Map Of Kentucky And Surrounding States
Map Of Kentucky And Surrounding States
Explore the Top Attractions
When visiting Kentucky and the surrounding states, there are plenty of must-see attractions. Start your journey at the Mammoth Cave National Park, the world’s longest known cave system. Then, head to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where you can learn about the history of baseball and see how the iconic bats are made. For a taste of the local bourbon scene, visit the Bourbon Trail, which features distilleries such as Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve.
Discover Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, don’t miss out on the hidden gems of the region. For a unique outdoor experience, check out Red River Gorge, a natural wonder with hiking trails and rock climbing opportunities. Another hidden gem is the National Corvette Museum, where car enthusiasts can see over 80 models of the iconic sports car.
Indulge in the Food Scene
Foodies will love exploring the culinary scene of Kentucky and the surrounding states. Kentucky is known for its signature dish, the Hot Brown, a sandwich made with turkey, Mornay sauce, and bacon. For a taste of Southern comfort food, try the fried chicken and biscuits at Claudia Sanders Dinner House. In Nashville, Tennessee, don’t miss out on the hot chicken at Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack, a local favorite since the 1940s.
Save Money with Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying all that Kentucky and the surrounding states have to offer. Look for free activities, such as hiking in the state parks or visiting museums with free admission. Opt for budget-friendly accommodations, such as camping or staying in hostels. And don’t forget to try the local street food, which is often much cheaper than dining in restaurants.
Experience Outdoor Adventures
The region around Kentucky is full of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Try white water rafting on the New River in West Virginia, or go zip-lining at the Red River Gorge. For a more laid-back adventure, take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains.
Visit Historical Landmarks
If you’re a history buff, Kentucky and the surrounding states have plenty of historical landmarks to explore. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Hodgenville, Kentucky, to see the cabin where the 16th president was born. In Tennessee, explore the Civil War battlefield at Shiloh National Military Park. And in West Virginia, visit the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where John Brown’s raid on the federal armory helped spark the Civil War.
Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Kentucky and the surrounding states. Take a ride on the Belle of Louisville, a historic steamboat that offers sightseeing tours on the Ohio River. Visit the Louisville Zoo, which features over 1,700 animals from around the world. And in Tennessee, explore the interactive exhibits at the Adventure Science Center in Nashville.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, try some of the off-the-beaten-path experiences in Kentucky and the surrounding states. In Kentucky, visit the world’s largest cave system at the Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum. In Tennessee, explore the abandoned ghost town of Elkmont in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And in West Virginia, take a tour of the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, a former mental hospital that is now a tourist attraction.
Discover Natural Wonders
Kentucky and the surrounding states are home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country. Visit Cumberland Falls State Resort Park in Kentucky to see the “Niagara of the South,” a stunning waterfall that spans 125 feet. In West Virginia, hike to the top of Seneca Rocks for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. And in Tennessee, explore the underground wonderland of Ruby Falls, a 145-foot waterfall located inside a cave.
Experience Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the party starts in Kentucky and the surrounding states. Visit the Louisville nightlife district, which features live music, bars, and restaurants. In Nashville, check out the honky-tonk scene on Broadway, where you can hear live country music every night. And in West Virginia, try your luck at the casino at the Greenbrier Resort.
Shop at Local Markets
For a taste of the local culture, visit the farmers’ markets and artisan shops in Kentucky and the surrounding states. In Kentucky, head to the Lexington Farmers’ Market, which features over 75 vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. In Tennessee, check out the Nashville Farmers’ Market, which offers everything from locally-made cheeses to fresh flowers. And in West Virginia, visit the Tamarack, a showcase of Appalachian arts and crafts.
Relax on Beaches and Mountains
Whether you prefer the beach or the mountains, Kentucky and the surrounding states have something for you. Visit the beaches of Lake Cumberland in Kentucky for swimming, boating, and fishing. In Tennessee, explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers hiking trails and scenic drives. And in West Virginia, visit the New River Gorge National River, where you can go rock climbing, kayaking, and more.
Immerse Yourself in the Culture
For a true cultural experience, immerse yourself in the art and music scene of Kentucky and the surrounding states. Visit the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville to learn about the life and legacy of the boxing legend. In Tennessee, explore the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, which features exhibits on the history of country music. And in West Virginia, attend the annual Appalachian String Band Festival, a celebration of traditional mountain music.
Take Walking Tours of Architectural Marvels
Architecture enthusiasts will love taking walking tours of the historic buildings in Kentucky and the surrounding states. In Kentucky, visit the Belle of Louisville steamboat, which dates back to 1914. In Tennessee, explore the Art Deco-style buildings in downtown Nashville, such as the Tennessee State Capitol and the Frist Art Museum. And in West Virginia, take a tour of the West Virginia State Capitol, which features a stunning dome made of 23-karat gold leaf.
Visit Historical Sites
If you’re interested in the history of the region, Kentucky and the surrounding states have plenty of historical sites to explore. Visit the Kentucky Historical Society in Frankfort, which features exhibits on the state’s history and culture. In Tennessee, explore the Andrew Jackson Hermitage, the former home of the seventh U.S. president. And in West Virginia, visit the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where John Brown’s raid on the federal armory helped spark the Civil War.
Explore Biking Routes
For an active way to explore the region, hit the biking trails in Kentucky and the surrounding states. In Kentucky, try the Legacy Trail, a 12-mile rail-trail that runs from Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park. In Tennessee, explore the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, a scenic route that follows the Cumberland River. And in West Virginia, take on the challenging Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile rail-trail that offers stunning views of the Allegheny Mountains.
Relax at Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, check out the wellness retreats in Kentucky and the surrounding states. Visit the Kentucky Horse Park, which offers equine-assisted therapy as well as yoga and meditation classes. In Tennessee, visit the Sanctuary at Sedona, a holistic healing retreat that offers everything from acupuncture to energy healing. And in West Virginia, check out the spa at the Greenbrier Resort, which offers treatments such as hydrotherapy and mineral baths.
Experience Adventure Sports
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Kentucky and the surrounding states have plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Try rock climbing at the Red River Gorge in Kentucky, or go white water rafting on the Gauley River in West Virginia. In Tennessee, go bungee jumping at the Nashville Shores Lakeside Resort. And if you’re looking for a unique challenge, try the Tough Mudder obstacle course, which takes place in various locations throughout the region.
