Recognized for its bourbon, bluegrass, and rolling farmland, Kentucky is probably not a prime vacationer hotspot, however from my very own travels I found it’s filled with attractive gems — listed below are my favourite locations within the Bluegrass State…
1. Cumberland Falls
This can be a jaw-dropping pure attraction! Positioned in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park within the southeastern a part of the state (close to the town of Corbin), I personally suppose these falls are significantly spectacular, in addition to being very photogenic!
Referred to as the “Niagara of the South,” the highly effective waterfall has a dramatic 68-foot drop into the Cumberland River and is surrounded by lush forests and rugged cliffs. I like the serene and zen-like vibe this place has!
On my journey, I explored the encircling mountaineering trails (there are ten in whole), went kayaking down the Cumberland River, and stayed to see its well-known uncommon moonbow – a rainbow created by the moon’s mild. It’s one in all solely two locations on the planet the place you’ll be able to see a moonbow, and it was really a particular second once I skilled it!
- Deal with: 7351 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701
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- Finest time to go to: Throughout the full moon to catch the magical moonbow!
My favourite highlights…
- Staying on the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park – I cherished my cozy cabin, attractive forest views, the distant roar of Cumberland Falls within the background and eating on a hearty breakfast of a skillet of fluffy buttermilk biscuits smothered in wealthy mushroom-sage gravy!
2. Kentucky Bourbon Path
The Kentucky Bourbon Path was an superior – I found it was an immersive journey via greater than 40 distilleries in central and northern Kentucky that celebrated its wealthy bourbon heritage and craftsmanship. I included it not just for the nice whiskies I tasted (a particular bonus!) but in addition for the gorgeous surroundings of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming historic distilleries.
I spent 5 days exploring the path staying on the rustic-chic Shaker Village of Nice Hill and the distinctive and stylish 4-star Elwood Lodge & Suites.
I had a blast at Buffalo Hint, touring the complete bourbon-making course of from cooking to distilling; at Maker’s Mark, I hand-dipped my very own bottle of their iconic purple wax; and at Bardstown Bourbon Firm, I savored bourbon straight from freshly charred American oak barrels.
- Location: Louisville, Lexington, and Bardstown (which is named the “Bourbon Capital of the World”)
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- Finest instances to go to: spring, summer time, fall and winter
My highlights…
- Discovering the distinctive Spanish Mission-Model structure on the 4 Roses Bourbon Distillery, I sipped on their clean 4 Roses Single Barrel Outdated Original with its hints of caramel, spice, and orange peel!
3. Pink River Gorge and Pure Bridge
This can be a gorgeous pure hidden gem! Positioned within the east-central a part of the state in Daniel Boone Nationwide Forest (principally inside Powell County). I come right here to gaze on the 65-foot-high pure bridge made mainly of sandstone and soak within the spectacular views of the Pink River Gorge.
I believe the surroundings right here is attractive with dramatic cliffs, thick forests, and hanging pure rock formations, with the enduring Pure Bridge serving as a centerpiece.
On our journey we rented a comfortable log cabin, hiked the superior scenic nature trails, went rock-climbing at Pink River Gorge, went for a surprising scenic drive on Pink River Gorge Scenic Byway, found historic rock shelters, went underground kayaking within the flooded limestone caves on the Gorge Underground and took the distinctive Sky Chair Elevate to see Pure Bridge. Discovering the extraordinary pure gravity-defying attraction Balanced Rock was additionally an unforgettable expertise!
My private highlights…
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 3451 Sky Bridge Rd Stanton, KY 40380
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- Finest instances to go to: spring and fall (for many comfy temperatures)
My highlights…
- Staying within the rustic and comfortable Restful River Cabin – I cherished snacking on Fried Inexperienced Tomato Chips on the porch with pine-scented air, the river glistening beneath, and the and the regular hum of cicadas within the air!
