Discover 30 Hidden Gems in Kentucky’s Scenic Landscape

Summary of Hidden Gems in Kentucky:

Home to the internationally recognized Kentucky Fried Chicken, the Commonwealth of Kentucky (official title) is a Midwestern state in America and one of the four states in the nation designated as a commonwealth; the other three are Massachusetts, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. Formerly part of Virginia, Kentucky attained recognition as a distinct state in 1792.

Known as the Bluegrass State due to the distinctive grass prevalent throughout Kentucky, the state exhibits remarkable scenic diversity. On one side, it features Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave globally and a historical attraction second only to Niagara Falls. On the other side lies Breaks Interstate Park, commonly referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the South.”

Cumberland Falls, also referred to as the Great Falls, located in southeastern Kentucky, is the only waterfall in the world that consistently displays a Moonbow.

A state celebrated for its natural marvels and man-made phenomena—such as the Derby, Bourbon, moonshine, tobacco, and bluegrass music—Kentucky is full of unexpected finds. Here, we uncover some of the hidden gems in Kentucky and explore its full potential.

1. Troublesome Creek, Clayhole

In the 1820s, Martin Fugate, a French orphan with a rare condition known as hereditary methemoglobinemia, settled by the banks of Troublesome Creek. By an intriguing turn of fate, Fugate encountered Elizabeth Smith, who also carried the same genetic condition, and they later married.

The couple had seven children, four of whom were born with the same condition. So, why is this significant? The intriguing part is that both the couple and their affected children exhibited BLUE skin.

This enzyme deficiency, diagnosed over a century later, led to decreased oxygen levels in their bodies, resulting in this unusual discoloration.

As time passed, the Fugate family interbred, leading to a unique community of “Blue” individuals.

A medical journal from 1982 indicates that some ‘Blue Fugates’ continue to inhabit the hills surrounding Eastern Kentucky.

2. Waverly Hills Sanatorium, Louisville

Currently serving as a “haunted attraction,” Waverly Hills Sanatorium was established in the 20th century to accommodate patients suffering from tuberculosis. At that time, no medicinal remedies existed to treat the illness; thus, the facility sought to heal patients through fresh air, quarantine, and positive surroundings.

Due to the absence of any therapeutic solution, fatalities occurred nearly every day, which not only distressed patients but also compelled officials to discreetly remove bodies from the facility via a tunnel, now referred to as the “body chute.”

A tuberculosis medication was eventually discovered in the 1940s, leading to the subsequent closure of the sanatorium in 1961.

Today, the site is utilized for horror attractions and guided ghost tours of the Sanatorium.

3. The Cumberland Falls, Williamsburg

Situated within the confines of Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Cumberland Falls ranks among the most stunning waterfalls globally. Its beauty is primarily attributed to the regular occurrence of “moonbows” that manifest over the falls during each full moon.

A moonbow, or lunar rainbow, mirrors a conventional rainbow formed by the reflection and dispersion of light through water droplets, with the distinction that it appears under the light of a full moon rather than sunlight.

This extremely rare phenomenon may initially appear as a ribbon of white light to the naked eye; however, those who observe closely, or through a long-exposure camera, can recognize colors reflected across the waterfall.

4. The Grave of Harry L. Collins, Louisville

Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville possesses a profound connection to the illustrious history of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, serving as the final resting place for many of the state’s local heroes. However, none are as distinctively detailed and fascinating as Frito-Lay’s “Magic Man.”

Harry L. Collins, first acquainted with magic in 1920 by a local attorney, showcased his talents during his time in the Marines in WWII, where he received proposals to join the Special Services. Upon returning to civilian life, he accepted a position as a salesman with Frito-Lay.

By day a salesman and a magician by night, Collins took such joy in his profession that the magic word for every trick in his repertoire became “Frito-Lay!”

By 1970, company executives recognized Collins’ unique abilities and designated him as their corporate entertainer—rumor has it Collins provided training for the renowned magician, Lance Burton.

5. Dinosaur World, Cave City

Dinosaur World in Cave City, Kentucky, is one of only three similar amusement parks in the United States and has been dubbed the “best exit” by a renowned magazine.

