The beautiful southeastern state of the United States of America, Kentucky offers plenty of things to do for all kinds of travelers. As the state is guarded by the Appalachian Mountains from the east, home to a stunning cave system, and boasting a number of picturesque waterfalls, there are a plethora of marvelous places to visit in Kentucky that can satisfy your wanderlust. While Kentucky’s largest city Louisville houses most of its popular attractions, cities like Lexington, Frankfort, and Bardstown also offer much hidden and little-known gorgeousness. Want to know what are the best things to do in Kentucky? From the Mammoth Cave to the spooky sanatorium, here’s the list of best activities in Kentucky!
1. Take a cave tour at Mammoth Cave National Park
Image Source: flickr.com
Touring the long-long cave system of natural chambers and passageways, approximately 390 miles, at Mammoth Cave National Park is something you must do for making your Kentucky trip full of excitement and insightful. Apart from the world’s largest cave, the Mammoth Cave National Park features flowstone formations appearing like a waterfall, Green and Nolin rivers, gorgeous trails, and a camping area.
Check out the top tours and activities in Louisville
2. Explore the rugged terrains of Daniel Boone National Forest
Image Source: wikimedia.org
Comprising an area of 708,000 acres of federally owned land, Daniel Boone National Forest was established in 1937 and is one of the top 10 places to visit in Kentucky to find solace in the natural landscape. Hiking along the rugged terrains of the Appalachian Mountains inside the forest while exploring the wild flora and fauna at its dense woodland and clicking pictures of its “natural arch” is a worthy experience.
3. Watch the Bible history come alive at Creation Museum
Image Source: wikimedia.org
Located in Petersburg, Kentucky, the Creation Museum is designed with the theme of the Bible. While you will find Noah’s Ark and Bible stories the most interesting part of the museum, you will also enjoy taking a tour of the dinosaur bones, botanical gardens, fossils, and other scientific exhibits.
4. Visit the “Little Niagara”- The Cumberland Falls
Image Source: flickr.com
Spend some time in the magical surroundings of the Cumberland Falls and you will realize what a mystique nature is! As there is no entry fee, visiting the Cumberland Falls is one of the free things to do in Kentucky. Often called the “Little Niagara” of Kentucky, the Cumberland Falls gushes over the sandstone bed of the Cumberland River from 69 feet.
5. Discover the marine world at Newport Aquarium
Image Source: flickr.com
With 70 interactive exhibits and 14 galleries, Newport Aquarium is home to the world’s first and only Shark Bridge. Visit the jellyfish rooms and walk-through tunnels and you will be able to observe the marine life really close. Do experience the Penguin Encounter while at the aquarium!
6. Meet the lovely animals at Louisville Zoo
Image Source: wikipedia.org
One of the best Kentucky attractions for families, Louisville Zoo houses a large number of animals in its 134-acre area. The zoo was founded in 1969 and since then, it has been a favorite spot among local families and tourists alike. The exhibits here include Gorilla Forest, Glacier Run, Lorikeet Landing, and Wallaroo Walkabout.
7. Enjoy thrilling rides at the Kentucky Kingdom
Image Source: wikimedia.org
The 63-acre area of Kentucky Kingdom offers so many fun-filled rides and entertainment that you can easily spend a whole day out here. The amusement park also offers a water park called Hurricane Bay where you can enjoy the water slides and relax in the wave pool.
8. Feel the spookiness of Waverly Hills Sanatorium
Image Source: flickr.com
One of the off-beat things to do in Louisville Kentucky is to visit Waverly Hills Sanatorium. Opened in 1910, this tuberculosis hospital could accommodate 40-50 patients. However, it closed in 1963 and since then many spooky activities have been spotted here. You can also come here for a ghost hunt or attend a haunted-house event.
What activities are you planning to indulge in during your Kentucky tour? Well, we are sure that the wide beautiful terrains of Kentucky won’t let you go bored!