12 Unforgettable Kentucky Day Trips, One for Each Month of the Year

There's nothing like a good, old-fashioned day trip, and luckily for you, we've rounded up some of the best family-friendly day trips in Kentucky! If you've lived in the Bluegrass for a while and haven't really explored, then it's time to get out and experience all our amazing state has to offer. No matter what type of outing you enjoy, we have it here in our fun-filled and beautiful state. To get you started, we've outlined some of the best Kentucky day trips, each with something different to offer. Some of these may be better as an overnight, depending on where you live, but they are all guaranteed to be memorable. Plan a few adventures with these 12 unforgettable Kentucky day trips, one for each month of the year.

January — Eagle Watch Weekends

Throughout January and early February, a few Kentucky State Parks host Eagle Watch Weekends. You can reserve a spot on a yacht that will take you out onto the water in search of the majestic bald eagle.

See what it’s like to go eagle watching:

February — Winter Zip Line Tour

You may not think about zip lining in the winter, but it can be such a unique and beautiful experience! Red River Gorge Zipline Tours is open all year long and is ideal for flying through the winter scenery. If you want to extend your day trip, consider a stay at the adjacent Cliffview Resort. If you're worried about the cold, just remember: there is no bad weather, only bad clothing. Get yourself some of the best winter gear and you're ready to rock.

March — Wild Lights at the Louisville Zoo

Take a walk on the wild side this spring! This is the only day trip that is month-specific. Each spring, the Louisville Zoo hosts a Wild Lights: Asian Lantern Festival that's truly magical. The zoo will be transformed with magical, larger-than-life lanterns at this can't-miss event in Kentucky. See more of what to expect, and be sure to check the Louisville Zoo website for information on specific dates. Of course, if you miss the festival, no worries: the Louisville Zoo happens to be an amazing family-friendly day trip in Kentucky any time of the year!

See what it’s like to walk through this dazzling display:

April — Hike to Sand Cave

Kick off spring with an epic hike to one of the most mesmerizing places in Kentucky. The hike to Sand Cave in Cumberland Gap actually begins in Virginia, but you'll cross back into Kentucky before reaching this massive cave. Grab an Alltrails + account before you head off.

May — Hike amongst wetlands and wildflowers at John James Audubon State Park

This scenic park in western Kentucky is definitely worth a day trip, if not a few days. Visit in spring and witness wildflower trails and walk along the newer wetlands boardwalk. It's the perfect spot to be as Kentucky comes back to life.

June — Visit Land Between the Lakes

Land Between the Lakes is an area of Kentucky that everyone should visit at least once. There is so much to do here along the water and in the water, and of course, it's filled with incredible plants and wildlife. One unique way to spend a day trip here is to go horseback riding and watch the bison roam.

Check out all the natural splendor of this park:

July — Head to Rabbit Hash

July is a great time to visit this slice of Americana and charming small town along the river in Northern Kentucky. Visit the famous general store, take in some live music, and enjoy the character of this unique place. Learn why this is one of the best day trips in Kentucky.

August — Take an Underground Paddle Tour

This unique adventure checks off so many bucket list boxes! It's in Red River Gorge, you get to kayak, and it's underground! Located in Red River Gorge, this unique kayak or pontoon boat tour takes you beneath the gorge and shows you the area like never before – and it’s definitely a bucket list-worthy adventure for everyone. Kentucky cave tours are popular in other areas of the state, but Red River Gorge underground kayaking is also a must.

September — Visit a local festival

September is a popular festival month in Kentucky and one of the best is Country Ham Days in Lebanon. You'll be charmed by this small town that is known as the "Heart of Kentucky," and you'll also love the parade, activities, and of course, the food. Find out more about this local tradition.

Read on to discover some of our favorite fall festivals in Kentucky.

October —Take a scenic fall hike

October, especially later in the month, typically offers the best hiking of the year. The brilliant scenery can't be beat when it's filled with colorful foliage. There are so many options when it comes to fall foliage trails, but you can narrow it down with this list of seven of the best. We've also created an epic fall foliage road trip in Kentucky that will lead you to some of the most vibrant colors you've ever seen!

November — Walk along the longest underground swinging bridge in the world

Did you know such a thing existed in Kentucky? This bridge is located within Hidden River Cave in Horse Cave, an area that makes for a great Kentucky day trip. You can head underground all year long, so why not make this your stop in November? You can also turn this day trip into a weekend getaway. Check out this Airbnb in Horse Cave. It sleeps four, has plenty of games (including a pool table), and it's on a farm!

December — Patti's 1880's Settlement

In December, you have to head somewhere festive and there is no better place than Patti's 1880's Settlement in Grand Rivers. See the amazing light display, eat delicious food, and be sure to also make it down by the marina to check out the famous lighthouse all decked out for Christmas. If you're really hoping to get into the holiday spirit, here are some of the best Christmas towns in Kentucky you can add to your list!

This list of the best day trips in Kentucky is just the beginning of what you can experience here in the Bluegrass State. Once you've checked these off, be sure to search our site for more ideas! Are you ready to explore Kentucky this year? Which one of these looks the most exciting? Share this article with someone you want to take one (or more!) of these epic day trips in Kentucky with.

Looking to extend your family-friendly day trip into a multi-day adventure? Then you'll want to pack a bag and embark on this family-friendly road trip in Kentucky, which visits several of our favorite kid- and adult-approved attractions and destinations in the Bluegrass State!