4. Appalachian Mountains
This mountain vary is significantly dreamy, in a rugged type of approach! They principally lengthen within the jap a part of the state and are a part of the bigger Appalachian vary which stretches from Georgia all the way in which to Canada.
I believe the surroundings is breathtaking and embody gorgeous leafy vistas, forest-covered rolling hills and dramatic rock formations, and I particularly love visiting throughout fall when the leaves flip right into a blaze of spectacular colours!
I explored the scenic mountaineering trails in Cumberland Hole Nationwide Historic Park and Pink River Gorge in addition to the well-known Appalachian Path, went mountaineering on the spectacular Pink River Gorge, kayaked alongside the serene Laurel River Lake and went caving at Mammoth Cave Nationwide Park (which is house to the longest cave system on the earth)!
- Location: the vary covers the jap portion of the state.
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- Finest instances to go to: spring, summer time or fall
My private highlights…
- The attention-grabbing Hensley Settlement (as soon as a thriving mountain neighborhood) – I noticed weathered-worn oak cabins, smoky stone chimneys, and a creaky one-room schoolhouse that introduced Appalachian pioneer life vividly to life!
5. Louisville
I personally suppose this probably the most underrated cities within the USA! Positioned within the north-central a part of the state, on the southern shore of the Ohio River, it’s the biggest and busiest metropolis within the state.
In my view it’s an easy-on-the-eye place and I’m a giant fan of its spectacular skyline, vibrant mixture of city landscapes, lush inexperienced parks, vibrant arts scene, scenic riverfront views and its long-established bluegrass music scene.
I stayed on the cool and distinctive 4-star 21C Museum Lodge for 3 days. I found the spectacular Kentucky Museum of Artwork and Craft, the adventurous Louisville Mega Cavern, explored the various culinary scene within the farm-to-table eating places, took at interactive tour on the fashionable Rabbit Gap Distillery and the spooky Louisville Historic Excursions, and drank cocktails within the historic Outdated Seelbach Bar.
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 301 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202
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- Finest instances to go to: spring to fall
My highlights…
- Eating on the cool however cozy Venezuelan restaurant Full Arepa the place I devoured a rice bowl loaded with fiery jackfruit, slow-cooked black beans, caramelized plantains, and a zingy drizzle of lime crema!
6. Kentucky Lake
I believe that is an superior leisure and family-friendly spot! Positioned within the western a part of the state (close to the town of Paducah), it covers 184 miles and has greater than 2,000 miles of shoreline.
I believe the surroundings right here is attractive with huge stretches of shimmering blue water framed by thick inexperienced forests, rolling hills, and picturesque sunsets. I additionally love the pleasant and welcoming vibe right here!
I went kayaking (from Kentucky Lake Leases), boating, jet snowboarding, paddle-boarding, hike the paths surrounding the lake and time my visits in the summertime to see the enjoyable sailboat races and regattas that happen right here!
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 71 US Freeway 641 N, Gilbertsville, KY 42044
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- Finest instances to go to: summer time
My private highlights…
- Staying on the rustic and family-friendly Kenlake State Resort Park – I cherished the lakeside theater and my cozy cottage which was nestled within the surrounding woodland the place woke as much as the sounds of American Robins and Carolina Wrens warbling every morning!
7. Frankfort
I believe the capital metropolis of the state is an enthralling and quaint gem! It’s positioned alongside the Kentucky River within the central a part of the state and in addition to its laid-back, small-town vibe, I’m a giant fan of its historic landmarks, scenic river views, attention-grabbing bourbon distilleries, elegant structure and lovely backdrop of tree-lined hills. To me it sums up every thing I like concerning the state however in a compact metropolis kind!
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 301 St. Clair St. Frankfort, KY 40601
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- Peak instances to go to: spring to fall
My private highlights…
- Eating at Bourbon On Primary – the decadent chocolate chip bread pudding which got here drizzled with a heat, sticky bourbon caramel sauce was a standout!
