This Unique Attraction In Kentucky Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year
By Will Suphan|Published February 19, 2024
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Will Suphan
Author
Will has been living in Arizona off and on for 30+ years in the Phoenix Metro and Tucson areas. He has traveled all over the state as well as having lived all over the Southwest. He's been writing for OnlyInYourState for one year and has previously written for Digital Journal. Will has a passion for travel and writing and combining the two is what he loves most. He loves solo international travel and has been to Thailand, France, Japan, and Cambodia.
Here in Kentucky, we have attractions for every interest including gorgeous state parks, charming small towns, plenty of historical sites, and a Bourbon Trail like no other. Even if you feel like you’ve seen it all, our Bluegrass State still has surprises awaiting you. If you’re looking for a unique day trip in Kentucky, you’ve got to see the Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland in Calvert City.
Welcome to Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland. This wonderland of weirdness started in 2005 when a standup comic, puppeteer, circus clown, and actor named Keith Holt reclaimed the homestead that once belonged to his grandparents with only his imagination and two truckloads of toys. It eventually grew into the massive display of artistic abandon that it is today.
The main “office” was once a store, diner, barber shop, and gas station all in one, so it seems ingenuity and creativity run in the family. But wait until you see what’s inside!
It’s a whirlwind of nostalgia, whimsy, and oddities with old-fashioned toys and original constructions that are absolutely packed into this tiny structure. It would take hours just to look at each item contained herein. It’s a tapestry of history and hilarity.
A separate building is similarly filled to the brim with countless other toys and intriguing objects that will delight you and, for some, cause a wave of nostalgia to wash over them.
The owner and creator of this amazing place is quite friendly and happy to show you around, regale you with stories and puns, and share his love and knowledge of the vast array of retro toys and fun creations on display.
Can you believe we’ve only scratched the surface of what you’ll find here? Outside the buildings is a vast expanse of sculptures, collections, art, a small zoo, and many things that are simply indescribable and must be seen and wondered at.
You could spend an entire day here taking in all the wonderfully weird creations and constructions that will simultaneously amuse and confuse you. The amalgamation of nostalgia, creativity, artistry, and silliness is an experience worth taking a day trip to any time of year.
Have you ever experienced the Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland in Calvert City? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments. If you want to see more unique attractions in Kentucky, hop in the car and venture out to see these stranger things:
