Summers in Kentucky are hot and muggy. A cool breeze is a blessing that we usually thank our higher powers for, but that doesn’t limit our fun. Just having a way to relax and cool off is completely necessary to survive the heat. Fortunately, the Bluegrass offers a variety of ways to beat the humidity and still enjoy the summer.
Here are 10 great things to do during a hot summer day in Kentucky:
No summer is complete without a trip to Valhalla, with or without the Valkeries. You may find it surprising how relaxing a day of golf can be, depending on your handicap. If Valhalla is not of interest, Lexington, Richmond, Bowling Green, Owensboro, and almost every city in Kentucky offers a well kept and beautiful course.
The 26th Annual NolinFest takes place at the Moutardier Recreation Shelter on 1900 Moutardier Road on August 1st. This is a great family function with a custom car show, live music, bouncables for the little ones, and food. If you feel like taking out a boat afterward, rentals are located not far away. Information about this, along with other Kentucky summer festivals, can be found at: https://ohiofestivals.net/kentucky-festival-schedule/
There are several different water parks for you to choose from, all with unique attractions and a refreshing environment. People rave about the Kentucky Splash Water Park in Williamsburg’s low price and its variety of entertainment. Venture River in Eddyville, Kentucky Kingdom Wave Park in Louisville, and the Barbourville Water Park are all popular water play grounds for adults and children as well.
There are over 17 miles of manmade tunnels under Louisville that contain offices, historic markings, Dirt bike track, zip lining, adventure areas, and green technology. Take a tour and check them out at: https://www.louisvillemegacavern.com/
This is pretty obvious, as there are tons of places to do it. When looking for places to swim, Kentucky Lake, Red River Gorge, Falling Rock Quarry, Lake Cumberland, Green River, etc. etc, each have an environment that welcomes visitors. This is a favorite among those in the Ohio Valley: https://www.fallingrockpark.biz/
The State Fair only comes around once a year for 10 days. Visitors will see a little bit of everything there, including rides, food, games, businesses, and live shows. https://www.kystatefair.org/admissionHoursMore.html
Watch a show or stargaze in Richmond’s Planetarium and just get lost in the stars on a nice summer’s evening. Show and special event scheduling is available here: https://planetarium.eku.edu/
This Bourbon County tour of eight different bourbon distilleries, is the perfect way to beat the heat. Visitors get a variety of sites and tastes, along with some sunshine. Not to mention you can pick up a nice bottle of your favored bourbon on the way out. There are several different tours to choose from and you can obtain more information here: https://kybourbontrail.com/
From Beech Bend in Bowling Green to Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville, theme parks are great places to spend at least a day or 3 in the summer. The rides will cool you off and if you need ac, visit an exhibit. Going to an adventure park like Beech Bend can open the door to hours of outdoor fun: https://www.beechbend.com/
Even if you don't own a boat, there are places to rent a pontoon or paddle boat. Those who want to go boating but find themselves in need of the actual boat will find rentable solutions at Kentucky Lake, Red River Gorge, Lake Cumberland, and throughout the Land Between the Lakes. You can find pricing and boating availability here: https://www.explorekentuckylake.com/lakesarea/boating/boatrentals.htm
Some of these make me want to just pack up and head on out. There are so many options scattered across the state, just waiting for our participation. On those hot, sticky days where you feel compelled to stay inside, try getting out to one of these instead. If you have any favored summer activities, please share them in the comments below.
Louisville has several spectacular museums, perfect for tourists and locals alike. Our family loves acting as tourists in our city, often spending an afternoon checking out a museum. In recent months, we’ve visited the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Kentucky Derby Museum, and the Speed Art Museum. Recently, we visited the Kentucky Science Center to check out its family-friendly exhibits.
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We arrived at the museum on a cloudy morning and were delighted by the giant mirror at its entrance. After seeing our many reflections in the mirror and snapping a few family photos, we headed inside.
The first floor of the museum had exhibits that the entire family enjoyed. There was a giant bubble station where the kids stood inside a gigantic bubble wand. After pulling up on a rope, a bubble formed around them. They squealed and laughed in disbelief that we could create a bubble so large.
There was also a large climbing structure with tunnels and platforms that the kids made their way through. After climbing for a while, we continued to the noodle forest, where colorful pool noodles hung from the ceiling. We could walk through the pool noodles, getting lost in a forest of soft-moving cylinders.
Next to the noodle forest was a collection of building pieces, large and small, where we could create structures to launch balls. We rearranged ramps, hills, and even bells to send balls from one side of the exhibit to the other.
