fun weekend trips near louisville ky

• Last Updated On
• September 5, 2023

25 Best Weekend Getaways From Louisville — Quick Trips!

I’ve trodden the paths of Kentucky, calling it home and letting its rhythms guide my wanderlust. 

Louisville? 

That’s the magnetic heart of our great state. 

With its towering skyscrapers, stories hidden within museum walls, and parks where memories linger, it’s a traveler’s dream. 

But as a local, let me let you in on a secret: the magic doesn’t end at the city’s edge. 

With the Ohio River whispering tales and Indiana beckoning just a stone’s throw away, opportunities for exploration are rife. 

Think you’ve uncovered all of Louisville’s secrets? 

Trust me, you’ve only just begun. 

Venture further with the best weekend getaways from Louisville.

I promise you, these are places I’ve touched, felt, and relished. 

Best Weekend Getaways From Louisville Compared

Want to level-up your family moments? 

Look into our top picks for the best weekend getaways from Louisville.

Editor’s Choice

Belle Air Mansion and Inn

This restored 19th-century plantation home near the city center now serves as an inn.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Location: 3/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#2nd Best Choice

Germantown Inn

This luxury boutique hotel is in the heart of historic Germantown.

• Room Variety: 3/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 4/5

#3rd Best Choice

Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn

Built in 1899, this inn has retained its historic character with its corner turret and diamond-paned windows.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

Here are top 25 weekend getaways from Louisville.

1. Belle Air Mansion and Inn (Editor’s Choice)

2250 Lebanon Pike Nashville, TN 37214 (615) 880-6889 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Historic charm: Staying at this property can provide a unique and memorable experience for guests who appreciate historic settings.
• Personalized service: The attentive and friendly staff members strive to ensure that guests have a pleasant and memorable experience.
• Limited room variety: This can limit the choices for guests who prefer specific room configurations or amenities.
• Noise level: Depending on the specific location of the inn and the activities happening nearby, there may be occasional noise disruptions.

It features 13-foot high ceilings and antebellum architecture.

By car, Belle Air Mansion and Inn is 2 hours and 40 minutes away from Louisville.

Want to escape from the big city life?

Belle Air Mansion and Inn is the place to be.

Read your favorite book on a rocking chair on the porch.

You’ll get sweeping views of lush greenery.

If you prefer to stay inside, just sit by your room’s fireplace.

You’ll feel like you traveled back in time with the old paintings and Victorian-like carpeting.

2. Germantown Inn

1218 6th Avenue Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 581-1218 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Convenient location: It provides easy access to popular attractions, dining options, and other points of interest in the city.
• Friendly staff: The staff is often commended for their attentive service and willingness to assist guests with their needs.
• Parking: If you plan on driving, it’s advisable to inquire about parking availability and any potential alternatives nearby.
• Higher price range: Germantown Inn might be on the higher end of the price range compared to other accommodations in the area.

The 1865 Federal-style home features 10 suites and artwork by acclaimed artist Caitlin Mello.

You can reach Germantown Inn in 2 hours and 40 minutes from Louisville.

Enjoy a relaxing stay in this inn, with its luxury linen beds and Turkish towels.

The beautiful painting and elegant curtains enhance the relaxing vibe.

After your rest, you can explore Germantown, too.

Several tourist spots are nearby, like the Frist Art Museum and the Nashville Farmers Market.

3. Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn

288 Montford Avenue Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 254-3878 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Charming and intimate setting: Guests can enjoy a cozy and homely atmosphere during their stay.
• Delicious breakfast: Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn is known for serving delicious homemade breakfast options, which can be a delightful way to start the day.
• Room variety: Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn may have limited room options available. 
• Shared spaces: While these spaces are typically well-maintained, some guests may prefer more privacy.

It features eight guest rooms with modern amenities like WiFi and air conditioning.

The travel time from Louisville to Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn is 5 hours and 35 minutes by car.

Take your significant other on this perfect weekend trip.

Engage in meaningful conversations by your room’s fireplace.

If you prefer the outdoors, you can always walk to popular tourist spots.

Check out the beautiful Botanical Gardens, with their roses and wildflowers.

The Taughannock Falls State Park is nearby, too.

4. Bardstown

Bardstown, KY (502) 348-4877 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This city encompasses 7,800 acres of land in Nelson County.

It’s famous for its Bourbon, parks, and historical sites.

The travel time from Louisville to Bardstown is just 45 minutes.

Don’t look any further for cheap vacations from Louisville.

Bardstown is the perfect destination.

You’ll love the city’s small-town vibe, with its quaint structures dating back to the 1700s.

Check out the Federal Hill mansion and the Old Bardstown Village.

Don’t forget to sample some bourbon in any of the town’s distilleries.

Recommended Hotel: SureStay Hotel by Best Western Bardstown General Nelson

5. Brown County State Park

1801 IN-46 Nashville, IN 47448 (812) 988-6406 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

This park stretches across 15,776 acres of rugged hills and ravines in southern Indiana.

It’s home to a saddle barn and hiking and biking trails.

You can reach Brown County State Park in 1 hour and 22 minutes if you use a car from Louisville.

There are many short trips from Louisville worth making if you’re a nature lover.

This one is one of them.

Brown County State Park, after all, is nature at its best.

Explore 70 miles of horse trails for spectacular views of uninterrupted forestland.

Want a more strenuous activity?

How does kayaking on Strahl Lake sound?

Recommended Hotel: Salt Creek Golf Retreat

Related: Hotels in Louisville

6. Petersburg

Petersburg, KY (859) 334-2100 Open in Google Maps

This town on the Ohio River encompasses 4,486 acres in Boone County.

It’s home to a 75,000-square-foot museum, an abandoned ship, and zip lines.

Petersburg is 108 miles away from Louisville.

Expect to get to the town in 1 hour and 47 minutes by car.

This is one of the best places to go for a weekend trip near you.

You won’t run out of things to do in this charming town.

Explore the Creation Museum with its insect collection.

The USS Sachem ruins are a must-visit, too.

Abandoned off Lawrenceburg Ferry Road in 1987, the ship served during World Wars I and II.

Looking for your adrenaline rush?

Soar over a lake through a zipline touted the best in the Midwest.

Recommended Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton Lawrenceburg

Corydon, IN (888) 738-2137 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This town north of the Ohio River was the capital of the Indian territory from 1813 to 1816.

It features a historic downtown and parks.

The travel time from Louisville to Corydon is just 30 minutes.

Enjoy one of the most unforgettable getaways in Louisville or nearby.

Corydon, in particular, is one of the best places near Louisville for vacation for many reasons.

You can explore historical sites, such as the Old Capitol and Kintner-McGrain House, downtown.

Hike any of the nine trails in O’Bannon Woods State Park for spectacular nature views.

If the kids tag along, take them to Hayswood Nature Reserve’s playground.

After the weekend, they’ll conclude this is one cool overnight trip that deserves a repeat.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Corydon

8. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

91 Bartlett Park Road Middlesboro, KY 40965 (606) 248-2817 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This historical park spans 20,505 acres along Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia borders.

It is home to the Cumberland Gap, a visitor center, and a Civil War crater.

If you’re driving from Louisville, you can reach the park in 3 hours and 22 minutes.

This park is the perfect destination for the history buff.

Follow the path of a pioneer through the Cumberland Gap.

It’s a pass that cuts across the Cumberland Mountains.

You can learn more about the Gap in the visitor center.

Don’t forget to check out the Hensley Settlement constructed back in 1903.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Middlesboro, an IHG Hotel

9. Frankfort

Frankfort, KY (800) 960-7200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This city on the banks of the Kentucky River is the seat of Franklin County.

It’s home to historical structures like the Old Governor’s Mansion and parks.

It’s a 1-hour drive from Louisville to Frankfort by car.

Who says you need to have long weekend trips from Louisville to enjoy your vacation?

Frankfort is the place to be, especially if you love history.

Swing by the Old Governor’s Mansion touted as the oldest executive residence still in use.

Check out the Old State Capitol, too.

It was the seat of the government of Kentucky from 1831 to 1910.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Frankfort

Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Kentucky

10. Cave City

Cave City, KY 42127 (270) 773-8833 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This small city stretches for 2,834 acres in Barren County.

It features Dinosaur World and a vast cave system.

You can reach Cave City in 1 hour and 20 minutes if you use a car.

This is unlike many of your Louisville weekend getaways.

After all, you won’t see beautiful beaches or breathtaking skyscrapers in this city.

What you will see is a vast cave system.

So you can explore stunning underground rivers and passages.

You can also take pictures of life-sized dinosaur models in an outdoor setting.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Cave City

11. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

2995 Lincoln Farm Road Hodgenville, KY 42748 (270) 358-3137 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This historical park preserves the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln and his childhood residence.

It stretches for 344 acres in LaRue County.

The travel time from Louisville to this historical park is 1 hour.

If you’re looking for the perfect getaway, Louisville and its vicinity have a lot to offer.

This park, for instance, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Swing by the 16th US President’s birth site.

It includes 116 acres of his family’s Sinking Spring Farm you can explore.

Then take a stroll along the 30 acres of the Knob Creek Farm nearby.

It’s where he lived until he was 7 years old.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Elizabethtown

12. Lexington

Lexington, KY (859) 233-7299 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Stretching for 182,745 acres, Lexington is one of the country’s largest cities.

It’s a popular tourist destination for its horse farms and thoroughbred racetracks.

You’ll get to Lexington in 1 hour and 17 minutes if you use a vehicle from Louisville.

Experience one of the best Louisville area weekend getaways in Lexington.

Visit the Kentucky Horse Park with the kids.

They’ll love interacting with the horses on the working farm.

Prefer to experience history?

The Mary Todd Lincoln House is a must-visit.

Located downtown, it was a tavern and inn after its construction from 1803 to 1806.

If you want something different, just watch a horse race in Keeneland.

Marvel at the beauty of the racetrack, founded in 1936, too.

Recommended Hotel: 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

13. Cincinnati

Cincinnati, OH (513) 621-2142 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This city sits on the Ohio River.

It’s a famous tourist spot for its 19th-century architecture, museums, and a bustling downtown.

You can get to Cincinnati from Louisville in 1 hour and 38 minutes.

Enjoy a holistic adventure in Cincinnati, just like the one you get in many of your Louisville vacations.

Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum for your artistic experience.

You won’t get enough of the beautiful art spanning over 6,000 years on display.

For your dose of history, check out the Cincinnati Music Hall, completed in 1878.

Want a feel of the big city?

Go downtown and marvel at the city’s skyscrapers that cut through the Ohio sky.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Cincinnati

14. Cumberland Falls

7351 Highway 90 Corbin, KY 40701 (606) 528-4121 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The 68-foot waterfall is in the 1,657-acre Cumberland Falls State Park.

The waterbody is part of the Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves’ Wild River System.

The falls are 178 miles away from Louisville.

Expect to reach them in 2 hours and 48 minutes.

Here’s one of the best romantic getaways from Louisville you should consider.

The nature landscape is the perfect backdrop to your bonding as a couple.

Marvel at the beautiful waterfalls as they drop into a gorge.

If you walk a bit farther, you’ll find Eagle Falls, a smaller version of the water body.

After your adventure, take your rest in the historical Dupont Lodge.

It provides stunning views of the Cumberland Valley.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Corbin, an IHG Hotel

15. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari

452 East Christmas Boulevard Santa Claus, IN 47579 (812) 937-4401 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This theme and water park encompasses 121 acres of land in Santa Claus.

It features 5 roller coasters, a safari-themed water park, and live entertainment.

From Louisville, you can reach Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari in 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Enjoy the perfect family bonding in this place.

Ride The Raven together.

You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as you drop 85 feet at 50 miles per hour.

Make sure you try Mammoth, too.

It has been touted as the world’s longest roller coaster at 1,763 feet.

You can enjoy the lazy river afterward for a more relaxing experience.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Suites

16. Nashville

Nashville, TN (615) 743-3000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This capital of Tennessee is the most populous city in the state.

