Map Of Eastern Kentucky

Introduction

Eastern Kentucky is a region filled with natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, and historical landmarks. It is a destination that offers something for everyone, from adventure sports to wellness retreats. This travel guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive list of attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, and more.

Top Attractions

Red River Gorge

Red River Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Daniel Boone National Forest. It is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and camping. The area is filled with stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world’s longest known cave system. Visitors can take guided tours of the cave system, hike through the park’s trails, or go on a cave exploring adventure.

Keeneland Race Track

Keeneland Race Track is a historic horse racing track located in Lexington, Kentucky. The track is known for its beautiful architecture and is a popular destination for horse racing enthusiasts.

Hidden Gems

The Kentucky Castle

The Kentucky Castle is a unique destination that offers fine dining, lodging, and events. The castle is located on a beautiful property and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park is a hidden gem that offers a glimpse into the life of the 16th President of the United States. The park features a replica of the log cabin where Lincoln was born, as well as a museum that houses artifacts and exhibits related to his life.

Food Scene

Burgoo

Burgoo is a traditional stew that is popular in Eastern Kentucky. The dish typically includes a combination of meats and vegetables and is often served with cornbread or crackers.

Hot Brown

The Hot Brown is a classic sandwich that was first created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky. The sandwich features turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce and is often served open-faced.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museums

Many museums in Eastern Kentucky offer free admission. This includes the Kentucky Historical Society Museum, the Mary Todd Lincoln House, and the Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate.

State Parks

State parks are a great budget-friendly option for outdoor activities. Many offer hiking trails, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking

Eastern Kentucky is home to many great hiking trails. The Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail, and the John Muir Trail are all popular options.

River Rafting

Whitewater rafting is a popular activity in Eastern Kentucky. The Russell Fork River and the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area are both great options for rafting.

Family-Friendly Activities

Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park is a family-friendly destination that offers horse shows, museums, and horseback riding lessons.

Newport Aquarium

The Newport Aquarium is a great destination for families. The aquarium features a variety of exhibits, including a shark tank and a jellyfish gallery.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Berea College Crafts

Berea College is a unique destination that offers a variety of crafts, including pottery, weaving, and woodworking. Visitors can take a tour of the campus and see the craftsmen at work.

Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum

The Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum is a great off-the-beaten-path destination. Visitors can take a train ride through the beautiful countryside and learn about the history of the railroad.

Natural Wonders

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Cumberland Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Daniel Boone National Forest. The area is known for its stunning views and is a popular destination for hiking and camping.

Breaks Interstate Park

Breaks Interstate Park is a beautiful park that straddles the border between Kentucky and Virginia. The park features stunning views of the surrounding mountains and offers hiking trails, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Vibrant Nightlife

Lexington Distillery District

The Lexington Distillery District is a popular destination for nightlife. The area features several bars and restaurants, as well as a variety of distilleries that offer tours and tastings.

Bourbon Street on Main

Bourbon Street on Main is a popular bar and restaurant located in downtown Lexington. The bar features a variety of bourbon cocktails and live music.

Local Markets

Pikeville Farmers Market

The Pikeville Farmers Market is a great destination for fresh produce and handmade crafts. The market is open on Saturdays from May through October.

Lexington Farmers Market

The Lexington Farmers Market is a popular destination for fresh produce and artisanal goods. The market is open year-round on Saturdays and Sundays.

Beaches and Mountains

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a beautiful destination that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park features hiking trails, camping, and fishing opportunities.

Laurel River Lake

Laurel River Lake is a beautiful lake located in the Daniel Boone National Forest. The lake is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing.

Cultural Immersion

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a great way to immerse yourself in the state’s rich bourbon history. The trail features several distilleries that offer tours and tastings.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a historic destination that offers a glimpse into the lives of the Shakers, a religious community that lived in Eastern Kentucky in the 19th century. The village features several historic buildings and offers guided tours.

Art and Music Scene

Renfro Valley

Renfro Valley is a popular destination for country music lovers. The area features several music venues that host concerts throughout the year.

The Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea

The Kentucky Artisan Center at Berea is a great destination for art lovers. The center features a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, woodworking, and jewelry.

Walking Tours

Lexington Cemetery

The Lexington Cemetery is a beautiful destination that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The cemetery features several historic gravesites, including those of Henry Clay and Mary Todd Lincoln.

Old Louisville

Old Louisville is a historic neighborhood that features stunning architecture and beautiful parks. The area is a great destination for a leisurely walking tour.

Architectural Marvels

My Old Kentucky Home

My Old Kentucky Home is a historic mansion located in Bardstown, Kentucky. The mansion features beautiful architecture and is a popular destination for tours.

The Mary Todd Lincoln House

The Mary Todd Lincoln House is a historic home located in Lexington, Kentucky. The home features beautiful architecture and is a popular destination for tours.

Historical Sites

The Battle of Perryville

The Battle of Perryville was a significant Civil War battle that took place in Perryville, Kentucky. The battlefield is now a historic site that offers tours and reenactments.

The Jenny Wiley State Resort Park

The Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is a historic destination that offers a glimpse into the life of the early settlers of Eastern Kentucky. The park features several historic buildings and offers guided tours.

Biking Routes

The Legacy Trail

The Legacy Trail is a popular biking route that runs from Lexington to the Kentucky Horse Park. The trail features beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

The Dawkins Line Rail Trail

The Dawkins Line Rail Trail is a beautiful biking route that runs through the Daniel Boone National Forest. The trail features stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Wellness Retreats

The Bourbon Trail Yoga Retreat

The Bourbon Trail Yoga Retreat is a unique destination that offers yoga classes, bourbon tastings, and luxury accommodations.