9 Legitimately Fun Things You Can Do In Kentucky Without Spending A Dime

Looking for some fun things to do in Kentucky without breaking the bank, or better yet, without spending any money at all? Whether you're looking for something to take the kids to, have a unique date, or just enjoy your own company, these 11 places in Kentucky are sure to show you a fun time completely for free.

1. Visit Natural Bridge in Red River Gorge

One of the most breathtaking sites in all of Kentucky is from the top of Natural Bridge in Slade, KY. Once you enter Natural Bridge State Resort Park, hike the Original Trail, which is less than a mile, up to the top of Natural Bridge to soak up the beauty of Red River Gorge. The Original Trail is located at 2135 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY 40376.

2. Enjoy river views at Louisville's Waterfront Park

Whether you decide to walk across the Big Four Bridge or along the riverfront, Louisville's Waterfront Park makes for a fun day. Check out their dancing water fountains, take the kids to the playground or waterplay area, and in the summer months, you can even watch a free concert on the Big Four Lawn hosted by Louisville Public Media's WFPK.

3. Walk among the trees at Bernheim Forest

There is a $5 environmental impact fee to enter Bernheim Forest on weekends, but during the week, you can enjoy the park for free. Definitely check out their Canopy Walk, which is especially stunning during the fall. Bernheim Forest is located at 2075 Clermont Road, Clermont, KY 40110.

4. See a natural phenomenon at Cumberland Falls

The only other place in the world where a moonbow happens on a consistent basis is Victoria Falls in Africa, so it's pretty cool that you can see one at Cumberland Falls in Kentucky. The moonbow happens around and during full moons on clear nights.

5. See more river views at Newport on the Levee

Newport on the Levee is located right across the river from Cincinnati, so you will get spectacular river and skyline views. Walk around and see all the shops and restaurants, or just admire your view.

6. Explore Louisville's Olmsted Parks

Louisville boasts four huge parks that were designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who also designed Central Park in New York City. Visit Cherokee, Seneca, Iroquois, or Shawnee Parks for several acres of hiking, biking, playgrounds, and more.

7. Take a tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery

Really get in touch with your Kentucky roots as you tour one of the state's favorite distilleries. They have several different kinds of tours that teach you all about the history of Kentucky bourbon, and specifically, Buffalo Trace. The distillery is located at 113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY 40601.

8. See where Abraham Lincoln was born

The cabin where the 16th President of the United States was born is located inside a memorial building that makes you feel like you might actually be in Washington D.C. The memorial is located at 2995 Lincoln Farm Road, Hodgenville, KY 42748.

9. Tour the Ale 8 One Bottling Company

Ale-8-One is a ginger soft drink that was created in Kentucky, and is still bottled here. Tours of the bottling plant are free, but you are encouraged to call ahead to schedule your tour. They can be contact by phone at 859-744-3483, and their physical address is 25 Carol Road, Winchester, KY 40391.

These are just a few of the free and fun activities you can do in the Bluegrass State, so list some other free things in the comments if you know of any!