It’s home to the Grand Ole Opry House and the Country Music Hall of Fame.

You can get to Nashville in 2 hours and 42 minutes if you travel by car.

Are you a music lover?

Make sure you drop by Nashville.

The city is home to a vibrant country scene.

So everywhere you go, you’ll find rural country sights.

Watch a country music stage concert in the Grand Ole Opry House.

Don’t forget to check out the Johnny Cash Museum.

It celebrates the life of the acclaimed country singer.

Enjoy your meal in any of the downtown honky-tonks that play live country music.

Recommended Hotel: Placemakr Premier SoBro

Related: Fun Day Trips From Nashville

17. French Lick

French Lick, IN (812) 936-3418 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This town in Orange County was a French trading post built near a spring and salt lick.

It’s now home to historical structures and the childhood home of NBA hall of famer Larry Bird.

If you’re traveling from Louisville, you can get to French Lick in 1 hour and 13 minutes.

This is one of the last minute weekend getaways from Louisville you can’t miss.

There are many things to do in this charming town.

Visit the childhood home of Larry Bird on the corner of South Jefferson and Washington.

For more history, check out French Lick Springs Resort, built in the mid-1800s.

The Marengo Cave is a must-see, too.

It’s home to gorgeous geological formations, such as stalactites and stalagmites.

You can then enjoy a meal at 33 Brick Street, which houses Larry Bird’s memorabilia.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus French Lick

18. The Welsh Hills Inn

2133 Cambria Mill Road Granville, OH 43023 (740) 321-1493 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This inn is on a hilltop in the beautiful Welsh Hills countryside.

It’s home to English gardens, spa services, and large guest rooms with en suite baths.

You can get to The Welsh Hills Inn from Louisville in 3 hours and 48 minutes.

Have the ultimate relaxation in this beautiful inn.

Explore the place’s gorgeous gardens under the blue Ohio skies.

You can read your book on the large veranda after your walk.

It gives just-as-spectacular views of the nature landscape.

Done reading?

Have a 60-minute Swedish massage for a full recharge.

19. Red River Gorge

Robbie Ridge Road Stanton, KY 40380 (606) 663-8100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This natural area stretches for 29,000 acres on the Red River.

It’s home to towering cliffs and sandstone arches.

It’s just a 2-hour drive from Louisville to Red River Gorge.

Here’s one of the cheap vacations from Louisville you can’t miss.

You won’t have to spend much money to enjoy nature at its finest.

Up for an adrenaline-pumping adventure?

Climb up any of the towering cliffs.

Hike the Gray Arch trail for stunning views of green spaces.

You can even go kayaking through a spectacular cave.

Recommended Hotel: Natural Bridge State Resort Park

20. Spring Mill State Park

3333 State Road 60 E Mitchell, IN 47446 (812) 849-3534 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

This state park stretches for 1,358 acres in the south of Bloomington.

It’s home to a nature center, a historical village, and caves.

If you’re coming from Louisville, it will take 1 hour and 8 minutes to get to Spring Mill State Park.

Looking for inexpensive weekend getaways near Louisville?

Check out Spring Mill State Park.

You can take advantage of the park’s endless recreational opportunities without breaking the bank.

Go on a tour of Bronson or Twin caves.

Marvel at the educational exhibits in the Nature Center.

End your vacation with a visit to Pioneer Village, established in 1814.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Bedford IN, IN

21. Boonesborough

Boonesborough, KY (859) 624-4700 Open in Google Maps

This community, founded in 1778, lies along the Kentucky River.

It’s home to the Kentucky River Museum, the White Hall State Historic Site, and parks.

If you’re coming from Louisville, you can get to Boonesborough in 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Although a small community, there are many activities to do in Boonesborough.

Visit the Kentucky River Museum.

It tells the story of the lock and dam system constructed on the Kentucky River between 1836 and 1917.

The White Hall State Historic Site is a must-see, too.

The mansion built in the 1700s is beautiful, with its Georgian and Italianate architecture.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Winchester Hotel

22. Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN (865) 453-8574 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This mountain resort city stretches for 8,844 acres in the country’s southeastern part.

It features Dollywood, Old Mill Square, and musical theaters.

If you’re driving from Louisville, it will take 4 hours and 30 minutes to get to Pigeon Forge.

There’s a bit of everything for everyone in the family in Pigeon Forge.

Take the young ones to Dollywood, a famous amusement park.

They’ll enjoy the Wild Eagle, with its 135-foot drop at 61 miles per hour.

Explore the park on board the Dollywood Express for a more relaxing experience afterward.

For adults, Old Mill Square is a must-visit.

It’s not just because it’s a beauty after its restoration to its 18th and 19th-century state.

It’s also because you can do your souvenir shopping here.

The shops housed in quaint colonial buildings have a lot to offer.

Recommended Hotel: Riverside Tower

23. St. Louis

St. Louis, MO (314) 421-1023 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This city along the Mississippi River is the second largest in Missouri.

It’s home to the iconic Gateway Arch and a farmers market.

It’s a 4-hour drive from Louisville to St. Louis .

There’s no shortage of things to do in this city.

Visit the 1960s Gateway Arch, which towers above 630 feet.

Check out the Old Courthouse, too, built in the 19th century.

You can swing by the Soulard Farmers Market afterward.

You might just find the perfect souvenir there.

Recommended Hotel: Angad Arts Hotel

Related: Fun Day Trips From St Louis

24. Bowling Green

Bowling Green, KY (800) 326-7465 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This city spans 26,016 acres of land in Warren County.

It is home to the Aviation Heritage Park and the Historic Railpark and Train Museum.

Bowling Green is 121.8 miles away from Louisville.

So expect to get to the city in 1 hour and 50 minutes by car.

If you’ve always been fascinated by modes of transport, Bowling Green is the place to be.

The Aviation Heritage Park is a must-see.

It features seven hand-picked aircraft, including the Phantom 550 and a Grumman Panther F9F.

Learn more about Kentucky’s transport history in the Historic Railpark and Train Museum.

You can even visit the General Motors headquarters here.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Place Bowling Green

25. Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN (865) 436-1400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

This town in eastern Tennessee is on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park border.

It features a tramway, a winery, and open green spaces.

You can reach Gatlinburg from Louisville if you use a car.

You’ll get to the mountain town in 4 hours and 45 minutes.

This may be one of the longest trips you’ll make from Louisville.

However, it’s worth it.

Explore a portion of the 522,419-acre Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

You can hike some of the park’s 850 miles of trails.

Climb up Mount LeConte for beautiful views of the nature landscape from 6,953 above.

Are you tired of hiking?

Board a tram that’s part of the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway to explore the Smoky Mountains instead.

Just be prepared.

The tramway reaches an elevation of 1,472 feet.

Its highest point is 2,813 feet above sea level.

Whatever you do, this is one of the best weekend getaways from Louisville.

Recommended Hotel: Greystone Lodge on the River

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing the charm of these three distinctive destinations in Louisville: the Belle Air Mansion and Inn, Germantown Inn, and Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn.

At the Belle Air Mansion and Inn, the grandeur of the past echoes in every corner. 

It’s an immersion into a time when elegance was not a luxury, but a lifestyle. 

The opulent rooms, high ceilings, and historic atmosphere offer an experience akin to stepping into a Jane Austen novel.

In contrast, the Germantown Inn tells a tale of an urban retreat, steeped in modernity and simplicity. 

The rooms are comfortably chic, offering a unique fusion of classic architecture with contemporary style. 

It’s the perfect getaway for those seeking comfort in the heart of a bustling city.

The Black Walnut Bed & Breakfast Inn, meanwhile, is a cozy hideaway that feels like a home away from home. 

Nestled amid nature, this Inn offers a tranquil escape, complemented by warm hospitality that makes you feel like family.

In choosing the right one for you, consider what you’re seeking: a grand voyage back in time? 

Choose Belle Air. 

A modern urban escape? 

Germantown is your go-to. 

Or perhaps a peaceful, homely retreat? 

Black Walnut will welcome you with open arms.

How I Picked The Destinations 

As a local and seasoned explorer, I’ve not only experienced these places but done my homework too. 

I’ve chatted with fellow locals and intrepid travelers, gathering insights and hidden gems. 

Handpicked with love, these destinations are not just locations, but unforgettable experiences. 

Trust me, you are in for a treat! 

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What cities are 6 hours from louisville.

Cities that are approximately 6 hours from Louisville include Chicago, Illinois, which offers a vibrant cityscape, iconic architecture, and a thriving arts and food scene. Another city is Atlanta, Georgia, known for its diverse culture, historical landmarks, and renowned attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

How Do I Plan A Weekend Trip?

Planning a weekend trip involves several key steps. First, decide on a destination based on your interests and preferences. Then, determine your budget, set travel dates, and book transportation and accommodation accordingly. Research activities, attractions, and dining options at your destination, and create an itinerary that allows for a balance of exploration and relaxation. Finally, pack essentials, make necessary reservations, and ensure you have all required documents before embarking on your weekend getaway.

Are There Any Scenic Destinations Near Louisville For A Weekend Trip?

Yes, there are several scenic getaways near Louisville. Red River Gorge in Kentucky is a stunning natural area with hiking trails and rock formations. The Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee offer breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Additionally, the Hocking Hills region in Ohio boasts beautiful forests, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities.

Can I Find Historical Sites To Visit Near Louisville For A Weekend Getaway?

Absolutely! History enthusiasts can explore nearby destinations such as Bardstown, Kentucky, known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World” and home to historic distilleries. Additionally, Lexington, Kentucky, offers a rich historical background with attractions like the Mary Todd Lincoln House and the Kentucky Horse Park.

Which Nearby Cities Are Known For Their Culinary Scenes?

Several nearby cities have vibrant culinary scenes worth exploring. Asheville, North Carolina, is renowned for its farm-to-table dining options and craft breweries. Louisville itself is recognized for its diverse food scene and renowned bourbon distilleries, offering a delightful culinary experience. Cincinnati, Ohio, is also gaining recognition for its innovative restaurants and local flavors.

Conclusion 

After exploring a range of options, I’ve discovered that the Belle Air Mansion and Inn stands out among the best weekend getaways from Louisville. 

This historic gem, brimming with elegance and personal touch, has graced my traveler’s heart with countless memorable moments. 

Its quaint allure resonates with families looking for a unique experience rooted in history and personalized service. 

From the vibrant energy of Louisville to the serene echo of the past at Belle Air, Kentucky offers a myriad of experiences. 

So pack your bags and prepare to make family memories that’ll last a lifetime in our beautiful state.

