You can't help but admire Kentucky's history and culture as you travel across the state. There is a calm and lighthearted vibe throughout the state, from the rolling bluegrass fields to the celebration around the Kentucky Derby.
From Mammoth Cave National Park, one of the world's most spectacular cave systems, to the family-friendly Newport of the Levee and the beautiful and romantic roads near Lexington, Kentucky lends itself to excellent trips.
Our selection of the best weekend getaways in Kentucky will help you plan your trip.
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1. Derby Weekend in Kentucky
One of the greatest weekend escapes in the state is to plan a vacation around the famous Kentucky Derby. In May, the Kentucky Derby horse race is held at Churchill Downs in Louisville. The pomp and social atmosphere surrounding Kentucky's flagship event are so fascinating that you might spend several days taking it all in.
The Kentucky Derby celebrations and events continue for approximately a month, so even if you can't make it to the race weekend, you can still enjoy the fun in the weeks leading up to it. A paddle-wheeler race on the Ohio River is typically held, as well as parades, fireworks, a marathon, and a hot-air balloon show.
It's critical to understand that if this is a top priority for you, you'll need to arrange accommodations and tickets far ahead of time and expect to pay a premium for everything. It's not too early to book a year in advance. Naturally, if you're planning a Kentucky Derby weekend, don't forget to bring your derby hat.
2. Newport Family Weekend
The city of Newport is one of Kentucky's finest family vacation spots. There are many activities available, particularly at the Newport on the Levee complex. Several hotels are within walking distance of the property, including the Hampton Inn & Suites Newport / Cincinnati.
You may spend many days at Newport on the Levee on the Ohio River, beginning with a visit to the world-renowned Newport Aquarium. It is renowned for its interactive displays, such as the Penguin Encounter and petting a shark.
Spend another day on the Newport Express train for a fun tour before heading to Rotolo, where you can bowl in a boutique-style bowling alley or play bocce ball in the afternoon or evening. Depending on how much time you have, there is also a GameWorks and a movie theatre in Newport on the Levee.
There are usually activities taking place along the riverside in Newport, so check out the seasonal festivals for the dates you want to visit. Because Newport is only over the river from Cincinnati, it's simple to add an extra day to your Kentucky weekend by attending a Cincinnati Reds baseball game.
3. The Weekend in Louisville
While many people associate Louisville with Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, the city offers so much more, which makes it a great weekend vacation destination. That said, one of your mornings should be spent at Churchill Downs, where you can watch the thoroughbred horses work out in the morning. While you're here, you may also visit the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn more about the race's history.
The Louisville Stoneware gallery, which has been a fixture in the city for more than 70 years, offers a glimpse into Louisville's artistic culture. You may also go to one of the local glass businesses to see how craftsmen create one-of-a-kind vases and blown-glass art.
Spend a day at the Speed Art Museum, which features artwork depicting Kentucky's horse-related history. For a completely art-themed weekend, stay at Louisville's 21c Museum Hotel.
Bardstown Road is a pleasant location to walk, shop, and sample some of the local cuisine, and it deserves a spot on your Louisville itinerary. For nightlife and music, go to the Fourth Street Live District. Finish your weekend with a play at Actors Theatre or a Louisville Bats baseball game at Slugger Field.
4. Red River Gorge Outdoor Getaway
Kentucky is renowned for its beautiful natural landscape in addition to thoroughbred horses. It's thus simple to arrange a weekend trip to Red River Gorge in south-central Kentucky. Beautiful cliffs, sandstone arches, and unique geological formations may be seen at the Red River Gorge. You may stay in the campsite or rent a cottage or treehouse for the weekend.
Hiking in the Daniel Boone National Forest, which spans several million acres, should be one of your getaway's highlights. There are 600 miles of hiking routes available for hikers of all abilities. There are many lakes and streams where you may spend a day swimming, canoeing, or even scuba diving.
Another day on your schedule should be spent in the Gorge Underground, where you may kayak through an underwater lake and cavern. The Red River Gorge offers some excellent rock climbing locations if you want to boost your outdoor adventure quotient on a weekend getaway. Have you ever tried it? No problem; you may hire a local guide to teach you the fundamentals of climbing and safety.
5. Lexington Couples Weekend
One of the finest romantic vacations in Kentucky is a weekend in Lexington. The region is surrounded by sprawling horse farms, providing for a pleasant day trip, particularly along the self-guided Bluegrass Country Driving Tour. You may also arrange a guided trip that will take you through some of the most beautiful regions and stop at a few farms.
A portion of your weekend should be spent in downtown Lexington, where you may discover tiny romantic inns that are a pleasant change from corporate hotels. Victorian Square is a great place to go shopping and enjoy some Bluegrass cuisine at one of the local eateries.
Before leaving Lexington, pay a visit to the Kentucky Horse Park and the Keeneland racetrack, which is one of the most well-known horse-racing tracks in the world.
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