In a state that’s world famous for caves, it should come as no surprise that there’s a Kentucky town named after a cave. Horse Cave, Kentucky, is a town that’s not only built atop a cave, but this underground crevasse bisects the downtown district! There’s no place in the state like Horse Cave, so allow us to wax poetic about this charming little locale in the Bluegrass:

Horse Cave, KY, is one of those small towns that, at first glance, doesn't look all that unique or extraordinary. But here in Kentucky, we know better than to be fooled by appearances, because some of our state's greatest treasures are literally hidden underground!
City of Horse Cave/Facebook
Horse Cave is no different. Located just 15 minutes from *the* Mammoth Cave, this charming little town of 2,200 has its own epic underworld, and it's not only Horse Cave's namesake but also its defining feature.
Hidden River Cave/American Cave Museum/Facebook
Because, you see, the cave for which the city is named is located on the south side of Main Street -- literally smack in the center of town!
Hidden River Cave/American Cave Museum/Facebook

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The town was first settled in the 1840s, and there are numerous explanations for its unusual name. One is that Native Americans or outlaws hid horses in the cave; another is that an early carriage may have lost a horse when it fell into the crevasse by accident; a third reason involves the 19th-century use of "horse" as slang for anything big or huge.
Hidden River Cave/American Cave Museum/Facebook
And this opening? It is one of the largest and most scenic in the country.
The cave has also been known as "Hidden River Cave," due to an underground stream located inside.
Hidden River Cave/American Cave Museum/Facebook
Whatever the exact reason, Horse Cave is a fitting name that combines two of the attributes for which the Bluegrass State is most famous.
Dave Bunnell via Wikimedia Commons
By the way, this underground cave? It's open for exploration. Operated by the American Cave Conservation Association, public tours are offered year-round, and make for a pretty spectacular Kentucky day trip adventure!
Hidden River Cave/American Cave Museum/Facebook
Come to Horse Cave, and prepare to be dazzled and delighted by this charming and unique Kentucky town. You will be in awe as you descend beneath the ground into this magical underground world, a place wholly unique to the Bluegrass.

Have you visited Horse Cave, Kentucky, before? It’s a literal treasure trove of adventure! This is a fascinating town to visit. How many small towns can claim a giant gapping cave entrance right in the middle of it? There are plenty of famous caves in Kentucky, but this one is one of our favorites.

If you want to explore the town even more, look for the historical markers and signs posted throughout town. You can also tour the area and learn about this one-of-a-kind place. If you are interested in the town, please watch this video from Youtubers Adventuring in the Moment:

If you were interested in making an epic trip through the Bluegrass state check out this weekend’s road trip which includes Mammoth Cave, Horse Town, Lincoln’s Birth Place, and Trolls?! Yes giant forest trolls, check it out! Hop in an RV from RVShare and start exploring.

Explore Mammoth Cave National Park With Us On This Epic Weekend Escape To Kentucky

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More to Explore

Most Famous Caves In Kentucky

Chris Dodge | June 22, 2023

What are the most famous caves in Kentucky?

There are plenty of famous caves in Kentucky but the most known one is, of course, Mammoth Cave National Park. But, there are several others worth exploring. So, here are some other great caves to visit in Kentucky:

 

What are some of the best attractions in Kentucky?

Some of the best attractions in Kentucky are:

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Horse Cave, KY 42749, USA