• Destinations

15 Best Weekend Getaways from Louisville, KY

Last Updated By VacationIdea on April 17, 2024 in Kentucky

Old Talbott Tavern

Old Talbott Tavern , 107 W Stephen Foster Ave, Bardstown, KY 40004, 502-348-3494

Burlington’s Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn

Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa , Girls weekend , Birthday , Family , Honeymoon Weekend , All-Inclusive

First Farm Inn

Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways , Arkansas , Idaho , Montana

Snug Hollow Farm

West Coast Vacations: Oregon , From Seattle , Washington

Monteagle Inn - 4 hours from Louisville

Where to travel next: New England Getaways , Wisconsin , Kentucky , Illinois , NJ , Richmond , From NJ

Springhill Winery Plantation Bed and Breakfast - 50 minutes from Louisville

California vacations: California Weekend Getaways , Southern California , Northern California , Lake Tahoe , From Los Angeles , From San Francisco , From San Diego

Pillow and Paddock Bed & Breakfast

The South USA Vacations: Mississippi , Georgia , Alabama , Florida , From New Orleans , Louisiana

Central Park Bed and Breakfast

Florida vacations: From Miami , Florida Weekend Getaways , Romantic Getaways , Florida Islands , Romantic Getaways in St. Augustine , Honeymoon

Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast

More ideas: From DC , Virginia , West Virginia , Maryland , Tennessee , Vermont , Delaware

Whitestone Inn

Whitestone Inn , 1200 Paint Rock Road, Kingston, TN 37763, 865-376-0113

Daisy Hill Bed and Breakfast

Daisy Hill Bed and Breakfast , 2816 Blair Boulevard, Nashville, TN 37212, 615-297-9795

Maple Hill Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn

Maple Hill Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn , 2941 Perryville Rd, Springfield, KY 40069, 859-336-3075

Iron Mountain Inn

Iron Mountain Inn , 268 Moreland Drive, Butler, TN 37640, 423-768-2446

The Hill House Bed & Breakfast

The Hill House Bed & Breakfast , 110 Holy Cross Rd, Loretto, KY 40037, 877-280-2300

Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast

Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast , 325 Kirchdorfer Road, Brandenburg, KY 40108, 270-422-7974

• 1. Old Talbott Tavern
• 2. Burlington’s Willis Graves Bed and Breakfast Inn
• 3. First Farm Inn
• 4. Snug Hollow Farm
• 5. Monteagle Inn - 4 hours from Louisville
• 6. Springhill Winery Plantation Bed and Breakfast - 50 minutes from Louisville
• 7. Pillow and Paddock Bed & Breakfast
• 8. Central Park Bed and Breakfast
• 9. Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast
• 10. Whitestone Inn
• 11. Daisy Hill Bed and Breakfast
• 12. Maple Hill Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn
• 13. Iron Mountain Inn
• 14. The Hill House Bed & Breakfast
• 15. Southern Grace Bed and Breakfast

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14 Fabulous Weekend Getaways In Kentucky

April 1, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Life getting you down? Need some well deserved R & R? Well look no further than these weekend getaways in Kentucky! The Bluegrass State is home to some of the most fabulous weekend getaways in the south. If you need to take a break from the doldrums of everyday life, consider taking one of the many weekend getaways in Kentucky.

Whether planning a romantic getaway for two or an action-packed family trip, Kentucky has something for everyone. From laid back hangouts to high class affairs, Kentucky has some of the most diverse offerings anywhere in the south. There is always a new adventure to be had, even for the most well-traveled Kentuckian out there.

While Kentucky may not draw the crowds of a Florida or a California, it deserves a spot as a premier tourist destination. You would be hard pressed to find any state with more charm than Kentucky.

14 Fabulous Weekend Getaways in Kentucky

Red rivers gorge.

Located in the Natural Bridge State Park within the expansive Daniel Boone National Forest, Red Rivers Gorge is one of the most beautiful sights anywhere in the south. Punctuated with some of the prettiest waterfalls in Kentucky , Red Rivers Gorge features some of the most thrilling outdoor adventures you can find anywhere in the south!

Boasting 200 foot sandstone cliffs, Red Rivers Gorge is one of the best places to climb in Kentucky. If rock climbing isn’t your thing, take a hike! Red Rivers Gorge features some of the most scenic trails in the south. Combined with the many aquatic adventures you could take here, there is far too much fun to fit in one day.

Lucky for you, there are many places to stay in and around Red Rivers Gorge. From primitive campsites to decadent cabins, The Red, as some people call it, has all kinds of accommodations! If you’re looking to connect with nature, this is one of the best weekend getaways in Kentucky for you!

Make sure to check out our list of the best resorts in Kentucky for more inspiration for your Kentucky vacation!

Bourbon Trail Road Trip

• Woodford Reserve Distillery
• Wild Turkey Distillery
• Lexington Brewing Distilling Company
• Maker’s Mark Distillery

There’s a reason bourbon comes from Kentucky! The limestone-filtered water just makes it taste better. Of all the Kentucky weekend getaways, the Bourbon Trail will explore Kentucky’s deep passion for creating America’s bourbon.

Begin in Louisville at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. Take the full tour of the distillery which ends, of course, in a free tasting. If you’re a baseball fan, don’t forget to stop off at the Louisville Slugger Museum afterward, to see where professional baseball bats are made!

Then head to Versailles to see the Woodford Reserve Distillery. After touring the still, the warehouse, and the bottling process, grab a bite to eat in the café. Hop across town to the Wild Turkey Distillery, which has been making bourbon since 1869.

Afterwards, head to Lexington and visit both the Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company and Barrel House Distillery. Lexington Brewing also brews a delicious beer while Barrel House creates moonshine, vodka, and rum.

Finally, end your bourbon conquest in Loretto at the Maker’s Mark Distillery. Arguably the most famous in the state, a tour will let you dip your own bottle in their iconic red wax. Don’t forget to check out our post about Visting The Kentucky Bourbon Trail as well as the Best Bourbon Distilleries in Kentucky!

Elk Creek Vineyards

Experience some of the best wine in the south at one of the most picturesque spots in Kentucky. The largest winery in the state, Elk Creek features more than 20 award winning wines.

With live entertainment every weekend and winery tours available by appointment, there’s never a shortage of things to do at Elk Creek. Feeling creative? Grab a brush and join in on a Paint and Wine class. Feeling hungry? Grab a bite at the Elk Creek Café.

If you were to fit everything Elk Creek has to offer in one day, you would miss out on one of the most relaxing getaways available. Thankfully, Elk Creek offers a variety of lodging. The “Girls Night Out” group package offers the perfect getaway with friends, while a single room at The Estates can easily become one of the most romantic weekend getaways in Kentucky.

Located on the Kentucky-Ohio border right across from Cincinnati, Newport is one of the quaintest towns in northern Kentucky. Founded in 1795, Newport provides the perfect mix of historical amenities with contemporary comfort.

Newport provides a perfect family-friendly getaway for those who want to see it all. The pristine hotels and beautiful riverfront views have made it extremely popular for Cincinnatians who have crossed the state border to enjoy everything Newport has to offer.

Despite being on the smaller side of cities with approximately 15,000 inhabitants, Newport features some big city amenities. With a one of a kind “cage” style aquarium where visitors are surrounded by exhibits, a revitalized historic district, and one of the largest bells in the world, Newport’s got a lot!

If you don’t want the fun to end, grab a hotel on the riverfront! Many of these hotels feature first class comforts, and all of them feature beautiful riverfront views. This is truly one of the best small towns in Kentucky!

Nolin Lake State Park Beach

Beaches in Kentucky? It’s true! Despite being a landlocked state, Kentucky has a number of pretty beaches. One of these lakeside beaches, Nolin Lake, has activities for everyone, making it a perfect weekend getaway in Kentucky.

If you have never been to a lakeside beach, you are in for a treat. Without the waves and riptides of a traditional beach, Nolin Lake is a much calmer place to relax and soak up some rays. If you crave adventure, Nolin Lake State Park features some truly beautiful and challenging trails to hike through.

Make sure to stay an extra day and visit Mammoth Cave national park. Nolin Lake has a plethora of beautiful camp sites, and there are hotels near by if you do not feel like roughing it. It’s not everyday that you can spend one day relaxing at the beach and the next day exploring the inside of a cave.

Cumberland Falls

One of the most stunning waterfalls in Kentucky, Cumberland Falls is 125 feet wide and contains a drop of 60 feet. Known as the Niagara of the South, this waterfall is something you have to see to believe.

Cumberland Falls is the only place in the Western Hemisphere where you can witness a moonbow. During a full moon, the moon’s light is reflected off of water droplets to create an arch of soft moonlight. This site alone makes Cumberland Falls a must-see sight in Kentucky.

While you’re not witnessing one of the most amazing phenomena in the world, unleash your adventurous side and try out some water sports. Once the sun goes down, cozy up around one of the giant fireplaces in the historic DuPont lodge.

The Brown Hotel

Most weekend getaways treat the hotel as an afterthought, but this getaway puts the lodging front and center! Booking a night stay at the Brown Hotel is one of the best weekend getaways near Louisville you can imagine.

Built in the heart of Louisville, you are never far from the action in the Brown Hotel. Considered the landmark hotel of Louisville, this hotel was constructed in 1923. This old age has allowed the vibrant city of Louisville grew around this hotel, not the other way around.

While the Brown Hotel is only a short walk away from Louisville staples like the KFC Yum! Center and the Louisville Palace Theater, you may have a hard time ever leaving! Containing the perfect mix of Old World elegance and cutting edge comfort, this hotel is a trip in itself. With on site finest dining and most luxurious accommodations in all of Kentucky, the Brown Hotel will raise you standards as to what southern hospitality can be.

The Kentucky Castle

Everyone has dreamt about being royalty and living in a palace. Well here at the Kentucky Castle, you can live out that fantasy. This four-star hotel will remind you that magic is real, and that dreams do come true.

The Kentucky Castle is more than just a couple of towers and a grand façade, though. This castle comes with all the bells and whistles, from a rooftop sundeck, a luxurious ballroom, and a majestic stable. This castle is also mostly self sustained, as many of the meals in the castle’s kitchen come from locally sourced food from the castle’s garden.

With 10 luxury suites available, be sure to book your getaway early. The Kentucky Castle is extremely popular with couples, so don’t miss out and book your own romantic getaway in Kentucky today!

Louisville Baseball Getaway

This weekend getaway is perfect for any fan of America’s Pastime! The Kentucky-based company Louisville Slugger is a household name to anyone even mildly interested in baseball, and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a must-see for any baseball fan.

During a tour of the factory you will get a detailed behind the scenes look at how the game’s best sluggers get their bats made. A trip to the museum will allow you to soak in the history of this centuries-old company, while getting to take home your own piece of history with a custom engraved miniature baseball bat.

While you’re in Louisville, be sure to catch a Bats game! The Louisville Bats are a minor league affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds. Located in the newly-renovated Louisville Slugger Stadium, going to a Bats game will allow you to watch some of baseball’s brightest stars play before they make the big leagues.

Churchill Downs

Feeling fancy? Well this trip is just for you! Another weekend getaway near Louisville, visiting Churchill Downs will make anyone feel like the height of luxury.

Home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is a racetrack synonymous with high class! However, there is much more to this historic track than just one race. Churchill Downs hosts more than 70 races each year, and is home to some of the fanciest dining in Louisville.

Churchill Downs is also home to the Kentucky Derby Museum. Get a firsthand glimpse of the triumph of Secretariat. Relive American Pharaoh’s retaking of the triple crown. This museum allows you to step back into the horseshoes of history and learn about the sport’s greatest moments.

Bowling Green

Bowling Green is the perfect mix of natural wonders and technological marvels. Known for both caves and Corvettes, this city is full of all kinds of marvels.

If you want natural wonders, Bowling Green has you covered. Head to the Lost River Cave, where you can take a guided boat tour through this beautiful cave. Be prepared for a history lesson, though, as this cave has housed everyone from Civil War soldiers to the notorious wild west outlaw Jesse James.

After getting your fill of nature, check out the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. This museum is also home to the General Motors Plant, so you are able to get an up close view of how these supercars are made! With a specially designed KidZone, complete with a design-your-own car studio, this is a perfect family-friendly weekend getaway.

University of Kentucky

One of the coolest weekend getaways in Lexington, visiting the University of Kentucky is the perfect way to get a slice of that college life without having to pay tuition. Despite being home to so much more, Lexington is able to still feel like a tried and true college town.

Show your school spirit at a UK game! While gaining national acclaim for their basketball team, any University of Kentucky athletic event is bound to be a good time and will bring out the inner cheerleader in everyone. Be sure to grab a bite to eat after the game at one of Lexington’s many great restaurants. As a college town, Lexington has culinary influences from every walk of life.

You won’t need to worry about living in a dorm on this getaway, though! Lexington offers many beautiful hotels, from the historic Museum Hotel to the intriguing Campbell House. Spending a weekend in Lexington will allow you relive college days, without any of the assignments.

Kentucky Fried Chicken Trail

• Greyhound Tavern
• Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum
• Parkette Drive-in

You can’t go to Kentucky without trying some fried chicken! Home of the famed Colonel Sanders, Kentucky is synonymous with the delicious food.

Start at Greyhound Tavern in Fort Mitchell. Near Cincinnati, this award-winning restaurant features some very “bluegrass” Kentucky staples. Come on by for a traditional meal of fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, coleslaw, green beans, and biscuits.

