Have you ever asked the question, what is there to do in Kentucky? If so, it turns out that Kentucky is chock-full of things to do, as we’ve proven over and over again. But whether you are from here or are visiting the Bluegrass State, we’ve compiled a list of the great getaway ideas in and around Kentucky. From a relatively unknown pristine beach to zip lining underground, these hidden gems and popular attractions alike are the best day trips in Kentucky and all prove that Kentucky is the place to be. For more information on each of these destinations, click on the link below the pictures!
- The Beach at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
Facebook/Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park When you’re in Kentucky (unless you happen to have a private plane), it’s not really possible to take a day trip to the ocean. But that doesn’t mean you can’t visit a beautiful beach. The pristine sand and stunning views at Pennyrile’s public beach are the ideal spot for a road trip. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 20781 Pennyrile Forest State Park Road, Dawson Springs, KY, 42408
- Kentucky Horse Park
Flickr/Ken Mist Head to the heart of horse country with a day trip to the Kentucky Horse Park. Try a trail ride around the park and check out the museums that feature one of Kentucky’s most treasured pastimes. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY, 40511
- Mammoth Cave National Park
Facebook/Mammoth Cave National Park See what’s hidden under Kentucky’s ground at Mammoth Cave National Park. It’s the longest cave system in the entire world and a mysterious place to explore on a day trip. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY, 42259
- Equus Run Vineyard
Facebook/Equus Run Vineyards For a relaxing afternoon, check out Equus Run Vineyard outside of Midway. This lovely property provides the perfect backdrop for a glass of wine and view of Kentucky’s natural beauty. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 1280 Moores Mill Road, Midway, KY, 40347
- Chimney Top Rock at Red River Gorge
Flickr/Anthony Red River Gorge provides many options for a day trip, but Chimney Top Rock should be at the “top” of your list. This .6 mile trail is paved and easy enough for everyone, and you’ll be amazed at the spectacular views when you reach the end. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: Chimney Top Rock Road, Pine Ridge, KY, 41360
- Paducah, Kentucky
Facebook/Paducah Creative City Kentucky has many charming small towns, but Paducah may be the coolest. Stroll along the river and stop in town for a bite to eat and a drink at one of the many options for a delicious meal. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 128 Broadway Street, Paducah, KY, 42001
- Falling Rock Park
Facebook/Falling Rock Park On a hot, summer day there’s no better day trip than one to a watering hole. At Falling Rock Park, you’ll find crystal clear water and a chill atmosphere to relax and play. FYI, you must be 18 and they do not allow any alcohol, as safety is their number one priority. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 9272, 2201 Fendley Mill Road, La Grange, KY, 40031
- Louisville Mega Cavern
Facebook/Louisville Mega Cavern Schedule a day trip filled with fun at Louisville’s Mega Cavern. With underground zip lines, ropes course and tours, you’ll have no trouble filling your day. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 1841 Taylor Avenue, Louisville, KY, 40213
- The Bourbon Trail
Facebook/Kentucky Bourbon Trail Even if you don’t enjoy bourbon, you have to take Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail at least once. The architecture, scenery, art and history all make up an excellent day trip. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 829 West Main Street, Louisville, KY, 40202
- Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo
Facebook/Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo Who wouldn’t want to spend the day hanging out with kangaroos? At the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, you can get close enough to pet them, along with many other exotic animals. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 3700 L and N Turnpike Road, Horse Cave, KY, 42749
- Lost River Cave
Facebook/Lost River Cave An underground boat tour makes for an adventurous day trip and you can find one at Lost River Cave. It’s also a cool area to explore, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY, 42101
- Rabbit Hash General Store
Facebook/Rabbit Hash General Store Restoration Progress This iconic general store in Rabbit Hash sadly burned down over a year ago, but the community rallied to restore it to its original condition. The town is nestled along the river and the general store is now open and ready for you to take a day trip and come visit. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 10021 Lower River Road, Burlington, KY, 41005
Quick Hits: What is there to do in Kentucky?
