Lexington, Kentucky, affectionately known as the Horse Capital of the World, is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture all its own. However, its prime location in the heart of the Bluegrass State makes it an ideal springboard for exploring the diverse attractions that Kentucky has to offer. The beauty of these potential adventures lies in their accessibility; most of the best day trips from Lexington, Kentucky are within a comfortable two-hour drive, meaning less time spent traveling and more time soaking in the experiences. If you’re looking to escape the city for a day and delve deeper into the state’s historical sites, cultural hubs, and stunning natural landscapes, read on for some of the best day trip options.
Josephine Sculpture Park: Where Art Meets Nature
For a unique and visually stimulating experience, venture to the Josephine Sculpture Park in Frankfort. This outdoor art space sprawls across 30 acres of rolling, grassy fields and showcases approximately 70 captivating creations from artists around the globe. The sculptures are diverse and thought-provoking, offering something for everyone.
Some of the large-scale pieces are interactive, inviting visitors to engage with the art through play and exploration. Others are more contemplative, prompting reflection and discussion. You might even encounter pieces that are, shall we say, delightfully bizarre, adding an element of surprise and whimsy to your visit. The park is a testament to the power of art to transform a landscape and engage the imagination.
Getting There: Josephine Sculpture Park is conveniently located south of Frankfort, roughly a 40-minute drive east of Lexington, Kentucky. For a more scenic route, opt for US-421 (Leestown Road) instead of the interstate. The winding road offers picturesque views of the Kentucky countryside.
Travel Tip: Keep in mind that the fields at Josephine Sculpture Park offer limited shade. Plan your visit accordingly, especially during the warmer months, and remember to wear a hat and sunscreen. Admission to the park is free, but visitors are encouraged to leave a donation as a gesture of appreciation for the park’s upkeep and continued operation.
Natural Bridge State Park: A Hiker’s Paradise
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Kentucky at Natural Bridge State Park. The park’s namesake, a magnificent sandstone arch, is the main draw, stretching 78 feet in length and soaring 65 feet in height. But Natural Bridge is more than just a single rock formation; it’s a sprawling 2,300-acre nature preserve brimming with other smaller arches, breathtaking overlooks, and diverse flora and fauna.
Ten well-maintained trails, ranging in length up to 7.5 miles, weave through the most accessible sections of the park, offering hiking opportunities for all skill levels. As you explore, you’ll be surrounded by the lush greenery of the Daniel Boone National Forest, adding to the sense of tranquility and escape. For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the Skylift offers a scenic ride to the top of the bridge. Adventurous visitors can even try the via ferrata, the first commercial one in the United States.
Getting There: Natural Bridge State Park is located approximately an hour east of Lexington, Kentucky. Take Interstate 64 to the Mountain Parkway, and then follow the signs leading to the park.
Travel Tip: If you’re an experienced hiker looking for a challenge, or if you want to bring your furry friend along for the adventure, consider venturing into the nearby Red River Gorge. This area offers more rugged trails, opportunities for rock climbing, and a more remote wilderness experience.
Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site: A Window into the Civil War
Step back in time and delve into Kentucky’s Civil War history at the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. This well-preserved battlefield marks the location of Kentucky’s largest Civil War battle, fought on October 8, 1862. As you walk the grounds, you’ll gain a powerful sense of the events that unfolded here and their significance in shaping the nation.
The landscape of Perryville Battlefield remains remarkably similar to how it appeared on that fateful day, allowing visitors to connect with the past in a tangible way. Follow the walking and driving trails, which are marked with 40 interpretive signs that detail key events and locations of the battle. A small but informative museum on site houses relics and artifacts from the battle, providing further insight into the lives of the soldiers who fought here.
Getting There: Perryville Battlefield is located a little over an hour’s drive southwest of Lexington, Kentucky. Take the scenic Highway US-68 (Harrodsburg Road) for a pleasant drive through the countryside.
Travel Tip: Make the most of your day trip by incorporating visits to other nearby historical sites along US-68. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill and Old Fort Harrod State Park are both located along the route and offer fascinating glimpses into Kentucky’s rich past.
Bernheim Forest: Giants in the Woods
Escape the urban landscape and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. With over 40 miles of trails winding through a diverse arboretum setting, Bernheim offers a serene retreat for nature lovers of all ages. While there are hiking options closer to Lexington, Bernheim is particularly noteworthy for its unique attraction: the Forest Giants.
These whimsical, larger-than-life sculptures, created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, are crafted from recycled wood and are scattered throughout the forest. Each giant has its own name and backstory, adding a touch of fantasy and intrigue to your hike. A two-mile loop trail allows visitors to easily view all three giants and immerse themselves in their enchanting world.
Getting There: Bernheim Forest is located about 1.5 hours southwest of Lexington, Kentucky, making it a manageable day trip. It’s also only 30 minutes south of Louisville, so you can easily combine a visit to Bernheim with a trip to the city.