This outdoor museum showcases over 100 lifelike dinosaur replicas, each accompanied by detailed descriptions of their species and characteristics.

A giant T-rex greets visitors along I-65 at Dinosaur World, where they can stroll along a designated trail to learn about dinosaurs, spot artificial dinosaur eggs, and raptor claws, among other creatures.

In addition to fossil digs and a playground for children, a souvenir shop offers themed toys, fossils, educational games, and books.

6. USS Sachem Ruins, Petersburg

USS Sachem, known by various names in history (including Sightseer, The Celt, and USS Phenakite), enjoyed a successful career before its abandonment in Indiana in 1987. The vessel served during both World Wars, transported Thomas Edison while he conducted experiments, participated in the re-lighting of the Statue of Liberty by Ronald Reagan, and made a guest appearance in Madonna’s “Papa Don’t Preach.”

The ship was initially launched in 1902 as The Celt and designed to serve as a luxury vessel, but was later renamed USS Sachem by the Navy for wartime service against the Germans. After the war, it returned to civilian ownership, only to be reacquired and renamed Phenakite to serve against the Japanese in World War II.

Ultimately, the ship saw one last moment of fame in Madonna’s music video before it was navigated and stranded in the Ohio River.

7. Florence Y’all Water Tower, Florence

As part of an effort to promote its presence and services, Florence Mall constructed a sizable water tower adjacent to its facilities in 1974. The bold lettering stating “Florence Mall” prompted concerns from the Bureau of Highway, which claimed the tower was overly large and did not comply with highway advertising regulations.

While the Bureau suggested a repainting to resolve the issue, the town’s then-mayor, C.M. Ewing, in collaboration with an innovative team of civil staff members, devised a cost-effective yet humorous solution.

They opted to change the “M” in “Mall” to a “Y,” adding an apostrophe afterward, resulting in “Florence Y’all”. This innovative transformation required only $500 and a touch of Southern charm to convert a contentious water tower into a landmark!

8. Wigwam Village #2, Cave City

Between 1936 and the 1950s, several Wigwam motels were established along the historic Route 66 to accommodate travelers between Los Angeles and Chicago. While most have faded into history, a few have endured, including Wigwam Village #2, built in 1937, which features 15 teepee-style cottages surrounding a recreational area.

This property was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in March 1988.

Each cottage includes a spacious bedroom and an adjoining bathroom with shower facilities and toilet. Furthermore, in 2008, all cottages underwent an aesthetic upgrade, equipped with air conditioning, cable television, and hickory furniture.

Would you be interested in spending a night in one of America’s historic motels?

9. The Monroe Moosnick Medical and Science Museum, Lexington

The exhibits at the Monroe Moosnick Medical and Science Museum may appear to be merely a collection of historic medical artifacts; however, they represent much more. Indeed, the instruments on display are among the most advanced medical tools of the 18th and 19th centuries.

Named in honor of a distinguished professor who served Transylvania University for over fifty years, the museum serves as an essential resource for science students conducting research and educational inquiries. A considerable portion of the tools and equipment on exhibit were brought from London and Paris during the early to mid-1800s.

A particularly notable piece in the museum is a dissection of a wax figure representing a woman, a rare Medical Venus, constructed from tissues and organs sourced from over 200 cadavers.

10. Castle Post, Versailles

Originally known as Martin Castle when the affluent couple commenced construction of their Middle American fortress in 1969, they abandoned the project following their divorce in 1975. Castle Post was initially envisioned as a museum or a themed restaurant.

Thomas R. Post, who acquired the property in 2004 and renamed it, initiated progressive work on the long-neglected castle. Unfortunately, a fire devastated most of the progress made.

However, Post was unwavering in his resolve. He doubled his efforts and added a ballroom, a garden, and a library.

In 2008, Castle Post opened to the public as a luxury bed and breakfast.

11. Vent Haven Museum, Fort Mitchell

Founded by William Shakespeare Berger, a businessman and aspiring ventriloquist from Cincinnati, Vent Haven Museum opened to the public in 1973 and houses Berger’s extensive collection of over 900 ventriloquist figures, which he began acquiring in 1878.

