louisville, KY 40202

‍ Phone: (502) 584-9254

‍ Hours: Wed - Sun: 12pm to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Students: $10, Adults: $18

‍ Age Group: 6+

Teach the kids about this influential and historical figure through a multitude of unique exhibits. Watch multimedia presentations, interact with exhibits, and more to learn about this incredible individual. Ali had six core principles, and the museum makes sure to use them.

Confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect, and spirituality are incorporated into the exhibits and are sure to leave a lasting impression. Learn about his time as a boxer, Olympic medalist, and beyond. This museum is sure to inspire anyone to do the most for the world we all share.

17. Kentucky Reptile Zoo

Map It: 200 L&E Railroad Pl, Slade, KY 40376

‍ Phone: (606) 663-9160

‍ Hours: Thu - Mon: 10am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 4 - 15: $8.50, Ages 16+: $12.50

From venom extractions to party hat wearing lizards, this reptile zoo is filled with charm, science, and learning. Here guests can view incredible critters, learn about respecting them, and play from a safe distance.

Industry professionals, animal lovers, and scientists help lead demonstrations and lectures at the zoo. It’s not just for little ones either, these professionals offer lessons up to a high school level.

Show the kids some fascinating animals, let them learn about the medical research being done with venom, and more. No matter the age, this is a great stop filled with fun and learning.

18. Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo

Map It: 3700 L and North Turnpike Road, I-65, Horse Cave, KY 42749

‍ Phone: (270) 786-2634

‍ Entrance: Ages 4 - 14: $15.95, Ages 15+: $29.95

Nature lovers are in for a treat at this interactive zoo and nature exhibit. Take the kids gem mining, stroll through a field of kangaroos, pet goats, and so much more. This trip is perfect for the animal and nature lover in your life.

Interactive exhibits, like gem mining and the petting zoo are sure to thrill the kids. There’s also several educational programs focusing on the Mammoth Onyx Cave and animals. Here anyone can learn and get the unique opportunity to pet exotic animals.

19. Barren River Lake

Map It: 1149 State Park Road, Lucas, KY 42156

‍ Phone: ( 270) 646-2151

‍ Hours: Varies by activity

The Barren River Lake has something for everyone from golfing to fishing, to hiking, to delicious food, and beyond. Catch and grill fresh fish, stay in a lovely lodge overlooking the lake, and enjoy nature all around. This is a perfect destination for active families.

The Louie B. Nunn Lodge offers a perfect homebase for all your adventures. Outside guests will be spoiled for choice for outdoor fun. Go biking, boating, fishing, or play a friendly game of basketball with the kids.

There’s playgrounds, shuffleboard, golf, and a restaurant to re-energize yourselves before getting back to the fun. This is a great destination for burning energy and having a blast together as a family.

20. General Butler State Resort Park

Map It: 1608 KY-227, Carrollton, KY 41008

‍ Phone: (502) 732-4384

Whether you’re looking to camp, learn about the area, go mini-golfing with the kids, this resort park has it all and more. Stay in the perfect combination of luxury and nature in the Butler Lodge, go camping, or enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities with the kids.

Biking, boating, and fishing are just a few options. In the lodge, guests can play board games. Head down to the lake for some mini-golf, or take a museum tour. This resort park has so much to offer for everyone in your traveling party, but the kids especially are sure to have fun.

21. Green River Lake State Park

Map It: 179 Park Office Rd, Campbellsville, KY 42718

‍ Phone: (270) 465-8255

Those looking to reconnect with nature and family will find exactly what they’re looking for at this state park. Enjoy outdoor activities on the beautiful Green River Lake and surrounding trails. This is an active but relaxing destination for everyone, no matter the age.

Guests will have the option to bike, hike, or horseback through 28 miles of trails, fish and swim in the lake, and more. There are campgrounds, a mini golf course, volleyball courts, and basketball courts. The whole family is sure to have fun and bond together out in nature.

22. SomerSplash Waterpark

Map It: 1030 KY-2227, Somerset, KY 42503

‍ Phone: (606) 679-7946

‍ Hours: Sat: 11am to 7pm, Sun: 1pm to 7pm

‍ Entrance: 48in+: $17.95, Under 48in: $15.95

Kids of all ages will have a blast racing down slides, splashing in themed pools, and soaking up the sun. Float down the lazy river, get rocked around in the wave pool, and more. There’s something for every age group.

Guests will have the option to enjoy several different attractions based on height. Body slides, tube slides, a lazy river, and kiddie play area are just some of the fun options waiting. There’s also concession stands, perfect for snacking when taking a break from the fun.

23. Kentucky Railway Museum

Map It: 136 S Main St, New Haven, KY 40051

‍ Phone: (800) 272-0152

‍ Hours: Tue - Sat: 9am to 4:30pm

Sun: 12pm to 4:30pm

The whole family is in for a treat at this historical museum. Choose from several different tour options from relaxing meals on the train, to reenacted train robberies, and beyond. This is a fun, informative, and unique experience that can be tailored to your family.

The museum also offers special event tours for seasonal festivities or parties. This includes a few Christmas themed rides, spring rides, autumn rides, and more. This is a great trip for any kid, but especially the train enthusiast in your life.

24. Salato Wildlife Center

Map It: 1 Sportsman's Ln, Frankfort, KY 40601

‍ Phone: (502) 564-7863

‍ Hours: Tue - Sat: 9am to 4pm

‍ Entrance: Youth: $3, Adults: $5

This is a great option for those looking to teach the kids a little about hunting, fishing, and the importance of conservation. Experts in the field will teach kids how to fish and hunt safely, how to view wildlife safely from a distance, and more.

Kids and adults alike will have the opportunity to fish and engage with wildlife in interactive and educational ways here. There are activities and sticker sheets to commemorate the trip too.

25. Louisville Zoo

Map It: 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213

‍ Phone: (502) 459-2181

‍ Hours: 10am to 5pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 3 - 11: $10.75 - $20.50, Ages 12+: $15.75 - $25.50

A long proven activity for kids is visiting the zoo. Here kids can learn about the fascinating world of animals, engage in fun activities, and see their favorite animals. Walk around a large area with themed exhibits all meant to inform and entertain, no matter the age.

The zoo is split into several areas with animals and plants from a specific region of the world. See elephants in the Africa area, wallabies in Australia, and so on. Visiting during certain parts of the year will also see the zoo dressed up thematically for the holidays.

26. Belle of Louisville

Map It: 401 W River Rd, Louisville, KY 40202

‍ Phone: 502) 574-2992

‍ Hours: Tue - Fri: 10am to 4pm, Sat: 10am to 7pm, Sun 10am - 12pm

‍ Entrance: Varies by tour

‍ Age Group: All ages   

Embark on an unforgettable trip across Louisville’s waterfront on historic steamboats tours. Enjoy sightseeing, food, or go on special kid focused cruises. This is a peaceful, informative, and engaging experience for kids of all ages.

Smaller kids will enjoy the gentle rock of the water as well as the kid focused cruises. Here they can engage in hands-on activities and learn a little history as well. Enjoy a delicious meal, or plan a trip during one of their special events, like the fourth of July fireworks cruise.    

27. Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Map It: 2135 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376

‍ Phone: (606) 663-2214

Marvel at the massive natural bridge and enjoy exploring the stunning Red River Gorge area. Visit the historic nature center or enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities. Those looking for a bird's eye view can also ride the sky lift up to the incredible natural bridge.

While the natural bridge is the main attraction of the park, there are still plenty of other activities to enjoy together with the kiddos. Fishing, pedal boating, and even mini-golf are all within the park for you to enjoy, just to name a few.

28. Chaney’s Dairy Barn

Map It: 9191 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101

‍ Phone: (270) 843-5567

‍ Hours: Mon - Sat: 11am to 9pm, Sun: 12pm to 8pm

‍ Entrance: Varies by meal

From farm to storefront, this ice cream shop offers some of the best ice cream you could ask for. Made from the milk of their Jersey cows, Chaney’s ice cream is delicious and locally sourced. Pick from a variety of flavors, or stop in for moovie night.

The dairy barn also serves plenty of other delicious food too from burgers to salads, and more. The barn also regularly hosts moovie nights featuring popular kid’s movies, making it the perfect place for food, a treat, and fun.

29. Creation Museum

Map It: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd, Petersburg, KY 41080

‍ Phone: (888) 582-4253

‍ Hours: Mon - Sat: 9am to 6pm, Sun: 1pm to 7pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 11 - 17: $24.95, Ages 18+: $44.95

Age Group: 5+

The creation museum is a fun interactive space for kids to engage with science and history. Interact with animals, walk through the botanical garden, look at dinosaur skeletons, and more.

The framing device of the museum is of course the bible, but regardless of your beliefs, there is still plenty of fun for kids to have. Plus with over 75,000 square-feet to explore, you’re sure to burn some energy just walking around looking at the exhibits. 

30. Land Between the Lake National Recreation Area

Map It: 238 Visitor Center Dr, Golden Pond, KY 42211

‍ Phone: (800) 525-7077

Enjoy the vast 170,000 acres of forests and open lands filled with wildlife, nature, and outdoor activities all for free. Escape into nature with the family, learn from professional naturalists, swim, boat, hike, and so much more.

The park is massive and filled with something for everyone that loves being outdoors.Stunning vistas, biking routes, and a multitude of learning opportunities are waiting for the whole family.

31. Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center

Map It: 9503 Eagle Way, Hopkinsville, KY 42240

‍ Phone: (270) 890-0730

‍ Hours: Mon - Fri: 11am to 7pm, Sat: 10am to 7pm, Sun: 12pm to 7pm

‍ Entrance: Under 48in: $7, Over 48in: $9

Cool off and make a splash at this fun, family friendly aquatic center. Pick from a variety of classic water based attractions, such as slides and a lazy river. Fly down hurricane alley or the riptide express, enjoy a pool-side snack, and more.

The park is perfect for kids 3 and up. Here younger kids can enjoy themselves in the splash zone with interactive water elements, while older kids can go on slides. There’s also a lazy river and lounge chairs galore, perfect for relaxing.

32. The Highlands Museum and Discovery Center

Map It: 1620 Winchester Ave, Ashland, KY 41101

‍ Phone: (606) 329-8888

‍ Hours: Wed - Sat: 10am to 4pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 3 - 18: $5, Adults: $6.50

Kids will come away from this museum and discovery center excited about history and with all new knowledge. There’s something for everyone here from the special play space for toddlers, to the highly informative exhibits. 

Guests will step into a 19th century classroom, learn about Kentucky’s past, and get to enjoy interactive elements too. There’s history, cave science, astronomy, and loads more. This is a space of learning and exploration perfect for getting your little ones’ brains excited about learning. 

33. Crank and Boom Craft Ice Cream

Map It: 1210 Manchester St, Lexington, KY 40504

‍ Phone: (859) 288-2176

‍ Hours: Sun - Thur: 11am to 10pm, Fri - Sat: 11am to 11pm

‍ Entrance: Varies by treat

Everyone is sure to enjoy stopping at this shop for some premium ice cream. Choose from a multitude of classic and signature flavors from Kentucky Blackberry & Buttermilk to strawberry, and more. 

Crank and boom started off small, but have since expanded into national acclaim for their delicious ice cream. Plus, with several ongoing charitable practices going on, your family can enjoy a tasty treat knowing that it’s also for a good cause.

34. Living Arts & Science Center

Map It: 362 N Martin Luther King Blvd, Lexington, KY 40508

‍ Phone: (859) 252-5222

‍ Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am to 5pm

Kids of all ages will find their curiosity and minds buzzing while visiting this fun interactive space. Guests can learn about the night sky in the planetarium, walk through multiple galleries, and more. This is an educational and fun way to keep the kids entertained.

Animal experts will teach kids about fascinating critters. The discovery room is perfect for exploring science in an interactive space. Outside, a playful and interconnected system of rain and butterfly gardens are open to explore and learn from too.

In the gardens, there’s an opportunity to learn about rainwater collection, bird feeds, native Kentucky flowers, and vegetable gardens. A gift shop onsite will also ensure that the kids have a keepsake to remember their trip.

35. Boone Creek Outdoors

Map It: 8291 Old Richmond Rd, Lexington, KY 40515

‍ Phone: (855) 494-7539

‍ Hours: 9am to 6pm

‍ Age Group: 4+

Boone Creek Outdoors promises exhilarating fun for kids 4 and up. Guests can be guided on hikes, challenge themselves on ropes courses, or fly through a canopy of trees on a zipline. There are activities for every age level, so everyone is sure to have a blast.

Guests will get to choose from a variety of ropes and zipline courses to fit their skill and age level. Younger kids can enjoy 16 unique challenges on the Daniel Boone’s Challenge course, while older ones can take the zipline canopy tour. It’s not just for kids though, this is a blast no matter your age.

36. Earthjoy Treehouse Rental Adventures

Map It: 3400 Bridgeville Rd, Brooksville, KY 41004

‍ Phone: (859) 380-1945

‍ Hours: 9am to 8pm

‍ Entrance: Varies by rental

Those looking not only for fun activities, but fun accommodations will love staying in one of these treehouses. Pick from several unique stays, suspended high in the trees, all with their own charm and amenities.

These treehouses aren’t your run of the mill treehouse either. Here you can enjoy many of the comforts of home and more. The Hickory has a slide, the Aliyah has a unique bridge, and the Kentucky Climber  was built by Master Treehouse builder, Pete Nelson. 

This is just scratching the surface too. Every stay in one of these treehouses is unforgettable. Kids are sure to be thrilled at the idea of staying in one of these cozy and fun treehouses.  

37. Smothers Park

Map It: 199 W Veterans Blvd, Owensboro, KY 42303

‍ Phone: (270) 687-8333

‍ Hours: 7am to 10pm

‍ Age group: Under 10

Named the “Top Playground in the World,” Smothers Park is a treat for kids under 10. Tunnels, bridges, slides, towers, and water features will have them all thrilled for hours of active fun. Plus with plenty of stunning vistas and free wifi, adults will have plenty as well.

The park is located right on the water, so expect great views while your little ones play. The park also has historical landmarks, like the Shelton Memorial. There’s also a concession stand and picnic area to enjoy a meal after the kids are done playing.

38. Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest

Map It: 2075 Clermont Rd, Clermont, KY 40110

‍ Phone: (502) 955-8512

‍ Hours: 7am to 8pm

‍ Entrance: $10 per car

Enjoy the outdoors and the multitude of unique vistas and activities offered in the beautiful forest. Guests can go hiking, fishing, participate in educational nature programs, view public art, and much more.

One must-sees on the trip are the forest giants, three giant sculptures made of wood by a Danish artist . The sensory garden, education center, and cafe are a few others. There’s so much to see and interact with. Everyone on your trip is sure to find something they love.

39. NCM Motorsports Park

Map It: 505 Kimberlee A Fast Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42103

‍ Phone: (844) 977-7333

‍ Hours: By appointment

‍ Entrance: Varies by event

‍ Age Group: 7+  

Guests to the NCM Motorsports Park are in for loads of fun, history, and incredible vehicles. Those with young motorsports enthusiasts will get to try out go-karting, see loads of powerful machines, and maybe watch a race.

Parents and kids will love seeing and learning all about the racing vehicles, and driving go-karts to get in on the fun. Parents will also have an option to drive a Corvette or bring their own car to try out on the track. 

40. Round1 Bowling & Amusement

Map It: 4801 Outer Loop Building B, Louisville, KY 40219

‍ Phone: (502) 371-7878

‍ Hours: 10am to 2am

‍ Entrance: Varies by game

‍ Age Group: 5+  

Located within Jefferson Mall, this amusement area is one of many that show why Round 1 is a leader in this market. Bowling, karaoke, a massive arcade, crane games, and more are waiting for the whole family.

Win stuffed animals for the little ones, play a racing game, or rent a karaoke room to sing some family songs together. Win tickets and use them to get prizes the kids will love. Go bowling, play pool, and more.

This fun and vibrant entertainment center is packed with something for everyone. Plus, its location within the mall means there’s even more to do.

