Places to go on vacation in kentucky

Kentucky is a great place to go for vacation. It’s got a lot of things to do for all ages, and it’s beautiful too!

There are lots of places to go hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, and bird-watching in Kentucky. You can find lots of great parks like Mammoth Cave National Park and Red River Gorge. You can also find caves that you can explore yourself.

If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try rock climbing or rappelling at one of the many outdoor parks around Kentucky. If you don’t want to get your feet wet, there are plenty of places where you can go white water rafting or kayaking down the river!

If you’re feeling like being active isn’t enough, there are plenty of museums around Kentucky too! You can visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory in Louisville or the Frazier History Museum in Lexington to learn more about baseball or history!

And if all of this sounds way too much work (or if you’re just really hungry), then don’t worry—there are plenty of restaurants near all these different places so that no matter what kind of food you want (or who needs something to eat), there will always be something for everyone!

Places to go on vacation in kentucky

Newport

Newport offers an eclectic mixture of activities, making it one of the kid-friendly weekend getaways in Kentucky. Newport is filled with attractions and diversions for everyone in your family. The Newport Aquarium will bring bliss to the kids, while architecture fans will surely appreciate the East Row Historic District mansions.

You can also learn the history of slavery at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. And, did I mention that Newport has access to some of the best family vacations near Kentucky? Head to Cincinnati and treat your toddlers and younger children to a smorgasbord of kid-approved attractions. Our favorites include the King Island, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and Coney Island.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

Searching for spectacular and underrated places to visit in Kentucky with kids? Trust me, you’ll have a swell time at this state park.

If you’re aching for a Carribean-like escape, and don’t want to travel far, then you’re going to love Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. While it seems quite unlikely, the beach in this park boasts gorgeous white sands and emerald waters that mirror the Caribbean.

Plus, it has other family amenities, such as basketball courts, a golf course and hiking trails.

Their 1-bedroom house is a great choice for families. With 2 double beds and a sofa bed, it’s ideal for a family of 5. Moreover, it comes with an assortment of modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and a coffee machine.

Lexington

Charming horses and age-friendly activities make Lexington one of the best family-friendly places to go in Kentucky.

With more than 500 horse farms, the “Horse Capital of the World” is the best place to go for fans of these animals. The famous Kentucky Horse Park offers films, exhibits, horse shows and equestrian events that your family will enjoy.

Furthermore, the city is home to plenty of family-oriented attractions, including Aviation Museum of Kentucky and Martin Castle. You might want to drop by Jacobson Park on your vacation in Lexington. Here, your little ones may play on the Creative Playground, rent a pedal boat and fish in the lake.

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cumberland is one of the most fascinating family trips in Kentucky, especially for nature lovers. Cumberland is a cheap family vacation with a heavy dose of outdoor adventure. With over 70 miles of trails, this national park offers non-stop for hiking aficionados.

What’s more, the park has tons of spots for camping, sightseeing and wildlife spotting. Stop by the visitor’s center to get fun nuggets of information about Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. It’s a lively space filled with informative and interactive exhibits.

Lake Cumberland

Lake Cumberland is a haven of outdoor adventures for fun-loving families. Lake Cumberland overflows with outdoorsy activities that will satisfy all generations. You can go hiking, horseback riding and even play disc golf with the entire gang. There’s also a marina where families can rent a boat, and go fishing or swimming once on the lake.

If you want to experience more outdoor adventures on your vacation, head to Daniel Boone National Forest, which is around 20 miles from the lake. Likewise, Mammoth Cave is an hour away by car from Lake Cumberland.

Louisville

From museums to scenic parks, Louisville offers a plethora of activities for the entire gang. Louisville offers a unique urban escape for families, with its museums, parks and kid-approved attractions. Thrill the whole gang at Kentucky Kingdom, home to a water park, roller coasters and other kid-friendly rides.

Afterwards, tour the Louisville Zoo, Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory and Kentucky Science Center. And don’t forget to check out some of the city’s numerous parks (around 120).

Make a pit stop to Louisville Nature Center. This sprawling recreation area features kiddie activities, wildlife exhibits as well as dragonfly and butterfly gardens. There are also wildlife exhibits and learning activities for kids at the indoor museum.

Frankfort

Frankfort is a scenic city ideal for families that appreciate elaborate architecture and historic landmarks. Spend a few hours strolling or biking around the town, and see the historic Old State Capitol, Capital City Museum and Governor’s Mansion.

For a more natural escape, head to the Salato Wildlife Education and get a chance to spot a bunch of charming animals, like eagles, bison and bears.

Enjoy a different view of the city taking a river boat tour. Available from May to October, these boat tours are free and highlight the Kentucky River’s gorgeous scenery. Tours must be arranged in advance in person or by phone at the Capitol City Museum.

Paducah

Paducah appeases school-age kids and history buffs with its outstanding historic landmarks. Paducah, even with its small size, is an exciting destination for families and history buffs.

In fact, 20 blocks of its historic district are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. While there, make sure to visit the National Quilt Museum and Floodwall murals. The River Discovery Center offers an interactive and engaging experience for your little ones. Plus, it’s an educational experience that lets them discover the habitats and history of America’s rivers.

Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Experience nature in its full glory with your family in this picturesque destination in Kentucky. The Land Between the Lakes is a wondrous place for hikers, nature lovers and even hunters. Explore the numerous trails in the area, or head to Lake Barkley for a relaxing boat ride or some fishing.

Also, visit the Golden Pong ghost town for a little glimpse into the past. Kids will totally love the Homeplace, which is an 1850 recreated farm where its guides wear period costumes. Additionally, curious youngsters will enjoy its incredible planetarium.