10 Destinations Everyone In Kentucky Needs To Visit This Summer
By Jenn Shockley|Published July 19, 2016
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
Almost everyone looks forward to having some summertime fun. Kids and college students anticipate breaks, while adults will sometimes vacation schedule a vacation. Fortunately, there is no shortage of summer fun destinations in Kentucky, regardless of what part of the state you live in or visit.
Here are 10 summer destinations in Kentucky that make for a perfect day in the sun:
Summer wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Kentucky’s town that has been repeatedly voted one of the most charming destinations in our state. It has a beautiful historic district, including still functioning taverns and business from the late 1700s, like the old Talbott Tavern at 107 Stephen Foster Avenue and My Old Kentucky Home.
The fair comes once a year in August 18th to 28th at the State Fair and Convention Center at 937 Phillips Lane in Louisville. It has renowned exhibitions from all across the state. You can see art of all forms, including folk art and quilting. There are also a barrage of shows, concerts, educational and promotional exhibitions. If you like the rides, you will find plenty of those. The fair can be expensive but there are discounts and special pricing available.
The park is located at 5465 State Park Road in Jamestown and is home to a barrage of summer fun. You can rent or bring a boat, kayak, canoe, or raft and spend a day relaxing or fishing on the water. You can camp out, picnic, hike, bike or whatever summer fun your heart desires in the serenity of this scenic environment.
The park is located at 745 City Park Drive. It has more than 250 acres of beauty and fun, including lakes, golf courses and playgrounds. The view is beautiful in several directions, especially the waterfront during sunrise or sunset. The beautiful flowers and peaceful sounds of the water give the park a romantic ambiance.
Looking for a place to cool off while still enjoying Mother Nature? Mammoth Cave at 222 is a perfect way to do so. The caves stay a cooler temp and lack the suffocating humidity our weather sometimes forces us to endure. You get to enjoy a cool environment and see unique formation and otherworldly sites.
Newport on the Levee at 1 Levee Way in Newport is a beautiful destination for the summer months, and it was the original Sin City. You get a fantastic view and a barrage of activities. Visitors can ride the Ducks, stroll the waterfront, visit the Newport Aquarium, take a riverboat ride, or just enjoy the summer sun with a view.
Take a walk by the river in Paducah. The floodwall art gives the feel of a gallery in the sunshine, as each depicts a different scene in time. The cool breeze blowing off the river can get a little cool in the evenings, so bring a light jacket if you plan on staying late.
Louisville is home to the renowned Waterfront Park along the Ohio River. Waterfront Wednesdays bring free concerts to the area during the warmer months and there are festivals each month. You get a beautiful view of the river, plus a fun splash park area that is free to the public. Feeling like exercise? Stroll across the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge, where pedestrians can stroll over to Jeffersonville while feeling the breeze and enjoying the view from the Ohio River.
The lake is a gorgeous spot to go and enjoy a summer day. It isn’t as busy as the more renowned lakes, nor is it as large. Still, it offers the same scenic serenity and good fishing as lakes of more renowned. This lesser known park is a perfect spot to chill for a picnic, fishing, boating or a pleasant walk.
The renowned LBL rec center is located at 237 Visitors Center Drive in Golden Pond. Nature enthusiasts can easily find boat, canoe, kayak and float rentals. The entire area overflows with breathtaking scenery and relaxing places to find serenity. Both Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley make for a great destination with plenty of exciting things to do.
We are blessed with beauty and lots of recreational areas that make cool summer destinations in Kentucky. Some make for great trips all year round. Others are more summer oriented, like our scenic boardwalks. Whatever your mood, you, friends and family are sure to find something entertaining to enjoy in the versatile Bluegrass State.
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