41. Joseph-Beth Booksellers

Map It: 161 Lexington Green Cir # B, Lexington, KY 40503

‍ Phone: (859) 273-2911

‍ Hours: Mon - Sat: 10am to 9pm, Sun: 10am to 6pm

One of a few Joseph-Beth book stores can be found in Kentucky. Browse a wide selection of books and knick-knacks for every age.

Inspire your little ones to read with an extensive kids, middle grade, and young adult section. Joseph-Beth prides themselves on creating a carefully curated collection, meaning there’s something for everyone to love.    

42. Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours & Museum

Map It: 116 E 2nd St, Frankfort, KY 40601

‍ Phone: (502) 223-7475

‍ Hours: 10am to 6pm

‍ Entrance: Ages 0 - 17: $4, Ages 18+: $6

Kids are sure to enjoy a wide selection of treats, candy, and chocolate on your trip through Kentucky. Guests can tour the factory and enjoy world class treats.

Tours of the factory will teach guests about Rebecca Ruth’s 100 year old history of candy making. In the store, they’ll find a wide selection of classic and signature treats for everyone to enjoy.

43. Aviation Museum of Kentucky

Map It: 4029 Airport Rd, Lexington, KY 40510

‍ Phone: (859) 231-1219

‍ Entrance: Ages 6 - 16: $6, Ages 17+: $10

‍ Age Group: 3+    

Travel through a long history of incredible flying machines with the whole family. Learn about the innovations of different eras and watch the kids marvel at the vehicles on display.

Everything from the Wright Brothers to world war II planes, and so much more can be found in the museum. Here guests can learn about history while staring right at the incredible machines themselves.

44. Homemade Ice Cream & Pie Kitchen

Map It: 2525 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40205

‍ Phone: (502) 459-8184

Hours: Mon - Thu: 10am to 9pm Fri - Sat: 10am to 10pm, Sun: 12pm to 9pm

Kids and parents alike are sure to love stopping in at this kitchen filled with homemade delicacies. Ice cream, pie, cake pops, and so much more are ready to be enjoyed.

Established in 1982, this shop has perfected their recipes over decades. Enjoy a wealth of menu options from pies, to ice cream, to cookies, and so much more.

45. Kentucky Science Center

Map It: 727 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

‍ Phone: (502) 561-6100

‍ Entrance: 5+, Varies by activities

‍ Age Group: 12 and under

Spark your kids imagination and mind through fun, educational, and interactive exhibits and movies. Watch them learn about different fields of science from professionals and hands on.

The center has everything from astrology to geography, to biology, and much more for kids to learn about. This is truly a wealth

Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.

Recommended Reads

Trending reads.

Top 35 Celebrity Homes in Beverly Hills

Explore the lavish world of Beverly Hills with our guide to the top 35 celebrity homes. Perfect for travelers, this interactive map offers a peek into luxury living.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Sarasota, FL

From powdery beaches to world-class art, Sarasota blends coastal charm with cultural sophistication for an unexpectedly diverse Florida getaway.

10 Fun Things to Do in Pawleys Island

Explore 10 exciting activities in Pawleys Island, SC, from loggerhead turtle adventures to surfing, historic tours, and golfing. Ideal for family fun!

Your trusted source for travel guides, tips, and insights since 2020. Empowering adventurers with expert advice for smarter, more rewarding journeys.

Gone With My Babies

A space for traveling moms.

70 Exciting Things To Do In Kentucky With Kids

Are you looking for the best things to do in Kentucky with kids? You’ve come to the right place! The Bluegrass State is home to stunning landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, lively cities, and all sorts of family fun! Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, a food-focused vacation, or a city escape, Kentucky has you covered. Known for bluegrass music, country cuisine, moonshine, bourbon, horse racing, college basketball, and Kentucky Fried Chicken, Kentucky is an interesting state with a large variety of attractions and activities to participate in. Which of these things to do in Kentucky with kids will you do first?

Kentucky Horse Park, Lexington

This park in Lexington is one of the coolest things to do in Kentucky with kids. Inside the park, there’s the International Museum of the Horse as well as the American Saddlebred Museum where you can learn about the history of horses in Kentucky. If you are able to visit the horse park in the winter, you are in for a treat. In the winter, the park holds an event called the Southern Lights where you can shop local products, see Santa, dive through millions of Christmas lights, eat yummy food, and more!

Fort Boonesborough State Park, Richmond

Fort Boonesborough was a frontier fort founded by Daniel Boone and his men in Kentucky. The settlement is the second oldest European-Ameican settlement in Kentucky. You can tour the fort, check out the wood cabins, learn about the history and play on the beach at Fort Boonesborough.

Drive Old Frankfort Pike

One of the most unique things to do in Kentucky with kids is to drive along Old Frankfort Pike. This is known as Thoroughbred Alley and is absolutely beautiful. This road starts in Lexington and ends in Frankfort. The amount of history that this road has seen is amazing. A drive along this road will showcase horses running in Bluegrass fields, beautiful landscapes, and multi-million dollar barns!

Lost River Cave, Bowling Green

Have you ever wanted to take a boat ride through a cave? You can at the Lost River Cave! This has to be one of the coolest things to do in Kentucky with kids! The tour is forty-five minutes and people of all ages can take part. To avoid waiting in line, you can book your tour ahead of time online. You can also zipline and gem mine while you’re there!

Cumberland Falls, Corbin

Cumberland Falls is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids if you love being outdoors. Often called Little Niagra or the Niagra Falls of the South, this waterfall is stunning and draws visitors from all over the United States. In the park, you can hike, sunbathe mine for gems, and more! If you’re lucky, you can witness the moonbow that appears around the falls. Check the Cumberland Falls website for more information and dates about the moonbow!

Newport Aquarium, Newport

This aquarium in northern Kentucky is full of life and excitement for both kids and adults, making it one of the best things to do in Newport with kids! The Newport Aquarium features a Shark Bridge where you can walk over the vast shark tanks in the aquarium. Other aquariums have added shark bridges to their aquariums, but this one in Newport is the world’s first! You can also touch sharks and stingrays, watch penguins play, and walkthrough underwater tunnels. If you are looking for things to do in Kentucky near the Ark Encounter, the aquarium is only about forty minutes away.

Eat Kentucky’s Best Tacos at El Taco Luchador, Louisville

Some of the best tacos in Kentucky can be found at El Taco Luchador in Louisville. Binge on their scrumptious tacos and rest easy knowing that even your picky eater will have something to eat at this restaurant! If you’re a foodie, visiting El Taco Luchador is one of the best things to do in Louisville KY.

The Breaks Interstate Park, Elkhorn City

Located in Elkhorn City, KY, and Breaks, VA, The Breaks are like a Grand Canyon of the south. Kayaking, camping, mountain biking, canoeing, and hiking trails can all be found in the park. Jump into one of the blue swimming holes, hike down to the river below, and really explore the beauty of the southeastern Kentucky mountains. The Breaks are one of the best free things to do in Kentucky!

Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville

Muhammad Ali was a Louisville native and you can explore his history and life at this museum and cultural center in Kentucky! There are interactive exhibits, you can see his awards, car, motorcycle, and much more. The center is situated along the Ohio river and is close to the River Walk and Bike Trail, Kentucky Science Center, Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, and other attractions within walking distance.

Kentucky Railway Museum, New Haven

The Kentucky Railway Museum is one of the coolest things to do in Kentucky with kids! There are many different tours to choose from; you can take an hour-long train excursion, take part in a train robbery, take a behind-the-scenes tour, ride in a locomotive cab, and more! Train rides are especially beautiful in the fall when the colorful fall leaves fill the area around the train tracks.

Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay, Louisville

Are roller coasters up your alley? Coasters, kids’ rides, and water rides are all available at the Kentucky Kingdom! If you’re looking to escape the summer heat, head over to Hurricane Bay to cool off in the wave pool, lazy river, kiddie pools, or on the water slides. You can easily spend all day (or a couple of days) at the Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay!

Mammoth Cave National Park, Mammoth Cave

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Kentucky, you are going to want to check out Mammoth Cave! Boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, hiking, horseback riding, biking, and more awaits you at the Mammoth Cave National Park. Of course, the highlight of the park is Mammoth Cave which is the world’s longest known cave system at nearly twice the size of the second-largest save system in Mexico! There are many tours to take through the cave system that range in difficulty, length, and time, so you will be able to pick the one that fits the needs of your family.

Salato Wildlife Center, Frankfort

This beautiful display of wildlife is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids! You can see bison, black bear, turkeys, snakes, turtles, eagles, beavers, cougars, and more at Salato. The wildlife center is open seasonally and holds different programs at different times of the year; check their website for events/programs and dates!

Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame, Owensboro

As you know, Kentucky is known for its Bluegrass music. You can tour the exhibits, take a group tour, see the birthplace of Bluegrass and listen to live performances. Owensboro is known as the birthplace of Bluegrass because it’s where the International Bluegrass Music Association was founded in 1986. At the museum, you are just forty-five minutes from the home of the father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe.

Red River Gorge Geological Area, Stanton

The Red River Gorge has been increasing in popularity in recent years and is now one of the most popular things to do in Kentucky with kids! The most popular feature in the gorge is Natural Bridge , which is a naturally formed sandstone bridge that you can hike to and walk over. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take the sky lift up to the bridge and ride it back down again as well. There are also other trails and natural aches to be seen in the gorge. In fact, there are more than one hundred naturally formed sandstone arches in the Red River Gorge! You can also play on the ropes course, go underground kayaking, zipline, rock climb, drive through the Nada Tunnel, and more!

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, Union

This attraction is great for parents looking to add a little education to their family vacation. At Big Bone Lick, you can see a Bison Herd, go camping, visit the Big Bone lick Museum, play a round of mini-golf, play on the playgrounds, hike one of the easy or moderate trails, swim in the pool, or have a picnic in the sun!

Eat Peach Ice Cream at Homemade Ice Cream & Pie Kitchen, Louisville

Have you ever had homemade peach ice cream? A trip to Kentucky isn’t complete without trying a sweet treat and there isn’t anything better than this homemade peach ice cream from the Homemade Ice Cream & Pie Kitchen in Louisville. If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Kentucky, you can’t beat a trip to this delicious ice cream shop!

Dog Slaughter Falls, Whitley County

This waterfall hike in Whitley County Kentucky is a heavily trafficked out and back trail that is around 2.4 miles long. Your reward from this hike is a beautiful fifteen-foot waterfall that pours into a pretty blue swimming hole below! For those traveling with older kids or kids who are used to hiking, this is a must when in Kentucky.

Diamond Caverns, Park City

The historic Diamond Caverns are located across from the Mammoth Cave National park and have been offering tours for more than 160 years! This is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids as it offers exploration, adventure, as well as opportunities to learn about the history and science of the area. The tour is considered strenuous so this may be better suited for older kids, however, young kids and babies in a front carrier are allowed.

Dinosaur World, Cave City

Dinosaur World is not only kid-friendly, but it’s also dog-friendly! It’s just a short drive from Mammoth Cave National Park and is full of fun things to do. You can dig for fossils, play on the playgrounds, see the artifacts in the museum, pan for minerals, and more! This is a great activity to do when visiting Mammoth Cave.

Land Between The Lakes, Golden Pond

This is an exciting and fun thing to do with kids in Kentucky. There’s camping, lake activities, a planetarium, an elk and bison prairie, and a nature station where you can see native animals up close and personal. For those who like to camp, there are five campsites to choose from!

Kentucky Science Center, Louisville

The Kentucky Science Center is perfect for those looking for things to do in Louisville with kids. The exhibits are interactive and teach children about art, science, math, animals, and other important topics. There are exhibits that focus on air cargo, the world, being human, and more.

Aviation Museum of Kentucky, Lexington

This is the perfect attraction in Kentucky for the aviation lover in your family. You can explore the two hangers that are full of aircraft from different time periods and for different purposes. They have military aircraft, simulators, helicopters, a replica of one of the first quadraplanes, and more! The museum also has military memorabilia, plane engines, a gift shop, and the opportunity to watch planes take off and land from the nearby airport.

Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, Horse Cave

Are there kangaroos in Kentucky? There are at Kentucky Down Under! Other than petting a kangaroo, you can also learn about history, tour the Mammoth Onyx Cave, watch animal shows, check out the petting zoo, picnic, take part in gem mining, and more at this Kentucky zoo!

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum, Versailles

This is one of the coolest things to do in Kentucky with kids! Are you ready to ride in an open-air car? Maybe you would prefer to ride in first class with air-conditioner and plush reclining seats. Or maybe coach seating in a 1930’s New York City Commuter coach with an open window is more your speed. Either way, visiting the museum and taking a train ride are super exciting at the Bluegrass Railroad and Museum.

Old Fort Harrod State Park, Harrodsburg

Built in the 1770s, Fort Harrod is super cool to explore as a family! You can see what life was like hundreds of years ago, visit the Mansion Museum, see the largest Osage Orange tree in the United States and the Lincoln Marriage Temple, and last but not least, take a walk through the oldest cemetery in Kentucky, the Pioneer Cemetery. You can also picnic and play on the playground on the park!

Camp at Turkey Foot Camprgound, McKee

This campground is about an hour south of the Natural Bridge State Park and is has tons of gorgeous areas to explore. There are fifteen spots and it’s totally free! You can camp between walls of trees near the War Fork Creek. There are horseshoe pits and the creek is great for fishing as it is stocked with trout throughout the year. This campground is surrounded by popular outdoor attractions. Flat Lick Falls, a Sheltowee Trace Trailhead, Cave Run Lake, and more!

National Corvette Museum, Bowling Green

Years ago, part of this museum was famously sunk down into a sink hole and today you can now visit an exhibit at the museum called Corvette Cave-In where you can learn about the sinkhole that swallowed eight of the corvettes in the museum. The museum also has a racing simulator, a nostalgic section, and a kid zone!

Yuko-En on the Elkhorn, Georgetown

This garden is the official Kentucky-Japan Friendship Garden and is six acres of specially designed strolling garden. This is a great place to take a walk, be in nature, have a picnic, and take photos!

Louisville Zoo, Louisville

Zoos are always a hit with the kids, and this one is no different. The Louisville Zoo is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids as it has a Dino Quest, seals, polar bears, sloths, elephants, Cuban crocodiles, and many other exciting animals. Your little ones will also love the antique carousel, riding a camel or pony, playing in the splash park, and feeding lorikeets!

Paddle Board on Grayson Lake

Paddleboarding in Kentucky can be so much fun! One of the best places to paddle board in Kentucky is on Grayson Lake. This is because there is a grotto on the lake that is tucked into mossy-covered sandstone cliffs. If you want, you can take a tour with SUP Kentucky. The tour is three hours and you must be nine years old or older. You can discover seven waterfalls and paddle all the way to the beautiful Grayson Grotto.

Mary Todd Lincoln House, Lexington

Abraham Lincoln’s wife was raised in Lexington and her childhood home can be toured by visitors to the day. You can tour the preserved historic home, as well as take a walking tour around Lexington to view different locations that pertain to Mary Todd Lincoln’s childhood. (You can print the walking tour guides from their website.)

Have Fun at the Green River Lake

For outdoor lovers, a trip to the Green River Lake is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids. You can rent a boat, go swimming or fishing, play on the beach, sunbathe, picnic, and camp at Green River Lake. The lake runs through three counties and has countless opportunities for some family fun in the sun!

Hike The Pinnacles, Berea

The 3.5 miles trail to the Pinnacles is one the best things to do in Kentucky with kids for travelers who love to spend time in nature. If you can hike the 700+ feet of elevation gain, you will be rewarded with stunning views from the top!

Zipline Black Mountain, Evarts

For the little daredevils in your travel party, the Black Mountain Thunder Zip Line is the perfect activity! The Black Mountain Adventure Park is home to the fastest zipline in all of North America! The zipline will have you zipping up to 350 feet above the ground at more than 50 miles per hour. To make sure you get to participate, book reservations in advance.

Shaker Town Village of Pleasant Hill, Harrodsburg

The Shaker Town Village in Harrodsburg is the third-largest shaker community in the United States and is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids to learn about the past and be encouraged to explore. The grounds are beautiful and are fun to explore as a family!

