Road Trips in Kentucky | Day Trips in Kentucky
What Kentucky is Known For: Horse racing, bourbon distilleries, and bluegrass music.
Kentucky’s Nickname: The Bluegrass State
Kentucky’s Official Hobby: Horseback riding
Kentucky’s Most Popular State Park: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park | Corbin, Kentucky
The bluegrass state offers a variety of opportunities for Kentucky road trips, from its rolling hills and horse farms to charming small towns and historic sites. Whether you’re exploring its natural beauty, cultural heritage, or vibrant cities, Kentucky promises a delightful and memorable journey.
Start your journey in Louisville, the state’s largest city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, explore the Muhammad Ali Center, and stroll through the beautiful Louisville Waterfront Park. Don’t miss the historic Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn about the famous horse race.
Drive to the historic town of Bardstown, known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” Visit the Barton 1792 Distillery, explore the My Old Kentucky Home State Park, and enjoy a meal at The Rickhouse Restaurant, a local favorite.
Head to the picturesque town of Paducah, a UNESCO Creative City known for its vibrant arts scene. Explore the National Quilt Museum, visit the Paducah Wall to Wall Murals, and stroll through the historic downtown area filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Don’t miss the scenic beauty of Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic hiking trails. Explore the park’s numerous trails, enjoy a picnic with views of the falls, and visit the nearby town of Corbin for its quaint shops and restaurants.
Kentucky’s scenic byways, such as the Bluegrass Parkway, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Harrodsburg and Berea. In Harrodsburg, visit the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill to learn about the Shaker community. In Berea, explore the Berea College Crafts, which showcases traditional Appalachian crafts.
Kentucky Road Trip Checklist
Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!
- 60+ Items list long
- Free Shipping with Amazon Prime
- Made specifically for Kentucky Road Trips!
Top Road Trip Routes in Kentucky
1. The Bourbon Trail
Route: US-31E
Cities: Louisville, Bardstown, Lebanon
Attractions: Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Barton 1792 Distillery, Maker’s Mark Distillery
2. The Horse Country Loop
Route: US-60
Cities: Lexington, Versailles, Midway
Attractions: Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Racecourse, Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm
3. The Appalachian Adventure
Route: US-23
Cities: Ashland, Pikeville, Prestonsburg
Attractions: Highlands Museum & Discovery Center, Breaks Interstate Park, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
4. The River Heritage Trail
Route: US-60
Cities: Paducah, Henderson, Owensboro
Attractions: National Quilt Museum, Audubon State Park, International Bluegrass Music Museum
Best Times to Visit
Kentucky experiences four distinct seasons, offering unique opportunities throughout the year.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for exploring state parks, attending festivals, and visiting distilleries, though it can be hot and humid.
- Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in the Appalachian Mountains and along scenic byways.
- Winter (December to February): Best for indoor cultural activities and visiting museums, with mild winter weather compared to northern states.
Local Cuisine
Kentucky’s culinary scene features hearty Southern fare and delicious regional dishes. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:
- Hot Brown Sandwich: Try this Kentucky specialty at The Brown Hotel in Louisville, where it was invented.
- Bourbon Balls: Enjoy these delicious treats at Rebecca Ruth Candy in Frankfort.
- Fried Chicken: Savor the famous fried chicken at The Original KFC in Corbin.
- Burgoo: Visit Old Hickory Bar-B-Q in Owensboro for this hearty stew.
- Derby Pie: Try a slice of this classic dessert at Kern’s Kitchen in Louisville.
Most Unique Stays in Kentucky
- The Brown Hotel
- Location: Louisville, Kentucky
- What makes it unique?: A historic luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and rich history in the heart of Louisville.
- Historic Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant
- Location: Berea, Kentucky
- What makes it unique?: A charming hotel operated by Berea College, featuring beautiful craftsmanship, comfortable accommodations, and a renowned restaurant.
- Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
- Location: Harrodsburg, Kentucky
- What makes it unique?: A historic village offering unique accommodations in restored Shaker buildings, with access to hiking, dining, and educational tours.
- Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast
- Location: Bardstown, Kentucky
- What makes it unique?: A historic bed and breakfast housed in a former jail, offering unique rooms and a glimpse into Bardstown’s history.
- The Inn at Woodhaven
- Location: Louisville, Kentucky
- What makes it unique?: A Victorian bed and breakfast featuring elegant rooms, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful retreat near Louisville’s attractions.