Things To Do in Kentucky

From the banks of the Ohio River to the towering peaks of Black Mountain, Kentucky is a group travel planner’s dream state

By Billy Stampfl

The advantages to visiting Kentucky are well known: bourbon, music, horse racing and food. Some come for the Kentucky Derby, which draws thousands of guests every May; others are ready to sip bourbon and munch on a Hot Brown (open-faced turkey sandwiches). Still others simply desire a serene vacation amid rolling hills and sparkling grasslands, surrounded by natural wonders as their Southern adventure awaits.

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Start with Bourbon, a Kentucky Staple

Louisville is not just Kentucky’s largest city and one of the country’s most historically relevant towns (it is, after all, the home of Muhammad Ali and the Louisville Slugger). It also marks the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a renowned path that commences at the Frazier History Museum and winds through charming towns such as Clermont, where you will find the James B. Beam Distilling Co. American Outpost, and historic Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Here, visitors can savor award-winning spirits from nine legendary distilleries, including Willett, Preservation, and Four Roses.

While exploring the region, take some time to browse antiques in picturesque Elizabethtown (such as Elizabethtown Peddlers Mall) or embark on a ghost tour in Bardstown to uncover its spooky secrets. As you travel through Oldham County, known as the Farm Tour Capital of Kentucky, guests should be sure not to miss a dining experience at Barn8 & Bourbon Bar, a farm-to-table restaurant that hits a home run when it comes to tasty food and drink.

Kentucky Music: Home of Bluegrass (And So Much More)

Kentucky is the birthplace of bluegrass and one of the most storied music hotbeds in the world. This state’s impact on American song and dance has been profound, giving rise to famous musicians like Bill Monroe (a native of Rosine) to the Country Music Highway, an amped-up stretch of Eastern Kentucky where numerous country legends cut their teeth. This iconic route, a winding slice of U.S. 23, honors the rich legacy of country tunes. Spanning from Ashland to Paintsville, it has produced over a dozen country stars, including Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, and Chris Stapleton. The highway features numerous attractions, such as the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and various memorials dedicated to legendary artists. Along the way, visitors can explore local museums, enjoy live performances, and experience the vibrant culture that has shaped American country music. The Country Music Highway is a must-visit for fans seeking to connect with the roots of the genre.

To enjoy more musical vibes, check out individual towns like Hopkinsville and Lexington, both of which hold concerts and other events that properly showcase the Bluegrass State’s unique culture.

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Arts and culture in Kentucky

A stroll through the heart of Paducah’s dynamic downtown highlights this community’s commitment to creativity and culture. Designated as a Creative City by UNESCO in 2013, Paducah’s support of the arts is apparent around every corner. On the streets of Lower Town, home of the award-winning Artist Relocation Program and the beehive of activity at the Paducah School of Art & Design, creativity is in the air. In recent years, Paducah has transformed into a hub for artists, and its progressive film and music venues have showcased talent from around the world.

The Horse Capital of the World

Kentucky is renowned for its deep-rooted equestrian culture, making it a premier destination for horse enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. At the heart of the state’s horse heritage is the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, a sprawling 1,200-acre facility dedicated to celebrating the state’s equestrian legacy. Visitors can explore engaging exhibits, take guided tours, and enjoy horse shows that underline Kentucky’s role as a hub for horse breeding, training, and competition.

Still, Kentucky’s commitment to equestrian excellence extends beyond the famous Horse Park. For example, readers might have heard of the Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville. This historic race, often deemed “the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,” attracts thousands of spectators and showcases the elite thoroughbreds of the racing world.

For those interested in exploring Kentucky’s scenic countryside, the state offers numerous opportunities to experience horse riding firsthand. The Bourbon Trail, which winds through picturesque landscapes, provides a unique way to combine horse riding with a tour of renowned distilleries. Additionally, Kentucky’s many horseback riding trails offer stunning views and a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of Bluegrass country.

Kentucky’s Food, Drink, and More Bluegrass Fun

Kentucky is also a must-visit destination for food lovers, offering a delectable array of Southern cuisine and local specialties. The state is famed for its iconic dishes, such as bourbon-infused dishes and the famous Hot Brown—a savory open-faced sandwich layered with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce. The Hot Brown was originally created at The Brown Hotel in 1926 in Louisville. The hotel still serves this delicious dish today.

In Elizabethtown, visit the famed Back Home Restaurant, which features a slew of Kentucky favorites and recipes that celebrate life south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Located in a gorgeous old home, Back Home Restaurant is a bipartite stop: it’s a full-service restaurant with an attached boutique. Its history spans back to almost 30 years ago to Linda and Tommy Fulkerson; the tradition is now being carried on by their daughter, Lori (along with her husband, Steve).

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The Great Outdoors in Kentucky

Need to escape the daily hustle? At Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, you can ride by boat into an underground labyrinth. Lost River Cave’s historic underground boat tour is a great eco-adventure for all ages. Groups can enjoy its hiking trails, activities and charming gift shop located just an hour north of Nashville in Bowling Green, Kentucky.

Surrounded by Daniel Boone National Forest and residing at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Corbin is a charming city with a wealth of natural and cultural gems waiting to be discovered. Corbin’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, home to the “Niagara of the South” – Cumberland Falls. Explore hiking trails, go horseback riding or enjoy picnicking with a view that will leave you in awe.

London resides in the foothills at the edge of the majestic Appalachians, surrounded by pristine forest, lakes, and rivers. An abundance of mountain bike and hiking trails weaving through the Daniel Boone National Forest and historic city parks, along with world-class cycling roads attract cyclists from all over to Kentucky’s designated Cycling Capital. Beautiful cliff-lined Laurel River Lake with its year-round trophy fishing, house-boating, paddling and scuba diving makes London an angler’s and recreational water lover’s paradise.

Madisonville and Hopkins County are home to Kentucky’s largest variety of outdoor recreation activities, including scenic trails, tranquil lakes, rolling grasslands and dense forests. Groups can enjoy a trek down Falls Trail that features a stunning cascade that is nearly 70 feet tall.

Kentucky features a rich tapestry of experiences that capture the heart and soul of the Bluegrass State. From the world-renowned Bourbon Trail in Louisville to the rhythmic legacy of the Country Music Highway, Kentucky is a celebration of its storied traditions and vibrant culture. The state’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its heritage is evident in every corner, whether you’re savoring the local cuisine, exploring artistic communities like Paducah, or immersing yourself in the equestrian excellence of Lexington. The state’s communities, each imbued with the indomitable Kentucky spirit, embody this essence perfectly, providing a diverse range of activities and experiences that highlight the state’s unique character and charm.