My favorite exhibit was Awesome Air, a series of twisty, interconnected, clear tubes with fast-moving air flowing through them. When we put a colorful scarf into an opening in the knot of tubes, they raced around the structure and shot out of another tube. There were also water tables and a play area for young children on the first floor.
The museum’s second floor had even more exhibits to offer. At a bridge exhibition, we moved a car across a wooden bridge with moveable pieces. Another area lets visitors build with gears, prompting us to bring ideas to life and test their functionality.
We loved our visit to the Kentucky Science Center. There is such a wide variety of engaging exhibits that we could return again and again. I would recommend the museum to Louisville visitors, especially when the weather isn’t cooperating. I can’t think of a more enjoyable, family-friendly activity on a rainy, frigid, or sweltering day in the city.
Looking to make the most of Kentucky this fall? Whether you want colorful leaf-peeping drives, festivals, or fun fall activities, this guide has got you covered. I’ve rounded up the best spots to visit, from pumpkin patches to exciting local events. So grab a pumpkin-spiced latte and get ready to enjoy everything this season has to offer!
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Kentucky Fall Foliage: Where To Go In Kentucky For Fall Foliage
The Bluegrass State really shines in the autumn, with vibrant colors and stunning views across the state. From the scenic drives at Land Between the Lakes to the impressive landscapes of Big South Fork, there’s no shortage of beautiful spots to the season’s beauty. Explore the best places to see the foliage and soak up the charm in KY.
Wow Factor: A major wow factor of the Red River Gorge Geological Area is its collection of over 100 natural stone arches, like the well-known Sky Bridge and Natural Bridge.
Need To Know: Trail use is free, but there are parking fees at some trailheads and recreation areas. Arrive early in the fall - parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Red River Gorge Geological Area is a nature lover's paradise, especially in the fall. This spot, part of Daniel Boone National Forest, is famous for its rock formations, natural arches, and beautiful forests. Come mid to late October, the place lights up with reds, oranges, and yellows.
Wow Factor: The contrast between the vibrant autumn foliage and the cave’s cool, dark interior!
Need To Know: Mammoth Cave National Park has no entrance fee, but tours have costs. Parking can fill up in the fall, so arrive early and book tours in advance to secure your spot.
For a memorable fall experience, Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-visit. The park is known for its extensive underground cave system and stunning autumn views. In mid to late October, the park’s forests come alive with a kaleidoscope of brilliant colors.
You can enjoy a scenic drive on Park City Drive or hit the Cedar Sink Trail to see the foliage up close. And don’t miss the chance to take a cave tour—while the underground sights are cool, the fall colors above the ground are just as spectacular.
Need To Know: The moonbow is a rare natural phenomenon where a rainbow forms from the mist of the waterfall during a full moon. It's visible on clear nights, best seen two days before, during, and after a full moon, from dusk to midnight. The park stays open for visitors to enjoy this magical event, with the best views from the upper and lower observation decks.
The trees in the park turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow from mid to late October, so make sure you mark your calendars and visit during that time. If you like hiking, you can explore trails like Eagle Falls Trail for the best views of the colorful leaves and the picturesque waterfall.
The park is also well-known for its special moonbow, a rainbow only visible on clear nights. It’s an ideal destination to soak in the beauty of Kentucky in the fall.
4. The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
Wow Factor: The Yahoo Falls is definitely the standout feature.
Need To Know: There is no entry fee, and parking is available at designated areas throughout the park. Popular trails and overlooks will see more visitors during the fall season.
The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area is situated in the eastern part of Kentucky, straddling the border with Tennessee. It's just an hour and a half drive from Knoxville, TN, and around 2 hours from Lexington, KY.
During mid to late October, the Kentucky side of the park offers views of the Big South Fork River surrounded by colorful autumn leaves. You can visit scenic spots like Yahoo Falls Overlook, where you'll see Kentucky's tallest waterfall, Yahoo Falls, and explore trails like the Yahoo Arch Trail, which winds through beautiful forests and impressive rock formations.
There are also plenty of hiking trails to explore, horseback riding opportunities, and the chance to enjoy a relaxing paddle along the river.
5. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
Wow Factor: The scenic drives like the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, Kentucky Lake Drive, Elk & Bison Prairie Road, and Energy Lake Road.
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Need To Know: There’s no entry fee at Land Between the Lakes, and parking is free. Expect crowds in fall, so arrive early.