Zipline Underground at The Mega Cavern, Louisville

There is so much to do in the Louisville Mega Cavern! From bike tours, walking through the cavern, riding the tram, zip-lining underground, or trying your hand at the ropes course called Mega Quest, the Louisville Mega Cavern is one of the coolest things to do in Kentucky with kids! The zipline course is the world’s only course that is entirely underground, and although you must be seven years old to participate, there are six ziplines and two challenge bridges to experience.

Treetop Adventure at Levi Jackson, London

This aerial ropes course is perfect for staying active while visiting Kentucky. Your kids will be like Tarzan taking the different trails up in the trees. There are different trails that vary in difficulty so there is a place for everyone at this treetop adventure park!

Try Thai Inspired Ice Cream at Crank and Boom, Lexington

All of the ingredients at Crank and Boom are locally sourced and the result is a Thai-inspired product that was made from ingredients of the Bluegrass. This ice cream shop has been featured in USA Today and Southern Living. You can find a large variety of ice cream flavors, including bourbon and honey, blackberry and buttermilk, blueberry lime cheesecake, strawberry balsamic sorbet, and more! You can also try their signature sundaes and ice cream cocktails!

Munal’s Donut Shop, Paducah

When in western Kentucky, there’s no better place to grab a quick breakfast than Munal’s Donut Shop in Paducah! You can find traditional donut flavors as well as donuts covered in different breakfast cereals, Oreos, bacon, and much more!

Beech Bend, Bowling Green

You can’t go wrong with a trip to an amusement park! Beech Bend has roller coasters, rides, a drag strip, a campground, a waterpark, and more! This amusement park is just over ten minutes away from the National Corvette Museum, so it’s quite easy to visit both in a day or in the same trip to Bowling Green.

Kentucky State Capital, Frankfort

There’s no better way to learn about Kentucky than by touring the Kentucky State Capital for yourself. To learn the most from your time in the capital building, consider taking a guided tour.

Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center, Hopkinsville

One of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids during the hot summer months is to visit the Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center in Hopkinsville. The center features a lazy river, water slides, kiddie pools, and more!

The Explorium, Lexington

This children’s museum in Lexington is perfect for those traveling with young kids. Your little ones can burn off some energy while learning and exploring in the Explorium. One of the coolest features about the Explorium is the bubble room where you can stand inside of a bubble! Located in The Square, there are restaurants and shops all around the Explorium for parents to enjoy.

Ark Encounter, Williamstown

This life-size ark offers many cool features and activities for its visitors. You can explore three decks of exhibits, take part in a virtual reality experience, or learn about the Bible at the sister attraction, The Creation Museum. The Ark Encounter teaches about pre-flood life, what the animals on the ark actually looked like, and more!

Kentucky Museum, Bowling Green

This museum covers history, arts, culture, and more. The exhibits are both interesting and beautiful. After the museum, you can check out the Historic RailPark or The Lost River Cave, which are both within a ten-minute drive from the Kentucky Museum.

Eat Kentucky’s Most Iconic Pizza at Miguels, Slade

Miguel’s Pizza is one of the most iconic things to do in Kentucky with kids. Located in Slade, this pizza restaurant is popular among people in the Red River Gorge. After a day of hiking or exploring the gorge, there’s nothing better than filling your belly with some of Miguel’s famous pizza.

William Clark Market House Museum, Paducah

The William Clark Market House Museum is a history museum that has a replica of a 19th-century drugstore, as well as artifacts from the area. The museum offers a chronological history of the city of Paducah. After you’ve toured the museum, you can visit one of the many shops and restaurants that are within walking distance. You can grab a meal from Italian Village Pizza, dessert from Craving the Curls Rolled Ice Cream, before doing some local shopping and ending your walk around Paducah with a cup of coffee from Etcetera Squared.

SomerSplash Waterpark, Somerset

The perfect summer activity for families traveling in Kentucky, SomerSplash is an amazing waterpark in Pulaski County, Kentucky. The park is huge and has a large kids’ area, a lazy river, multiple slides, a wave pool, and more fun in the sun.

Historic RailPark & Train Museum, Bowling Green

Would your kids want to walk onto a dining car or sleeping car? Children will be educated and entertained by the interactive and educational displays that the train museum. You can also board five restored railcars, including a caboose and hospital car, with their own interesting pasts.

Capital City Museum, Frankfort

This museum should be on your list of things to do in Kentucky with kids if you and your family homeschool. You can learn about the capital city of Kentucky in detail at this multi-story museum. From clothes worn by frontiersmen and local currency to Kentucky Penitentiary artifacts and hollowed-out logs from a water system of the past, the museum is full of interesting items and topics to learn about.

Museum of Science and History, Owensboro

The Owensboro Museum of Science of History is an exciting museum for family travelers to visit. There are many exhibits that are designed for children to play and learn at the same time. Kids can learn about magnets, puppets, history, bridges, boats, and more! There’s also an exhibit called the Speedzeum that is dedicated to motorsports and local racing history that older kids will be interested in.

Eat Burgers at the Grind Burger Kitchen, Louisville

For the best burgers in Louisville, a trip to the Grind Burger Kitchen is a must! They have a simple yet delicious menu that even kids will love. You can get typical burgers or try something different like a Cuban sandwich, kale salad, a veggie burger, or one of the B&B burgers which have brie cheese, bacon, and habanero jam. The restaurant has even been featured on Food Network on the show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives!

Hummel Planetarium, Richmond

One of the most educational things to do in Kentucky with kids is to visit the Hummel Planetarium at Eastern Kentucky University. You can attend public showings at the planetarium to learn about constellations, meteors, space exploration, and more!

Camp Nelson National Monument, Nicholasville

Camp Nelson was a large recruiting and training center for African American soldiers. Thousands of enslaved people escaped to Camp Nelson in the hopes of securing their freedom and a future by helping destroy slavery. Camp Nelson represents such a powerful piece of American history and today you can learn about that history at the museum, the Oliver Perry House, and the reconstructed Army barracks. There are walking trails on the site and a cemetery for the Federal dead as well.

Carter Caves State Park, Olive Hill

Kentucky has amazing cave systems and you can explore some of the caves in eastern Kentucky at the Carter Caves State Park in Olive Hill, Kentucky. You can hike the Three Bridges Trail, explore the Laurel and Horn Hollow cave systems, tour the Cascade Cave, and allow your kids to experience the bat cave where they can try to navigate through a crowded simulated cave in the dark!

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Louisville

The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is arguably one of the best things to do in Louisville with kids. The museum shows the history of baseball and the Louisville Slugger baseball bats. You can see the baseball bat-making process and get one to take home with you as well!

Ben E. Clement Mineral Museum, Marion

Have a rock collector in the family? They will love this mineral museum in Marion, Kentucky! They have an extensive collection of photographs, artifacts, mining tools, and other items related to the fluorspar mining that was booming during World War II. They also have fossils, coal, glow-in-the-dark specimens, and thousands of other minerals from the western Kentucky and southern Illinois region.

Try a Donut Grilled Cheese at Tom & Chee, Newport

Located in Newport on the Levee, Tom & Chee is a unique restaurant that you just have to try! The restaurant was on Shark Tank and has since become a great success. Tom & Chee has also been featured on The Chew, The Travel Channel’s Man vs. Food Nation, and Amazing Eats. And The Today Show has even named their Grilled Cheese Donut as one of the best sandwiches in America! A trip to northern Kentucky without a sandwich from Tom & Chee just wouldn’t be complete.

Women’s Civil War Museum, Bardstown

This museum in Bardstown, Kentucky is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids to learn about the Civil War. This museum is the fourth-largest American Civil War Museum and focuses on the role that women played during the war. You can see photos and stories of the women who helped during the war, uniforms over time, flags over time, and much more.

Ride on the Belle of Louisville, Louisville

While in Louisville, consider taking a cruise on the Belle of Louisville. You can take sunset and moonlight cruises, picnic lunch cruises, captain’s dinner cruises, and more. Sightseeing cruises that are super kid-friendly start at only $10 a person! This is a budget-friendly and kid-friendly way to explore a beautiful part of Kentucky as a family.

See the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace, Hodgenville

Located in rural central Kentucky, the First Lincoln Memorial sits as a way to honor the humble beginnings of America’s 16th president. You can also see the symbolic birth cabin that is enshrined on the site of the birthplace of Lincoln as well as the Sinking Spring that was used as the main water source for the Lincoln family. The Sinking Spring Farm draws visitors from all over the world!

Fishtrap Lake State Park, Shelbiana

This Kentucky State Park is centered around a man-made lake and has provided years of recreation for visitors. Fishing, camping, and playing on an inflatable water park are all activities at Fish Trap Lake. The lake is about an hour’s drive from The Breaks Interstate Park and just over a half-hour drive from Pikeville, Kentucky.

Great American Dollhouse Museum, Danville

This museum is one of the most unique in the state of Kentucky. For those traveling with young kids, they may be interested to see this dollhouse museum for themselves. This museum features a reconstruction of American history in miniature form, so it’s a bit of a history lesson as well. The craftsmanship and artistic ability that were used to create the displays at the dollhouse museum is amazing in itself!

The Henry Clay Estate, Ashland

This estate in Ashland, Kentucky is a 19th century home and grounds of the politician, Henry Clay. You can tour the home, see the exhibits, and walk the trails on the grounds. Henry Clay was an interesting and conflicting man. He owned slaves, yet supported emancipation and was an active early supporter of creating a colony in Africa for free African American slaves. He was known as being the Great Compromiser and the Great Pacificator for his contributions to domestic policy and economic development.

President Zachary Taylor house, Louisville

The Zachary Taylor house in Louisville is an educational and historic site in Kentucky also known as Springfield. It was the childhood home of America’s 12th president. He was a career military officer for most of his life, a slave owner, and held a controversial term in office due to adopting new antislavery opinions. Zachary Taylor House is just a 10-minute drive away from the Waterfront Park in Louisville.

Paradise Cove Aquatic Center, Richmond

Located around the popular Lake Reba in Richmond has been a welcome addition to the park for locals and visitors alike. If you find yourself around Richmond during the summer, a visit to the Paradise Cove Aquatic Center can be just the thing you need to cool off from the summer sun!

John James Audubon State Park, Henderson

This Kentucky State Park has golfing, hiking, camping, cottage rentals, a boardwalk over the wetlands, a museum, and a nature center. The museum will show you the life and impact of John James Audubon and his family as seen along a timeline of world events. This is a beautiful area of Kentucky where you can see many species of birds and waterfowl as well as other wildlife like otters, beavers, and more!

Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum, Elizabethtown

This is one of the greatest things to do in Kentucky with kids for all of the car lovers! This museum is contemporary but features collections of automobiles built between 1900 and 1960. This is a free museum in Kentucky, making it great for budget and family travelers. If you’re not sure if this attraction is for you, you can check out a virtual tour of the museum on their website.

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, Lexington

The Raven Run Nature Sanctuary has several hiking trails and features in the park that make it one of the best things to do in Kentucky for nature lovers! In the early 1800s, the area that is now Raven Run was owned by the Prather family. Today, you can explore The Prather Homestead, Moore Grave, Evans Mill, and the Kentucky River Overlook in the park. Make sure you stop at the river overlook to catch a glimpse of the beautiful Kentucky River Palisades below.

As you can see, Kentucky is full of fun activities for families. You can find fun and exploration around every corner! Which of these exciting things to do in Kentucky with kids will you do first? Follow along on Pinterest !

Share this:

• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from Gone With My Babies

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Protect Your Trip »

30 fun things to do in kentucky in 2024.

Beyond bourbon and horse racing, the Bluegrass State boasts quirky museums and impressive natural wonders.

Fun Things to Do in Kentucky

Courtesy of Kentucky Horse Park

Kentucky is generally associated with derbies, whiskey and fried chicken, but there is much more to explore in the Bluegrass State, from a museum on Corvettes to a sprawling underground cave system. (Just keep in mind that many museums and attractions close for the winter, so plan your itinerary accordingly.) Whether you're on the hunt for the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail or ready to forge your own path, read on for some of the best things to do in Kentucky.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Louisville

Courtesy of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

The prolific Louisville slugger baseball bat began production in Louisville in 1884, according to company legend, and it's still being produced at the site's active factory today. Baseball fans from across the country pilgrimage to this factory tour and museum dedicated to the love of the game. Galleries of memorabilia – including a Babe Ruth bat and Hank Aaron's 700th home run bat – await, as do interactive exhibits such as one on Black ballplayers.

General admission includes a factory tour and a mini bat keepsake. Splurge on an exclusive All-Star Experience pass for access to restricted areas of the factory floor, a private tour of the bat vault, an opportunity to see items from the archive room, and a personalized bat. Before you leave, snap a picture next to Louisville's iconic Big Bat – at 120 feet tall, it's the world's largest baseball bat.

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

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Getty Images

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is one of the state's most picturesque natural preserves. The park's highlight is Cumberland Falls. On clear nights around a full moon (about five days each month), Cumberland Falls creates a moonbow: a natural phenomenon where light from the moon is refracted in the water droplets. Hikers can take advantage of roughly 17 miles of trails winding through the park, with many connecting to Daniel Boone National Forest.

Both parks are of particular interest to birders, who come seeking species like the pileated woodpecker and the wood thrush. Horseback riding is offered daily Memorial Day through Labor Day and on select weekends in May, September and October. Families can also enjoy organized gem mining. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park permits fishing with a license and welcomes visitors in its historic DuPont Lodge or at its cabins, cottages and campsites.

Address: 7351 state Route 90, Corbin, KY 40701

Find some peace at the Abbey of Gethsemani

The Abbey of Gethsemani has been in the heart of Kentucky since 1848. Located about 50 miles south of Louisville, Gethsemani is a Trappist monastery, which is an order of Catholic monks; men live, work and pray here, gathering for community prayer seven times every day. Gethsemani was the home of Thomas Merton, a monk who in 1948 wrote the best-selling autobiography "The Seven Storey Mountain."

Those looking for peace and a brief respite are welcome to attend a silent retreat at the abbey for a day, over a weekend or for a week with small but comfortable rooms and an opportunity to join in worship services. Retreatants can also meander through the 1,500 acres of trails, lakes and woods in the Kentucky countryside. The cost of the retreat is a freewill offering.

Address: 3642 Monks Road, Trappist, KY 40051

Churchill Downs: Louisville

If you're in Kentucky on the first Saturday in May – even if you're nowhere near Louisville – there will be no avoiding the frenzy that surrounds the Kentucky Derby, the longest continuously running sporting event in the U.S. The Churchill Downs racetrack, where the derby is held, provides unparalleled insight into the world of horse racing year-round.

The on-site Kentucky Derby Museum offers two floors of related exhibits. A guided track tour is included with general admission, but you can also add one of the many specialty tours on offer, which range from Black history in horse racing to bourbon tasting. All tour rates include access to the museum, the museum store, and the Derby Café & Bourbon Bar. Race day tours make a full-day experience of the nation's most famous horse racetrack. Also, consider a visit to Keeneland, another of Kentucky's finest thoroughbred racecourses and one of the best attractions in Lexington .

Address: 700 Central Ave., Louisville, KY 40208

The Galt House Hotel: Louisville

Courtesy of The Galt House Hotel

Even if you're not booking a stay, it's worth visiting this famed Kentucky hotel, which traces its roots back to the early 19th century. The Galt House Hotel is part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham and is Louisville's only waterfront hotel, offering views of the Ohio River. The hotel's primary draw is its central location, near Museum Row, Fourth Street Live! and more.

The hotel is the official host hotel of the Kentucky Derby and has six bars and restaurants, including two bourbon bars that are part of the Urban Bourbon Trail. The Gallop to Glory installation is the "Walk of Fame" of jockeys, featuring the handprints and signatures of winning riders of the Kentucky Derby.