Berger, the former president of the International Brotherhood of Ventriloquists, continued adding to the collection until his passing in 1973.

Vent Haven Museum is the only institution globally possessing the largest collection of its kind. Some of the figurines are exceedingly rare, yet all exhibit a signature style—complete with a hat, tuxedo, monocle, and trigger-operated mouth.

The museum welcomes visitors from May to September and hosts a “conVENTion” each July for ventriloquism enthusiasts.

12. Funtown Mountain, Cave City

Mammoth Cave National Park forms the core of Kentucky, and the local citizens and businesses have effectively leveraged the surrounding attractions.

The existence of the Caves has led to the establishment of roadside attractions like Dinosaur World. Among these attractions was ‘Guntown Mountain,’ a Wild West-themed amusement park that operated from 1969 until 2013.

The park ceased operations due to declining visitors but was later purchased by Will Russell two years later, who aimed to reopen it as “Funtown.” To generate funds for the park’s refurbishment, Russell intended to host a traveling circus, but plans fell through, and financing was never achieved.

Despite the challenges, Russell opened Funtown Mountain to the public in 2015; however, fortune was not on its side, and the amusement park did not survive even a year.

What remains now are vestiges of its fleeting past, including a few decommissioned rides and abandoned structures atop the mountain, which are now inaccessible.

13. Mantle Rock, Smithland

Located within the Mantle Rock Nature Preserve, this massive natural sandstone formation resembles a bridge, standing 30-feet high and extending 188-feet long. The area is historically significant, having served as a campsite for numerous Cherokees, an indigenous tribe, for two weeks as they awaited to cross the Ohio River in 1839.

Managed by the Livingston County Nature Conservancy, the Rock is a part of the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, which commemorates the harsh winters of 1838-39 when about 4,000 Cherokee migrants perished due to severe weather conditions. Each year, numerous Cherokees visit this site to pay homage to their ancestors.

This geological formation is adorned with bluffs, fluorite deposits, honeycomb structures, and boasts extraordinary biodiversity. Mantle Rock was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

14. Pope Lick Trestle Bridge, Louisville

The Pope Lick Monster, a mythical half-man, half-goat creature, is reported to have claimed several lives on and around the Trestle Bridge in Louisville, Kentucky.

While the existence of this monster remains uncertain, local legends allege that the goat-man employs hypnosis or a siren-like voice to lure individuals onto the treacherous train tracks still utilized by trains.

Another prevalent theory suggests that the monster drops onto cars passing beneath the trestles.

Although these stories may merely be folklore, numerous thrill-seekers—enticed by the tales of the “monster”—have lost their lives while attempting to jump the eight-foot fence or climb the trestles.

15. Colonel Sanders’ Grave, Louisville

Colonel Harland Sanders, arguably one of the most recognizable figures worldwide, undertook numerous professions (including fireman, streetcar conductor, insurance salesperson, and gas station operator) before deciding to become a restaurateur.

After considering establishing franchise restaurants, Sanders opened his inaugural small-scale eatery in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he served his “secret” fried chicken recipe to hungry travelers passing by his gas station. Before long, his exceptional dish, alongside his distinctive white goatee, black round glasses, long bow tie, and grandfatherly demeanor became a national sensation.

By the time Sanders passed away from leukemia in 1980 at age 90, both Colonel Sanders and Kentucky Fried Chicken had reached iconic status, recognized not only in the state and nation but across the globe.

Colonel Sanders now rests at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, with his grave marked by a bust depicting him in his trademark suit, goatee, and tie, crafted by Margaret, his daughter.

16. The Strange Procession Which Never Moves, Mayfield

The representation crafted by one man for the loved ones he lost throughout his life was tragically perceived by visitors as a potential source for moneymaking mischief, leading to the disheartening title of “The Strange Procession Which Never Moves.”

Colonel Henry G. Wooldridge commissioned eighteen statues that stand in Maplewood Cemetery in Mayfield, Kentucky, beginning in 1892. The intent was to represent all the lives, human or otherwise, that Wooldridge had ever mourned. The construction of the monuments continued for seven years until the creator passed away in 1899.

