Many times people have asked me, “What’s your number?” In order to answer correctly, I have to ask another question, “Which number? How many countries, continents, or states have I been to?” As of this post, my numbers are 28 countries visited or lived in, 6 continents (all minus Antartica), and 41 states visited or lived in. One of the states that I haven’t visited, but look forward to exploring is Kentucky. That’s why I asked a peer travel writer, Shae Docken, to share his knowledge of the Bluegrass State.
Enjoy Shae’s travel tips on how to have a killer time in Kentucky!
Kentucky is well known for several things, not least of all Kentucky Fried Chicken. It is the home of several vibrant cities, a landscape that is amazing and the worlds largest cave system. Here are just a few of the places you should visit next time you are in Kentucky.
Fort Knox
The reputation of Fort Knox is known worldwide. It is the site of the United States Bullion Depository as well as the Army Human Resources Command, Cadet Command, and Accessions Command.
Its museum is home to historical artifacts that will take the visitor on a journey to learn about all the branches of the American Military and has a display of weapons designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
Louisville Mega Cavern
This is 17 miles of man-made caverns and tunnels beneath the city of Louisville. It is a memorable underground adventure that brings science alive and is sure to be the highlight of any trip to Kentucky.
There are several ways to tour the caverns, including zip wires and a tram. You may just be tired out after this adventure, which is just fine because there’s many a great hotel near Louisville airport that will give you a good night’s sleep and some fine southern hospitality. Be sure to take advantage of them.
While you are in Louisville, you could also pay a visit to the Slugger Museum and Factory. This is a range of interactive exhibits that trace the history of Slugger baseball bats and the part they have played in the history of the game.
Kentucky Derby
The Kentucky Derby is a race involving thoroughbred horses and there is a museum dedicated to its history. On race day the spectacle is amazing, and anyone in the area at the time should try to attend. Visitors are able to see how the foals are trained, hopefully, to be future winners, as well as seeing exhibits on trainers and jockeys.
Mammoth Cave Adventures
Have fun in the great outdoors of Kentucky at Mammoth Cave Adventures. There are zip lines, a Tarzan swing and a tower drop, all in the safest of environments. If none of those things tempt you, they also offer horse riding along scenic trails.
Muhammad Ali Centre
Be sure to travel to this museum and cultural center which is dedicated to the memory of Muhammad Ali, teaching about the boxing legend that he was, his life and his values. The displays not only show his achievements in the boxing ring but also chart the way he helped other around the world. He was an inspiration to many people across the globe and this six-story building is a fitting tribute to his memory.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
This park is located within the Daniel Boone National Forest and offers visitors stunning views of the river, camping grounds, a lodge and a restaurant. You can explore the 1657 acres on foot, on bikes or on horseback and see some of the most beautiful natural features such as Cumberland Falls and Eagle Falls.
Throughout the year, the park hosts many events and it depends when you visit as to which you may be able to take part in or watch.
Overall, Kentucky is famous for so many different things, and you will not get to see them all in just one visit, but you’ll sure have fun trying!
**Post contributed by travel writer and bourbon enthusiast, Shae Docken, who is based in the US, but originally from the U.K.**