Travel Tip: Note that while Bernheim Forest is open until 7 p.m., the visitor center closes earlier, at 3 p.m. Plan your visit accordingly if you wish to access visitor center amenities.
Cumberland Falls State Park: Witness the "Niagara of the South"
Prepare to be awestruck by the sheer power and beauty of Cumberland Falls, often referred to as the "Niagara of the South." This majestic waterfall, cascading 68 feet into a rocky gorge, is the second largest waterfall east of the Rockies. The park offers numerous vantage points for viewing the falls from different angles, each offering a unique perspective on this natural wonder.
Seventeen miles of well-maintained hiking trails wind through the surrounding area, allowing visitors to explore the Daniel Boone National Forest and discover hidden waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and diverse plant and animal life.
Getting There: Cumberland Falls State Park is located near Corbin, Kentucky, which is a little less than two hours south of Lexington, Kentucky. The drive is scenic and well worth the effort.
Travel Tip: If possible, time your visit to coincide with a full moon for a chance to witness a rare and magical phenomenon: a moonbow. Cumberland Falls is one of only three places in the Western Hemisphere where moonbows consistently occur, creating an unforgettable experience.
Newport on the Levee: Urban Entertainment with a View
For a change of pace, head north to Newport on the Levee, a vibrant entertainment district located just across the Ohio River from downtown Cincinnati. This bustling destination offers a diverse array of activities and attractions, from dining and shopping to live entertainment and cultural experiences.
Enjoy stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline, explore a wide variety of restaurants and shops, and catch a movie at the cinema or play games at GameWorks. The Newport Aquarium is another must-see attraction, offering an up-close look at fascinating marine life from around the world.
Getting There: Newport on the Levee is an easy hour and 40-minute drive north of Lexington, Kentucky on Interstate 75.
Travel Tip: Take a stroll across the Purple People Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that spans the Ohio River and connects Newport, Kentucky, to Cincinnati, Ohio. This iconic bridge offers panoramic views of the cityscape and is a popular spot for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Bardstown, Kentucky: Bourbon and Bluegrass Heritage
Known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," Bardstown offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and, of course, bourbon. With 11 distilleries located in close proximity, Bardstown is a paradise for bourbon enthusiasts. Take a tour of one or more of these distilleries to learn about the history and production of this iconic Kentucky spirit, and sample some of the finest bourbons in the world.
Beyond bourbon, Bardstown is also home to My Old Kentucky Home State Park, a beautiful 1812 plantation mansion that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song, "My Old Kentucky Home." Explore the mansion and grounds to learn about the history of the plantation and its connection to Kentucky’s cultural heritage.
Getting There: Bardstown is a little over an hour’s drive southwest of Lexington, Kentucky via the Bluegrass Parkway.
Travel Tip: For a taste of local history and hospitality, visit the Talbott Tavern, a historic inn that dates back to 1779. This charming tavern is considered the oldest western stagecoach stop in America and has hosted notable figures such as Abraham Lincoln and Jesse James.
Fort Boonesborough State Park: Relive Pioneer Life
Step back in time and experience the challenges and triumphs of pioneer life at Fort Boonesborough State Park. This living history museum recreates the fort founded by Daniel Boone and his party in 1775, offering visitors a hands-on glimpse into the daily lives of early settlers.
Interact with costumed interpreters who demonstrate traditional crafts and skills, such as blacksmithing, weaving, and cooking. Explore the replica fort, complete with cabins, workshops, and defensive structures, and learn about the fort’s role in protecting early settlers from British forces and Native American attacks.
Getting There: Fort Boonesborough State Park is located on the Kentucky River, about 45 minutes southwest of Lexington, Kentucky.
Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Kentucky River Museum, housed in a separate building within the park. This hidden gem showcases the history of the Kentucky River and its importance to the region’s economy and transportation.
Berea, Kentucky: Arts, Crafts, and Hiking
Berea, a charming college town nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, is known as the "Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky." This vibrant community is home to a thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries, craft shops, and artisan studios showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople.
Visit the Kentucky Artisan Center, Artisan Village, and College Square to browse a wide variety of handcrafted goods, including pottery, wood carvings, textiles, and jewelry. You can even attend workshops and demonstrations to learn about the traditional techniques used by local artisans. For outdoor enthusiasts, Berea is also home to the Pinnacles, a popular hiking destination with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Getting There: Berea is located 45 minutes south of Lexington, Kentucky on Interstate 75, making it an easy and convenient day trip.
Travel Tip: The trails at the Pinnacles can get crowded on weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday or exploring some of the less-traveled trails beyond the East and West Pinnacles. The steep climb to Eagle’s Nest and Buzzard’s Roost offers even more spectacular views.
From art and history to nature and entertainment, these day trips from Lexington, Kentucky offer a diverse range of experiences to suit every interest. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems that await just beyond the city limits.
