The great state of Kentucky is home to some of the best weekend getaways in the country. From the beautiful rolling hills of the Appalachians to the lakes and rivers of the northern region and everything in between, Kentucky offers an amazing array of stunning landscapes and exciting activities. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, or a family-friendly adventure, this list of the best weekend getaways in Kentucky will have something for everyone.
Exploring Lexington
Whether you’re going for a romantic weekend getaway or a family adventure, one of the best places to start is with a visit to the city of Lexington. This city offers a great mix of history and modern-day attractions, all within easy access from hotels and restaurants. The city is also home to some of the best horse racing in the world, as well as a range of breweries, distilleries, and wineries. The city’s central location also makes it an excellent launching point for many of Kentucky’s best outdoor experiences.
Places to Visit in Lexington:
•Mary Todd Lincoln House: Spanning three floors, this elegant Greek Revival mansion was home to the former First Lady and presidential wife.
•Rupp Arena: Home to the University of Kentucky’s basketball games, this 19,000 seat arena is a must-see in Lexington.
•The Kentucky Horse Park: Take a look inside Kentucky’s equestrian industry with guided trail rides, a museum, and performing horses.
•Keeneland Race Course: Watch the thoroughbred races or marvel at the beautiful track-side scenery at this award-winning venue.
•The Arboretum: Take a stroll through this 128-acre botanical garden, featuring over 500 varieties of plants from around the world.
Exploring the Lake Cumberland Region
Often described as the “Crown Jewel” of the Bluegrass State, the central region of the state is home to stunning lakes and rivers perfect for a weekend getaway. With over 1,200 miles of shoreline, boat tours, and water sports, Lake Cumberland is the ideal location for any outdoor enthusiast. Explore the area’s many state parks and lakes, or spend a day or two fishing, boating, and swimming.
Places to Visit in the Lake Cumberland Region:
•Conley Bottom Resort: Primarily known as a marina, this resort offers full-service boat ramps, boat slips, and houseboat rentals.
•Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery: Visit the lake’s largest fish hatchery, stretching over 314 acres and boasting a museum and an observation deck overlooking the lake.
•New Cumberland State Park: Enjoy the area’s great outdoors with over 400 acres of outdoor recreation including hiking, camping, nature trails and an outdoor pool.
•Waterfall On The River: Spend an afternoon visiting this secluded three-tier waterfall located on the Cumberland River.
•Lure Lodge: Fish, swim, or just sit back and relax in a comfortable cabin at Lure Lodge.
Exploring the Red River Gorge
If a weekend away sounds best when spent in nature, then the Red River Gorge region should be top on your list. This area boasts some of the most beautiful and accessible hiking trails in the country and is home to massive sandstone cliffs and stunning waterfalls. Spend a day or two basking in the great outdoors, fishing in the many rivers, or exploring the tucked-away caves.
Places to Visit in the Red River Gorge Region:
•Natural Bridge State Park: Explore one of the most iconic sights in the state, a massive arch natural bridge that stands over 65 feet tall.
•Sky Bridge: For rock climbers and thrill-seekers, the Sky Bridge is not to be missed. This natural bridge span over 320 feet and stands 200 feet above the river.
•Phillips Mine: Explore the old abandoned mine and search for pieces of the famous Bluegrass Opal.
•Lexington Quarry: Enjoy a picnic in the vicinity of this old abandoned quarry.
•Gray’s Arch: Stand beneath this grand natural archway, stretching 80 feet wide and 100 feet tall.
Exploring Eastern Kentucky
The Eastern region of Kentucky is the perfect destination for seekers of peace and solitude. Head here for weekend and take in the stunning beauty of the area, known for its vast mountainous forests, and tumbling white water rivers. Spend a few days fishing, horse-back riding, or exploring the big skies and starry nights of the eastern hills.
Places to Visit in Eastern Kentucky:
•Carter Caves State Park: Retreat into the area’s many caverns, featuring some of the most stunning sandstone and limestone formations and waterfalls in the state.
•Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area: Located within the Daniel Boone National Forest, this area provides great opportunities for fishing, camping and hiking.
•Natural Tunnel State Park: Enjoy a unique view of nature walking through natural tunnels formed millions of years ago by a shifting river bed.
•Battlefield Monuments: Take a step back in history and pay a visit to the battlefields and monuments of the Civil War.
•Eastern Kentucky Railway: Vintage train fans should make a stop in Benge in Eastern Kentucky, home to the Eastern Kentucky Railway. You can catch a ride on the vintage steam locomotive, built in 1940.
No matter how you plan to spend your weekend, there’s a wide range of cities, parks and outdoor attractions for you to choose from in Kentucky. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a more family-friendly experience, Kentucky boasts some of the finest weekend getaways in the country. With its stunning natural beauty, abundant outdoor recreation and plenty of cultural attractions, Kentucky is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. So make sure to take some time to explore the best weekend getaways in Kentucky!