Among the monuments are depictions of his sisters, a smaller statue representing either a childhood sweetheart or a niece (depending on varying accounts), his mother, his brothers, and his horse “Fop,” alongside his hounds “Bob” and “Towhead,” a fox, and a deer. The most prominent statue is that of Wooldridge himself, crafted from marble and standing six feet tall.

Remarkably, Wooldridge is the only individual within this group who lies at rest on the site.

17. Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History, Bardstown

One of the prominent identities associated with the Commonwealth of Kentucky is its abundance of bourbon distilleries scattered across the state, often referred to as the “Bourbon Capital of the World.”

In contrast to Colonel Sanders, Kentucky, particularly Bardstown, willingly shares its secrets. Moreover, the town encourages visitors to gain a deeper understanding of whiskey, with the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History providing an exceptional overview of America’s affection for whiskey.

Oscar Getz, a Chicago resident and dedicated enthusiast and collector of whiskey, amassed such an extensive range of collectibles that he was able to establish a private museum. Unfortunately, Mrs. Getz submerged in a differing ideology, insisting that her husband dispose of his cherished antiques!

Disheartened, Oscar sought to repurpose a 200-year-old seminary into a museum that would safeguard his collection for future generations.

Today, this extensive compilation of photographs, artifacts, rare documents, and hundreds of antique bottles is owned and managed by the Getz family.

18. Rabbit Hash, Burlington

The origins of this unincorporated community in Burlington, Kentucky remain uncertain; however, several narratives surround its nomenclature as Rabbit Hash.

The community gained notoriety in the 1800s for its rabbit hash delicacy and was allegedly raided by a group of robbers in 1831, which devastated the area. Following this incident, the next arriving boat observed a solitary billboard reading “rabbit hash,” and the town subsequently adopted this moniker.

An alternative, more plausible story involves the flood of 1847, which resulted in a dramatic rise in the local rabbit population. Residents hunted these animals for a special stew called “hash.”

Documented history of the town is sporadic, as it repeatedly suffered from destruction due to floods from the Ohio River; however, the Rabbit Hash General Store remains—Kentucky’s best-preserved country store.

19. Eastern Cemetery, Louisville

Eastern Cemetery is esteemed as one of the oldest burial sites in Louisville, Kentucky, having commenced operations in the 1840s, initially managed by the Fourth Street Methodist Church, also known today as Trinity Temple United Methodist Church.

At the time, the churchyard was among the few graveyards permitting interment for deceased individuals from all walks of life, and it proudly held the title of the town’s—and possibly the state’s—first crematorium.

Regrettably, Eastern Cemetery harbors a dark history. Archaeologist Philip J. DiBlasi from the University of Louisville reported that several old graves were purchased by the cemetery from their proprietors and subsequently sold as “empty.” Four different maps from various years reveal inconsistencies, raising suspicions of overburial.

The discovery of these oversights and an allegation of graves’ mismanagement in 1989 attracted significant media attention. Since then, the burial site remains largely neglected.

20. The Creation Museum, Petersburg

Spread over 75,000 square feet, the Creation Museum is dedicated to showcasing a particular interpretation of the creation of the world based on the Book of Genesis from the Bible!

Operated by Answers in Genesis (AiG), the museum opened its doors in May 2007 and enforces a strict policy on employment—every staff member must sign a declaration affirming their faith in the principles espoused by AiG.

The museum contains over 160 exhibits, illustrating the cosmos as perceived over the last 6,000 years. Its collection includes a display of insects, an Allosaurus carcass, a planetarium, and a special effects theater.

Additionally, AiG has formulated several alternative narratives that contest theories, facts, and findings which have long been established in scientific discourse, such as the Big Bang Theory and the Theory of Evolution.

Nevertheless, the museum’s representations have frequently prompted contestation from scientists, researchers, and educators, who argue that the information presented is inconsistent with verified discoveries and could adversely affect the understanding of science for current and future students.

Regardless of belief in contemporary science versus historical interpretations, the museum undeniably warrants a visit!

