Top Five Places to Visit in Kentucky

Kentucky is a wonderful vacation destination. There is something for everyone from outdoor recreation to unique cuisine. Although considered one of the most rural states in America, Kentucky's residents are friendly and welcoming to all visitors. The charm of the rolling bluegrass and beckoning of the wilderness is discovered in this southern state. History lovers will find much ado as they explore historic sites layered with intrigue. A visit to Kentucky is a must, for it's unique landscape and diverse metropolitan areas are not found anywhere else in the United States.

Mammoth Cave National Park

One of the few National Parks in the East, Mammoth Cave National Park is a treasure of discovery right in the heart of Kentucky. Miles and miles of underground caves lace the area with potential for discovery around every bend. As the world's longest known cave system, Mammoth Cave truly lives up to its name. Entrance to the National Park is free, but a small fee exists for cave tours.

Camping, hiking and cave exploration are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to things to do in Mammoth Cave National Park. The park boasts a scenic back country perfect for the backpacker seeking solitude or the horse-back rider wanting some time on the trails. Take the Green River ferry for a different excursion across the river that runs through the park. Fishing, caneoing and kayaking are also activities enjoying throughout the park. Come in the spring and witness a wildflower show that rivals that of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Louisville, KY

As one of the biggest metropolitan areas in the bluegrass state, Louisville has much to offer the out-of-town visitor. The city is best known for it's annual Kentucky Derby, one of the biggest horse races in the world. A visit to this town isn't complete without sampling some of that ol' Derby Pie, inspired by the thoroughbred horses who pack the area during late spring. The rolling countryside of Louisville features the bluegrass the state is famous for as well as many large horse farms that are a delight to visit any time of the year.

While in town, the visitor can sit back and enjoy the scenery of the Ohio River before hitting the nightlife downtown on Four Street Live. Numerous historic hotels lace the area, giving the visitor a chance to step back in time.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Nestled between two reservoirs, Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, Land Between the Lakes is truly an outdoor oasis for recreation lovers. The peninsula offers a myriad of opportunities to hunt, hike, fish and boat. Home to a 700 acre Bison and Elk prairie, the area is full of surprises just waiting to be discovered. Horseback riding and wildlife viewing are also activities commonly enjoying in this recreation oasis.

Red River Gorge Geological Area

Home to some of the most impressive arch formations east of the Rocky Mountains, Red River Gorge (RRG) is a locals retreat. Although relatively small in area, the RRG region beckons outdoor lovers from all over the country. The massive cliff faces offer excellent opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling. Numerous trails lace the area, providing non-climbers an opportunity to get up close and personal with nature.

Bordered by the Red River and Daniel Boone National Forest, RRG is an unexpected geological wonderland. Camp or stay in a resort lodge at the nearby Natural Bridge State Resort Park. For unheralded hikes, ask the locals for their favorite RRG destinations, as many unofficial trails intertwine the forest just waiting to be discovered.

Lexington, KY

As one of the bigger cities in the bluegrass state, Lexington is filled with opportunities for the traveler to explore. Nightlife, restaurants, shopping and world class golf courses dot the region. Known as the horse capital of the world, visitors can take a peek at some of the biggest and the fastest horses in the country at the Kentucky Horse Park or Keeneland Race Course.

Historic homes and driving tours give the traveler a sense of time and space in this famous city.

Traveling in Kentucky

Wherever you choose to travel in Kentucky, keep in mind the best way to explore this scenic and diverse state is by car. A drive through the countryside is a memorable experience not to be missed. Get out and take a hike on one of many spectacular trails and try famous Kentucky recipes like Derby Pie and Kentucky Bourbon. Interact with the locals or simply observe the laid back life for an unforgettable Kentucky vacation.

Fall Kentucky Wildflowers