8. Daniel Boone Nationwide Forest
When visiting the Pink River Gorge and Pure Bridge, I like to discover the remainder of the gorgeous Daniel Boone Nationwide Forest as nicely! I personally suppose it’s a breathtakingly picturesque space. Positioned within the jap a part of Kentucky, close to the city of Slade, it has been a nationwide forest since 1937 and spans over 708,000 acres on the western fringe of the Appalachian Mountains
It gives a scenic backdrop to my out of doors adventures right here with forested slopes, sandstone cliffs, slim ravines, stone arches, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.
I camped out on the excellent backcountry websites, discover the gorgeous mountaineering trails (there are over 600 miles of mountaineering trails right here!), traverse the unimaginable sandstone cliff with pure steps often called the ‘Indian Staircase’, see the excellent Cumberland Falls and discover the forest’s many gorgeous pure arches!
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 1700 Bypass Street Winchester, KY 40391
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- Peak instances to go to: spring to fall
My private highlights…
- Staying on the Pure Bridge State Park Resort Lodge – I cherished the out of doors pool with forested views, the laid-back household vibe, and my cozy wood lodge which had knotty-pine partitions and a stone fire!
9. Shaker Village of Nice Hill
I believe this an amazing family-friendly attraction! Positioned in Harrodsburg within the central a part of the state the Shaker Village of Nice Hill exhibits how the Shaker non secular neighborhood lived through the nineteenth century and has gained many journey awards! Once I visited I may see why – it’s an immaculately preserved historic spot set in 3,000 acres.
It’s additionally a stunning magnificence spot with with forested rolling hills, lush fields, and fantastically restored historic buildings some with fairly gardens.
I cherished exploring the historic Shaker buildings (there are a minimum of thirty 4 of them!) and the picturesque nature preserves, natural gardens, occurring boat rides on the Kentucky River and discovering the numerous scenic mountaineering trails positioned right here together with the restored native prairie right here (there are 1,000 acres positioned right here!) on the favored 7 mile Shawnee Run Path.
Though we didn’t keep over, there may be additionally in a single day lodging right here as nicely (Shaker-style in fact!) in addition to rustic-style eating places, a farm, glorious exhibitions, craft demonstrations and cute little craft retailers!
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 3501 Lexington Rd, Harrodsburg, KY 40330
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- Finest instances to go to: spring and summer time (for the wildflowers)
My favourite highlights…
- Exploring the Cooper’s Store the place Shakers as soon as formed barrels and butter churns – with the atmospheric woody scent of shavings and the clang of instruments—it actually felt like stepping again to a less complicated time!
10. Dale Hole Lake
I’m a giant fan of this attractive zen-like lake! It’s a family-friend leisure lake positioned border of this state and Tennessee (close to the city of Albany). Spanning round 27,700 acres I like how calm the waters are right here and in addition the surroundings – it has gorgeous turquoise waters surrounded by lush forested hills.
On my journey I went boating, kayaking and paddle-boarding, explored the scenic surrounding mountaineering trails (the 4.5 mile lengthy Increase Ridge Path was my favourite) and relaxed across the shoreline watching the opposite guests go water snowboarding, wakeboarding, and jet snowboarding!
- Customer’s Heart Deal with: 5970 State Park Rd Burkesville, KY 42717
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- Finest instances to go to: summer time
My highlights…
- Staying on the fantastic Byrdstown House – I cherished the attractive however cozy trendy decor, the swimming pool and sipping on a Sunergos Espresso Prima on the porch every morning whereas gazing on the glistening lake views within the crisp air!
11. Mammoth Cave Nationwide Park
This place all the time wows me! It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Web site positioned within the south-central a part of the state (close to Cave Metropolis) and I personally suppose it’s a massively spectacular family-friendly vacationer attraction! Established in 1941 in 52,000 acres it’s really house to the longest cave system on the earth, with over 420 miles of passageways to discover.