Next, head to Corbin to visit the Harland Sanders Café and Museum. Before KFC became KFC, it was a humble service station for travelers. Come visit the birthplace of KFC, grab a drumstick, and take a tour of the house where it all began.

Lastly, head to Lexington and the Parkette Drive-in. A classic 1950s drive-in, Parkette has been featured on multiple food network shows. With a delicious selection of fried chicken and other Kentucky staples, where Parkette really gets it’s fame is with it’s more obscure offerings. If you’re feeling adventurous, grab some fried liver or a bucket of chicken gizzards.

Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame

Located in Owensboro, Kentucky, this weekend getaway will give you a taste of that Kentucky culture. Bluegrass music is a more acoustic subset of country music hailing from 1940s Kentucky.

The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame is the home of this genre. Featuring a good amount of history, this museum also puts on some great events. If you can, schedule a trip around the Kentucky State Fiddle Champtionship!

While not exploring the history of Bluegrass at the museum, watch it live! There are many bars and restaurants in the area that feature live musicians. Grab some bourbon, listen to some bluegrass, and feel like a true Kentuckian on this weekend getaway!

While Kentucky may not be at the top of many bucket lists, the Bluegrass State is definitely worth spending a weekend in. With enough entertainment to please even the pickiest traveler, some of the best weekend getaways can be found hiding in this charming state. The next time you need to take a step back from the bustle of everyday life, consider planning a weekend getaway in Kentucky.

Road is Calling

9 Incredible Weekend Getaways in Kentucky

Are you looking for weekend getaways in Kentucky? Look no further! In my super detailed massive guide you’ll find trips to the best horse farms and distilleries, to the cutest antique towns with charming Inns and historical sites, to small family-owned wineries and quaint restaurants, and much, much more.

When you ask an average American (or anyone else, really) what comes to mind when they think of Kentucky, most people will tell that the first thing they envision is horse races, bourbon, cowboy hats and maybe boots. What else? Not much. Because the majority think that Kentucky is rather plain. Ouch.

But let me tell ya. In reality, Kentucky is a truly unique state with some rare world wonders.

Lately, I was reminiscing about my one long year in Kentucky  which was full of some cool weekend trips. During that time, I ventured to the narrow country roads near the border with West Virginia, chased lunar rainbow in Cumberland Falls and even explored beaches and swam in the lakes in the far Southwest of the state.

These days, while being stuck at home, I wanted to create this post. And share some of my best trips in beautiful Kentucky. Thus, I am absolutely sure that a lot of travelers will enjoy them as well.

So, if you are planning a weekend getaway to Kentucky or maybe living there now and wondering about some 2 or 3-day escapes, this list is for you.

Psst : looking for more weekend getaways in the USA? See my other posts:

• Amazingly Unique Getaways From Los Angeles: From Someone Who Lived There 3 Years 
• 6 Unique Places to Visit in the US That Will Blow Your Mind
• Unique Cheap & Warm Vacations in the US
• Weekend Getaways and Road Tripping in Vermont 
• 6 Stunning Vermont Lakes For Weekend Trips
• 22 Spectacular Stops on Columbia River Gorge Road Trip in Oregon & Washington

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Trips From Louisville & Lexington, KY

1. a getaway to bardstown, kentucky – for the bourbon, wine & antiquity   .

Bardstown always makes it on the list of “the most beautiful small towns in America”. And there is a reason for that. This town is replete with elegant architecture, posh B&Bs, antique shops, quaint restaurants, tree-shaded streets, bourbon distilleries, and romantic treehouses .

Most travelers visit Bardstown on their Kentucky Bourbon Trail adventure. Here, you are able to immerse in all things whiskey and, if you want, dedicate the entire weekend to bourbon only. Yet, besides bourbon, there is a variety of other things to do and places to explore. 

During a year when I lived in Lexington, I have been to Bardstown a dozen times. And each time I had something new to discover. 

WHAT TO DO IN BARDSTOWN, KY 

Even if bourbon is the last thing in the world that interests you, still, it will be very fascinating to go on a distillery tour. There are 9 distilleries to choose from in Bardstown and many more around it. Each distillery offers tours and tastings and gives you a glimpse into an important piece of Kentucky history.

Visit Heavens Hill Heritage Center  or Oscar Getz Museum to learn about the history of Kentucky bourbon. At  Bardstown Bourbon Company,  take their Shaken & Stirred cocktail class where you’ll learn how to mix your drinks. And in  Lux Row Distillery to go on a tour and visit their brickhouse.

Barton 1792 , only a few minutes walk from downtown, is an old distillery working until this day and offering free tours and tastings. Willett Distillery also offers a great tour that covers the process of making bourbon – from distillation to filling the barrels. 

The Blind Pig Bourbon Market has a nice selection of bourbon, souvenirs, and gifts related to whiskey. 

If you feel you got enough bourbon, why not sample locally-made wine? Forest Edge Winery , Springhill and McIntyre’s Wineries offer an excellent selection of wines, great decor, atmosphere, and service. By the way, Forest Edge is located very close to a famous Jim Beam distillery , if you plan to cover these two places in one trip.

To soak up some history, you definitely need to visit My Old Kentucky Home State Park , famous for the historic plantation that inspired America’s first composer Stephen Foster. In summer, if visiting from June 11th to August 13th, there is a Broadway-style show on the grounds that tells the tale of Foster’s story. 

Additionally, don’t forget to pop into one of the four most important museums devoted to the Civil War . 

Among other fantastic things to do in Bardstown to keep you busy during the weekend getaway in Kentucky are:

– My Old Kentucky Dinner Train – a relaxing train ride with dinner through the Kentucky hillside;

– Self-guided walking tour through the historic downtown; 

– Old Talbott Tavern – a historic restaurant & bar which became a staple of classic Southern hospitality and decor. 

SHOULD YOU STAY IN BARDSTOWN OVERNIGHT?

Bardstown is only 1 hour away from Lexington and 45 minutes away from Louisville, so yeah, you can easily stay in one of these cities. However, for a rare opportunity to unwind in a grand old place, look into one of many charming Inns or Bed & Breakfasts.

Bourbon Manor B&B Inn is an elegant and luxurious 200+ year-old historic home that has everything you may need for a romantic getaway for two.

Check prices and availability for Bourbon Manor B&B Inn on Booking.com

Jailer’s Inn B&B  is another historic place with great proximity to the distilleries. The Inn used to serve a town’s jail between 1797 and 1987 and housed some of the scariest criminals in America. Today, it is a beautiful property with landscaped gardens and delicious southern dining.

Check prices and availability for Jailer’s Inn B&B on Booking.com

2. A TRIP TO THE LAND OF LINCOLN & MAMMOTH CAVES – For History & Nature 

With this getaway idea, I am inviting you to go on a weekend trip from anywhere in Kentucky to Mammoth Caves National Park. However, before you get to the park, visit a few sites on the way that tell the story of an extraordinary man Abraham Lincoln.

WHAT TO DO ON THIS GETAWAY

From Bardstown, take a New Heaven road (or Rte. 31E) to Hodgenville. It meanders through a deep forest to the Boyhood Home of Abraham Lincoln . In this historical place, a reconstructed log cabin by Knob Creek in a grassy valley gives a great perspective of Lincoln’s childhood life.

A few miles south the drive enters the small town of Hodgenville , which carefully preserves the history of Lincoln. The Lincoln Museum has exhibits that portray Lincoln’s life. By the way, in our experience, it is a wonderful museum where you get a feel of going back in history and learning a lot.

The town of Hodgenville has a very short but nice Main Street with a bronze statue of Lincoln overlooking the town square.

South of town, a barbecue restaurant “Lincoln Jamboree” offers great live shows with talented singers and musicians. Not far from it is the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park –  a beautiful countryside park with a replica of the original log cabin where the great president has been born in 1809.

TIP : Pack lunch with you and have at the picnic area in the park.

Visiting Lincoln-related sites and stopping for lunch can take a few hours of your time. So you can leave the Mammoth Caves for the same or the following day. 

If you are interested in exploring the outback and seeing unique Australian wildlife, make a stop at the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo . It is a hidden gem place with a variety of unique animals that you won’t see anywhere else (like the red kangaroo and blue-tongued skink.)

The nearby Hidden River Cave & Cave Museum is a worthwhile adventure for everyone who would like to venture into an underground cave, zip line, and rappel. Diamond Caverns Resort in Park City , adjacent to Mammoth Cave National Park, besides beautiful and quiet accommodation, is also offering tours that feature thousands of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone formations.

WHERE TO STAY IN MAMMOTH CAVE

Country Girl At Heart Farm B&B – a wonderful place in one of the most beautiful parts of Kentucky.

3. A PEACEFUL GETAWAY TO VERSAILLES – For Horses, Farms & Country Roads

Known for some of the most picturesque countrysides and iconic centuries-old rock fences, Versailles, in the west of Lexington, is definitely one of Kentucky’s most charming towns. It is a true hidden gem that is perfect for unique girls’ weekend getaways , couples retreats, and simple 

Plan a trip here and go on a scenic drive from Lexington to Frankfort. I advise you to take an Old Frankfurt Pike Road towards Frankfort but return to Versailles to stay overnight in one of the most charming country inns. 

WHAT TO DO IN VERSAILLES 

First of all, plan to visit a horse farm. Versailles is surrounded by a rich landscape and has incredibly beautiful horse barns and properties. Many of the horse farms are homes to thoroughbreds that often win in the Kentucky Derby.

Go on a guided tour in Three Chimneys Farm or WinStar Farm . They offer custom and guided group tours on the thoroughbred industry and let you get a glimpse of the daily life of each horse.

On the scenic McCracken Pike road, from Versailles to Millville, you can visit the oldest distillery in Kentucky Woodford Reserve . It offers two specialized tours. One focuses on the architecture and history and another one solely on the bourbon-making process. Those who are visiting Kentucky from out of state and plan to be in Lexington only, have a great opportunity to learn about the bourbon production at the distillery in Versailles.

In the opposite direction on another picturesque road, is a Wildside Winery , in case you are up for wine tasting. Not far from the winery is Irish Acres Gallery of Antiques – an old converted schoolhouse full of antiques. There is a lot to look at and have a meal in a beautifully decorated restaurant downstairs.

If visiting from May to November, everyone in your family should love  Eckert’s Orchard . It reminds more of an agriculture centered amusement park with a lot of attractions. There, depending on the season, you’ll find strawberries, peaches, blackberries, over 30 varieties of apples, and lots of pumpkins.

SHOULD YOU STAY IN VERSAILLES?

Oh yes! While Lexington has a lot of options for any budget, a charming suburb Versailles with grassy fields has incredibly gorgeous farmhouses and bed & breakfasts.

Take a look at some of them: Charred Oaks Inn  or Montgomery Inn B&B . Also, The Kentucky Castle is a wonderful choice for a romantic getaway in every way. 

Romantic Getaways in Kentucky 

4. a city getaway to louisville, kentucky .

The largest city in Kentucky, famous for the world-known Kentucky Derby and bourbon, has a lot to offer to couples visiting on a romantic getaway.

Being located at the intersection of the midwest and south of the country, many travelers often avoid Louisville, not knowing this city is actually really welcoming, super hipster and artsy, and great for active dates.

Even though Louisville is big, it’s also pretty compact and most attractions can be found in the Downtown area. No need to have a car since it is easy to get around on foot.

WHAT TO DO IN LOUISVILLE 

Go for a saunter in the Waterfront Park and cross to Indiana through one of many bridges. There is a bike rental by Big Four Bridge offering a range of bicycles if you feel like cycling around.

Wander through the gorgeous and historically rich part of Downtown – “Museum Row” on West Main Street. This street is home to nearly 10 attractions located next to each other and surrounded by Victorian cast-iron facades combined with striking contemporary architecture. To read more about what those attractions are, check this source .

As Louisville is built around the river, there is an opportunity for paddleboarding and canoeing. Endless Summer Paddle in Thruston Park rents out paddleboards, offers tours on the Ohio River, and sells coffee and baked goodies.

