Once a frontier county of Virginia, Kentucky became the fifteenth state on June 1, 1792. Known for its scenic beauty, natural wonders, and rich history, Kentucky offers a variety of activities, attractions, and unforgettable experiences for visitors. Here are ten things to do on your Kentucky road trip.
10 Fun Things to Do On Your Kentucky Road Trip
1. Kentucky Horse Park
Kentucky is synonymous with horses and there is no better place to take a deep dive into the state’s horse heritage than at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington.
Owned and operated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, it provides an immersive experience that allows you to connect with remarkable horses and discover why Kentucky proudly holds the title of the Horse Capital of the World.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy having the chance to interact with these amazing animals while learning. Spend a day or a few hours, but it makes good horse sense to add this to your Kentucky road trip. READ MORE
2. Spend Time in Paris
Located about 18 miles northeast of Lexington in the heart of Bourbon County, you’ll find Paris. The charming small town was one of the original nine counties that made up the state when it was admitted to the union in 1792.
Filled with small-town charm, Paris is an appealing destination and perfect for a stop on your Kentucky road trip. Guests can savor a tasty meal at one of the town’s eateries, enjoy shopping along the quaint main street, or relax and stay a while at a cozy Paris inn. Likewise, there is a list of artistic and cultural sites and events that includes the Downtown Paris ARTWALK, Duncan Tavern, the Hopewell Museum, and the Nannine Clay Wallace Arboretum to name a few.
We made Paris our hub for our horse country stay and fell in love with this magnificent locale.
3. Visit Horse Country
Kentucky is the Horse Capital of the World and for good reason. Visitors can tailor a road trip that permits them to maximize their time learning about and enjoying these incredible athlete animals.
Whether it be spending time on a horse farm, visiting a race track such as Churchill Downs, or touring one of the big-named stables, you will want to include an equine event on your journey.
There are a number of choices such as the Guest House at Rosecrest Farm where you can stay alongside these beautiful animals and enjoy cozy accommodations. Moreover, there is Claiborne Farms in Paris. The famous stables which have been the home of multiple champions offer informative tours and the chance to meet several of these thoroughbreds.
Head west towards Louisville and take a tour of Churchill Downs or the Kentucky Derby Museum where there are over 20,000 horse racing artifacts on display.
4. Bourbon
Kentucky Bourbon is an iconic part of the commonwealth, and visiting Kentucky to enjoy this renowned spirit is a key highlight of its tourism industry. Adding the flavor of bourbon to your Kentucky road trip is easy. Choose from any of the 46 distilleries in the state, most of which offer tours, to visit. Stop in to sample, shop, tour, or blend your own, each one offers a variety of experiences.
For bourbon enthusiasts, a trip along the Bourbon Trail provides a unique chance to sample the famous spirit while exploring the rich history and stories behind it. Alternatively, spend time in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World, where 11 distilleries are located within just 16 miles, making it easy to find and enjoy exceptional Kentucky Bourbon. READ MORE
5. Visit Frankfort
The capital of Kentucky is Frankfort. The town along the Kentucky River is famous for its outdoor activities and water adventures. Kayaking and canoeing are among the popular water sports.
Frankfort is also home to three distilleries including the famous Buffalo Trace. Additionally, the appealing downtown is perfect for strolling and taking in the shops and restaurants. We enjoyed lunch downtown before popping into Poor Richards Books and scouring the shelves for great reads.
A highlight of our time in Frankfort was visiting Daniel Boone’s grave perched high on a hill overlooking the city and the State Capitol building.
6. Explore Lincoln History
Both Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd Lincoln have strong ties to Kentucky. Abraham Lincoln was born in a log cabin in Hardin County (now LaRue County) on February 12, 1809. His early years in Kentucky shaped much of his character and views. Mary Todd Lincoln, his wife, was born in Lexington, Kentucky, in 1818, into a prominent family. Their shared Kentucky roots were a significant part of their identities, influencing their lives and legacies, with Kentucky remaining a central element in their story.
Visitors to the Bluegrass State can include Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace in Hodgenville and Mary Todd Lincoln’s family home in Lexington to a Kentucky road trip itinerary. Both spots make wonderful historic attractions where visitors can immerse themselves in Lincoln’s history and uncover the roots of America’s 16th president.
When planning your Kentucky road trip, keep in mind, the Kentucky Derby, the longest-running horse race in the United States, is held annually in Louisville on the first Saturday of May. The Derby is often called "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports" and is a major cultural event, complete with stylish hats, mint juleps, and a rich history that dates back to 1875.
7. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Baseball fans will be thrilled with a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory in Louisville. “Where wood meets wonder” is the slogan of the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. Situated at 800 West Main Street in downtown Louisville, this impressive museum offers visitors the chance to discover the story of the legendary baseball bat, “from forest to field.”
Whether you’re a baseball enthusiast or not, this one-of-a-kind experience takes you through the bat’s origins, the history of the game, and the legendary players who shaped it. Plus, there are plenty of interactive opportunities to get involved.
The Louisville Slugger Factory & Museum is just a short walk from other downtown attractions including the Frazier History Museum and Muhammad Ali Center. Likewise, Whiskey Row and Barrels and Billets are adjacent to the museum should you wish to sip and savor the Louisville Slugger special blend of bourbon. READ MORE
8. My Old Kentucky Home
My Old Kentucky Home, located in Bardstown, KY, is a historic plantation house known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. Built in the late 18th century, it was once the home of former U.S. Senator John Rowan.
The house is famously associated with being the inspiration for the song “My Old Kentucky Home” by Stephen Foster. Today, it serves as a state park and offers tours that highlight the estate’s history, its connection to Kentucky’s past, and the legacy of the song that made it famous.
Make this a stop on your Kentucky road trip and immerse yourself in history, if you’re fortunate, as we were, you’ll even hear a costumed interpreter sing the iconic song.
9. Cumberland Falls
Cumberland Falls State Park, located in southeastern Kentucky, is known for its magnificent natural beauty and the breathtaking Cumberland Falls.
The park, often referred to as the “Niagara of the South,” features a stunning 68-foot waterfall that creates a misty, shimmering effect, especially during the full moon. This phenomenon, known as the “moonbow,” occurs when the moon’s light reflects off the waterfall, creating a rare and mesmerizing rainbow at night.
With opportunities for hiking, camping, and scenic views, Cumberland Falls State Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. There is also a sizeable gift shop for souvenir seekers and plenty of photo ops by the falls.
10. Visit the Birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken
Corbin, Kentucky is the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Situated to the east of the Daniel Boone National Forest and about fourteen miles south of London off of I-75, is where you will find the Sanders Café & Museum.
Guests are invited to travel back in time to learn about the life and times of the man who created the secret recipe that would alter the course of roadside dining.
A fantastic place to make a stop on your Kentucky road trip, the Sanders Café & Museum serves good food along with a delightful tour through the history of the beloved meal where it all started. READ MORE
Ready to Start Your Kentucky Road Trip?
The Bluegrass State offers visitors limitless possibilities when it comes to road trips. These 10 fun activities are just the beginning of the amazing experiences awaiting you on your Kentucky road trip. From exploring the depths of Mammoth Cave to marveling at the biblical scale of The Ark Encounter, there’s so much more to discover in this beautiful commonwealth.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or natural beauty, Kentucky has endless attractions to explore, making it a destination worth revisiting time and time again.
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