Have you ever asked the question, what is there to do in Kentucky? If so, it turns out that Kentucky is chock-full of things to do, as we’ve proven over and over again. The number of day trips from Lexington, KY you can take alone will keep you busy. Whether you are from here or are visiting the Bluegrass State, we’ve compiled a list of getaway ideas in and around Kentucky. From a relatively unknown pristine beach to zip lining underground, these hidden gems and popular attractions alike are the best day trips in Kentucky and all prove that Kentucky is the place to be. For more information on each of these destinations, click on the link below the pictures!

1. The Beach at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, 20781 Pennyrile Forest State Park Rd, Dawson Springs, KY 42408, USA
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park/Facebook
When you're in Kentucky (unless you happen to have a private plane), it's not really possible to take a day trip to the ocean. But that doesn't mean you can't visit a beautiful beach. The pristine sand and stunning views at Pennyrile's public beach are the ideal spot for a road trip.

If you are looking for Kentucky day trips to enjoy our natural areas take a virtual look at the Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park beach in this video:
2. Kentucky Horse Park
Kentucky Horse Park, 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511, USA
Ken Mist/Flickr
Head to the heart of horse country with a day trip to the Kentucky Horse Park. Try a trail ride around the park and check out the museums that feature one of Kentucky's most treasured pastimes.
3. Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park, 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY, 42259, USA
Mammoth Cave National Park/Facebook
See what's hidden under Kentucky's ground at Mammoth Cave National Park. It's the longest cave system in the entire world and a mysterious place to explore on a day trip.
4. Equus Run Vineyard
Equus Run Vineyards, 1280 Moores Mill Rd, Midway, KY 40347, USA
Facebook/Equus Run Vineyards
For a relaxing afternoon, check out Equus Run Vineyard outside of Midway. This lovely property provides the perfect backdrop for a glass of wine and view of Kentucky's natural beauty.
5. Chimney Top Rock at Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge Friendship Arch Trailhead, Chimney Top Rock Rd, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA
Anthony/Flickr
Red River Gorge provides many options for a day trip, but Chimney Top Rock should be at the "top" of your list. This .6 mile trail is paved and easy enough for everyone, and you'll be amazed at the spectacular views when you reach the end.
6. Paducah, Kentucky
Paducah, KY, USA
Paducah Creative City/Facebook
Kentucky has many charming small towns, but Paducah may be the coolest. Stroll along the river and stop in town for a bite to eat and a drink at one of the many options for a delicious meal.

Take a trip to Paducah, KY in this video from Traveling with Jack and Pam as they tell us all about one of the wonderful small town day trips in Kentucky:

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7. Falling Rock Park
FRP LaGrange Quarry “The Quarry”, 2201 Fendley Mill Rd, La Grange, KY 40031, USA
FRP-LaGrange Quarry - "The Quarry"/Facebook
On a hot, summer day there's no better day trip than one to a watering hole. At Falling Rock Park, you'll find crystal clear water and a chill atmosphere to relax and play. FYI, you must be 18 and they do not allow any alcohol, as safety is their number one priority.
8. Louisville Mega Cavern
Louisville Mega Cavern, 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213, USA
Louisville Mega Cavern/Facebook
Schedule a day trip filled with fun at Louisville's Mega Cavern. With underground zip lines, ropes course and tours, you'll have no trouble filling your day.
9. The Bourbon Trail
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Visitor Center, 829 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, USA
Kentucky Bourbon Trail/Facebook
Even if you don't enjoy bourbon, you have to take Kentucky's Bourbon Trail at least once. The architecture, scenery, art and history all make up an excellent day trip.
10. Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo
Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, 3700 L and North Turnpike Road, at Exit 58, I-65, Horse Cave, KY 42749, USA
Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo/Facebook
Who wouldn't want to spend the day hanging out with kangaroos? At the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, you can get close enough to pet them, along with many other exotic animals.
11. Lost River Cave
Lost River Cave, 2818 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101, USA
Lost River Cave/Facebook
An underground boat tour makes for an adventurous day trip and you can find one at Lost River Cave. It's also a cool area to explore, so be sure to bring your hiking shoes.
12. Rabbit Hash General Store
Rabbit Hash General Store, 10021 Lower River Rd, Burlington, KY 41005, USA
Rabbit Hash General Store Restoration Progress/Facebook
This iconic general store in Rabbit Hash sadly burned down in 2016, but the community rallied to restore it to its original condition. The town is nestled along the river and the general store is now open and ready for you to take a day trip and come visit.

Learn more about the Rabbit Hash General Store reopening a year after it burned to the ground in this news clip from WCPO 9 News:

These 12, day trips from Lexington, KY are some of the best trips to take on one tank of gas, so it’s time to start planning! How many of these day trips in Kentucky have you taken? Which of your favorite day trips near you should we check out for next time? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

And for a few bonus day trip ideas, check out these other awesome ideas throughout Kentucky!

Perfect Summer Day Trip

Day Trips By Train

Trolley Day Trips

A Day Trip Of A Lifetime

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More to Explore

What is there to do in Kentucky?

Andrea Limke | June 16, 2023

What is there to do on a rainy day in Kentucky?

Some fun things to do on a rainy day in Kentucky include:

 

Kentucky has endless options for fun on a beautiful day, but there is still plenty to do if it's raining and you need to be inside. If you still want a little adventure, check out the Lousiville MegaCavern or even a cave tour at Mammoth Cave. We are also home to some of the world's largest escape rooms at Countdown Games in Lexington, or you could head to any number of wonderful local restaurants throughout the state.

What do you do with kids in Kentucky?

Some things to do with kids in Kentucky include:

 

Kids should never be bored in the state of Kentucky! There are plenty of kid-friendly activities from easy hiking trails, swimming beaches, waterparks, farm tours, train rides, and more.

What do you do with kids in Kentucky without spending any money?

Some of the best things to do with kids in Kentucky for free include:

 

The best place to start would be any of Kentucky's wonderful state parks. Even if you have to pay a small fee, there is endless fun and an array of activities offered at every park and they can be found all over Kentucky.

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