Don’t miss a walk (or bike ride) to Old Louisville where you’ll find a huge collection of historic Victorian houses where people live until this day. By the way, this neighborhood has some gorgeous Airbnbs ( like this one ) for a romantic stay. 

After spending some time in Old Louisville, why not go to the New one? New Louisville or as it is also called East Market District, or simply Nulu has cool bars, restaurants, breweries, art galleries, and quirky shops. This neighborhood is small but with the number of establishments, you can easily get lost and spend there hours.

Pop into Goodwood Brewing Co for great crafted beer and delicious food. Royals Hot Chicken is a fantastic place for a chicken meal. The nearby Quills Coffee Firehouse with Hi-Five Doughnuts are for those with a craving for cappuccino and sweets. But really, these are not the only places where to eat.

Nulu neighborhood has some of the best Louisville restaurants for lunch and dinner, coffee, and brunch. Just walk around and explore your options.

If the only city you get to visit in Kentucky will be Louisville, don’t forget to sample local bourbon. Some distilleries like Evan Williams Bourbon Experience , Rabbit Hole distillery , Angel’s Envy or  Old Forester  offer entertaining tours and tastings. Kentucky Peerless Distilling is a place for sampling some moonshine.

WHERE TO STAY IN LOUISVILLE

Louisville has so many cool accommodation options, including those for romantic stays.

Dupont Mansion B&B  is a beautiful property for anniversaries, date getaways and romantic escapes. The Brown Hotel – a comfortable old-world style hotel. Louisville is also full of charming homes for any taste and budget.  Check them out .

5. A LONG WEEKEND GETAWAY TO COVINGTON, KENTUCKY 

Covington is the northernmost town in Kentucky that borders Cincinnati. This town is small but cozy. It is mainly known for historic neighborhoods, numerous art galleries, and popular events like Mainstrasse Oktoberfest, Mardi Gras, The Original Goetta Festival, and others. 

Escape here to listen to great jazz in Dee Felice Cafe , catch a show at the Madison Theater or a classical music concert at the Kentucky Symphony Orchestra , and   taste traditional German food in Wunderbar . And another reason to visit Covington is Cincinnati where you can get by crossing a Suspension Bridge. 

WHAT TO DO IN COVINGTON

Before we go through the list of attractions in Covington, here is one detail. Getaway to this destination will suit all types of travelers but most of all families with kids. And for many reasons.

First of all, before arriving here, if driving from Lexington (and even Louisville with a quick detour), make a stop at the Ark Encounter .  This is a unique exhibit with a replica of Noah’s Ark which was built according to the dimensions in the Bible.

It is definitely a great place to expand your knowledge about the Ark and life on it during the flood. Even if you are not religious, this project will surely impress! If visiting with family, you can literally spend an entire day here.

Once in Covington, make sure to stop by a beautiful Devou Park. It’s a nice spot for a breezy walk and a wonderful view of downtown Cincinnati. For crafted beers on tap, go to Braxton Brewing Company which welcomes everyone. Besides beer, they have food, occasional live music, tours and a rooftop bar with pretty views.  

Foodies and history lovers will definitely appreciate a  cultural food tour of a beautiful historic neighborhood MainStrasse Village.  And, kids will enjoy the Aquarium , although I personally think that Cincinnati Zoo has more to offer (and for a lower price.) 

WHERE TO STAY IN COVINGTON

Hotels in Covington are pretty pricey. Check out this super cozy budget-friendly house near the historic neighborhood !

6. A RIVERSIDE GETAWAY TO MADISON, INDIANA

This can be a cool getaway for couples from Kentucky who also would love to combine it with a road trip. Madison lies at the heart of the Ohio River Scenic Byway , so you could easily see a few other pretty towns as well. Yet, at the end of the day, return to Madison and spend a night in one of the romantic B&Bs.

If you have been to Mansfield, Ohio , then you’ll find a few similarities between these two towns.

WHAT TO DO IN MADISON 

This charming historic part of Madison is famous for three things. First – for historic houses such as Sullivan House , Lanier Mansion , and Schofield House . Second – for Main Street full of restaurants, artsy shops, chocolate and coffee places, and antique stores. And third – for the feel. 

Madison’s cozy streets with riverfront and downtown area are full of romantic charm. There is a special spirit in this town that makes you feel comfortable and relaxed from the first few minutes.

During your romantic escape, visit one of the wineries (as Thomas Family Winery , Lanthier Winery , and Vineyards Estate Winery ,) go for a walk along the Milton Madison Bridge from Madison to Milton Kentucky, get a relaxing massage  (don’t forget to schedule an appointment) and treat yourself with handmade artisan chocolates at Cocoa Safari Chocolates .

Also, head to the nearby Clifty Falls State Park for amazing hiking trails and outstanding views. 

For a meal in a romantic setting, check out Rembrandt’s Gallery & Wine Bar or Crystal & Jules . 

WHERE TO STAY IN MADISON 

Oh, there are quite a few options to choose from! If you are like us and love staying in historic homes, take a look at the Historic Loft .

Check prices and availability for Historic Loft on VRBO

Weekend Getaways Near Louisville, KY

7. a trip from kentucky to corydon, indiana – for wine, history, music & art.

The small town of Corydon, which became the first capital of Indiana at the beginning of the 19th century, at first sight, doesn’t seem to have a lot to offer. While this is true that the town itself is somewhat unremarkable, there are still a few attractions that can keep you busy during the entire weekend.

Before you even get to Corydon, if driving from Louisville, make a stop at the Turtle Run Winery . There, you’ll find homemade wines, live music on weekends (weather permitting), and a great ambiance.

Once in Corydon, spend some time in town. There, go on a quick walk and visit Corydon Capitol State’s historic site (basically Indiana’s birthplace.) Its location is near the town square. Nearby are the Battle of Corydon park to learn how our forefathers lived and Constitution Elm – a place where the Indiana Constitution was drafted.

Among other must-visit places are glassmaking craftsmen in Zimmerman Art Glass Shop , Cave Country Canoes , and Corydon Jamboree – an amazing venue to enjoy live country and gospel music.

Also, if you have time, visit a nearby town Leavenworth which is famous for its peaceful atmosphere and mind-blowing views of the river. The Overlook Restaurant is that place where you can enjoy the food and spectacular views.

Since all of these attractions are located close to Louisville, you may want to go there on a day trip. We were visiting on a day trip from Lexington and felt like we could easily spend another day in the area.

8. COUPLE’S GETAWAY TO BRANDENBURG, KENTUCKY – For Romance & Luxury 

One of the reasons why I wanted to include Brandenburg on my list is an elegant romantic Inn that is a great vacation spot near Louisville. This small luxury-style B&B in a farming community is not only a wonderful place to stay but to unplug and have a peaceful weekend.

In fact, Brandenburg is only 25 minutes drive to Corydon mentioned in the getaway above. So if you feel like combining these two destinations on the same weekend trip, please do so. However, I still wanted to make them separate getaways because the amount of activities is endless. 

THINGS TO DO IN BRANDENBURG, KENTUCKY 

There isn’t much to do in the town but there are plenty of activities on the farm and in nearby areas. On the farm, you can go fishing, boating, swimming in one of the ponds, feeding the goats and alpacas, or hanging out at the pool all day long. 

Other things to do in the Brandenburg area are a famous Fort Knox with nearby Boundary Oak Distillery and Sounders Springs Nature Reserve . They are only a 30-minute drive away. 

To the north of town, around 15 minutes across the border to Indiana, is Squire Boone Caverns – an interesting place for both children and adults. Here, you can go on a guided tour around underground caverns, and visit a small theme park with pioneer-era buildings and hayrides. The caverns, a complex of rooms and passageways contain rimstone dams, impressive stalactites, and stalagmites.

Brandenburg as a town has a River Front park with a few walking trails and a Jailhouse which was turned into a pizza parlor (call ahead and book a jail cell for lunch or dinner) where you can dine and have a tour of the historic jailhouse (very interesting experience!)

9. A WEEKEND TRIP TO BLOOMINGTON & MONROE LAKE – For a College Town, Culture & Outdoor Adventure

Here is another weekend getaway from Kentucky to Southern Indiana which, by the way, is among the most romantic getaways in the Midwest . This time I offer you to go on a trip to an energetic college town, known for its wide selection of shops, restaurants, beautiful architecture, art, and local wines.

The main reason why Bloomington is famous is because of the historically rich Indiana University. The campus with ivy-draped halls and dormitories is simply gorgeous. It has quaint trails for walking and many areas to relax and learn about history.

For example, some fascinating historic places to visit are the IU Auditorium and Indiana University Art Museum . The first one is famous for murals on the walls and ceilings as well as various performances. And the second one boasts many works of Picasso, Rodin, Warhol, and other artists. If you happen to visit in April, the campus hosts a bicycle race called the Little 500. 

However, Indiana University is not the only reason why to visit this area.

Just north of town on State Road 37, you’ll find and oldest winery in Indiana Oliver Winery . Besides their award-winning wines, wine tastings, local artisan music, and lovely views you can also take a stroll around the lake. It is a lovely area to enjoy time with friends and family outdoors on their convenient seating.

Southeast of Bloomington lies Monroe Lake . This large reservoir has lake cabin rentals and many popular spots for swimming, camping, and boating. Hardin Ridge and Paynetown  recreation areas are the most popular for those who would like to get closer to nature.

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN BLOOMINGTON AREA:

If you come not for a day but for a weekend getaway, you’ll have more time to explore other places in the Bloomington area. And there are quite a few of them. You can even go on a road trip through Southern Indiana.

So, before leaving Bloomington, make a stop at the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center. It’s a peaceful educational place excellent for meditation and achieving a calm state of mind.

Afterward, follow a scenic State Road 46 toward Nashville . Dipping through the hills and hollows of rural Brown County, it opens up beautiful views.

Nashville  is a small town full of antique shops, craft stores, and art galleries. Stop at the Big Woods the Original  and taste their famous beer cheese pretzels, chicken asparagus sandwich, and burgers. Besides those, they also have very good soups of the day, pizza, fried rice, and more dishes on the menu. 

Brown County Playhouse and Melchior Marionette Theater (located next to each other) are nice small community places for concerts, shows, and performances. 

If visiting this area in June, expect to see the Bill Monroe Memorial Bean Blossom Bluegrass Festival. It is the oldest festival in the world dedicated to Monroe’s bluegrass songs.

Besides Nashville, visit T.C. Steele State Historic Site , Brown County State Park , Yellowwood State Forest , and ghost town Story .

WHERE TO STAY IN BLOOMINGTON & NEARBY:

Depending on the goal of your trip, I personally would love to recommend a few different places.

Fourwinds Lakeside Inn – a gorgeous property with fantastic views of Monroe Lake, a convenient location, and an excellent marina atmosphere. Suits families with children and couples.

Check prices and availability on Booking.com

Grant Street Inn – a quaint and classy Inn within walking distance of downtown, a farmers market, and many restaurants. This is a privately owned hotel, therefore you can expect to have a very unique experience.

Wampler House Boutique B&B  – this is a romantic extravagant Inn in the heart of Bloomington downtown. Everything feels just right here and you’ll surely have an unforgettable stay!

Check prices and availability on Hotels.com

For adventure seekers, I highly advise checking a country bed-and-breakfast Story Inn . It is a bit pricey but very unique and quaint! The Inn offers fine dining, lodging, and events throughout the year. If you can’t stay overnight, at least pay a visit during the day, have a meal, and walk around the area. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Alright, so this was my one long post. Which of these weekend getaways in Kentucky would you visit? Do you have any other trips to add to this list? If yes, drop them below in the comment section! Also, if you find this post inspiring or informative, don’t forget to save it for later on Pinterest!

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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Oh my Old Kentucky Home! I am from Henderson 🙂 I love all the recommendations here, but I’m partial to Bowling Green! I do love a good city getaway to Louisville. So much to do there!

Henderson is right by the Ohio River, so you also have a few things to do there during the weekend! But Louisville has tons of activities, so true!