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

Tour a modern castle

Courtesy of The Kentucky Castle

Appropriately located in the town called Versailles (not to be confused with the French palace ), The Kentucky Castle is a stunning boutique hotel around 15 miles outside Lexington. The castle began construction in 1969 by a wealthy couple but was not completed due to the couple's divorce six years into the process. The castle was eventually purchased, though a fire in 2004 delayed renovations. It finally opened to the public in 2007 as a bed-and-breakfast, just shy of 40 years in the making, and is now called The Kentucky Castle.

Today, curious tourists not staying at the B&B can book a tour of the grounds. Special events such as murder mystery dinners, yoga on the roof and bourbon barrel painting classes are also held here.

Address: 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

National Corvette Museum: Bowling Green

Courtesy of National Corvette Museum

Head to Bowling Green, Kentucky – the self-proclaimed "home of America's sports car" – to experience the National Corvette Museum. You can explore exhibits of old and new Corvettes, which span Chevrolet's automotive achievement since the company introduced the car in 1953. One installation even features heavily damaged Corvettes: In 2014, a massive sinkhole took eight cars about 30 feet down, and the museum made a permanent exhibit of the cave-in called the Skydome Sinkhole Experience to document the event. Racing simulators, the Stingray Grill, a motorsports park with karting and the Corvette Store are just some of the museum's other added features.

Ordering a new Corvette? Choose from a custom delivery experience, ranging from a personalized plate to a VIP museum tour showcasing the new car.

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY 42101

National Underground Railway Museum: Maysville

Visit a former safe house on the Underground Railroad that features hidden areas to protect former slaves making their way north to freedom. The Bierbower House, now the National Underground Railroad Museum, also has many related artifacts, documents and memorabilia, documenting the abolitionist period in Maysville, Kentucky. It is the first nationally established museum dedicated to the Underground Railroad.

Another related site in Maysville is the Marshall Key House, where Harriet Beecher Stowe visited one of her students and witnessed a slave auction at a local courthouse. This distressing event was part of her inspiration to write her classic novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin."

Address: 38 W. Fourth Street, Maysville, KY 41056

Explore the caves at Mammoth Cave National Park

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

Still, the park's cave tours showcase the area's interesting history and serve as its primary draw. Enslaved Black Americans mined the caves for saltpeter starting in the 18th century, and enslaved men and women also developed cave tour routes as Mammoth Cave transitioned into a tourist destination in the 19th century. Following the Civil War, generations of now-free Black guides continued to lead tours.

Today, tours are remarkably accessible, with versions for various levels of mobility. Routes range from a quarter-mile with 64 stairs to 2.5 miles with 600 stairs.

Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Natural Bridge: Slade

One of Kentucky's most popular outdoor attractions, Natural Bridge is a sandstone formation millions of years old that is part of Natural Bridge State Resort Park near the Red River Gorge Geological Area. It stands 65 feet tall and spans 75 feet. Visitors can hike to the bridge or take the sky lift to get closer without the added exertion. There are 10 hiking trails in the park, as well as activities like fishing with a license, mini-golf, canoeing, kayaking or browsing in the gift shop. Overnight accommodations are available at two campgrounds, the Hemlock Lodge, or one- and two-bedroom cottages.

Address: 2135 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY 40376

Muhammad Ali Center: Louisville

Courtesy of the Kentucky Department of Tourism

Born Cassius Clay in Louisville in 1942, Muhammad Ali went on to have an iconic career in boxing that eventually earned him the nickname "The Greatest." Most people know him as a charismatic athlete, but Ali also donated his time and money to charitable causes throughout his life.

In 2005, Ali co-founded Kentucky's Muhammad Ali Center , a multicultural gathering space and nonprofit museum dedicated to the core principles by which he lived his life: confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect and spirituality. The exhibits focus on his achievements and challenges with artifacts, historical footage, interactive presentations and more. The Muhammad Ali Center is located along Louisville's renowned Museum Row.

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

Take five at the Big Four Bridge

Linking Kentucky and Indiana, the Big Four Bridge straddles the Ohio River with its Kentucky entrance located along Louisville Waterfront Park. The bridge was originally built in 1895 as a railroad bridge and remained as such until the 1960s, when it was decommissioned. In 2013, it opened to the public as a half-mile-long pedestrian bridge, which provides walkers and bikers a panoramic view over the Ohio River that is especially stunning at sunset. From twilight to 1 a.m., LED lights illuminate the bridge. About 1.5 million visitors are estimated to cross the bridge every year.

Address: 1101 River Road, Louisville, KY 40202

Kentucky Horse Park: Lexington

Equine fans must make a stop at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Stroll through the world's largest museum dedicated to the history of horses and their relationship with humans. You'll see artifacts like trophies, tacks, horse-drawn carriages and more. The park is also the burial place of the legendary racehorse Man o' War. Visitors can see his grave site and a bronze statue memorializing him.

There is also a kids barn with interactive activities for little ones, as well as guided trail rides for an additional cost. For those who want to stay the night, the Kentucky Horse Park has a campground with more than 250 sites, a pool, tennis courts and playgrounds.

Address: 4089 Iron Works Pike, Lexington, KY 40511

Harland Sanders Café and Museum: Corbin

Sure, KFCs are found everywhere – even in Egypt with a view of the pyramids . However, the world-famous chain started in Corbin, Kentucky, with Colonel Harland Sanders (an honorary title, not a military rank). Sanders Court originally opened in 1937 as a gas station but eventually included a motel and cafe. Colonel Sanders' "secret" fried chicken recipe was developed on-site, and in 1952 he began to franchise restaurants across the nation.

The original cafe, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is redesigned to look as it did in the 1940s. Visitors can see a model of an original motel room, tour Sanders' office, view KFC memorabilia, see the kitchen where he created the famous recipe, and try some chicken and biscuits in a distinct dining room.

Address: 688 U.S. Highway 25 W., Corbin, KY 407016

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Creation Museum: Petersburg

Courtesy of the Creation Museum

The Creation Museum is dedicated to "creation science," an explanation of human existence drawn from an interpretation of the Bible. It offers more than 140 exhibits across 75,000 square feet that cover biblical history with dioramas, video displays and other interactive features. Walk through the Garden of Eden, visit a 4D theater, go stargazing in the planetarium, and even view dinosaur fossils. A companion exhibit features a life-sized replica of Noah's Ark about 40 miles south.

Address: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Road, Petersburg, KY 41080

Conrad-Caldwell House Museum: Louisville

Timothy Miller | Courtesy of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

This house museum with an alliterative name and design – Richardsonian Romanesque – particularly delights fans of HBO's "The Gilded Age." The Conrad-Caldwell House, originally constructed in 1895, is a prime example of Louisville's elaborate Victorian architecture. In fact, Louisville has one of the highest concentrations of Victorian homes in the country.

See its beautiful features – including its woodwork, parquet floors, stained glass and more – on a tour of the home, which was originally purchased by Theophile Conrad and William Caldwell. Self-guided and docent-led tours of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum can be reserved online or in the gift shop.

Address: 1402 Saint James Court, Louisville, KY 40208

Dinosaur World Kentucky: Cave City

With a name like Cave City, maybe it's not all that surprising that visitors will find hundreds of life-size dinosaur figures in this Kentucky town. Past travelers to Dinosaur World say the colorful statues and interactive "fossil digs" were a huge hit with their kids. Enjoy walking among life-sized dinosaur replicas in a natural setting and exploring the indoor museum with animatronics.

Purchase an Excavation Pass to participate in a fossil dig and gem excavation on top of general admission. Pups on a leash are welcome at Dinosaur World, just not in the indoor exhibits. A 5,000-square-foot gift shop might add to the bill, but Dinosaur World encourages families to bring their own food and drink.

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

Newport Aquarium: Newport

Courtesy of Newport Aquarium

Do the words "Shark Bridge" instill fear or excitement? If it's the latter, you're in for a treat at Kentucky's Newport Aquarium, which is known for its sharks above all else. The Shark Bridge is a suspended rope bridge where thrill-seekers can walk inches above the 385,000-gallon shark and fish tank (included with admission). There's also a shark touch tank with species like the California horn shark. Of course, there's plenty more on display at this lively aquarium beyond the sharks, including penguins, crocodiles, stingrays and an exhibit featuring eels that dwell in an old shipwreck.

Address: 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker is a sect of the Quaker religion, and Pleasant Hill, Kentucky, has the largest private collection of original 19th-century buildings in the United States. The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill began in 1805 and lasted until about 1910. Visitors can immerse themselves in craft demonstrations, history exhibits, tours and more across the village's 3,000 acres. There are roughly 40 miles of hiking trails through prairies, streams and wildflowers, and you can see 34 of the original Shaker structures. Pleasant Hill's Shaker Village is about 25 miles southwest of Lexington.

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330

Take a gander at the Mother Goose House

The Mother Goose house in Hazard, Kentucky, features a goose structure resting on a round stone home with egg-shaped windows. The avian idea was that of George Stacy, who built the home between 1935 and 1940, using a goose skeleton to ensure the structure was to scale. Other unique features include rocks from throughout the U.S. and automobile lights for the goose's eyes. The home has been featured on "Oprah," HGTV's "Extreme Homes" and in The New York Times. When you're driving along state Route 476 in Hazard, it's hard to miss.

Address: 2880 N. Main St., Hazard, KY 41701

The National Quilt Museum: Paducah

Courtesy of The National Quilt Museum

Paducah, Kentucky – named a UNESCO Creative City – is home to the world's only museum dedicated to quilt artists. Here visitors can see some of the best contemporary quilts made since 1980, 95% of which are made by women. The museum hosts rotating exhibits and offers workshops for adults and children of all skill levels. Visitors note that the items in the collection are very artistic, defying expectations of what a quilt can be, and they also enjoy the gift shop.

Address: 215 Jefferson St., Paducah, KY 42001

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Ponies and chicken aside, the most famous Kentucky offering is its American-style whiskey, known as bourbon. Dozens of working bourbon distilleries are operating in Kentucky today; the state produces 95% of the world's bourbon, with three aging barrels for every resident, at any given time. It's a $9 billion industry, and travelers can experience it firsthand with a distillery tour – or two, or three.

Distillery locations for favorite brands like Jim Beam and Maker's Mark are mainly clustered between Louisville, Lexington and Frankfort (the Kentucky state capital). There are a few outliers, like Green River Distilling in Owensboro. Of course, you can pick and choose your favorite brands to visit, or you can go whole hog by following the main tour of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a liquid adventure across 18 distillery stops.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park: Hodgenville

Did you know America's 16th president was born in Kentucky? His birthplace near Hodgenville is part of the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, where visitors will also find the original Lincoln Memorial. This memorial, completed in 1911, is older than the one you'll find in Washington, D.C. , and is built on the site where it is believed his birth cabin stood.

This site is part of the Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail, which also includes Lincoln's boyhood home at Knob Creek and the Lincoln Museum – which is full of wax figures depicting key events in his life. The park, situated about 60 miles south of Louisville, is free to visit.

Address: 2995 Lincoln Farm Road, Hodgenville, KY 42748

Journey to Germany via Mainstrasse Village

Courtesy of John Lair

Deutschland inspired this Kentucky tourist town. Mainstrasse (Main Street) Village in Covington is a National Historic District and includes examples of 19th-century homes, businesses and restaurants. The shopping and dining district blends local craft beer with bourbon and live music for a unique convergence of the American South and Western Europe. Mainstrasse Village is the place to be year-round for festivals and events like Mardi Gras, Oktoberfest and more offbeat gatherings, such as the "World's Longest Yard Sale." Visitors will also find a working glockenspiel with mechanical figures that appear at different times of day.

Red River Gorge: The Grand Canyon of Kentucky

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

Red River Gorge is about 70 miles southeast of Lexington, and those looking to spend the night can reserve a campsite at nearby campgrounds, including Natural Bridge State Resort Park, or rent one of the treehouses from Red River Gorgeous.

Stroll along the Paducah Riverwalk

Courtesy of Paducah CVB

Historic downtown Paducah is considered one of the most beautiful main streets in America. See what the fuss is about as you familiarize yourself with this town by foot – it boasts more historical markers per capita than anywhere else in the state. Paducah sits in the southwestern corner of Kentucky and is separated from Illinois by the Ohio River. Along the Paducah waterfront, pedestrians can enjoy views of the river and (occasionally) the paddlewheel boats that still navigate it, as well as murals covering its floodwall. If you do get tired of walking, a free trolley regularly runs through historic downtown.

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

Catch a Wildcats or Cardinals game

Sports are always in season in Kentucky, with college baseball games held February through June and college basketball games from November to March. Two of the most prominent sports programs are the University of Kentucky's Wildcats based in Lexington and the University of Louisville's Cardinals. The Wildcats play basketball games at historic Rupp Arena, named for famed Kentucky basketball coach Adolph Rupp, and the Cardinals shoot hoops at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville.

Sports are a big deal in these parts, so buy tickets early or opt for a less popular sport when you know you want to catch a game. If you're rooting for the Wildcats, go blue; otherwise, be sure to dress in your best reds for the Cardinals.

Frazier History Museum: Louisville

Courtesy of Frazier History Museum

From an exhibition on the explorations of Lewis and Clark to one of the largest public collections of toy soldiers in the world, the Frazier History Museum in Louisville provides patrons with an eclectic mix of historical curiosities. Visitors have commented that they particularly enjoy being able to take in the unusual artifacts, like President Theodore Roosevelt's "big stick" and Geronimo's bow and arrows, while sipping bourbon at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center.

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

Fort Boonesborough: Richmond

Step back more than 200 years into a reconstruction of the 1775 fort inhabited by Daniel Boone at Fort Boonesborough, about 25 miles south of Lexington. The site, which was an important frontier fort in the late 18th century, now features artisans performing craft demonstrations and live reenactments. Also part of Fort Boonesborough State Park, the Kentucky River Museum gives insight into how residents used locks and dams along the Kentucky River. The area boasts a pool complex, hiking trails and campgrounds.

Address: 4375 Boonesboro Road, Richmond, KY 40475

Mary Todd Lincoln House: Lexington

Courtesy of Mary Todd Lincoln House

Head to Lexington to connect with the life of first lady Mary Todd Lincoln in her childhood home. The house was built around 1806 and designated as a museum in 1977, making it the first historic site dedicated to a first lady. Born in 1818, she brought her husband, President Abraham Lincoln, to visit here in 1847. The museum strives to shed light on her whole life, including her years outside the White House, and all the tragedies and controversies she faced.

On the museum's website , a 1-mile walking tour is available for download, which allows visitors to experience Lexington as the Lincolns might have. There are also guided tours available Monday through Friday. The Mary Todd Lincoln House is only open seasonally, mid-March through November.

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

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Brittany Chrusciel is a writer and editor born and raised in Asbury Park, New Jersey. While she's never lived far from home, or the beach, her cruise-writing travels have carried her around the globe by river, ocean and expedition ship on 50-plus sailings. She's a fan of offbeat local experiences from a 14-course meal under the midnight sun in Svalbard to the world's largest cranberry festival in Wisconsin.

Lyn Mettler is an Indiana-based writer, who grew up in the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, "bleeding blue" as a University of Kentucky basketball fan. Even though she's allergic to horses, which reign in her hometown of Lexington, she still loves driving past the white picket fences and rolling hills of the area's beautiful horse farms.

You might also be interested in:

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

Tags: Travel , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best weekend getaways from nyc.

Alissa Grisler and Jessica Colley Clarke Sept. 5, 2024

The Best Beach Resorts in the World

Sept. 5, 2024

The Best Rome Food Tours

Laura Itzkowitz Sept. 4, 2024

Top Things to Do in Hershey, PA

Amanda Norcross Aug. 30, 2024

The Best College Town Hotels

Rachael Hood Aug. 29, 2024

Fun Fall Weekend Getaways

Aug. 29, 2024

Best Hoover Dam Tours from Las Vegas

Holly Johnson and Ann Henson Aug. 29, 2024

The Best London Tours

Kim Foley MacKinnon Aug. 29, 2024

The 18 Best Barcelona Tours

John Rodwan Aug. 28, 2024

Best Fall Family Vacations

Aug. 27, 2024

Kid-Approved, Parent-Loved: Exciting Things to Do in Kentucky for Families

Table of Contents

Kentucky offers a lot more than just bourbon and horse races. It is a great destination for the whole family to enjoy.