In my view, it’s a jaw-dropping place – each overground and underground – and has a mixture of thick inexperienced forests, rolling hills, winding rivers and a surreal subterranean paradise of stalagmites, stalactites, helictites, and travertine dams, which I may view up shut on a guided tour.
I particularly cherished the brief Frozen Niagara Tour, exploring the miles of scenic mountaineering trails above floor (there are 70 miles of trails), biking the very scenic Mammoth Cave Railroad Path and occurring a guided spelunking expertise (which was a really unimaginable however barely nerve wracking expertise)!
- Deal with: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
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- Finest instances to go to: it’s open all 12 months spherical (with seasonal opening hours)
My highlights…
- The 2-hour Historic Tour the place we explored Mammoth Cave’s highlights—the huge Rotunda and the eerie Bottomless Pit—although the infinite flights of stairs was a take a look at for my legs!
12. John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge
That is an iconic attraction which I’m all the time in awe of! Positioned within the northern a part of the state it crosses the Ohio River becoming a member of Cincinnati in Ohio, and Covington on this state.
Accomplished in 1867, it was designed by the the well-known civil engineer John A. Roebling (who later designed Brooklyn Bridge) and I personally suppose its spectacular with its majestic-looking Gothic Revival spires and hanging Artwork Deco look!
I like this place for the sweeping views of the Ohio River, the town’s skylines and the picturesque waterfront! On my most up-to-date go to I took a scenic stroll to gaze on the fantastic views, admired the spectacular structure of the bridge after which explored Covington’s Riverside District which was stuffed with charming cafes, boutiques, and the well-known Roebling Murals alongside the flood wall.
- Deal with: 1000 Riverside Dr Covington, KY 41011
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- Finest instances to go to: spring, summer time, fall and winter
My private highlights…
- Strolling the pedestrian walkway, I soaked up unimaginable views of the Ohio River, the shimmering Cincinnati skyline, and Covington’s charming historic waterfront—although the peak gave me a little bit vertigo!
13. Land Between the Lakes Recreation Space
I believe it is a distinctive and fantastic place! It additionally has an attention-grabbing location (therefore it’s title!) set on a slim peninsula between the 2 lakes, Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley within the western a part of state, close to the city of Grand Rivers.
It’s a protected space of 170,000 acres and I completely love the pure serenity and the wilderness really feel of this place. I’m additionally captivated by the surroundings right here, to me it feels uncooked and rustic with expansive forests, tranquil lakes, rolling hills, and attention-grabbing wildlife – attractive bison, elk, and wild turkeys all wander freely right here!
Like many others, I final got here right here for out of doors adventures and I undoubtedly bought them with a spectacular and really photogenic drive via the 700-acre enclosed Elk and Bison Prairie, going boating on Lake Barkley, discovering the difficult mountaineering and biking rails (there are over 300 miles of them – my favourite was the leisurely Hematite Lake Path) and tenting out within the backcountry wilderness.
- Deal with: 100 Van Morgan Drive, Golden Pond, KY 42211
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- Finest instances to go to: spring to fall
My favourite highlights…
14. Nolin Lake
That is tranquil leisure lake which I like visiting! Positioned in Edmonson County in south-central (close to the town of Brownsville) it covers an space of three,200 acres and in addition to out of doors adventures I like the surroundings right here – glowing blue waters framed by lush forests and rolling hills!
I stayed for 4 days on the close by rustic-chic 4-star Mammoth Cave Lodge and Cabins and went boating and paddle-boarding (jet-skiing was additionally common right here), hiked the miles of scenic trails right here, relaxed, swam and picnicked on the sandy seaside.
- Deal with: Nolin Lake State Park, 2998 Brier Creek Street, Mammoth Cave, KY 4225
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- Finest instances to go to: summer time (or spring to see the close by waterfall).