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Perfect Weekend in Louisville: 3-Day Itinerary

Louisville, Kentucky is undoubtedly one of the most underrated cities in the United States. There are tons of unique things to do in this awesome city—from bourbon tasting and museum hopping to ghost tours and fine dining experiences. It’s truly the perfect destination for a fun-filled weekend trip!

There is no shortage of unforgettable things to do during a weekend in Louisville. Feel free to steal the following three-day itinerary to plan an amazing weekend in Louisville, KY!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

Plan Your Weekend in Louisville  

Before we jump into the itinerary, here are some other blog posts we’ve written that you can use to plan your weekend in Louisville: 

• 14 Cool Things to Do in Downtown Louisville  
• 17 Unique Places to Eat in Louisville 
• 14 Interesting Museums in Louisville 
• Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail 
• Hotel Distil: Luxury Stay on Louisville’s Whiskey Row

Weekend in Louisville – Friday  

Welcome to Louisville! Hopefully, you’ll be arriving early enough to kick off your weekend in Louisville sometime mid-morning, but if not, you can always modify this itinerary to accommodate your schedule. 

Today, you’ll be spending the day in Downtown Louisville , filled with many museums and bourbon distilleries, and NuLu, a hip neighborhood just east of Downtown Louisville with delicious restaurants, craft coffee shops, and trendy shopping. 

Coffee : Quills Coffee

After you arrive in Louisville, start your day at Quills Coffee—in my opinion, the best craft coffee in Louisville. Though they have several locations across Louisville, I highly recommend visiting the shop in NuLu, located at 802 E Main Street, for this itinerary. This location also has a spacious outdoor patio, so if the weather is nice, consider sitting outside to sip on your coffee. 

Since you’re in Kentucky and everything is about bourbon (okay, not everything, but almost!), it’s just a given you should order a latte with bourbon-infused caramel syrup (made in-house). Seriously, this latte was terrific, and you won’t regret ordering it—promise! 

Waterfront Park  

After you enjoy your coffee (or while enjoying your coffee, if you’d like!), head down to Waterfront Park. While strolling around the beautiful park, you’ll see the Big Four Bridge (an old railroad bridge) crossing the Ohio River. If you look closely, you can even see Indiana on the other side! 

Take a leisurely stroll along the Ohio River, or hop in the car if you’d like, and head down to the Belle of Louisville Riverboats. Louisville is home to the “Belle of Louisville”—the oldest continuously operating steamboat in the United States and now is a National Historic Landmark. 

Though you can embark on a dinner cruise or sightseeing cruise on the Belle of Louisville or her sister steamboat, for your Louisville weekend itinerary, we recommend just taking a peek at the steamboat center that welcomed famous figures like Andrew Jackson, Walt Whitman, and Abraham Lincoln to Louisville and saving a cruise for your next trip to Louisville. 

Museum Hopping  

You may be surprised to learn that Louisville has tons of unique museums—in fact, there are so many that you’ll have trouble visiting them all in one trip! 

Downtown Louisville is home to tons of interesting museums , especially on “Museum Row,” a stretch on Main Street that features several top-rated museums. Choose one of the following museums to visit during your weekend in Louisville: 

• Muhammad Ali Center —Muhammad Ali was born and raised in Louisville. You can learn more about his story, boxing career, and core principles at the Muhammad Ali Center, founded by him and his wife, located about a block from Museum Row. Get your tickets ahead of time for skip-the-line admission ! 
• Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory —If you guessed Louisville Slugger baseball bats are made in Louisville, you’d be correct. You can watch how that bats are made, see bats from famous players, swing a home run in the batting cage, and take a picture of the world’s largest baseball bat at this interactive museum. 
• Frazier History Museum —This history museum is dedicated to all things Kentucky, including the creation of bourbon, the Civil War, the Lewis & Clark Expedition, and more. It’s also the starting point for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Get your tickets ahead of time for skip-the-line admission ! 

Tip: Plan to spend 1–2 hours at each museum, but if you finish sooner, you can always try to squeeze in another museum that interests you. 

Lunch  

After a full morning at the museums, I’m sure you’ve worked up an appetite! Grab a quick lunch at one of the following local, quick-serve restaurants to get on your tour of Downtown Louisville. 

• In Season Harvest Kitchen —This local restaurant has a rotating menu with salads, bowls, and other healthy entrees from fresh seasonal ingredients. If you’re looking for a light lunch, I’d recommend stopping at their location in Downtown Louisville! 
• Feast BBQ —If you’re looking for something heavier, head to Feast BBQ for lunch. This local chain restaurant serves smoked meats, like brisket, pulled pork, and chopped chicken, with several made-from-scratch sides, like beans and vinegar slaw! 

Bourbon Tasting  

Now that you’ve eaten, it’s time to head back to Main Street, but this time, instead of checking out the museums, you’ll be checking out the distilleries! Downtown Louisville is the home of several distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, including Evan Williams, Angel’s Envy, Old Forester, Mitcher’s, Rabbit Hole, and Stitzel-Weller. 

Even though you’ll be venturing out further on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tomorrow, spend the afternoon at one of the following distilleries in Downtown Louisville to learn more about how bourbon is made and, of course, for a bourbon tasting! 

• Evan Williams Bourbon Experience —If you only have time for one bourbon tour in Downtown Louisville, I highly recommend the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. Not only will you learn how bourbon is made, but you’ll also learn more about the history of bourbon-making in Louisville, Prohibition, and more. The entire experience is immersive, theatrical, and different from the other tours you’ll embark on during your weekend in Louisville. The tour ends with a slow-paced tasting with four bourbons (with generous pours considering the price of the tour!). 
• Angel’s Envy Distillery —Angel’s Envy offers a one-hour tour of their distillery that ends with a tasting of two bourbons, including their Angel’s Envy Rye Whiskey Finished in Caribbean Rum Casks. If you’d like, you can grab a drink at the bar, called the Finishing Room, after your tour. 
• Old Forester Distilling Co. —Old Forester is another favorite distillery in Downtown Louisville that’s been making bourbon in the same location since 1870. It’s also located next to Hotel Distil, one of our top hotel recommendations, so if you’re staying here, it’s easy to pop over for a distillery tour! 

Tip: Be sure to buy your tickets in advance. Bourbon distillery tours sell out quickly, especially in the fall, on the weekends, or during Derby season. 

Dinner  

For dinner tonight, choose from one of these unique dining experiences in Louisville . Both are upscale dining experiences located in the lobby of popular hotels, but you can decide which experience sounds better for you: 

• Lobby Bar & Grill at the Brown Hotel —The Brown Hotel is a famous hotel in Louisville with an incredible history! You can enjoy a meal in the ornately decorated lobby. I recommend trying the “Hot Brown,” an open-faced sandwich created in Louisville, right in this hotel! 
• Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse —Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse is a high-end restaurant in Hotel Distil in Downtown Louisville . They grill all their steaks over the oak wood from bourbon barrels, and they serve other tasty dishes, like salads, soups, and seafood. They also have incredible cocktails and an impressive wine list. 

Drinks  

If you’re feeling up for it, head to one of the speakeasies in Downtown Louisville for a drink after dinner. If you’re coming from the Brown Hotel, Pin + Proof is the closest, and if you’re coming from Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse, check out Hell or High Water ! 

Weekend in Louisville – Saturday  

Get ready to venture out of Louisville today and hit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail . I have an Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with more information, so you can read more about how to plan your day, but I’ll give you all the basics here! 

Breakfast : Biscuit Belly

Start your Saturday morning during your weekend in Louisville at Biscuit Belly—one of the best local brunch spots in Louisville. They have several locations across the city, so find the one closest to where you’re staying for a quick and easy drive. 

Biscuit Belly serves southern classics with a modern twist, like the buttermilk fried chicken sandwich with sweet pepper jelly and goat cheese we ordered called “The G.O.A.T.” I recommend ordering some “bonuts,” a.k.a. donuts made with biscuit dough and dipped in bourbon-infused cream cheese frosting.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens  

Most bourbon distilleries don’t open until mid-morning, so before leaving for your tour, head over to the Waterfront Botanical Gardens for a quick stroll. 

The Waterfront Botanical Gardens in Louisville just opened in 2019. They are beautifully maintained and feature flowers, water features, and tons of greenery. Plus, the gardens are completely free to visit, so even if you only have a few minutes to pop by, it’s worth stopping by. 

Kentucky Bourbon Trail  

Did you know that Kentucky produces 95% of the world’s bourbon? There are more bourbon barrels in the state of Kentucky than people—and that’s not an exaggeration! 

If you want to learn more about bourbon’s history, production, and culture, I highly recommend visiting a few distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a road-trip experience to the state’s bourbon distilleries outside Louisville, Bardstown, and Lexington, created in 1999 to bring more tourism to the state. There are 18 distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, so you’ll need to pick two (or maybe three) to visit during your weekend in Louisville. Since you already visited a few distilleries in Downtown Louisville on Whiskey Row yesterday, I’d recommend checking out some of the famous distilleries in the countryside, like Maker’s Mark , Four Roses , or Woodford Reserve .  

If you don’t have a designated driver, consider booking this Louisville Half-Day Bourbon Tour that includes round-trip transportation to and from Louisville. You can choose from three distilleries (from a list of 15!) on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, including Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Jim Beam. You can tour each distillery and sample bourbons from each brand at the end of the tour for just $239.99 per person. This tour is an excellent value! 

You can learn everything you need to know about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (and more!) in our Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

Dinner : Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar

You’ll likely spend most of the day on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. When you return to Louisville, head straight to Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse and Raw Bar. 

Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse and Raw Bar serve tons of southern specialties, like fried chicken, ribs, and other delicious meals. Plus, Doc Crow’s Bourbon Room, located next door, has the most extensive bourbon collection in the Western Hemisphere (second only to a venue in Japan), so it’s the perfect place to end your day on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Weekend in Louisville – Sunday  

Today, you’ll be spending the last day of your weekend in Louisville in two of the quaintest neighborhoods— The Highlands and Old Louisville . Here’s how to spend the perfect last day in Louisville, KY: 

Cave Hill Cemetery & Arboretum  

You may be surprised to be starting the last day of your weekend in Louisville in a cemetery—but you won’t want to skip this stop, I promise! 

Cave Hill Cemetery is beautiful, but there are also tons of famous people buried here, like Muhammad Ali, George Rogers Clark, and Colonel Harlan Sanders. You can pay your respects to these prominent citizens of Louisville and the thousands of others who were laid to rest here at Cave Hill Cemetery & Arboretum. 

Brunch: Gralehaus  

Gralehaus is one of my favorite brunch spots (ever!). It’s located in a historic home (that’s also a bed & breakfast!), but when you step outside, you’ll find yourself transported to a beer garden space shared with Holy Grale, the bar next door, that looks like it’s straight out of Germany. 

Gralehaus has coffee, alcoholic breakfast beverages, and delicious pastries, like coffee cake. They also have savory breakfast and lunch items, like Egg Sandwiches, Hashes, Salads, and more. They’re open from 9 AM – 2 PM every day, so plan to arrive here for a late breakfast before continuing your weekend in Louisville. 

Churchill Downs & Kentucky Derby Museum  

You can’t spend a weekend in Louisville, KY, without learning more about the Kentucky Derby —the oldest continuously-running sports event in the United States! Although the race takes place at Churchill Downs the first week of May, even if you’re not visiting during Derby season, you can still pay a visit to this famous racetrack and visit the Kentucky Derby Museum. 

The Kentucky Derby Museum is one of the best museums in Louisville and explains the history, culture, and tradition of the Kentucky Derby. You can learn about the horses and jockeys, see memorabilia from the race, and even experience the sights and sounds of the Kentucky Derby on a 360-degree high-definition screen in the museum. Get your tickets here !  

Old Louisville  

After your morning and early afternoon at the Kentucky Derby Museum, head to my favorite neighborhood in the city—Old Louisville—to continue your weekend in Louisville, KY! Old Louisville reminded me of charming southern towns, like Savannah, GA, and Charleston, SC, that I loved visiting on previous trips. 