Imagine a thrilling zipline adventure through the treetops one day, and exploring the mysteries of expansive underground cave systems the next day.

Kentucky has got you covered if you want to meet fascinating creatures or dive into hands-on science activities! 

Additionally, you can enjoy Kentucky-flavored experiences such as horses and bourbon-inspired treats.

All of these factors contribute to an unforgettable family getaway in Kentucky.

👉Book your flight with Skyscanner to Kentucky and discover the wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park, the world’s longest known cave system.

Louisville: Where Family Adventure Begins

Start your family getaway in Kentucky by exploring Louisville !

This exciting city offers a range of activities to suit everyone’s interests, from interactive science exhibits to up-close encounters with incredible animals.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even experience the thrill of a roller coaster ride!

Why Louisville is Perfect for Families

• Diverse Attractions: Louisville offers a mix that pleases everyone: hands-on museums, zoos, amusement parks, unique experiences like the Mega Cavern, and those iconic Kentucky staples (horses, baseball, etc.).
• Manageable Size: Louisville is easy to navigate and explore, especially with smaller kids in tow. Attractions are often within a short distance, reducing travel time and cranky kids.
• Affordability: Compared to many major cities, Louisville vacations tend to be budget-friendly, with reasonable accommodation prices and plenty of free or inexpensive activities.
• Southern Hospitality: Kentucky’s friendly people add to the experience, making families feel welcomed and comfortable throughout their stay.
• Food Scene: From kid-friendly classics to delicious local eats, Louisville has a diverse culinary scene to please picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.

👉 Stay in a family-friendly hotel near Mammoth Cave National Park for easy access to cave tours and nature hikes.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Hit a Home Run with the Whole Family

Experience the world of America’s favorite pastime by visiting the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.

Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, this iconic destination offers a fascinating and fun-filled experience for the entire family.

The museum boasts interactive exhibits that are dedicated to the legendary “Louisville Slugger” bat, allowing visitors to get hands-on with history and discover the excitement that surrounds this beloved sport.

Things to Do with Kids

• Hold bats used by famous baseball legends and imagine hitting that game-winning homer.
• Design your own custom Louisville Slugger bat – a unique souvenir to take home.
• Test your skills in the batting cages and see if you’ve got big-league potential.
• Embark on a guided factory tour – watch as skilled craftspeople transform wood into the iconic bats used by pros.
• Snap a photo with the giant 120-foot tall baseball bat outside – a must-have for your family’s Kentucky album!

Why Families Love The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory offers much more than just baseball-related exhibits.

It is a destination for interactive learning, highlighting American craftsmanship, and creating fun moments for all visitors.

Whether you have baseball aficionados or children who love hands-on experiences, you will find something here to ignite everyone’s enthusiasm.

👉Find the best flights to Kentucky on Skyscanner and take the kids to the Louisville Zoo, where they can meet a wide variety of animals from around the world.

Louisville Zoo: A Wild Adventure for the Whole Family

Prepare yourself to enter a world of animals from across the globe at the Louisville Zoo!

This vast park houses an intriguing array of creatures from various parts of the world.

Visitors appreciate the zoo’s well-planned exhibits, interactive opportunities, and the ideal combination of education and entertainment for everyone in the family.

• Explore themed areas like Gorilla Forest and Glacier Run, bringing exotic habitats to life.
• Get up close with friendly animals at the petting zoo or Lorikeet Landing.
• Cool off at the splash park or take a spin on the carousel for extra thrills.
• Catch a keeper talk or animal show and learn amazing facts from the experts.
• Grab a bite at one of the family-friendly dining options throughout the park.

Why Families Love Louisville Zoo

The Louisville Zoo offers an exceptional animal experience, catering to the needs of the entire family.

The paths are easy to navigate, and there are interactive areas that add to the fun.

The zoo also has numerous rest areas and food options, making it an ideal stress-free location for a family outing, even with young explorers.

👉 Book a comfortable suite in Louisville close to the zoo and Kentucky Kingdom, ensuring a fun-filled trip with minimal travel.

Kentucky Science Center: Where Curiosity Comes Alive

Looking for a fun way to get your kids interested in science?

Look no further than the Kentucky Science Center! 

This innovative museum encourages hands-on learning and discovery, making science accessible and exciting for all ages.

With a variety of fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and a four-story digital theater, families can explore the wonders of our world together and spark their imaginations!

• Build, experiment, and create in the hands-on workshop spaces.
• Discover the science behind everyday objects in the “World Around Us” exhibit.
• Journey through the human body and learn about health and wellness.
• Catch a spectacular science demonstration or an immersive film in the theater.
• Toddlers and younger explorers have a dedicated play area designed just for them.

Why Families Love Kentucky Science Center

The Kentucky Science Center offers an enjoyable and interactive approach to learning, which inspires children to love and explore scientific concepts without feeling like they are in a traditional classroom setting.

This makes it an excellent option for days when it is raining, as it sparks curiosity and keeps kids entertained and engaged while they learn during their Kentucky getaway.

👉Use Skyscanner to plan your family trip to Kentucky for a thrilling day at Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville, featuring rides and a water park for all ages.

Louisville Mega Cavern: An Unforgettable Underground Adventure

Explore the incredible Louisville Mega Cavern , an underground adventure park that was once a limestone mine.

It’s a perfect destination for families seeking a unique and exciting experience.

The cavern offers a thrilling Kentucky adventure that’s unlike anything else.

• Explore the cavern network on a guided tram tour, learning its history and geology.
• Brave the Mega Zips, a thrilling zipline course entirely underground.
• Test teamwork and challenge yourselves on the Mega Quest aerial ropes course.
• Take a thrilling underground bike ride on the Mega Bike Park (for older kids and adults).
• Experience the magic of Mega Lights, a spectacular holiday lights display within the cavern.

Why Families Love Louisville Mega Cavern

The Louisville Mega Cavern provides extraordinary underground adventures that you won’t find anywhere else.

It’s an excellent choice for families with older children and teenagers who are seeking an active and unique experience.

Moreover, being underground provides a refreshing escape from the harsh summer heat or winter weather.

Important Note:

Some Mega Cavern activities have age and height restrictions.

Check their website before visiting to make sure your kids qualify for their chosen adventure.

👉 Find a riverside rental near the Newport Aquarium for stunning views and a convenient location to explore nearby attractions.

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay: Double the Thrills, Double the Fun!

Prepare yourself for an exciting day filled with screams, slides, and splashes at Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay!

This amusement and water park has something for every thrill-seeker in the family, including high-speed roller coasters and relaxing wave pools.

• Conquer heart-pounding roller coasters and thrilling rides.
• Seek out kid-friendly zones packed with gentler rides for younger adventurers.
• Slip, slide, and splash your way through Hurricane Bay’s water park attractions.
• Cool off in the wave pool, relax on the lazy river, or brave the thrilling water slides.
• Catch live shows, meet characters, and enjoy classic amusement park entertainment.

Why Families Love Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay offer an ultimate blend of thrilling rides for older kids and adults, along with dedicated splash zones to keep the little ones entertained.

Moreover, you can chill out in the water park when the Kentucky heat gets too intense. It’s an excellent summertime getaway for the entire family!

👉Secure your flight with Skyscanner and explore the Newport Aquarium, just across the river from Cincinnati, where families can enjoy shark tanks and penguin encounters.

Lexington: A Mix of Kentucky Classics and Surprises for the Whole Family

Lexington is a city in Kentucky that offers a variety of activities for families.

From the Kentucky Horse Park to interactive museums and outdoor fun, you’ll get to experience famous Kentucky attractions and discover new things.

If you’re a horse lover, you’ll definitely enjoy exploring the world of horses in Lexington.

However, there’s much more to this charming city than just horses.

Get ready to be pleasantly surprised by all the other attractions it has to offer!

Kentucky Horse Park: Where the Love of Horses Comes Alive

The Kentucky Horse Park is not merely a place to watch horses from a distance, but it is an immersive experience for anyone who loves horses.

It offers a blend of education, entertainment, and hands-on excitement, making it perfect for all ages.

Things to Do with Kids:

• Meet horses of different breeds and learn about their unique characteristics.
• Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides or guided trail rides through the beautiful park.
• Get up close with horses and learn about their care at the Kids Barn.
• Explore fascinating museums dedicated to the horse, from their history to their role in sports.
• Catch thrilling equestrian shows and demonstrations showcasing the power and beauty of horses.

Why Families Love Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park offers a wonderful opportunity for people to explore the world of horses in an accessible and exciting way.

The interactive experiences provided by the park are particularly loved by kids who have a passion for animals.

Even those who do not have any prior knowledge of horses will leave the park with a new appreciation for these amazing creatures.

👉 Choose a cozy cabin or cottage near Cumberland Falls State Resort Park to experience nature at its finest and witness the unique moonbow.

Aviation Museum of Kentucky: Take Flight with the Whole Family

If your children are passionate about flying and have been dreaming of soaring through the skies, the Aviation Museum of Kentucky is the perfect place to fuel their imagination!

At this museum, you can experience the thrill of flight through fascinating exhibits, historical aircraft, and engaging hands-on activities that make learning about aviation fun for all ages.

• Explore a variety of historic planes and helicopters, both inside and out.
• Climb into cockpits and imagine taking the controls of amazing aircraft.
• Try your hand at flight simulators and see if you have what it takes to be a pilot.
• Learn about aviation history through engaging displays and stories.
• Check out the museum’s special events and exhibits, which might include flight demonstrations or hands-on workshops.

Why Families Love Aviation Museum of Kentucky:

The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is a great destination for anyone who wants to get up close and personal with aircraft.

It offers a unique experience that is different from just watching planes fly overhead.

The museum has interactive exhibits that are perfect for keeping kids engaged, and its content is suitable for all ages, making it an enjoyable learning experience for the whole family.

👉Fly into Kentucky with Skyscanner and enjoy a day at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, offering horseback riding and educational tours.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill: History, Nature, and Family Fun Intertwined

Travel back in time and immerse yourself in nature at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.

This historical site offers a combination of interactive experiences, outdoor adventures, and a glimpse into the past.

Families can engage in activities suitable for all ages, creating lasting memories amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kentucky.

• Get hands-on with history: Learn traditional crafts, experience farm life, and explore where the Shakers, a fascinating religious community, once lived and worked.
• Hike or bike nature trails in the preserve, spotting wildlife and enjoying the fresh air.
• Take a leisurely cruise on the Dixie Belle riverboat and view Kentucky’s scenic beauty from the water.
• Meet friendly farm animals and maybe even help with chores like milking a cow.
• Explore the historic buildings, discovering how past generations lived.

👉 Secure a place to stay near the Kentucky Horse Park to enjoy full days of equestrian events and educational programs.

Why Families Love Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker Village is a unique tourist spot that offers a refreshing change from the typical destinations.

It is an ideal place for children to learn, explore, and have fun in a picturesque setting that encourages them to appreciate life’s simple pleasures.

The destination provides a perfect blend of indoor and outdoor activities, making it the perfect place for families to unwind, discover, and create unforgettable memories together.

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary: Where Discovery Meets the Outdoors

Looking for a place to escape the busy city life and enjoy the beauty of nature with your family?

Look no further than Raven Run Nature Sanctuary!

This 734-acre preserve boasts miles of scenic trails, winding creeks, and opportunities to spot wildlife amidst Kentucky’s unspoiled landscapes.

It’s the perfect destination for families who love outdoor exploration!

• Hike well-maintained trails suitable for all ages, discovering hidden waterfalls and stunning scenery.
• Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other woodland creatures along the way.
• Let the kids play by the creek, build fairy houses, or skip stones across the water.
• Explore the Nature Center and its educational exhibits about Kentucky’s flora and fauna.
• Pack a picnic and enjoy a scenic outdoor lunch surrounded by nature’s tranquility.

Why Families Love Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

Raven Run provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and encourages children to explore freely.

The trails are easy to navigate even for little legs, and the natural surroundings offer endless possibilities for imagination and discovery.

It is a perfect way to take a break from screens and create enjoyable memories with your family in the great outdoors.

👉Book through Skyscanner for a trip to Kentucky and visit the Creation Museum in Petersburg, where biblical history comes to life with stunning exhibits.

Keeping Active and Entertained in Lexington

Sometimes even the most enthusiastic explorers need to blow off some steam! Lexington offers a variety of options to keep kids active and entertained:

• Lace up your skates! The Lexington Ice Center boasts two rinks for perfecting pirouettes or simply having a blast gliding on the ice.
• Miniature golf with a twist! White Haven Golf takes mini golf to a whole new level with windmills, loop-the-loops, and a fun 18-hole course.
• Family fun central! Champs Entertainment Center is a one-stop shop for family fun, featuring laser tag, classic putt-putt golf, and the ever-popular roller skating rink.

Catch a Show!

After a fun-filled day, take a break and enjoy a live performance.

The Lexington Children’s Theatre , a historic institution that has been operating since 1938, offers a delightful selection of children’s shows throughout the year.

You can catch classic performances such as “The Little Mermaid” or “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,” and create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.

If you’re fortunate, your visit may coincide with a performance at the Lexington Opera House – a real treat for theater enthusiasts!

👉 Opt for accommodations near the Creation Museum for an easy commute to the museum and other local attractions like the Ark Encounter.

Kentucky’s Natural Wonders: Awe-Inspiring Beauty for the Whole Family

Kentucky is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world, such as the mysteries of Mammoth Cave and the thundering beauty of waterfalls.

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, Kentucky is the perfect destination for you and your family.

Take a journey to explore these natural wonders and create unforgettable memories.

Mammoth Cave National Park: An Underground World of Wonder

Mammoth Cave National Park is not just a cave, but a fascinating underground world that boasts some of the longest cave systems in the world.

With tours of varying lengths and difficulty levels, Mammoth Cave offers an unforgettable adventure that the whole family can enjoy.

• Choose the perfect cave tour: Opt for short walks, lantern-lit tours, or crawls through tighter spaces for the adventurous.
• Hike above ground: Explore scenic trails through forests and along rivers.
• Go camping: Extend the adventure by spending a night or two under the stars.
• Bike or horseback ride designated trails and take in the natural beauty of the park.
• Spot wildlife: Keep an eye out for deer, birds, and other creatures who call the park home.

Why Families Love Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave is a fascinating destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of age.

With tours tailored to different interests and abilities, visitors can experience the breathtaking beauty of the underground world.

Additionally, the park offers above-ground activities such as hiking, camping, and outdoor exploration, providing ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in their hobbies.

👉With Skyscanner , reach Kentucky and spend a family day at the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, famous for its ‘moonbow,’ a nighttime rainbow.

Daniel Boone National Forest: Explore Kentucky’s Rugged Beauty

Immerse yourself in the vastness of the Daniel Boone National Forest, where you can find towering trees, winding trails, and stunning sandstone cliffs.

This expansive forest provides unlimited opportunities for adventure, making it an ideal destination for families who enjoy the great outdoors.

• Hike! Choose from a huge network of trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging climbs.
• Set up camp and spend a night (or several!) surrounded by nature’s beauty.
• Cool off with a dip in a natural swimming hole or a scenic lake.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch beside a waterfall or with a stunning forest view.
• Search for wildlife: Deer, birds, salamanders, and more call this forest home.

Why Families Love Daniel Boone National Forest

Daniel Boone National Forest is a perfect destination for those who love spending time outdoors!

Here, children have ample space to wander and discover the marvels of nature at their own pace.

There are a variety of hiking and camping options to choose from, catering to families of all ages and abilities.

So, select your adventure level and enjoy the natural beauty that the forest has to offer!

👉 Discover a vacation rental in Lexington that offers proximity to both the Horse Park and downtown attractions, perfect for family dining and shopping.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park: Where Nature’s Spectacle Awaits

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is often referred to as the “Niagara of the South.”

It is a stunning location that features a magnificent waterfall, diverse landscapes, and countless opportunities for outdoor activities.