Facebook/Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
When you’re in Kentucky (unless you happen to have a private plane), it’s not really possible to take a day trip to the ocean. But that doesn’t mean you can’t visit a beautiful beach. The pristine sand and stunning views at Pennyrile’s public beach are the ideal spot for a road trip. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 20781 Pennyrile Forest State Park Road, Dawson Springs, KY, 42408
Flickr/Ken Mist
Head to the heart of horse country with a day trip to the Kentucky Horse Park. Try a trail ride around the park and check out the museums that feature one of Kentucky’s most treasured pastimes. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY, 40511
Facebook/Mammoth Cave National Park
See what’s hidden under Kentucky’s ground at Mammoth Cave National Park. It’s the longest cave system in the entire world and a mysterious place to explore on a day trip. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY, 42259
Facebook/Equus Run Vineyards
For a relaxing afternoon, check out Equus Run Vineyard outside of Midway. This lovely property provides the perfect backdrop for a glass of wine and view of Kentucky’s natural beauty. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 1280 Moores Mill Road, Midway, KY, 40347
Flickr/Anthony
Red River Gorge provides many options for a day trip, but Chimney Top Rock should be at the “top” of your list. This .6 mile trail is paved and easy enough for everyone, and you’ll be amazed at the spectacular views when you reach the end. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: Chimney Top Rock Road, Pine Ridge, KY, 41360
Facebook/Paducah Creative City
Kentucky has many charming small towns, but Paducah may be the coolest. Stroll along the river and stop in town for a bite to eat and a drink at one of the many options for a delicious meal. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 128 Broadway Street, Paducah, KY, 42001
Facebook/Falling Rock Park
On a hot, summer day there’s no better day trip than one to a watering hole. At Falling Rock Park, you’ll find crystal clear water and a chill atmosphere to relax and play. FYI, you must be 18 and they do not allow any alcohol, as safety is their number one priority. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 9272, 2201 Fendley Mill Road, La Grange, KY, 40031
Facebook/Louisville Mega Cavern
Schedule a day trip filled with fun at Louisville’s Mega Cavern. With underground zip lines, ropes course and tours, you’ll have no trouble filling your day. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 1841 Taylor Avenue, Louisville, KY, 40213
Facebook/Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Even if you don’t enjoy bourbon, you have to take Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail at least once. The architecture, scenery, art and history all make up an excellent day trip. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 829 West Main Street, Louisville, KY, 40202
Facebook/Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo
Who wouldn’t want to spend the day hanging out with kangaroos? At the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, you can get close enough to pet them, along with many other exotic animals. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 3700 L and N Turnpike Road, Horse Cave, KY, 42749
Facebook/Lost River Cave
An underground boat tour makes for an adventurous day trip and you can find one at Lost River Cave. It’s also a cool area to explore, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY, 42101
Facebook/Rabbit Hash General Store Restoration Progress
This iconic general store in Rabbit Hash sadly burned down over a year ago, but the community rallied to restore it to its original condition. The town is nestled along the river and the general store is now open and ready for you to take a day trip and come visit. Read more about it in this OnlyInYourState.com article. Address: 10021 Lower River Road, Burlington, KY, 41005
What is there to do on a rainy day in Kentucky? Kentucky has endless options for fun on a beautiful day, but there is still plenty to do if it’s raining and you need to be inside. If you still want a little adventure, check out the Lousiville MegaCavern or even a cave tour at Mammoth Cave. We are also home to the some of the world’s largest escape rooms at Countdown Games in Lexington, or you could head to any number of wonderful local restaurants throughout the state.
What do you do with kids in Kentucky? Kids should never be bored in the state of Kentucky! There are plenty of kid-friendly activities from easy hiking trails, swimming beaches, waterparks, farm tours, train rides, and more.
What do you do with kids in Kentucky without spending any money? The best place to start would be any of Kentucky’s wonderful state parks. Even if you have to pay a small fee, there is endless fun and an array of activities offered at every park and they can be found all over Kentucky.
These 12 spots are some of the best day trips to take on one tank of gas, so it’s time to start planning! How many of these day trips in Kentucky have you taken? Which of your favorites should we check out for next time? Share your thoughts with is in the comments!
And for a few bonus day trip ideas, check out these other awesome ideas throughout Kentucky!
Perfect Summer Day Trip
Day Trips By Train
Trolley Day Trips
A Day Trip Of A Lifetime
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