Old Louisville has the largest concentration of Victorian homes in the world. Isn’t that an impressive statistic? I recommend taking a leisurely walk around St. James Court to see some of these beautiful homes and other popular sights, like the St. James Court Fountain and Belgravia Court. You can also see the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum on St. James Court, which you’ll have the chance to visit later. 

If you’d like, there are tons of experiences in Old Louisville, from history tours to ghost tours , you can book to get acquainted with the area.

Central Park  

Central Park is situated in the heart of Old Louisville, just at the edge of St. James Court. It’s a lovely place to walk around and features an amphitheater, playground, fountain, tennis court, and volleyball court. 

If you’re visiting in the spring or summer, you can’t miss the chance to attend Shakespeare in the Park in Central Park! These shows by Kentucky Shakespeare usually show in June and July and feature popular plays, like Twelfth Night and Much Ado About Nothing, that you can watch in the park. And the best part? It’s completely free! 

I was so sad we visited the weekend after Shakespeare in the Park wrapped up for the season. I guess now I have a great reason to return for another weekend in Louisville! 

Before the afternoon is over, head to one of the popular museums in Old Louisville—either the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum or the Speed Art Museum. Read more about each museum below to determine which you’d like to visit: 

• Conrad-Caldwell House Museum —Love architecture and history? If so, you’ll love touring this fine example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture built in 1895. Tours run from 12 PM – 3 PM from Thursday to Sunday. Get your tickets here ! 
• Speed Art Museum —If you love classic and contemporary art, you can’t miss the opportunity to visit the Speed Art Museum! This popular museum in Louisville features African, Native American, and European pieces, and they feature rotating artwork from artists around the world. 

After visiting your last museum, it’s time to head home after a fabulous weekend in Louisville—and immediately begin planning your next visit back! 

Weekend in Louisville FAQs  

When is the best time of year to visit louisville.

The best time of the year to visit Louisville is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). Spring is a popular time to visit the Kentucky Derby, and the cool temperatures attract tourists in the autumn.

How do I get to Louisville?

Flying into the Louisville International Airport is the quickest way to get to Lousiville if you’ll be flying to the city for your weekend in Louisville. The airport is just a short ten-minute drive from Downtown Lousiville.

Louisville is also a short drive from neighboring cities like Lexington , Cincinnati , Indianapolis , and Nashville . You may want to pair your weekend in Lousiville with a trip to one of these neighboring cities!

Are three days in Louisville enough?

You can easily visit Lousiville’s top attractions on a three-day weekend . However, if you want to visit several museums or more than three distilleries, you may need to extend your weekend in Louisville by a few days to see all the most popular sites.

Do I need a car in Louisville?

Yes, having a car is the easiest and quickest way to get around Louisville during your weekend in Lousiville.

However, if you reserve a tour of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail that leaves from Louisville and you stay near the restaurants, museums, and distilleries in Downtown Louisville, you may not need a car. Many attractions in Louisville are within walking distance of Downtown Louisville, and the ones that aren’t can be easily reached by Uber or Lyft.

Where to Stay During Your Weekend in Louisville, KY

• Hotel Distil —Hotel Distil is one of my favorite places to stay during a weekend in Louisville. This hotel is the home of Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse, and they have a nightly toast with complimentary “Old Fashioneds” to celebrate the Repeal of Prohibition! 
• 21c Museum Hotel —21c Museum Hotel in Louisville is a boutique hotel filled with plenty of interesting artwork. It’s basically an art museum! However, 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville is also home to Proof on Main, one of the best restaurants in Louisville.
• The Brown Hotel —The Brown Hotel is a historic hotel in Louisville that’s a great place to visit and an even greater place to stay. You’ll surely be impressed by the gorgeous architecture and décor in the lobby and rooms!

Plan the Perfect Weekend in Louisville with This 3-Day Itinerary

We hope you’ll steal this three-day itinerary to plan the perfect weekend in Louisville, Kentucky. It’s such a fun city to explore! Which of these attractions sounds like it would be your favorite?

Save This Weekend in Louisville Itinerary for Your Upcoming Trip:

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

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7 Unforgettable Day Trips From Louisville

From amazing amusement parks to fascinating national parks, day trips from Louisville are simply on another level. What’s even better, tourist destinations that offer these unforgettable day trips are spread throughout the city, with some just a short drive from downtown Louisville.

1) Harrods Creek Park

A tour we think you'll love.

If you want to spend your day trip in a peaceful area, look no further than Harrods Creek Park. It is one of the main waterways in Louisville; hence, it is suitable for kayaking and canoeing. For the best experience at Harrods Creek, consider renting kayaks and canoes from Nachand Canoe & Kayak Rentals.

Dedicated to giving you exciting weekend trips from Louisville, Nachand Kayaks offers a wide range of rental options that include:

Tandem Kayak

Single kayak, kayak/paddleboard hybrid, stand up paddleboard, three person canoe.

Our team is made up of people who love what they do and will help you rent a kayak based on your body type for an unparalleled experience. Call Nachand Kayaks today or rent a kayak for endless fun moments in Louisville and Prospect, Kentucky.

2) Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave is the world’s longest cave system, and it takes about an hour and a half to get there. Established to preserve the scenic valleys and cave system of the Green and Nolin rivers, the national park offers plenty of activities for anyone who comes for a day trip here. These activities include:

Horseback riding

Furthermore, the mammoth cave boasts fascinating hiking trails that you can take for endless fun. The park also has hotel facilities and campgrounds for overnight adventures.

3) Red River Gorge

A list of Louisville day trips is incomplete without Red River Gorge, and that is because this must-see tourist destination has a lot for its visitors. There are sandstone arches, jagged cliffs, waterfalls, rock shelters, and naturally formed bridges to wow you throughout the day.

Another reason to make this gorge the go-to for your day trips is that it boasts three main rock-climbing areas that offer amazing climbing opportunities. These climbing areas are as follows:

Pendergrass-Murray Recreational Reserve

Miller Fork Recreational Reserve

Bald Rock Recreational Reserve

The gorge also offers kayaking adventures, plus it has several trails, such as Gray’s Arch, Double Arch, and Arch of Triumph, among others.

4) Spring Mill State Park

Day trips to this state park are exciting as well. The park is located in Indiana, and the driving distance from Louisville is around one hour and 10 minutes. Once there, the state park will leave you wowed with plenty of recreational activities such as mountain biking, hiking, nature activities, swimming, and cave tours.

Spring Mill State Park also has four interpretive facilities, which are:

Twin Caves Boat Tour

Grissom Memorial

Nature Center

Pioneer Village

Pioneer Village is a charming town established in 1814 and features 20 historic buildings. The Nature Center, on the other hand, offers exhibits on the natural history of the area.

5) Brown County State Park

Covering 16,000 acres of rugged hills, gorges, and ridges, Brown County State Park has what it takes to make your day trips unforgettable. A road trip from Louisville to this state park takes just one hour and 20 minutes, and once there, you will be able to indulge in several activities the place has to offer.

Moreover, this state park is host to the following:

Mountain biking trails

Guided horse rides

Hiking trails

Large campgrounds

Brown County State Park is also the perfect place for picnickers since it boasts several areas with fireplaces and shelters close to drinking water, playground equipment, and restrooms.

6) Cave City

Cave City is a stunning tourist destination that offers amazing day trips to its visitors. It is unique in that its attractions are both on and under the surface. It has several shops, museums, restaurants, and 1,000-year-old underground formations, caverns & rivers. That said, when you come here, ensure you take a guided tour to Diamond Caverns, where you will see gorgeous limestone formations.

You should also not forget to visit Mammoth Onyx Cave – a wet cave featuring flowstones, columns, stalactites, and cave coral. Dinosaur World is another great spot you should not miss, especially if you have brought the kids along. Other areas to visit when you go there are the American Cave Museum and Hidden River Cave.

7) Frankfort

The driving distance from Louisville to Frankfort is 57 minutes. It is just a short drive, which makes it an excellent destination for a day trip with family. Although Frankfort is a small city, it has a rich history, which makes it perfect for weekend trips from Louisville.

A visit here gives you the opportunity to see Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History and Liberty Hall Historic Site; these places provide detailed information about the 200-year history of Frankfort. This charming town is also home to the Old Governor’s Mansion – the oldest official residence in America still in use.

Other amazing places for memorable day trips from Louisville, KY include:

Kentucky Horse Park

Lost River Cave

Holiday World: Features a water park and a theme park

Weekend Trips From Louisville

Day trips from Louisville are exciting, to say the least; that is because they offer a chance to indulge in plenty of recreational activities such as hiking, picnicking, swimming, and canoeing.

At Nachand Kayaks, we offer canoe and kayak rentals to allow you to explore Harrods Creek Park in a way never done before. Call us today to learn more about our services and how we can make your day trips from Louisville unforgettable!

Take a paddle up historic Harrods Creek. One of the oldest water ways in Kentucky. The creek is rich in history as it was one of the first water ways used in the 1700's. It runs from Henry County, past the forests and cliffs and great Blue Heron rookeries all the way down to the Ohio River!

Explore the scenic beauty of Harrods Creek on our Tandem Kayak. Create lasting memories and enjoy the great outdoors with your favorite paddling partner. Your adventure never stops as you take a paddle down one of the connecting waterways of the Ohio River!

Challenge yourself and experience the freedom and excitement of stand-up paddleboarding as you create unforgettable memories and connect with the great outdoors. It is your best choice for Louisville, KY paddleboarding!

Expand your horizons as you switch between kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, exploring new territories and embracing the thrill of adventure. This features an integrated seat that allows you to sit back and relax while you paddle or stand up and test your core strength as you paddle around. It's also lightweight so you can easily carry it with you wherever your day takes you!

Discover the joy of canoeing with our three-person canoe, expertly designed to accommodate you and your loved ones on a thrilling water adventure. A three-person canoe rental is a great way to enjoy the scenic beauty of historic Harrods Creek, while also including your whole family.

Full Day Rental (8 hours)

Immerse yourself in a day of adventure with our full-day rental packages for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards. With a generous 8-hour rental period, you'll have ample time to explore the waterways at your own pace and discover the hidden gems of nature. Whether you choose the tranquility of a kayak, the versatility of a canoe, or the thrill of stand-up paddleboarding, our top-quality equipment ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a solo explorer, a couple seeking a romantic outing, or a group of friends in search of outdoor fun, our full-day rentals offer the freedom to create cherished memories and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors.

The best day trips from Louisville (for a day away from the races)

May 1, 2022 • 7 min read

The North Christian Church is just one of many striking buildings in Columbus, Indiana, an easy day trip from Louisville © gnagel / Getty Images

Kentucky’s most vibrant city,  Louisville has a lot going for it. On top of a great dining and drinking scene, fun arts events and picturesque neighborhoods, the city lies within easy reach of a diverse range of attractions. Snaking caverns, world-renowned thoroughbred horse farms and some of the best distilleries in America are all less than two hours’ drive from the River City.

If you've come down for the Derby and want to see more of Kentucky, the following day trips are ideal for travelers interested in exploring rural and urban landscapes. The state's sun-dappled bluegrass pastures make a fine counterpoint to historic downtowns dotted with whiskey bars and eclectic eateries. You’ll also find plenty of surprises, from a tiny city famed for modernist architecture to a Tibetan monastery on the edge of a vibrant college town.

Wherever you head from Louisville, you’ll need a car – public transportation is unfortunately quite limited here. Once you've sorted out your wheels, aim them at these five top day trips from Louisville.

Columbus, Indiana  

Why Go: To admire an astonishing collection of 20th-century architecture

Even many Indiana locals are unaware of the great architectural treasure trove in the southern part of the state. From the middle of the 20th century, the town of Columbus, Indiana, became a veritable drawing board for some of the world’s greatest living architects. More than 60 buildings here were designed by famous names, including Eero Saarinen, Richard Meier, IM Pei, Cesar Pelli, Harry Weese and Deborah Berke among many others. 