Whether you’re searching for a gentle nature walk or a thrilling white-water excursion, families will find an unforgettable vacation destination in Kentucky’s natural playground.

• Marvel at Cumberland Falls: Hike to viewpoints for stunning vistas of the cascading waterfall.
• Swim, boat, or fish in the pristine waters of the Cumberland River.
• Embark on easy hikes to discover hidden waterfalls and scenic overlooks.
• Explore the resort’s playgrounds, gem mining activity, and organized kids’ programs.
• Seek a unique thrill with guided horseback riding adventures through the park.

Why Families Love Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park offers a unique combination of natural beauty and resort amenities.

Children can enjoy playing outside while adults can relax and unwind, all in one beautiful location.

Additionally, the park’s main attraction – the stunning waterfall – is sure to leave a lasting impression on the entire family!

👉Find your flight to Kentucky on Skyscanner and participate in a family workshop at the Frazier History Museum in Louisville, which brings Kentucky’s history to life.

Just a Little Bit More Kentucky Magic for the Family

Your Kentucky adventure isn’t complete without visiting these unique attractions and experiencing the state’s quirky side.

Create fun family memories that you won’t find anywhere else.

Newport Aquarium: Dive into Underwater Wonders

Enjoy an incredible underwater journey with Newport Aquarium , which offers a stunning Ohio River backdrop.

You can explore marine life from the depths of the ocean to the shores of the Amazon and experience hands-on exhibits. It’s an ideal destination for families to explore and learn together.

• Walk through the shark tunnel and be surrounded by these majestic predators.
• Touch a shark at the interactive Shark Central Exhibit (if you’re brave enough!).
• Cross the Shark Bridge, a thrilling rope bridge suspended over a tank full of sharks.
• Get up close and personal with playful penguins.
• Discover the magic of exotic creatures like seahorses, jellyfish, and stingrays.

Why Families Love Newport Aquarium

Newport Aquarium combines spectacular exhibits with fun interactive experiences.

The variety offers something to amaze every member of the family.

It’s also easily walkable, making it a manageable outing with even the youngest explorers in tow.

👉 Select a historic hotel in downtown Louisville , close to the Frazier History Museum and Waterfront Park, ideal for both learning and leisure.

National Corvette Museum: A Paradise for Car Lovers (and the Whole Family!)

Discover the history, design, and engineering of America’s legendary sports car at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green.

Whether you’re a die-hard Corvette fan or simply appreciate iconic cars, this is the ideal destination for you.

• Admire Corvettes from every era, including rare models and concept cars.
• Learn about the Corvette’s design and evolution through interactive exhibits.
• Test your skills on racing simulators and see if you have what it takes.
• Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Corvette assembly plant (check for tour availability).
• Kids will love the KidZone, a dedicated area with fun activities and car-themed play.

The Corvette Museum is a fun place to visit even if you’re not a car enthusiast.

The museum’s sleek cars are universally appealing, and its interactive exhibits make it engaging for visitors of all ages.

It’s an excellent place to spark kids’ interest in engineering, design, and American history while having a blast!

Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo: Say ‘G’day’ to Australia in Kentucky!

Experience an Australian adventure in Kentucky at Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo.

Get ready for interactive shows, up-close encounters with fascinating animals from down under, and a few surprises along the way.

• Meet friendly kangaroos and wallabies in the Outback Walkabout.
• Feed colorful lorikeet birds and see them land on you!
• Learn about Australian sheepherding with live demonstrations.
• Explore a beautifully decorated cave and spot native Kentucky creatures.
• Pan for gemstones and hunt for treasures to take home.

Why Families Love Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo

Kentucky Down Under offers a unique and memorable experience that you won’t find at a typical zoo.

Kids (and adults!) will love the chance to interact with animals from across the globe in this charming Kentucky setting.

FAQs: Planning Your Kentucky Family Vacation

What’s the best time of year to visit Kentucky with family?

Kentucky is a great place to have fun with your family throughout the year!

The best times for outdoor activities are the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) due to the pleasant weather. In the summer, although it can get hot and humid, you can still enjoy water parks and festivals.

During winter, you can experience the holiday spirit and cozy atmosphere, especially in the cities.

Are there kid-friendly accommodations in Kentucky?

Kentucky offers a variety of accommodations that cater to families.

From hotels with swimming pools and children’s programs to comfortable cabins near state parks and resorts that feature activities suitable for all ages, there’s something for everyone.

Whatever your preferred style of travel or budget, you’re sure to find an option that meets your needs.

Is Kentucky a good destination for families on a budget?

Kentucky has a plethora of free or inexpensive attractions, particularly its stunning natural wonders.

Enjoy picnics, hikes, and scenic drives which provide ample fun while keeping costs low.

Additionally, cities like Louisville and Lexington often offer family attraction packages at discounted rates.

Is it manageable to get around Kentucky with kids?

Driving to Kentucky’s major cities and attractions is easy with some planning.

Remember to pack car-friendly snacks and entertainment for road trips!

What if I have kids of varying ages?

Kentucky offers a wide range of attractions that are perfect for families with children of different ages.

From historic sites that would interest teenagers to interactive museums that excite younger kids, to outdoor adventures that are suitable for all skill levels, Kentucky has it all.

With a little research, you can easily find the perfect combination of activities that suits your family’s interests and preferences.

Kentucky is Calling! Answer with Adventure

Kentucky offers a wide range of attractions, breathtaking natural beauty, and a warm and welcoming environment, making it the ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.

Don’t wait any longer, start planning your Kentucky family adventure today!

👉 Book a comfortable suite i n Louisville close to the zoo and Kentucky Kingdom, ensuring a fun-filled trip with minimal travel.

Similar Posts

12 Best Outdoor Restaurants in Austin

If you’re looking for a great outdoor dining experience in Austin, you’ve come to the right place. From pizza…

The Ultimate Guide To Finding The Best Restaurants In Boulder, Colorado

Choosing the perfect restaurant in Boulder, Colorado, with many amazing options, can seem overwhelming.  This city is known for…

Top 10 Destinations in Austria

Austria is a country of great architecture, beautiful history, and unparalleled natural beauty. From lakes, the alps, to just straight out wilderness — here are our favorite destinations in Austria.

Best Waterfalls in Virginia: Chasing Cascades in the Heart of Nature

Virginia, with its diverse landscapes ranging from the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the rolling hills of the Piedmont…

Discover the Best Places To Go Glamping: 10 Best Glamping Destinations in the US

Glamping is the luxurious camping in a natural setting that we all want to experience. Find the best destinations in the U.S. on this list.

15 Best Hotels in Hawaii 2023: Uncover the Ultimate Island Resort Escape

Welcome to your ultimate guide to the best resorts and hotels in Hawaii. We’re here to cut through the…

One Comment

• Pingback: Best Things to Do in Kentucky for Couples: Romance, Bourbon, & Adventure - Take More Adventures

Comments are closed.

Pin It on Pinterest

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to secondary navigation
• Skip to primary sidebar

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?

The 25 Best Things to Do in Kentucky

• Facebook 19
• Pinterest 83

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

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

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

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

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

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

25 Fun and Unique Things to Do In Kentucky

1. see where kentucky fried chicken was invented.

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

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

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

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

2. See Cascading Waterfalls At Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

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

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

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

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

3. Walk Over The Big Four Bridge

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

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

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

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

4.  Sip Your Way Through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

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

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

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

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

5. Find Comfort In The Original Hot Brown

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

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

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

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

Check Prices on Booking.com

Check Prices on Hotels.com

6. See Life-Sized Dinosaurs At Dinosaur World

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

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

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

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

7. Dress Up For The Kentucky Derby

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

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

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

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

8. Discover The Historical Treasures Of Fort Knox

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

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

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

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

9. Tour The Kentucky State Capitol

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

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

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

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

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

10. Snack On Rolled Oysters

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

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

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

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

11. Explore The Kentucky Derby Museum

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

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

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

12. See the Ventriloquism Dummies At The Vent Haven Museum

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

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

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

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

13. Celebrate Oktoberfest in Downtown Harrodsburg

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

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

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

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

14. Go Rock Climbing At Red River Gorge

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

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

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

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

15. Become Addicted To Beer Cheese

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

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

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

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

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

16. Get Outside At Mammoth Cave National Park

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

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

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

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

17. Marvel At The Grand Canyon Of The South

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

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

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

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

18. Have A Family Fun Day At Kentucky Kingdom

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

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

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

19. See Where Abraham Lincoln Was Born

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

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

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

20. Sip A Mint Julep

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Spend The Night In A Castle

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

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

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

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

23. Go Underground At The Louisville Mega Cavern

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book an Ashland Henry Clay Estate Ticket with Tour

25. Go On A Ghost Tour Around Waverly Hills Sanatorium

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

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

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

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

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

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

SHARE THIS ON PINTEREST

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

Related Posts

The 25 Best Things to do on Hawaii’s Big Island

The 15 Best Things to do in Boulder, Colorado

The 12 Best Hotels in Branson, Missouri

1 thought on “the 25 best things to do in kentucky”.

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

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Kentucky Family Fun

Finding all things fun in Kentucky for families

101 FREE things to do with your kids in Kentucky!

There are so many free things to do with kids in Kentucky! We are lucky to live close to historical sites, many parks, cities with rich culture, and natural sites for outdoor adventures.

We have updated this post and it is now housed on our sister site – LouisvilleFamilyFun.net – please click here to see the updated list . 

During the pandemic, some of these places may not be open or they may have different programming. Please check with them before you go to make sure they are open! Most events have not been taking place and in 2021, still many are being canceled. 

1. Visit Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace. Link here   – there’s a heritage trail !

2. Take a deep breath at the Patriot Peace Memorial .

3. See folk art in Kentucky’s Folk Art Center .

4. Tour the State Capitol Building in Frankfort.

5. Pay your respects to Daniel Boone at his gravesite .

6. Take a ride on the Valley View Ferry .

7. Take in the breathtaking views at Kingdom Come State Park

8. Eat a picnic lunch at the edge of Nolin Lake .

9. Plan a trip to see a moonbow at Cumberland Falls State Park .

10. Travel back to re-enact a battle at Perryville Battlefield  – see our review here .

11. Get some energy out by hiking to the top of Natural Bridge .  See LouFamFun post .

12. Pay your respects to Thoroughbred Greats a t Claiborne Farm .

13. Visit Boone Station in Lexington.

14. Marvel at the Flood Wall Murals in Paducah

15. Visit the Kentucky Dam and let the kids burn off some steam in the open areas.

16. Check out the Historic Apple Valley Roadside Attraction .

17. Get up close and personal with the planes at Aviation Heritage Park .

18. Bask in the beauty of Blanton Forest State Nature Preserve .

19. Take the dogs (and kids!) to romp at Pioneer Park .

20. Walk (or run!) across the Purple People Bridge .

21. Play on the playground at Old Fort Harrod.

22. Hike one of the trails at Bernheim Forest . Here’s a LouFamFun post .

23. Explore one of the many covered bridges of Fleming County .

24. Marvel at the beauty of Tioga Falls .

25. Go on a free guided Big Blue Traditions tour on the UK campus.

26. Go see how candy is made at Old Kentucky Chocolates and get a taste too!

27. Splash in Yahoo Falls , Kentucky’s tallest waterfall.

28. Go see the Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial .

29. Tour the Ale 8 One Plant .

30. Stop for a picture opp at Weisenberger Mill .

31. Tour the 21C Museum Art Gallery .

32. Tour the Louisville Nature Center .

33. Get locked up in the historic Scott County Jail .

34. Check out Toyota’s Manufacturing Plant .

35. Hike through the Arboretum in Lexington .

36. Check out the Daniel Boone National Forest .

37. Go back in time and visit the Dr. Thomas Walker Historic Site .

38. In April, check out the Kite Festival in Lexington.

39. Stretch your legs on the Big Four Bridge.   Read this LouFamFun post .

40. In October, take a look at the trains at the Railroad & Bluegrass Festival  

41. Hike and make memories, then stop at the playground at The Parklands.

42. Take in the beauty of Kentucky at the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary .

43. Brush up on your history at the Lexington History Museum .

44. Leave the rat race behind at Jacobson Park .

45. Pay your respects to the fallen men and women at Camp Nelson National Cemetery .

46. Stroll through the art galleries in Paducah.

47. Get in touch with your inner Daniel Boone at Fort Boonesborough State Park .

48. Camp at Red River Gorge .

49. Get closer to the clouds at Natural Bridge State Park .

50. Visit the Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum . Tour the museum!

51. Go for a hike at the Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park .

52. Walk the scenic loop at Cherokee Park .

53. Explore the Freeman Lake Park .

54. Go for a drive along the country roads in Meade County and look at the quilts painted on barns.

55. Visit Anglin Falls .

56. Cool off in the Torrent Falls .

57.Tour the  governors mansion  in Frankfort.

58. Count the love locks on the bridge at the RiverWalk in Bowling Green .

59. See the waterfall Cumberland Falls State Park is named for.

60. Hang out at  Thoroughbred Park , get in the race and an awesome picture!

61. Find the hidden waterfalls of McCreary County

62. Explore EP Tom Sawyer Park .

63. Hang out in Basil Griffin Park .

64. Be a skateboard pro at Roland Bland Park .

64. Picnic at Reservoir Hill Park .

65. Strike a pose in front of the fountains at Fountain Square Park.

66. Pull over and check out the monuments on the side of the road.

67. Learn a little bit about Whiskey at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey .

68. If you like gardening you’ll love the Hillbilly Garden !

69. Peek in at all of the treasures at Jerry’s Junk .

70. Try out the slides at Legion Park .

71. Pay your respects to the king of fried chicken, at Colonel Sanders Grave .

72. If it doesn’t creep you out go visit the Vent Haven: Ventriloquist Museum .

73. Stop for pictures in front of the worlds largest bat .

74. Check out the 30 ft statue of David .

75. Visit the beautiful grounds of Gethsemani .

76. Check out the Bardstown Art Gallery and Thomas Merton Books Collection .

77. Play the day away in the Bardstown Community Park .

78. Go in to the Why Louisville Store and check out Colonel Sanders!

79. Write on the Before I die…wall in NuLu .

80. Go see the world peace bell .

81. Check out Big South Fork National River .

82. Get in the trenches at Camp Wildcat Civil War Battlefield .

83. Immerse yourself in culture at the Godbey Appalachian Cultural and Fine Arts Center .

84. Go on the Hatfield – McCoy Family Feud driving tour.

85. Play around at the John James Audubon Park .

86. Relax in the butterfly garden at Panther Creek Park .

87. Play at the super awesome playground at Smothers Park .

88.Visit the  Jesus swingset sculpture .

89. Hike at Berea Pinnacles .

90. Watch the barges go by at the Newport Levee .

91. Tour the Kentucky Artisan Center .

92. Take a peek inside the Cane Ridge Meeting House .

93. Tour the historic Duncan Tavern .

94. Learn something new at Wrather West Kentucky Museum .

95. Pull over and take your family’s Christmas card photo in front of Mother Goose .

96. See the sights while hiking the Osborne Bend Trail .

97. Brush up on your Native American History on the Trail of Tears .

98. Hike to the top of Carrington Rock .

99. Tour a working farm set in the 1850’s.

100. Explore the Big Bone Lick discovery trail .

101. Learn some local history at Fitchburg Furnace .

In Louisville?  See this list from LouisvilleFamilyFun.net about 50 FREE things to do in Louisville with kids !

In Shelby County?  See ShelbyFamilyFun.net  for fun ideas!

In Oldham County?  See OldhamFamilyFun.net  for fun ideas!

We also recommend this article: 50 Free Fun Things to Do in Central Kentucky

15 Best Places to Visit in Kentucky — Fun & Unique Places to Go!

By: Author Sophie Martin

Posted on Published: June 15, 2021  - Last updated: June 24, 2023

Gather your travel buddies and prepare to go on an unforgettable vacation together to the landlocked state of Kentucky.

The Bluegrass State is the ideal location for you to go on a much-needed getaway as you get a break from the repetitive cycle of your daily life.