My favourite highlights…
- Eating on the close by Blue Holler Cafe – I cherished the German type dishes particularly the delicate large pretzels which got here with a candy and smoky Maple Bourbon Mustard!
15. Bardstown
This quaint metropolis completely charmed me! Positioned within the central a part of state in Nelson County, I used to be gained over by the nice and cozy, welcoming vibe and its sense of neighborhood in addition to its historic structure and tree-lined streets surrounded by rolling hills and plush farmland. USA In the present day even named it because the “Most Lovely Small City in America” and I may see why!
I additionally cherished that it was a major cease on the Kentucky Bourbon Path with excursions out there round a number of well-known distilleries right here just like the Heaven Hill Distillery and Bardstown Bourbon Firm.
On my journey, I visited the historic (and really spectacular!) Outdated Talbott Tavern which dates again to the 1700s, went on a spooky ghost tour, toured the sprawling My Outdated Kentucky House State Park and Gardens (the previous historic house of composer Stephen Foster) checked out attention-grabbing Civil Conflict memorabilia on the Bardstown Museum and dined on conventional Southern delicacies in The Rickhouse Restaurant & Lounge ( the Chocolate and Orange Bourbon Bread Pudding was a spotlight)!
- Deal with: Bardstown, KY 40004
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- Finest time to go to: spring, summer time, fall or winter
My favourite highlights…
- The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey Historical past – I cherished the attention-grabbing Prohibition-era bottles with their unique creamy off-white labels edged in purple and black, nonetheless clinging to the amber glass!
16. Bluegrass Music Corridor of Fame and Museum
This can be a enjoyable and attention-grabbing attraction for music followers! Positioned in Owensboro, Daviess County it’s positioned within the western a part of state located alongside the Ohio River, which gives an amazing scenic backdrop.
On my journey, I noticed interactive shows that showcase the historical past and evolution of bluegrass music, the Corridor of Fame which showcases all of the legends, watched movies and documentaries about bluegrass music within the museum’s theater, browsed merchandise and memorabilia within the cool onsite retailer and performed the banjo of their enjoyable interactive exhibition!
I came upon additionally they hosted songwriting workshops, jam classes, live shows, classes, and particular occasions just like the enjoyable three-day ROMP Music Fest, which is held in June annually.
- Deal with: 311 West 2nd St. Owensboro, KY 42301 (270) 926-7891
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- Finest instances to go to: Any day aside from Mondays, because it’s closed
My private highlights…
- Studying all about Alison Krauss one in all my favourite nation singers – it was superior to see her early fiddle (a honey-brown instrument with worn edges from years of follow!) on show and studying how she grew to become one of many style’s most celebrated musicians!
17. Western Kentucky Botanical Backyard
This was such a lush, serene and picturesque vacationer attraction! The Western Kentucky Botanical Backyard is positioned within the western a part of the state within the metropolis of Owensboro, and I’m a giant fan of this well-kept and underrated gem!
It featured serene landscapes stuffed with coloful flowers, fairly greenery, and picturesque strolling paths. On my go to, I explored themed gardens, perennials, annuals, native Kentucky species, and lovely decorative timber and found the charming Herb Backyard, Rain Backyard and fantastic shows of native artwork dotted across the place! I cherished the zen-like Japanese Memorial Backyard with its koi pond ornate pagoda!
The backyard featured vibrant flowers and vegetation, seasonal vacation occasions, kid-friendly actions, and workshops on every thing from caring to your favourite blooms to inventive indoor and out of doors gardening!
- Deal with: 2731 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301
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- Finest instances to go to: spring and summer time (to take advantage of the flowers)
My highlights…
- I cherished the butterfly backyard, particularly see the orange and black Monarchs fluttering over the aromatic milkweed and the distinctive eyespots of the Frequent Buckeye!
The place is Kentucky?
Kentucky is positioned east-south-central area of the US, bordered by Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio to the north, West Virginia and Virginia to the east, Tennessee to the south, and Missouri to the west.
