Bourbon, Bluegrass & Bizarre Stops: Top 10 Things to Do in Kentucky You’ll Actually Want to Brag About*

Kentucky isn’t just fried chicken and horse races — it’s a playground for bourbon lovers, nature chasers, and roadside oddity hunters. I rounded up the ultimate must-dos, where to stay, and hidden gems you’ve probably never heard of. And yes — this blog includes affiliate links because someone’s gotta fund my Mint Juleps. Cheers!

Top 10 Things to Do in Kentucky

1. Mammoth Cave National Park

Explore the world’s longest cave system — over 400 miles of underground wonder.

2. Louisville Mega Cavern

An underground adventure park with zip lines, a ropes course, and a tram tour — all beneath the city!

3. Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Sip your way through distilleries like Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, and Woodford Reserve.

4. Red River Gorge

Hike, climb, kayak, and snap jaw-dropping pics at this natural playground.

5. Churchill Downs

Home of the Kentucky Derby. Even if you miss race day, the museum and tours are top-notch.

6. Newport Aquarium

Walk the shark bridge and meet rare sea creatures along the Ohio River.

7. The Ark Encounter

A full-size Noah’s Ark replica in Williamstown. It’s massive. It’s odd. It’s Insta-worthy.

8. Cumberland Falls (aka Little Niagara)

Gorgeous waterfall known for rare moonbows (a nighttime rainbow — yes, it’s a thing).

9. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Historic village with scenic trails, farm-to-table eats, and cozy stays.

10. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Hold Babe Ruth’s bat, watch bats being made, and pose with the world’s largest bat.

Where to Stay in Kentucky

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Hidden Gems You Gotta Hit

* Vent Haven Ventriloquist Museum: Yes, a museum of creepy ventriloquist dolls in Fort Mitchell.

* The World’s Largest Baseball Bat: Right outside the Louisville Slugger Museum.

* Wigwam Village Inn #2: Stay in a 1930s wigwam-shaped motel. It’s weirdly adorable.

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Disclosure:

Heads up — this post includes affiliate links. If you click one and make a purchase, I might earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). It’s how I keep this travel party going and pay for my bourbon flights.

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