It is one of the top destinations in the country for fantastic getaways for its countless fun-filled and spectacular attractions, like lively museums, enthralling natural wonders, awe-inspiring historical sites, gorgeous cities, and endless more.

Have a memorable trip as you get the chance to explore some of the best places to visit in Kentucky, as shown on the list below, custom-made for you.

1. Bowling Green

Bowling Green, KY 42101 (270) 393-3000

Bowling Green , founded by pioneers in 1978, is a beautiful metropolis in the southern region of Kentucky.

Why You Should Visit This Place

Are you searching for what to do in Kentucky with your travel buddies to have a terrific time together?

If you are, a trip to this city is your top choice because it has numerous fantastic vacation spots catering to your every need.

Here, you can find awe-inspiring caves to explore, amusement parks with rides suitable for all ages, stunning world-class museums, lively entertainment venues for a fun night out, and so much more.

An Expert Tip Before You Go

A top attraction you should not miss out on when visiting Bowling Green is the National Corvette Museum.

It is a mecca for sports car enthusiasts because it features countless galleries on the Chevrolet Corvette.

Related: Best Places to Eat in Bowling Green

2. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area — Stearns

300 Wilburn K Ross Highway Stearns, KY 42647 (606) 376-5073

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, often shortened to Big South Fork, encompasses more than 125,000 acres.

It shares a border with Tennessee and is one of the most popular sites for outdoor excursions.

Get away from the crowded downtown destinations and your hectic life in the city by exploring the natural recreation area.

It is one of the top places to travel in Kentucky if you want to enjoy the ultimate outdoor excursion with your travel buddies.

Wear comfortable shoes as you do a plethora of activities in nature, like hiking, water rafting, fishing, taking pictures of the breathtaking surroundings, touring a historic mining community, and so on.

To enjoy a more relaxing and convenient experience, you can opt to ride the Big South Fork Scenic Railway.

It is a scenic 14-mile train ride that offers you jaw-dropping views of the landscape and takes you 600 feet into a gorge.

Related: Best Things to Do in Kentucky

3. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area — Golden Pond

238 Visitor Center Dr Golden Pond, KY 42211 (270) 924-2000

The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, established in 1963, spans over 171,000 acres.

Spend quality time with your companions at this nature playground featuring picture-perfect hiking trails, glimmering water, and numerous recreational possibilities on land and in the lake.

Experience the best of Kentucky by bonding with your companions at this attraction while doing things like hiking trails of varying difficulties, horseback riding, observing wildlife from a safe distance, fishing, pontooning, jet skiing, camping, and endless more.

A must-visit attraction within the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is the Golden Pond Planetarium.

Come at night and learn all about the wonders of our galaxy, like the constellations and planets, and watch captivating astronomy shows at its 40-foot dome theater.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western University Inn

4. Mammoth Cave National Park — Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave National Park Mammoth Cave, KY 42259 (270) 758-2180

Mammoth Cave National Park preserves and offers guided tours of Mammoth Cave, known as the longest cave system on earth.

Create memories that will last a lifetime with your family or friends by discovering one of the most breathtaking and well-loved Kentucky tourist attractions, the Mammoth Cave National Park.

The caves are well-maintained, featuring stairs, rails, and ADA-accessible facilities, making it an ideal attraction to visit for many.

Rangers offer a wide range of tour packages that you can choose from, depending on who you are traveling with and how far into the cave you want to go.

Enjoy a more challenging experience with your friends by booking the Cleaveland Avenue Modified Tour.

It takes you two miles into the caves and through tube-shaped passages.

When visiting with your family and younger children, opt for the Mammoth Passage Modified Tour.

It is a safer option and takes you to a section of cave houses used by prehistoric people.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express – Horse Cave, an IHG Hotel

5. Natural Bridge State Resort Park — Slade

2135 Natural Bridge Rd Slade, KY 40376 (606) 663-2214

The Natural Bridge State Resort Park, established in 1926, is roughly 2,250 acres in size.

It takes its name from a stunning 78-foot sandstone natural bridge about 65 feet high.

If you are looking for beautiful places to visit near you, drive on over to this magnificent Kentucky state park.

It offers a wide array of fun-filled activities to have an ideal bonding experience with your friends, partner, or family.

Have a blast doing things like camping, traversing the phenomenal natural bridge, camping, fishing, canoeing, pedal boating, kayaking, playing miniature golf, swimming in a crystalline pool, birdwatching, and many other thrilling options.

If you want to see the full beauty of this state park but don’t want to hike for miles, the Natural Bridge Sky Lift Inc. is the perfect solution.

It takes you aboard a secure sky lift where you can enjoy spectacular views of the gorgeous mountainous landscape.

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Kentucky

6. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

100 Capital Avenue Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 875-9351

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail features 37 distilleries scattered throughout the state.

It takes roughly 90 minutes to finish the entire trail, but this depends on how long you stay at each distillery.

Do you and your friends finally have schedules that match and want to go on a fun road trip through Kentucky?

If you do, prepare your playlist as you make your way through the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

It is a terrific way to spend some much-desired, stress-free time together as you explore 37 different breweries serving a multitude of exquisite tasting alcoholic concoctions.

A top-rated brewery you should not miss out on is Angel’s Envy.

It offers interactive classes where you and your companions can learn how to make a beautifully crafted cocktail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Frankfort

7. Lexington

Lexington, KY 40514 (859) 425-2255

Lexington , known as the Horse Capital of the World, is one of the best cities to visit in Kentucky, welcoming thousands of tourists each year.

Lexington is a paradise for horse-lovers.

Here, you can get the chance to enjoy an up-close encounter with the friendly and majestic animals and explore horse-themed attractions.

Bond with your travel buddies at this beautiful city by visiting places like the Kentucky Horse Park, a competition venue and working horse farm, the Mary Todd Lincoln House, where you can learn about the early life of Abraham Lincoln’s wife, and tons of other tourist hotspots.

Don’t leave the city without watching a thrilling horse race at Keeneland Association Inc.

It is a premier thoroughbred racing facility, one of the best on the continent.

This top-ranking facility is also a National Historic Landmark and has an extensive reference library.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Related: Best Places to Eat in Lexington

8. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park — Middlesboro

91 Bartlett Park Road Middlesboro, KY 40965 (606) 248-2817

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is one of the largest national parks in the eastern United States, spanning approximately 24,000 acres.

One of the top places to visit in Kentucky to enjoy a nature retreat is the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

It features abundant wildlife of at least 371 different species, many trails where you can enjoy a hike through the beautiful scenery, campsites offering you a well-maintained area to pitch a tent, and guided tours alongside a friendly ranger.

The Hensley Settlement Tours is a must-try for history buffs.

It takes you to a historic settlement dating back to the early 1900s on Brush Mountain.

Here, you can explore various buildings, like an old schoolhouse and a blacksmith’s shop.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Middlesboro

Paducah, KY 42003 (800) 723-8224

Paducah, nicknamed The Quilt City, sits on the banks of the Ohio River.

It is a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art, designated by UNESCO.

Can’t make up your mind on where to go in Kentucky?

Then I highly recommend taking your significant other, loved ones, or friends on a laid-back and relaxing vacation to the charming city of Paducah .

Some of the attractions that await you here are eye-catching art galleries, beautiful natural attractions, scenic parks, one-of-a-kind museums, breathtaking floodwall murals, cafes serving mouth-watering dishes, and so much more.

Before heading home, drop by one of its prized attractions, the National Quilt Museum.

It boasts an impressive collection of one of the top quilt displays worldwide offers you many engaging workshops and fun activities to try.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Paducah Riverfront, an IHG Hotel

Related: Best Places to Eat in Paducah

10. Owensboro Museum of Fine Art — Owensboro

901 Frederica St Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 685-3181

The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art, founded in 1977, exhibits a diverse collection of Appalachian folk art and fine art from different continents.

Do you have an art appreciation and want to spend the day immersed in awe-inspiring masterpieces?

If you do, make your way to this brilliant museum.

The Owensboro Museum of Fine Art houses various galleries depicting artworks of varying forms, like decorative pieces, art from the 15th century, glassworks, sculptures, paintings, and fine art from Asia and Europe.

One of the best times to visit this museum is during the holiday season when it comes alive with at least eighteen beautifully decorated Christmas trees of every size.

The trees feature the design of local artists and florists, and the entire place becomes a Christmas wonderland.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wingfield Inn & Suites

Related: Best Places to Eat in Owensboro

11. Salato Wildlife Education Center — Frankfort

1 Sportsman’s Ln Frankfort, KY 40601 (502) 564-7863

The Salato Wildlife Education Center features indoor and outdoor exhibits on native Kentucky animals.

It features volunteer programs, recreational possibilities, animal encounters, and tons more.

Get in touch with nature’s wildlife for a cheap price at this wildlife center.

Some of the animals you can see here are black bears, turtles, bobcats, elk, deer, bald eagles, various snake species, and so on.

You can also sign up for a guided tour of the area if you want a more educational experience and get the chance to touch and pet some of the animals.

If you want to enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful surroundings, you can contact the wildlife center ahead of time and reserve a picnic shelter for a fee.

There are open-air picnic tables that you can use free of charge on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Capital Plaza Hotel

12. Louisville

Louisville, KY 40208 (502) 574-5000

Louisville , nestled on the shores of the Ohio River, is the largest city in the state.

It is a premier destination for tourists for its numerous family-friendly attractions and fun-filled possibilities.

Louisville is one of the best places to go in Kentucky for an amazing vacation that you and your travel companions will remember for years to come.

Go on a superb bonding experience as you do activities like watching a derby show, viewing countless displays at a museum, taking photos of the architectural masterpieces, watching a live performance at a theater, exploring art galleries, and lots of other enjoyable choices.

Do not leave without visiting the Louisville Zoo, offering six zones of exhibits to explore featuring more than 1,700 animals of varying species.

You can see exotic animals, such as rhinoceros, polar bears, camels, an albino alligator, and tons more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Brown Hotel

Related: Restaurants: Louisville

13. Newport Aquarium — Newport

1 Levee Way Newport, KY 41071 (800) 406-3474

The Newport Aquarium, which opened in May 1999, is home to over 20,000 animals of at least 90 different species.

It offers you 70 exhibits and 14 galleries to explore with your companions.

If you are in search of places to see in Kentucky to explore the wonders of marine life, this magnificent aquarium is the destination for you.

Some of the attractions it has to offer are the Shark Tank Overlook, where you can cross a suspension bridge above a tank filled with sharks, Stingray Touch, which allows you to pet the gentle sea creatures, and Gator Alley, home to two rare white alligators.

Check their website before visiting because they often hold promotions on select dates, allowing you to explore the aquarium at a discounted rate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Aloft Newport on the Levee

14. Great American Dollhouse Museum — Danville

344 Swope Dr Danville, KY 40422 (859) 236-1883

The Great American Dollhouse Museum exhibits at least 200 remarkably-detailed dollhouses.

It is a local favorite and features various themed sections, like a fantasy land complete with mythological creatures.

There are tons of cool and unique places to visit in Kentucky, like the Great American Dollhouse Museum.

At this charming museum, you can view beautiful dollhouses and intricately designed recreated miniature neighborhoods.

You can also explore a section on magical beings, like elves, fairies, trolls, and witches.

There is also a museum store where you can shop for numerous souvenir items to take back home.

If you want to eat after touring the museum, head on over to Copper and Oak, a 2-minute drive away.

It serves refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and tasty dishes like juicy burgers, fresh salads, seafood, chicken, and more.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Danville, an IHG Hotel

15. Louisville Mega Cavern — Louisville

1841 Taylor Ave Louisville, KY 40213 (877) 614-6342

The Louisville Mega Cavern was once a bustling limestone mine.

It is now a top-rated attraction and one of the best places to visit in Kentucky, offering a plethora of recreational activities for a superb underground adventure.

When looking for places of interest to visit with your friends, partner, or family to enjoy an adventure like no other, the Louisville Mega Cavern is your ultimate choice.

Prepare to have a blast as you do things like zip-lining, making your way through an aerial ropes course, going on a guided walking, biking, or tram tour, watching dazzling light displays during the holidays, and so much more.

If you are a history buff, book the Historic Walking Tour for a fun time.

It is a 90-minute tour where you can learn all about the cavern’s mining history and explore 17 miles of underground corridors.

Take note that this experience has an age limit of at least seven years old.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard Louisville Airport

Map of Places to Visit in Kentucky

Kentucky Places to Visit: The 15 Best Places to Go for [currentyear]

• Bowling Green — Bowling Green
• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area — Stearns
• Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area — Golden Pond
• Mammoth Cave National Park — Mammoth Cave
• Natural Bridge State Resort Park — Slade
• Kentucky Bourbon Trail
• Lexington — Lexington
• Cumberland Gap National Historical Park — Middlesboro
• Paducah — Paducah
• Owensboro Museum of Fine Art — Owensboro
• Salato Wildlife Education Center — Frankfort
• Louisville — Louisville
• Newport Aquarium — Newport
• Great American Dollhouse Museum — Danville
• Louisville Mega Cavern — Louisville

Your Ultimate Guide To Fall Attractions And Activities In Kentucky

Written by  

Looking to make the most of Kentucky this fall? Whether you want colorful leaf-peeping drives, festivals, or fun fall activities, this guide has got you covered . I’ve rounded up the best spots to visit, from pumpkin patches to exciting local events. So grab a pumpkin-spiced latte and get ready to enjoy everything this season has to offer!

Kentucky Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Kentucky For Fall Foliage

The Bluegrass State really shines in the autumn, with vibrant colors and stunning views across the state. From the scenic drives at Land Between the Lakes to the impressive landscapes of Big South Fork, there’s no shortage of beautiful spots to the season’s beauty. Explore the best places to see the foliage and soak up the charm in KY.

1. Red River Gorge Geological Area

Location: Stanton, KY

Wow Factor: A major wow factor of the Red River Gorge Geological Area is its collection of over 100 natural stone arches, like the well-known Sky Bridge and Natural Bridge.

Need To Know: Trail use is free, but there are parking fees at some trailheads and recreation areas. Arrive early in the fall - parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

Red River Gorge Geological Area is a nature lover's paradise, especially in the fall. This spot, part of Daniel Boone National Forest, is famous for its rock formations, natural arches, and beautiful forests. Come mid to late October, the place lights up with reds, oranges, and yellows.

Take a scenic drive along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway or hike trails like Auxier Ridge and Natural Bridge . And for some epic views, you have to check out Chimney Top Rock . It's the perfect spot for soaking up fall colors and snapping great photos.

2. Mammoth Cave National Park

Location: South-central, KY

Wow Factor: The contrast between the vibrant autumn foliage and the cave’s cool, dark interior!

Need To Know: Mammoth Cave National Park has no entrance fee, but tours have costs. Parking can fill up in the fall, so arrive early and book tours in advance to secure your spot.

For a memorable fall experience, Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-visit. The park is known for its extensive underground cave system and stunning autumn views. In mid to late October, the park’s forests come alive with a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors.

You can enjoy a scenic drive on Park City Drive or hit the Cedar Sink Trail to see the foliage up close. And don’t miss the chance to take a cave tour —while the underground sights are cool, the fall colors above the ground are just as spectacular.

3. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Location: Corbin, KY

Wow Factor: The moonbow, of course!

Need To Know: The moonbow is a rare natural phenomenon where a rainbow forms from the mist of the waterfall during a full moon. It's visible on clear nights, best seen two days before, during, and after a full moon, from dusk to midnight. The park stays open for visitors to enjoy this magical event, with the best views from the upper and lower observation decks.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a wonderful place to see Kentucky fall foliage. The park is often called the Niagara of the South because of its impressive 68-foot waterfall .

The trees in the park turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow from mid to late October, so make sure you mark your calendars and visit during that time. If you like hiking, you can explore trails like Eagle Falls Trail for the best views of the colorful leaves and the picturesque waterfall.

The park is also well-known for its special moonbow , a rainbow only visible on clear nights. It’s an ideal destination to soak in the beauty of Kentucky in the fall.

4. The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

Location: Stearns, KY

Wow Factor: The Yahoo Falls is definitely the standout feature.

