Thoroughbred horses might dominate the headlines in Kentucky, but the state packs more into its stables than high-speed horses. Straddling a geographic and cultural crossroads between two distinct and fiercely proud American heartlands, Kentucky is a place of bucolic landscapes and alluring national parks with a transforming culinary scene that beckons between the bourbon and bluegrass.
See the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” at the Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby, which takes place on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, is not only the world’s greatest horse race; it’s the longest-running continuous sporting event in North America. This event offers a spectacular amalgamation of sport, style, bourbon, and betting.
Join a who’s who of upper-crust America – decked to the nines in seersucker suits and the most decadent hats – for a mint julep-fueled race-day celebration. After all the build-up, it culminates in a blink of an eye: the main event is over in just two minutes.
Even if securing a ticket on race day poses a challenge, the Kentucky Derby Museum offers guided tours around the Churchill Downs racetrack, making it one of Kentucky’s most intriguing cultural diversions.
Line Up Glasses on the Bar on the Bourbon Trail
Bourbon, one of the world’s most prized spirits, is predominantly produced in Kentucky, which distills 95% of the world’s inventory. Embarking on a connoisseur’s tasting journey through the picturesque bourbon country around Bardstown and Frankfort is among the top highlights of Kentucky.
Once you’ve arranged your logistics for sampling bourbon on a tasting tour, Kentucky’s finest distilleries are ready to showcase the subtle differences in their offerings. You can enjoy your samples surrounded by the serene horse farms of Central Kentucky.
New laws permit 1¾-ounce sample pours and sales by the glass, enhancing visits to leading distilleries such as Woodford Reserve, Heaven Hill, Buffalo Trace, and Maker’s Mark.
Step into the Batter’s Box at the Louisville Slugger Museum
The Louisville Slugger baseball bat is an iconic piece of sports history. At the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, you can observe how this legendary bat is crafted, alongside displays of the great players who wielded it. The museum includes Babe Ruth’s 1926 record-setting Louisville Slugger, complete with notches marking each home run.
Both museums are part of Louisville’s cultural centerpiece, Museum Row on Main, which features nine museums and distilleries across four historic downtown blocks.
Go Caving – and More! – at Mammoth Cave National Park
Cave enthusiasts flock to Mammoth Cave National Park, boasting the longest cave system on earth, encompassing around 400 miles of surveyed passageways. Located 23 miles northeast of Bowling Green, this cavern offers fascinating ranger-guided tours and various hiking trails—making it a must-visit outdoor adventure destination.
Soak Up the Country Air in Beautiful Bluegrass Country
North-central Kentucky’s Bluegrass Country presents one of the most unexpectedly stunning American landscapes. As if a painting depicted it, the brilliant-green hills are adorned with ponds, poplar trees, and magnificent estates, all interspersed with fences safeguarding prized thoroughbred horses.
Driving around aimlessly during summer or winter is a joyful way to spend a day in America’s heartland, but WinStar Farm serves as an excellent focal point for visitors. Founded in the 1700s, this prestigious horse farm has bred numerous champions and offers tours of its stallion complex several days a week.
Be Awed by Ali at the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville
The captivating life of Muhammad Ali is chronicled at the riveting Muhammad Ali Center, located on Louisville’s Museum Row on Main. Born in Louisville in 1942, Ali’s extraordinary achievements are honored at this museum, making it an excellent visit at any time of the year.
Feast on Kentucky Culinary Delights Like the Hot Brown
No trip to Kentucky would be complete without experiencing the state’s most famous culinary invention, the Hot Brown – an open-faced turkey sandwich adorned with bacon, tomato, and Mornay sauce, created in 1926 at Louisville’s Brown Hotel. However, the culinary landscape of Kentucky has evolved significantly, with exciting bites and brews helping to redefine American dining.
Dining at modern American establishments such as Proof on Main or Decca in Louisville, as well as Carson’s Food & Drink in Lexington, illustrates that Kentucky now offers much more than traditional fare.
Feel the Need for Speed at Bowling Green’s National Corvette Museum
The Chevrolet Corvette has captivated car enthusiasts since its introduction, and Bowling Green’s National Corvette Museum displays around 80 Corvette models, including rare concept cars. Visitors can marvel at the world’s only 1983 Corvette and the vehicles damaged during a sinkhole incident in 2014.
Hike and Climb in Daniel Boone National Forest
Rock climbers from around the world are drawn to Red River Gorge within Daniel Boone National Forest, covering 700,000 acres of rugged terrain. Its extensive climbing routes and spectacular views draw outdoor adventurers eager for exploration. Additionally, the nearby Natural Bridge State Resort Park offers stunning hiking and climbing opportunities.
This article was first published Feb 25, 2019, and updated May 9, 2022.
