1. Overview
Discover Kentucky, a state rich in culture and experiences beyond its famous thoroughbreds. From bourbon tastings to stunning national parks, there’s a wealth of activities waiting for exploration.
2. Experience the Kentucky Derby
3. Explore the Bourbon Trail
4. Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum
5. Discover Mammoth Cave National Park
6. Enjoy Bluegrass Country
7. Explore the Muhammad Ali Center
8. Savor Kentucky Cuisine
9. National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green
10. Hike in Daniel Boone National Forest
Thoroughbred horses might dominate the headlines in Kentucky, but the state has much more to offer than just fast horses. Positioned at a geographical and cultural crossroads, Kentucky boasts bucolic landscapes, captivating national parks, and a vibrant culinary scene that entices visitors amidst bourbon and bluegrass.
See the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” at the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby, held on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, is not only the world’s greatest horse race but also the longest-running continuous sporting event in North America. A trip to the Derby is a bucket-list experience filled with sport, style, bourbon, and excitement.
Line up glasses on the bar on the Bourbon Trail
Bourbon, one of the world’s most celebrated spirits, is predominantly distilled in Kentucky, producing 95% of the global supply. Exploring bourbon country around Bardstown and Frankfort is a top-notch adventure for those looking to taste this culinary treasure.
As you plan your tasting tour through bourbon country, consider your transportation options, such as designated drivers or organized tours, to safely navigate Kentucky’s best distilleries. New laws allow for 1¾-ounce sample pours and glass sales, enhancing your visits to renowned distilleries like Woodford Reserve, Heaven Hill, Buffalo Trace, and Maker’s Mark.
Step into the batter’s box at the Louisville Slugger Museum
The Louisville Slugger baseball bat is a symbol of baseball itself. At the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, you can learn about the bat’s creation and see memorabilia from baseball legends. The museum is part of Louisville’s cultural offerings on Museum Row on Main, featuring nine distinct museums and distilleries over historic downtown blocks.
Go caving – and more! – at Mammoth Cave National Park
Cave enthusiasts flock to Mammoth Cave National Park, home to the world’s longest cave system comprising approximately 400 miles of passages. This expansive park, located just northeast of Bowling Green, offers ranger-led tours, challenging spelunking excursions (reservations advisable), and scenic hiking trails.
Soak up the country air in beautiful Bluegrass Country
Few American landscapes are as striking as the serene beauty of north-central Kentucky’s Bluegrass Country. Its lush green hills are dotted with tranquil ponds, tall poplar trees, and stunning estate homes, all protected by endless fences that separate prized thoroughbred horses from the outside world.
While casual drives through this picturesque landscape are rewarding, a visit to the historic WinStar Farm provides an excellent stop. Established in the 1700s, this prestigious horse breeding farm showcases numerous champions and offers tours of its stallion complex several days a week. Enhance your experience by exploring the vibrant culture, craft beer, and historic attractions in Lexington.
Be awed by Ali at the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville
The legendary Muhammad Ali is celebrated at the Muhammad Ali Center, a significant attraction on Louisville’s Museum Row. Born in Louisville in 1942, Ali’s life story is compellingly illustrated here, making for an engaging visit year-round, especially during the annual Ali Festival in June.
Feast on Kentucky culinary delights like the Hot Brown
No trip to Kentucky is complete without indulging in the iconic Hot Brown – an open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon, tomatoes, and Mornay sauce, created in 1926 at the Brown Hotel in Louisville. However, Kentucky’s food scene has progressed, presenting an array of innovative dining options and craft beverages worth exploring.
Restaurants like Proof on Main and Decca in Louisville, along with Carson’s Food & Drink in Lexington, redefine what a dining experience in Kentucky can be. Pair your meal with a craft beer from places like Holy Grale or Monnik Beer Company for an unforgettable culinary outing.
Feel the need for speed at Bowling Green’s National Corvette Museum
The Chevrolet Corvette, known as “America’s Sports Car,” has been a symbol of automotive excellence since its debut in the 1960s. The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green displays around 80 Corvette models, including rare concept cars and prototypes, in an engaging setting that appeals to car enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Hike and climb in Daniel Boone National Forest
Rock climbers from around the globe are drawn to Red River Gorge within the sprawling Daniel Boone National Forest, located approximately 70 miles southeast of Lexington. With 700,000 acres of breathtaking scenery, this area is a prime spot for adventure and exploration.
Adjacent to Natural Bridge State Resort Park, known for its impressive sandstone arch, multiple hiking and climbing trails offer unique challenges and stunning views for outdoor enthusiasts eager for discovery.
