Top 10 Attractions in Kentucky

From outdoor activities and underground caves to fascinating museums, here are the Top 10 Kentucky attractions.

1. Mammoth Cave National Park
   Mammoth Cave, KY   42259
   270-758-2180
   

   If you could only see one sight in the entire state of Kentucky, many would recommend that you check out Mammoth Cave National Park, which has been deemed by the government as a World Heritage Site and also an International Biosphere Preserve. Mammoth Cave happens to be, by far and large, the biggest cave in the entire world, containing over 360 miles of explored and mapped passageways.

2. Mountain Life Museum
   998 Levi Jackson Mill Road
   London, KY   40741
   606-878-8000
   

   The Mountain Life Museum exists as a tribute to life in the 1800's in Laurel County and the rest of southeastern Kentucky. The museum is spread out, contained within many individual replicas including those of a manor house, loom house, smokehouse, barn, and shop. Experience life in the 19th century as you can only at the Mountain Life Museum.

3. Fort Boonesborough State Park
   4375 Boonesborough Road
   Richmond, KY   40475
   859-527-3131
   

   Experience one of the richest state parks east of the Mississippi at Fort Boonesborough State Park, a popular natural venue for any aspiring naturalist. Established as a sanctuary to nature in the early year of 1775 by famed explorer Daniel Boone, the settlement has been a natural staple of Kentucky life for as long as we can remember.

4. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site
   2995 Lincoln Farm Road
   Hodgenville, KY   42748
   270-358-3137
   

   Experience the glorious birthplace of America's 16th president, the famed and legendary Abraham Lincoln. The imposing stone columned structure you'll encounter as you step up to the plate of this natal feat will wow you with their architectural and historical significance. Witness the 16x18-foot log cabin with dirt floor where this immortal figure first made his way into the world.

5. Mary Todd Lincoln House
   578 W. Main Street
   Lexington, KY  
   859-233-9999
   

   People seem to forget that this house exists in the city of Lexington, but we know you'll remember from reading this to visit. Your trip will be worth it, of course, because this Georgian-style brick house was the home of one of the nation's most eloquent First Ladies. In 1977, a sweeping restoration was executed to restore this historic homestead to reflect the Todd family's residency.

6. Keeneland
   4201 Versailles Road
   Lexington, KY   40588
   800-456-3412
   

   (800) 456-3412 Experience one of the most beautiful racing tracks in the world at Keeneland, one of Kentucky's most prized racing destinations. You'll be able to witness live thoroughbred racing, which takes places in the months of April through October - perfect for the chance spring- or summertime visit to this gorgeous state.

7. White Hall State Historic Site
   500 White Hall Shrine Road
   Richmond, KY   40475
   859-623-9178
   

   Kentucky has done a pretty good job at preserving the stunning architectural history of this area, which is focused on commemorating one of the state's most colorful and historically rich figures of old, Cassius Marcellus Clay. Clay, who served as US Minister to Russia, was a fervent abolitionist and a dear friend of legendary presidential figure Abraham Lincoln.

8. The Locust Grove House
   561 Blankenbaker Lane
   Louisville, KY  
   502-897-9845
   

   Constructed around 1790, the Locust Grove House served as the former residence of Revolutionary War hero George Roger Clark, of Northwest Territory capture fame. Clark founded the city of Louisville, Kentucky, and his legacy lives in both the township itself and at this fantastically preserved reminder of history.

9. The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts
   501 W. Main Street
   Louisville, KY  
   502-562-0100
   

   The Kentucky Center for the Arts was dedicated in 1983, and was the main outcome of a major public/private partnership whose stated goal was to bring the arena of performing arts to the city of Louisville, Kentucky. See the wonderful resident companies which grace the stage of the center and include the Kentucky Opera, Stage One, the Louisville Opera, and PNC Broadway in Louisville.

10. Churchill Downs
    700 Central Avenue
    Louisville, KY   40208
    502-636-4400
    

    While in Kentucky, you'll want to experience Churchill Downs, the state's number one horseracing track. Horseracing is a time-honored tradition in the state of Kentucky, and you'll witness an abundance of both excitement and pageantry at Churchill downs, which has been affectionately deemed the official home to the Kentucky Derby. Find everything you'd expect from world-class thoroughbred racing at Churchill Downs, which is perfect for a fun-filled day spent with the family by your side.

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