11 Inexpensive Road Trip Destinations In Kentucky That Won’t Break The Bank
By Andrea Limke|Published January 05, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
There is so much to see and do in Kentucky and it doesn’t all cost an arm and a leg to experience. From stunning, naturally beautiful destinations to historic sites, you can travel the state, see quite a bit of variety, and stay within a budget. Whether you have cabin fever, or maybe you’re planning for an upcoming trip or vacation, here are 11 inexpensive road trip destinations in Kentucky that won’t break the bank.
Not only is a visit to one of the incredible Kentucky State Parks inexpensive, but there are so many that there is bound to be one nearby. Enjoy a variety of activities all year long and feel like you're on vacation without even leaving your home state.
You may not think of going to a horse race for an inexpensive outing, but there are definitely ways to achieve this! Did you know that Keeneland in Lexington is open year round for visitors to come in and watch the horses' workouts? Morning workouts are from 6am to 10am and it is free to come in and watch. You can even grab a bite to eat at the Track Kitchen restaurant.
The birthplace of our nation's 16th President is an incredible destination every Kentuckian should experience. And since it is free to visit and explore, it's the perfect spot for a memorable road trip.
Country Music Highway in eastern Kentucky is a road trip and destination all in one. You can drive along this scenic highway and choose where to stop and explore, but all of the options are affordable and intriguing.
You can tour the plant that bottles the most famous drink in Kentucky...for free! Reservations are required, but you can enjoy an interesting 30-45 minute tour through the factory and see how the beverage makes its way into those delightful green bottles.
This roadside attraction simply must be seen to be believed. Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland is a true hidden gem in Kentucky, run by an unforgettable family. It's free to visit, but they do accept donations to keep the property up and running.
Any of Kentucky's quaint, charming small towns would be perfect road trip destinations that won't break the bank. Maysville is a beautiful option with its unique architecture and enchanting waterfront location. Choose a town and spend the day wandering and discovering hidden gems.
Kentucky's most classically beautiful road is free to travel along (aside from the gas money), and is so worth the travel time no matter what part of Kentucky you leave from. Pack a lunch and enjoy this scenic route through horse country with streets lined with wood and stone fencing and rolling hills of bluegrass.
Kentucky's largest city has a colorful (and free!) destination that is worth a visit. Spend time in Waterfront Park along the Ohio River and then walk over the vibrant Big Four Bridge. You can then spend time in adjacent Jeffersonville, Indiana or just marvel at the views from this stunning spot.
Kentucky's State Capitol Building in Frankfort is a wonderful destination, and very inexpensive to explore or sign up for a tour. While you're in town, visit the historic Cliffside Diner for an inexpensive, retro meal.
In 1862, the Perryville Battlefield was the scene of Kentucky’s largest and bloodiest Civil War battle. You can visit this preserved site all year long and experience history, as well as hike and explore through naturally beautiful Kentucky.
You don’t have to spend your life savings to see the best Kentucky has to offer. For more information on any of the places listed above, just click on its bolded name! Where do you head for an inexpensive road trip in the Bluegrass State? Let us know in the comments!
And for some of the absolute best day trips you can take in Kentucky, check out our previous article here.
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