21. Drake Vintage Music & Curios, Bowling Green

The allure of country music may have diminished with time; however, one individual has steadfastly maintained his admiration and commitment to the culture of country music since the 1940s.

Freeman Kitchens, a local resident of Warren County, Kentucky, has been curating music records, artifacts, and photographs emblematic of 20th-century country music culture for many years. Serving as the Founder and President of the Carter family fan club, Kitchens has been operating Drake Vintage Music & Curios, where he sells records and related merchandise since he began collecting in the mid-1940s.

Prominently recognized within the local community, Kitchens and his fan club have produced some of the earliest forms of grassroots documentation and music journalism regarding country music’s cultural belonging over time.

Feel free to visit, purchase a record, or engage in conversation with the proud proprietor, and receive a personal tour through America’s rich country music history.

22. Chained Rock, Pineville

The town of Pineville is nestled within a narrow valley, overshadowed by a steep cliff and a massive rock. This rock appears poised to tumble down, potentially erasing the town from Kentucky’s map, prompting curiosity among local children and travelers alike.

To alleviate concerns, the elderly residents assured the children that a chain secured the rock in place, preventing any potential descent. Initially, this notion was a fabrication.

The truth is, the alleged boulder was merely part of the cliff that, from afar, appeared to be an unstable rock. However, tired of the surrounding myths, local resident Headley Card proposed in a courthouse meeting that a genuine chain be fitted to the rock so that the need for deception would be eliminated.

Others concurred, and the following day, the “Chained Rock Club” formed. With assistance from the Boy Scouts, local Kiwanis, and the Civilian Conservation Corps, a 100-foot-long and 1.5-ton chain was brought to the cliff and secured with several 30-inch bolts.

And thus, the legend took shape.

23. Grave of Daniel Boone, Frankfort

Whether related to his alleged connections with Davy Crockett or the controversy surrounding his burial at two locations, Daniel Boone has been a subject of fascination for many.

It is widely acknowledged that Boone passed away from natural causes in Defiance, Missouri, and was interred alongside his wife, Rebecca, in Marthasville. The narrative becomes murky following this point.

Recognized as a folk hero during his explorations in Kentucky (which was part of Virginia then), Boone’s remains were exhumed twenty-five years later at the request of Frankfurt, which sought to respectfully lay Boone to rest where he belonged. The request was accepted by Marthasville, although they maintain that Frankfurt excavated the incorrect site!

Due to space limitations beside Rebecca’s gravesite, Boone was reportedly interred at her feet. However, Boone’s family was so incensed by Frankfurt’s actions that they chose not to disclose the actual burial location.

A study conducted by David Wolfe, the state’s forensic expert, suggests that the remains located in the Frankfurt grave may belong to a black man.

Though this topic remains contentious, visitors are encouraged to form their own narratives surrounding the story.

24. Ark Encounter, Williamstown

Part theme park and part biblical recreation, the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky, grants visitors the opportunity to explore a replica of Noah’s Ark, constructed according to the specific measurements described in the Book of Genesis.

This massive ark, measuring 51-feet high, 85-feet wide, and 510-feet long, grants access to three decks that collectively create the largest timber structure in the nation.

Inside the ark, visitors encounter animatronic representations of Noah and his family, several extinct animal species, plaques illustrating animal evolution, and additional displays. Some creative liberties have been taken with the names of the female figures featured in the exhibits. Living quarters, communal areas, a kitchen, and storage spaces for supplies are also showcased throughout the exhibition.

While plans are underway for park expansion, the current offerings include a zip line, café, and petting zoo alongside the Ark.

25. Lexington’s Biblical Miniature Golf, Lexington

“All Jesus all the time” is the theme that defines Lexington’s Biblical Miniature Golf, which operates within the city’s Ice Center and Sports Complex, allowing participants to play through three distinct courses, each dedicated to the Old Testament, the New Testament, and various miracles.

As players compete, uplifting Christian Rock music emanates from hidden speakers around the venue.

Past patrons have expressed that the highlight of playing on the miniature golf course is navigating through Jesus’ tomb, which some find a slightly eerie experience, while many others appreciate the underlying theme, if not the game itself.