Need To Know: There is no entry fee, and parking is available at designated areas throughout the park. Popular trails and overlooks will see more visitors during the fall season.

The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is situated in the eastern part of Kentucky, straddling the border with Tennessee. It's just an hour and a half drive from Knoxville, TN, and around 2 hours from Lexington, KY.

During mid to late October, the Kentucky side of the park offers views of the Big South Fork River surrounded by colorful autumn leaves. You can visit scenic spots like Yahoo Falls Overlook, where you'll see Kentucky's tallest waterfall, Yahoo Falls , and explore trails like the Yahoo Arch Trail , which winds through beautiful forests and impressive rock formations.

There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, horseback riding opportunities, and the chance to enjoy a relaxing paddle along the river.

5. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Location: Golden Pond, KY

Wow Factor: The scenic drives like the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, Kentucky Lake Drive, Elk & Bison Prairie Road, and Energy Lake Road.

Need To Know: There’s no entry fee at Land Between the Lakes, and parking is free. Expect crowds in fall, so arrive early.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area , right on the border of western Kentucky and Tennessee, is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky in the fall. Stretching between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, it's full of stunning views of vibrant autumn colors, especially from mid to late October.

You can take many scenic drives around the Kentucky lakes area. One notable drive is the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway , where you can admire the best of the park's colorful forests. Additionally, you can explore the Canal Loop Trail or just take it easy at the overlooks in Hillman Ferry Campground.

Best Pumpkin Patches In Kentucky

Looking for the best pumpkin patches in Kentucky ? I've got you covered! From scenic hayrides and corn mazes to delicious seasonal treats, these pumpkin patches offer everything you need for a perfect autumn day.

6. Jackson's Orchard & Nursery

Location: Bowling Green, KY

Wow Factor: The orchard is known for its apples and peaches, so make it a point to try all the apple and peach goodies at the concessions.

Need To Know: There are no admission or parking fees, and most activities are affordable and cash-only.

Jackson's Orchard & Nursery in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a top spot for pumpkin fun. Just a short drive from downtown, this charming family-owned orchard gives you a full slate of autumn activities.

Throughout October, you can enjoy a variety of things to do every weekend at the orchard's Pumpkin Fest. Highlights include wagon rides to the pumpkin patch, a corn maze, pick-your-own apples , a petting zoo, pony rides, a straw castle, face painting, and more. Kids will also love the moonwalk and The Cider Slider, so make sure to check those out, too.

While enjoying all the festivities, you have to try all the seasonal treats. The caramel apples, homemade ice cream, and fresh apple cider are to die for.

7. Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf

Location: Hopkinsville, KY

Wow Factor: The Hay Castle.

Need To Know: Farm admission fee includes access to all seasonal activities, though pumpkins are purchased separately from the patch or store. A combined admission option is available for those interested in both the farm and mini-golf. Season passes offer year-round access to various activities and events.

Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf in Hopkinsville, just a 25-minute drive from downtown, is a fantastic destination for pumpkin fun and fall activities. You can select pumpkins from a large patch, browse fall favorites in the country store, and enjoy a scenic hayride around the farm.

Kids will absolutely love climbing on the hay castle, grinding corn to feed the farm animals, and navigating the corn maze . Alongside these fall activities, you can pet the animals, play a round of mini golf, and grab a bite at the Christian Way Cafe.

8. Gallrein Farms

Location: Shelbyville, KY

Wow Factor: It has to be the giant straw pyramid, but don't forget to pass by the market and cafe - it's a treat.

Need To Know: The fall season at the farm runs from mid-September to October 31st, and fall activities have separate costs.

Gallrein Farms in Shelbyville, located between Louisville and Lexington, is the place to be for autumn fun. At this family-friendly farm, you can pick pumpkins from the expansive patch, play in the giant corn pit, and enjoy hayrides around the farm.

Everyone in the group will love zipping down the slide, jumping on the pillows, checking out the animals at the petting zoo, and climbing the giant straw pyramid. Don't miss the farm market and cafe, where you can find fresh produce, homemade treats, and festive fall decorations.

9. Foxhollow Farm

Location: Crestwood, KY

Wow Factor: The annual Fall Festival.

Need To Know: Foxhollow Farm charges admission for some fall activities and events. Be sure to check their website for specific pricing details and any additional costs for special events or activities.

Are you on the hunt for fall activities near me ? Foxhollow Farm in Crestwood is an idyllic spot for autumn activities, just 20 minutes from Louisville, KY . This charming farm features a pumpkin patch where you can pick your perfect pumpkin, climb the hay castle, and explore the beautiful farm grounds.

Get ready for a good time with a fun corn maze, a farm-to-table market, and lively music events that bring a festive feel. Foxhollow Farm also hosts an annual Fall Festival with local food vendors, artisan crafts, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

Best Fall Festivals In Kentucky

Discover the top festivals in KY that capture the essence of the season with vibrant celebrations and fun for all ages. From lively music and craft demonstrations to yummy food and unique activities, these festivals offer a fantastic way to enjoy the changing seasons.

10. Midway Fall Festival

Location: Midway, KY

Wow Factor: The marketplace.

Need To Know: Parking is available within walking distance of the festival. Look for parking on Winter Street and nearby side streets as you approach downtown Midway. Paid parking options are also available and will be signposted.

Celebrate the arrival of fall at the Midway Fall Festival in Downtown Midway , a cherished event that highlights the town’s vibrant community spirit and cultural heritage.

This festival features a marketplace of arts and crafts, traditional demonstrations of sorghum and pottery, and a variety of foods from local vendors. Enjoy live music, entertainment, and fun activities for the whole family. It's a fun-filled celebration that captures the essence of autumn in Central Kentucky.

11. Mary Queen Fall Festival

Location: Lexington, KY

Wow Factor: Participating in the raffle.

Need To Know: Admission is free.

The Mary Queen Fall Festival is a community event and school fundraiser held annually in Lexington, KY . Located at Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary School, this family-friendly affair offers something for everyone. Enjoy food, live music, and exciting games and activities.

The little ones will love the inflatables and face painting, while adults can test their luck at casino games, enter the grand raffle, or grab a refreshing drink at the beer garden. Be sure to mark your calendar for this fantastic event and support a local school while enjoying a fun-filled fall evening!

12. Jessamine Fall Festival

Location: Nicholasville, KY

Wow Factor: The parade and pageant.

Need To Know: Bring cash and plan for parking; the festival gets crowded.

The Jessamine Fall Festival is a fun event that brings the community together to celebrate the arrival of autumn. Taking place in Nicholasville, KY , the festival has a lot of activities and entertainment for everyone.

You can listen to live music, shop at the local vendor stalls, and savor tasty food from food trucks. There are also carnival rides, games, and a petting zoo for the kids, while adults can explore arts and crafts. One of the main attractions is the classic car show, which attracts car enthusiasts from all over.

13. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill's Harvest Fest

Location: Harrodsburg, KY

Wow Factor: The standout activity at Harvest Fest is the opportunity to watch sorghum processing and apple cider pressing.

Need To Know: Harvest Fest is included in your general admission to Shaker Village.

Looking for some Kentucky fall activities for the whole family? The Harvest Fest at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in Harrodsburg is the place to be! You'll get to experience the rich history and traditions of the Shakers while enjoying live music, historical reenactments, and traditional craft demonstrations.

There's something for everyone, from workshops and wagon rides to sorghum processing, apple cider pressing, and a market where you can buy delicious treats like honey, bread, and jams. With hayrides, pumpkin painting, pony rides, and more, it's the perfect way to kick off the harvest season.

Add in live music, an outdoor bar, and food trucks, and you've got one of the best fall festivals in Kentucky.

Free & Cheap Kentucky Fall Activities

These free and affordable options highlight the best of what this state has to offer. From scenic parks to charming small towns and historical sites, there's something for everyone to enjoy while going easy on the wallet.

14. Exploring the Kentucky Horse Park

Wow Factor: Take a horse-drawn trolley ride - it's a charming experience that offers a scenic way to explore the park's beautiful grounds.

Need To Know: Ticket prices are affordable, with children aged 5 and under getting in free, and parking is also complimentary, making it a budget-friendly outing for the whole family.

The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is a great place to visit, especially if you love horses or want to add some fall fun to your weekend. It's not far from downtown Lexington and has a lot to offer, like horse exhibits, shows, and beautiful trails.

You can check out the International Museum of the Horse, watch horse shows, and see the farm in action. Visiting in the fall is extra nice because the weather is cooler. And the ticket price is definitely worth it, so it's a top choice for a fun and affordable group outing in the fall.

15. Walking Through Downtown Frankfort

Location: Frankfort, KY

Wow Factor: Views of the Kentucky River.

Need To Know: Downtown Frankfort offers free and metered street parking, with several public lots available. Check signs for time limits and meter requirements. Overall, parking is generally accessible and affordable.

Get to know the beauty of Kentucky's capital city by taking a walk through Downtown Frankfort . Stroll around the area and enjoy historic buildings like the Old State Capitol and the Kentucky State Capitol.

Check out the lovely architecture, take pictures of the Kentucky River, and explore charming shops and cozy cafes. The streets are filled with colorful fall leaves, and local parks have plenty of places to take a break and people-watch.

Seasonal events and farmers' markets add to the autumn atmosphere, too, making Downtown Frankfort a fantastic and affordable way to experience the local culture and autumn scenery.

16. Visiting the Louisville Waterfront Park

Location: Louisville, KY

Wow Factor: The iconic Big Four Bridge.

Need To Know: Parking is available in several lots and metered streets nearby, and the park is fully accessible with restrooms and water fountains throughout.

Get away from the busy city life without actually leaving the city by visiting Louisville's Waterfront Park . This free, 85-acre park along the Ohio River offers beautiful river views and lots of open space. You can take a leisurely walk along the pretty paths, admire the colorful autumn leaves, or have a picnic on the Great Lawn with the river in the background.

The park also has the famous Big Four Bridge, which is perfect for a relaxed walk or bike ride. With big grassy areas and a family-friendly vibe, it's a great place to relax or enjoy outdoor activities.

Kentucky truly shines when the leaves start to change color. Have you explored any of these top fall spots? I’d love to hear about your favorites and any tips you might have—share your experiences with us!

Heading out on a road trip to visit these festivals and fairs? Be sure to bring along your must-have road trip essentials and packing list .

Looking for more fun seasonal activities? Check out these four ridiculously charming train rides .

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kentucky/fall-train-rides-ky/

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news.

• Northern California
• Southern California
• Connecticut
• Massachusetts
• Mississippi
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• West Virginia

Thank you for subscribing!

4 Ridiculously Charming Train Rides To Take In Kentucky This Fall

Experience the beauty of fall in Kentucky with charming train rides through the countryside, hills, and mountains.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the fall season is aboard one of the fall train rides in Kentucky. During fall in Kentucky , many train stations and museums throughout the Bluegrass State showcase the sights of the season with charming train rides through the countryside, hills, and mountains. Some of these rides are themed with costumed characters, while others are just relaxing Kentucky train rides. Check them all out, and then pick one of these four ridiculously charming fall train rides in Kentucky to embark on.

1. My Old Kentucky Dinner Train

My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is possibly the best-known train excursion in our state, and for good reason. They offer a number of different rides, many of which operate throughout fall. When it leaves Bardstown, you'll ride the rails through beautiful Kentucky and, if the timing is right, vibrant fall colors. For more on this fun fall train ride, check out the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train website.

2. Fall Rides with the Bluegrass Railroad Museum

The Bluegrass Railroad Museum in Versailles offers a number of exciting train rides throughout the year, many of them themed to go along with the season. In the fall, you can take a ride to the pumpkin patch (these sell out quickly, so get tickets early!), or hop aboard for a ride through the colorful countryside. Learn more about the museum's train rides by visiting the Bluegrass Railroad Museum website.

3. The Autumn Express at The Kentucky Railway Museum

One of the most charming is the Autumn Express, where visitors can enjoy a petting zoo, photo opportunities with costumed characters, pick out a pumpkin, and bounce their hearts out in a bounce house!

Learn more about the Autumn Express Trail at the Kentucky Railway Museum website.

4. A Scenic Ride With Big South Fork Scenic Railway

This fall, explore the naturally gorgeous area around Stearns aboard the Big South Fork Scenic Railway. They offer many different train rides, some with specific themes and others that just take you on a relaxing ride through the vibrant landscape of Big South Fork. They're all delightful! Find out more about these excursions on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway website .

A train ride through the state’s natural beauty is a great way to experience the fall foliage in Kentucky. Have you taken a ride on the rails during the most colorful season of the year? Did you know about these seasonal Kentucky train rides? Know of any other fall train rides in Kentucky? Tell us! Want a nice, warm sweater while exploring? Check out the options our friends at The North Face have!

Train rides aren’t the only way to enjoy autumn’s amazing beauty. There are several other fun things to do in fall in Kentucky, and just to make sure you don’t miss a thing, we’ve put together a list of must-visit fall destinations in Kentucky .

The Scenic Train Ride In Kentucky That Runs Year-Round

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway offers enchanting, year-round train excursions through Kentucky's beautiful landscapes, including a historic ghost town.

Kentucky is a state of immense beauty; it's a place that inspires and invites exploration and wanderlust. While we're all for getting out and enjoying a hike in the Kentucky wilds , there's nothing better than sitting back and soaking up the beauty of the Bluegrass State aboard an old-fashioned train. And the Big South Fork Scenic Railway might be the most charming train in the state! All year long this railroad offers excursions that let folks experience each season's splendor, and we guarantee that a scenic train ride aboard Big South Fork will have you falling head-over-heels in love with Kentucky!

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a Bluegrass treasure, enchanting riders since 1907. It's a fun, family-friendly, and historic attraction that often slips under the radar.

History buffs adore this railway, which takes a 14-mile trip down to Blue Heron, the largest interpretive collection of historic coal mining in America... and Kentucky's very own ghost town !

Where else can you take a Kentucky train ride to a ghost town?

This area is overflowing with history. Coal was discovered in the region early on, and Stearns was established to serve as the hub for the area's mining industry. The Kentucky & Tennessee Railway stretched through the area, and it continued to utilize steam locomotives even after diesel eclipsed it in popularity.

But the Big South Fork Scenic Railway is so much more than an attraction with unique historical significance. Located in magnificent McCreary County, the train offers excursions all year round, allowing folks to take in the unique splendor of the state in each season.

During the spring, Big South Fork has a round-trip adventure on the historic Kentucky & Tennessee Railway line that winds through the blooming forests and fields of the region.

The landscape is equally stunning in the summer, with the big Kentucky skies and rolling blue hills simply perfect.

And in the autumn months, with fall foliage at its peak, this part of the Bluegrass will totally sweep you off your feet!

In addition to its regular excursions, Big South Fork Scenic Railway also offers special seasonal events, such as the Polar Express ride during Christmastime. There's something so wholly enchanting about an old-fashioned train depot decked out in twinkly lights and falling snow, don't you think?

No matter the season, these excursions offer stunning views of the landscape as it changes from season to season. Start planning your visit now, and look forward to a scenic train ride through this naturally wondrous area of Kentucky!

When was the last time you enjoyed train rides in Kentucky to admire the beauty of the Bluegrass state?

Stay up-to-date on the latest information by visiting the Big South Fork Scenic Railway website to learn more and book your trip.

For more fun things to do in Kentucky , check out our list of 11 unique Kentucky attractions and activities. An old Louisville ghost tour is always an interesting way to get to know the soul of the city.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/kentucky/unique-things-to-do-ky/

All Stories

This roller rink in small-town iowa is the epitome of americana.

The best roller rink in Iowa, Roller City in Mason City is a delightfully retro way to skate the day away.

5 Last-Minute Getaways In Mississippi For A Fun End-Of-Summer Retreat

This Louisiana Dining Experience Has Been Called One of the Best Restaurants in the U.S.

9 Things That Belong On Everyone’s Arkansas Summer Bucket List

This Panoramic-View Cocktail Bar in Kansas City, Missouri is a Must-Visit

High above Kansas City, Missouri, experience nightlife with panoramic city views and craft cocktails at The Mercury Room.