Even if you’ve spent your entire lifetime here in Kentucky, chances are very likely that you haven’t seen it all. Our state may not be as big as say, Texas, but we still pack plenty of fun and interesting things to do here in the Bluegrass State. Some of these adventures are very well known, while others tend to fly under the radar. If you want to experience a few underrated places in Kentucky, then check out these 7 destinations that even many natives have never heard of (or experienced for themselves!).

1. Covington
Covington, KY, USA
Facebook/Braxton Brewing Company
Okay, so hopefully the natives of Kentucky have at least heard of the city of Covington, located along the Ohio River. But what they may not realize is that Covington is easily now one of the best restaurant cities in our state. This historic town has exploded with fantastic eateries, shops, hotels, and amazing views of the nearby Cincinnati skyline. When you visit, you'll want to check out the lovely rooftop patio at Braxton Brewing Company, shown above.

Learn more about this scrumptious city in our previous article.

See how beautiful Covington is in winter:

2. Carter Caves State Resort Park
344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, USA
Chad McCann/Google
When you think of exploring a cave in Kentucky, most immediately think of visiting Mammoth Cave, and rightfully so. But there is another Kentucky State Park that not only offers cave tours but practically every other type of outdoor adventure, as well. Carter Caves State Resort Park is a great place to hike, camp, kayak, go caving, and take in the diverse beauty of our state.

Find out more about Carter Caves in our previous article.

Get an overview of this lovely park:

3. The Kentucky Bend
Kentucky Bend Road, Kentucky Bend Rd, Kentucky 38079, USA
Wikipedia/Jim Efaw
Although we've shared about the Kentucky Bend before, many still are unaware of this unusual place. There is a piece of Kentucky that is completely separated from the rest of the state. There is not much there besides crops and tractors, but it has a fascinating story and makes for great trivia about our wonderful state.

Read all about the Kentucky Bend in our previous article.

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4. Morehead State University Star Theater
Space Science Center, Martindale Dr, Morehead, KY 40351, USA
Facebook/Morehead State University Star Theater
Did you know you could travel through space in Kentucky, thanks to the Star Theater planetarium at Morehead State University? This state-of-the-art planetarium offers shows on Saturdays from September - June that are open to the public and are very affordable. It would make for a great afternoon outing for all ages.

Learn more about the Star Theater in our previous article.
5. Copperas Falls
Kentucky 715, KY-715, Kentucky, USA
Alex Moreno/AllTrails
There are many well-known trails throughout Red River Gorge, most of which you'll easily find on a map. But the trail to Copperas Falls, shown above, is unofficial and unmarked, so you'll have to know where to go to find it. While unofficial, it is still fairly popular with those who frequent the area, and it's easy to see why. The falls themselves can be breathtaking in the right conditions, but the entire trail is scenic.

Learn more and how to find the trail to Copperas Falls.
6. Red River Rockhouse
4000 KY-11, Campton, KY 41301, USA
Facebook/Red River Rockhouse
And after you've tracked down Copperas Falls, head to Red River Rockhouse, a delicious restaurant in the heart of the Gorge. It sits up off the road a bit and may not be as well known as Miguel's, but this local favorite is a must-try. The food is fresh and delicious and the menu will definitely surprise you. Keep in mind, it is open seasonally from spring to late fall.

Learn more about Red River Rockhouse in our previous article.
7. Black Mountain - The Highest Point In Kentucky
Black Mountain, Kentucky 40843, USA
Flickr/Ilovemountain.org, Matt Wasson
You'd think that the highest point in Kentucky would be well known, but it really isn't. It may be because this point on Black Mountain in Eastern Kentucky is on private property, but you are still able to visit. You have to fill out a waiver, and the efforts are definitely worth it for the most amazing views.

Find out more and how to visit Black Mountain in our previous article.

Get an aerial view of this gorgeous mountain:

There will always be pleasant surprises hiding in Kentucky and we are up for the challenge to track them all down. While many may have at least heard of the places on this list, there are still so many locals who have yet to visit. Do you enjoy heading to the underrated places in Kentucky? What is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!

And for another underrated spot, check out this beautiful distillery that offers both scenery and history.

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More to Explore

Wonderful Attractions in Kentucky

William Suphan | May 23, 2023

What are the best day trips in Kentucky?

The best day trips in Kentucky include:

  • John James Audubon State Park. Walk among wildflower trails and a wetlands boardwalk and see nature’s beauty all around.
  • Rabbit Hash. This is a tiny town with an old-fashioned general store with a ton of history and character.
  • Wild Lights at the Louisville Zoo. While holiday lights are popular, Kentucky’s best light show is in March with this Asian Lantern Festival.
  • Horse Cave. There’s a cavern here called Hidden Rive Cave with the longest underground swinging bridge on the planet.

Find out more about the best day trips in Kentucky. 

What are the best outdoor activities in Kentucky?

The best outdoor activities in Kentucky include:

  • Kentucky Down Under. This place has all kinds of animals from Australia and you can pet kangaroos and emus.
  • Cave Hill Cemetery. This isn’t an ordinary cemetery. It’s full of amazing monuments and manicured gardens that are gorgeous.
  • Old Bardstown Village. Explore a tiny community with cabins that are over 200 years old and find out how people lived in pioneer days.
  • Old Friends Farm for Retired Thoroughbreds. Give some affection to some old horses that will warm your heart.

Learn more about the best outdoor activities in Kentucky. 

What are the most affordable fun things to do in Kentucky?

The most affordable fun things to do in Kentucky include:

  • Bluegrass Music Museum. If you like bluegrass music, then this museum is for you with instruments, sheet music, clothing, and much more.
  • Henry’s Ark. This is a petting zoo in Prospect where you can pet a wide variety of animals that you might not otherwise see.
  • Amish Country. Visit this area to get some handcrafted goods and try some wholesome homemade foods.
  • Splash Park. For only ten bucks you can spend the day having a blast on waterslides, swimming in pools, and more.

Discover more about the most affordable fun things to do in Kentucky. 

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