The American Institute of Architects has ranked Columbus the sixth-best city in the nation for its outstanding array of architecture – not bad for a city with a population of just 50,000. Don’t miss the First Christian Church, designed by Finnish architect Eliel Saarinen (father of Eero Saarinen) in 1942; the brick-and-limestone structure is a Modernist masterpiece.

There’s also some impressive public art on display, with works by the likes of Henry Moore, Robert Indiana and Dale Chihuly. Download the free '' Columbus, IN Tours " app on your smartphone and you can explore the great art and architecture at your leisure. You can also arrange tours and pick up maps at the Columbus visitors center .

If you need a break, stop in at Zaharakos , a beautifully restored, 1900s-era ice cream parlor with a mahogany counter, stained glass windows and Tiffany-style lamps, as well as outstanding homemade ice cream and classic American fare.

How to get to Columbus from Louisville: If you’re driving, it’s a straight shot up I-65 from Louisville to Columbus; allow about 75 minutes for the 70-mile drive. For a dose of nature along the way, stop in at Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge . You can walk one of five trails while keeping an eye out for the 290 bird species that pass through each year, including greater sandhill cranes in winter.

Lexington, Kentucky 

Why go: To visit leafy neighborhoods and thoroughbred farms in America's horse capital 

Set in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass country, Lexington often outscores its bigger neighbor to the north when it comes to desirability for both visitors and residents. The state’s second-largest city regularly makes the top 30 in annual round-ups of the best places to live in the USA (this is something you might want to keep to yourself when you’re back in Louisville, as the two towns are long-time rivals).

Historic homes, inviting parks and a wide assortment of family-friendly attractions make Lexington well worth your time for a day trip, or even an overnight stay. This equine-obsessed town is often called "the horse capital of the world" for the thoroughbred farms just outside of town. You can learn all about Lexington’s beloved racehorses (or even go for a ride) on a visit to the Kentucky Horse Park . Alternatively, catch turf racing at Keeneland or see harness racing at the Red Mile racetrack . 

Beyond horses, there’s much to do in Lexington, from visiting the grand mansion and manicured gardens at the Ashland Estate to sipping your way through the town’s notable distilleries and microbreweries. You can check out the city's liquid largesse on the whimsically named Brewgrass Trail .

How to get to Lexington from Louisville: Allow about 90 minutes for the 80-mile drive east from Louisville on I-64. Along the way, you can stop in Frankfort, the state’s charming capital on the banks of the Kentucky River. Take a bite at Frank’s White Light Diner , which serves up hearty Cajun cooking near the Singing Bridge.   

Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky 

Why go: To see a glittering subterranean landscape in the world’s largest cave system

Covering more than 400 miles of underground passageways, Mammoth Cave National Park staggers the imagination. Strolling through these cool, silent passageways, you’ll see natural wonders formed over millions of years, from waterfall-like columns to shimmering stalactites adorning vast cathedral-like chambers.

National park guides run a wide variety of guided trips throughout the year. The four-hour Grand Avenue tour takes you through slot canyons, gypsum-lined tunnels and up steep hills – a journey that showcases the caves’ geological diversity. You can also learn about centuries of human influence in the cave on a historic tour, or see the caverns lit up by lantern on the Violet City tour. Be sure to book well ahead, as tours can fill up weeks in advance.

How to get to Mammoth Cave National Park from Louisville: The 88-mile drive from Louisville to the caves takes about 90 minutes. It's worth spending the night for a bit of uninterrupted stargazing – in 2021, Mammoth Cave was named an international dark sky park . You can stay overnight at the Lodge at Mammoth Caves (run by the park service) in pleasant wooden cottages surrounded by greenery.

Bardstown, Kentucky 

Why go: To taste Kentucky’s finest bourbon at historic distilleries

One of the oldest settlements in Kentucky, Bardstown is a charming small town with Georgian red-brick architecture and a walkable center that invites you to explore. You can check out eye-catching locally owned shops and tempting food stops such as Hadorn’s , a third-generation family bakery famed for its cinnamon rolls and donuts.

Snacking and window shopping are fine preludes to the main event here – namely delving into the lore of bourbon whiskey. Bardstown calls itself "the bourbon capital of the world" and it’s hard to dispute that claim given the town’s staggering number of distilleries and bourbon bars. You can learn about the spirit’s past on a visit to the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History , then go for tours and tastings at iconic distilleries such as Barton 1792 , Heaven Hill or Willett .

How to get to Bardstown from Louisville: It takes about an hour to cover the 44 miles between Louisville and Bardstown. If your focus is just on bourbon, you can book an excursion from Louisville with Mint Julep Tours , which visits three bourbon distilleries (they also offer custom tours).

Bloomington, Indiana

Why go: To see Indiana at its most eclectic 

One of the loveliest college campuses in America lies amidst the rolling hills of south central Indiana. Spread across 1900 acres, Indiana University is an inviting expanse of grassy lawns, woodlands and creeks, with historic limestone buildings sprouting among the greenery. After strolling the grounds, you can spend the day taking in some impressive culture, from modernist masterpieces tucked inside the IM Pei–designed Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art to the rare manuscripts in the Lilly Library .

Sprawling around the university, Bloomington is one of Indiana’s most culturally dynamic small towns. You can find outstanding ethnic fare at places such as Samira , a much-loved Afghani restaurant, or hear up-and-coming local bands at The Bluebird . Southeast of the center, take time to stroll the peaceful grounds of the Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center , founded by Thubten Jigme Norbu, the late brother of the Dalai Lama, back in 1979. 

How to get to Bloomington from Louisville: Bloomington is a two-hour drive northwest of Louisville. Set out early so you can stop in at Brown County State Park along the way; 18 miles of hiking trails loop through Indiana’s largest state park, offering some fabulous views across to the hill-covered horizon.

You may also like: How to visit Louisville on a budget How to get around Louisville, Kentucky The complete guide to Mammoth Cave National Park

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Top 10 Day Trips from Louisville

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These day trips are all within 100 miles and an hour and a half of driving time from Louisville —perfect for a day away from home or for exploring nearby locations while on vacation.

Bardstown, Kentucky

 Patrick Baehl de Lescure/CC BY-SA 4.0/Creative Commons

Lovingly referred to as the "Bourbon Capital of the World," Bardstown Kentucky, at 40 miles and one hour from Louisville is a great spot for a day trip from Louisville. If you love bourbon, you'll want to check out the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in September, or Bardstown's Four Roses Distillery, Heaven Hill Distilleries Bourbon Heritage Center, Historic Tom Moore Distillery, Jim Beam American Outpost, and Maker's Mark Distillery year round. If you're not into bourbon or just want to do something other than tour distilleries, check out the Abbey of Gethsemani, Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, and the Kentucky Railway Museum.

Mammoth Cave (Cave City)

 James St. John/CC BY 2.0/Flickr

Mammoth Cave , located in Cave City at just under 100 miles and an hour and a half from Downtown Louisville, is a wonderful Kentucky attraction. Visitors to Cave City can take several different trips through Mammoth Cave, they can swim, camp, fish, and boat in Barren River State Resort Park, and they can go horseback riding, explore museums, and go golfing. There is enough to do in Cave City to fill a weekend, so it's lucky for us here in Louisville that Cave City is such a short drive away. You'll definitely want to go back. ​

NOTE: Mammoth Cave is on Central time, which is one hour behind Louisville time.

French Lick, Indiana

 LouisvilleUSACE/CC BY 2.0/Flickr

French Lick was always a big attraction for Louisville residents because of Patoka Lake and the natural hot springs found in the area, but it is even more so now that French Lick sports a casino and world-class resort. French Lick is approximately 58 miles and one hour and 15 minutes from Downtown Louisville. Additionally, both Holiday World and Spring Mill are just a short drive from French Lick. While you're there, you'll want to check out the resort and casino, Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park , and the horse stables.

Cincinnati, Ohio

Mike Simons/Getty Images

At just under 100 miles and an hour and a half from Louisville, Cincinnati is a great day trip destination. The top attractions for Louisvillians in and around Cincinnati  are Paramount's Kings Island and the Cincinnati Zoo. Another great attraction just outside of Cincinnati is the Newport Aquarium that puts Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg to shame. Other popular Cincinnati attractions include the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, the Krohn Conservatory, and the River Downs Racetrack.

Brown County, Indiana

 Steven Raymer/Getty Images

Brown County is close to 90 miles and an hour and a half from Louisville. If you love to shop for arts and crafts, Brown County will be your paradise. Brown County's biggest attraction is its shopping square with hundreds of stores selling handmade gifts. There are also numerous wineries, Indiana's largest state park, and a smaller replica of Tennessee's Grand Ole Opry . If you're craving Gatlinburg but don't have the time for the five-hour drive, a day trip to Brown County may quell your craving for a while.

Lexington, Kentucky

 Jerry Dohnal/Getty Images

As the home of the University of Kentucky and its status as one of Kentucky's biggest cities, Lexington is sometimes seen as Louisville's rival. However, Lexington is a gorgeous city that's worth a visit, regardless of how much you dislike anything affiliated with the UK. At 80 miles and approximately an hour and fifteen minutes from Downtown Louisville, a trip to Lexington is a great way to escape the city for a while. While you're there, check out Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Race Course, and Shaker Village, or visit one of Lexington's major distilleries: Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Four Roses, and Wild Turkey.

Holiday World

Holiday World is typically less crowded than the other nearby theme parks and the drive there isn't bad at all. Holiday World is just over 70 miles and one hour and fifteen minutes from Downtown Louisville. Some of the theme park's most popular features are Pilgrim's Plunge (the world's tallest water ride), one of the most popular wooden roller coasters in the world, and Splashin' Safari, Holiday World's gigantic water park.

Frankfort, Kentucky

 by Jonathan D. Goforth/Getty Images

At about 50 miles and one hour from Louisville, Frankfort is a great day trip to make if you're interested in Kentucky government and history. Frankfort is Kentucky's state capital and the site of many state historic buildings, such as the old governor's mansion, the Frank Lloyd Wright-Zigler House, and the liberty hall historic site. Additionally, Frankfort is home to the Buffalo Trace distillery, Daniel Boone's grave, and the Kentucky Vietnam Veteran's Memorial, among other interesting historic state attractions.

Spring Mill State Park, Indiana

bnpositive/CC BY-SA 2.0/Flickr

Spring Mill isn't really all that far away from Louisville in distance (only 64 miles), but it takes about an hour and a half to get there because you have to take Indiana highways through a lot of small towns all the way there. However, Spring Mill is definitely worth the trip. At Spring Mill you can take a guided boat tour of the Twin Caves, you can hike, you can swim in the park's huge pool, and you can camp. There's also an inn if you decide to stay overnight.

Corydon, Indiana

 StevenW./CC BY-SA 2.0/Flickr

Corydon is a small town approximately 30 miles west of Louisville that is best known for being Indiana's first state capital . Corydon's Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the town square is filled with buildings that tell the story of Indiana's past. Additionally, there are several quaint craft and specialty shops there where you can find unique treasures for all of your family and friends. If you go, make sure you take a walk through the town square to see all of the historic buildings and landmarks.

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Top 10 Day Trips from Louisville, KY

Looking for a good day trip from louisville. have a free day to spend with the family why not take a day trip somewhere and go exploring, here are our picks for 10 family friendly day trips – all within 100 miles of louisville – something for every season..

3. Mammoth Cave – World’s largest network of natural caves and underground passageways – need I say more? Read about it here

4. Holiday World – Santa Claus, IN – Is it summertime? Read our great tips for visiting here .

5. Frankfort, KY – Capital of Kentucky is a must visit! There are several historical landmarks, museums, and historical sites . Great way to bring history alive for those kids study Kentucky history in school. They have a wonderful aquatic center for summer fun . Also, here’s a day trip itinerary. 

8. Spring Mill State Park , Mitchell, Indiana -Besides hiking and biking, there is a pioneer village, Virgil I “Gus” Grissom Memorial- for the second man in space, and cave boat tours.

9. Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest  – See our review here  and travel a little farther south to visit Abraham Lincoln’s Birthplace National Historic Park .