The initial course (the Old Testament) was established in 1988, with the other two courses added subsequently. The first seven holes in this course illustrate the seven days of creation; additional features include representations of Noah’s Ark, the Garden of Eden, Mount Sinai, and so forth.

26. Black Mountain, Partridge

Perched atop several hollow mined veins, Black Mountain in Partridge, Kentucky, rises 4,145 feet above sea level, making it the highest point in the Commonwealth. However, it is also incredibly unstable and has the potential to collapse at any time.

Despite its precarious and dangerous condition, the mountain summit remains open to the public, provided that visitors complete a waiver and return it to the office located in Kingsport, Tennessee prior to their visit.

The mountain’s history, akin to its surrounding state, is closely linked to coal mining, with the town of Lynch located at its foothills. Once home to over 10,000 residents, it was one of the largest coal towns in the United States.

Several communication towers can be observed at the mountain’s summit, which also features a former observation tower and an FAA dome. The forests surrounding the peak are home to various black butterflies.

27. Shrine of Saints Magnus and Bonosa, Louisville

In a city known for its chicken, whiskey, horse racing, and Muhammad Ali, rest the preserved remains of two 1,800-year-old Christian martyrs, originally from ancient Rome. How did such an extraordinary circumstance arise?

In 1853, St. Martin of Tours, a Catholic parish church, catered to German immigrants. Sadly, during the Election Day of 1855, individuals attempted to set the church ablaze, driven by the rumor that weapons were concealed there. Simultaneously, another segment of the world witnessed the Italian government’s closure of monasteries. To safeguard these human remains, some were expeditiously transported to America.

In 1901, with the permission of Pope Leo XIII, the two Christian martyrs, specifically Magnus and Bonosa, were placed into bags and shipped to Kentucky for preservation at St. Martin’s.

Although not much has been disclosed about these martyrs other than their honorable designation by the Pope, their ancient remnants offer a captivating glimpse into global history.

28. South Union Shaker Village, Auburn

The South Union Colony was founded in 1807 by the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, known as the “Shakers.” This community thrived for over a century until the Civil War took its toll.

The Shakers epitomized simplicity and intellect, adhering to the principles of hard work, pacifism, equality across races and genders, and celibacy (which ultimately led to their decline). They were also exceptional craftsmen, particularly in furniture making, contributing several technological advances, including the clothespin, flat broom, and circular saw.

Originating from their song-like, energetic method of prayer, the Shakers found themselves caught between the Union and Confederate forces during the American Civil War, supplying sustenance to both sides to ensure their survival. While the war concluded, the community never regained its prior vitality.

Presently, only nine of the original 200 structures survive, alongside a four-story exhibition highlighting the Shakers and their 200-year history.

29. Dixie Cup Water Tower, Lexington

While the Dixie Cup Water Tower may not represent the most extraordinary tourist attraction in Kentucky, its sheer size and structure entail greater recognition than it currently receives.

Erected on the grounds of the former Dixie Cup Plant, the water tower was built following the company’s relocation here in 1958. Although the company has been absorbed by Georgia-Pacific Corporation, the water tower remains unchanged.

A primary reason for the city’s reluctance to remove the tower is its significance as a navigational reference for the nearby airport.

Though the tower is not accessible to the public, it is possible to get close enough to capture clear photographs of this unmistakable landmark.

30. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum, Maysville

Also recognized as the Marshall Key House, the Slavery to Freedom Museum was constructed as a residence by Eli Metcalfe in 1807, later sold to Marshall Key in 1815, John Marshall’s nephew, America’s first supreme court judge. In 1833, Harriet Beecher visited her student Elizabeth Marshall Key at this house. During her stay, she was invited to witness a slave auction, which deeply troubled her, prompting her to author an anti-slavery book in 1852 titled Uncle Tom’s Cabin.

The book became the second best-seller of its time, igniting a pivotal moment leading to the American Civil War. President Lincoln, during his meeting with Harriet, referred to her as the “little lady” who initiated the “big war.”

Restored in 1833, the house has since been embraced as the Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum, showcasing artifacts from the Civil War and the era of slavery.