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, right on the border of western Kentucky and Tennessee, is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky in the fall. Stretching between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, it's full of stunning views of vibrant autumn colors, especially from mid to late October.
You can take many scenic drives around the Kentucky lakes area. One notable drive is the Woodlands Trace National Scenic Byway, where you can admire the best of the park's colorful forests. Additionally, you can explore the Canal Loop Trail or just take it easy at the overlooks in Hillman Ferry Campground.
Best Pumpkin Patches In Kentucky
Looking for the best pumpkin patches in Kentucky? I've got you covered! From scenic hayrides and corn mazes to delicious seasonal treats, these pumpkin patches offer everything you need for a perfect autumn day.
Wow Factor: The orchard is known for its apples and peaches, so make it a point to try all the apple and peach goodies at the concessions.
Need To Know: There are no admission or parking fees, and most activities are affordable and cash-only.
Jackson's Orchard & Nursery in Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a top spot for pumpkin fun. Just a short drive from downtown, this charming family-owned orchard gives you a full slate of autumn activities.
Throughout October, you can enjoy a variety of things to do every weekend at the orchard's Pumpkin Fest. Highlights include wagon rides to the pumpkin patch, a corn maze, pick-your-own apples, a petting zoo, pony rides, a straw castle, face painting, and more. Kids will also love the moonwalk and The Cider Slider, so make sure to check those out, too.
While enjoying all the festivities, you have to try all the seasonal treats. The caramel apples, homemade ice cream, and fresh apple cider are to die for.
Need To Know: Farm admission fee includes access to all seasonal activities, though pumpkins are purchased separately from the patch or store. A combined admission option is available for those interested in both the farm and mini-golf. Season passes offer year-round access to various activities and events.
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Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf in Hopkinsville, just a 25-minute drive from downtown, is a fantastic destination for pumpkin fun and fall activities. You can select pumpkins from a large patch, browse fall favorites in the country store, and enjoy a scenic hayride around the farm.
Kids will absolutely love climbing on the hay castle, grinding corn to feed the farm animals, and navigating the corn maze. Alongside these fall activities, you can pet the animals, play a round of mini golf, and grab a bite at the Christian Way Cafe.
Wow Factor: It has to be the giant straw pyramid, but don't forget to pass by the market and cafe - it's a treat.
Need To Know: The fall season at the farm runs from mid-September to October 31st, and fall activities have separate costs.
Gallrein Farms in Shelbyville, located between Louisville and Lexington, is the place to be for autumn fun. At this family-friendly farm, you can pick pumpkins from the expansive patch, play in the giant corn pit, and enjoy hayrides around the farm.
Everyone in the group will love zipping down the slide, jumping on the pillows, checking out the animals at the petting zoo, and climbing the giant straw pyramid. Don't miss the farm market and cafe, where you can find fresh produce, homemade treats, and festive fall decorations.
Need To Know: Foxhollow Farm charges admission for some fall activities and events. Be sure to check their website for specific pricing details and any additional costs for special events or activities.
Are you on the hunt for fall activities near me? Foxhollow Farm in Crestwood is an idyllic spot for autumn activities, just 20 minutes from Louisville, KY. This charming farm features a pumpkin patch where you can pick your perfect pumpkin, climb the hay castle, and explore the beautiful farm grounds.
Get ready for a good time with a fun corn maze, a farm-to-table market, and lively music events that bring a festive feel. Foxhollow Farm also hosts an annual Fall Festival with local food vendors, artisan crafts, and plenty of family-friendly activities.
Best Fall Festivals In Kentucky
Discover the top festivals in KY that capture the essence of the season with vibrant celebrations and fun for all ages. From lively music and craft demonstrations to yummy food and unique activities, these festivals offer a fantastic way to enjoy the changing seasons.
Need To Know: Parking is available within walking distance of the festival. Look for parking on Winter Street and nearby side streets as you approach downtown Midway. Paid parking options are also available and will be signposted.
Celebrate the arrival of fall at the Midway Fall Festival in Downtown Midway, a cherished event that highlights the town’s vibrant community spirit and cultural heritage.
This festival features a marketplace of arts and crafts, traditional demonstrations of sorghum and pottery, and a variety of foods from local vendors. Enjoy live music, entertainment, and fun activities for the whole family. It's a fun-filled celebration that captures the essence of autumn in Central Kentucky.
The Mary Queen Fall Festival is a community event and school fundraiser held annually in Lexington, KY. Located at Mary Queen of the Holy Rosary School, this family-friendly affair offers something for everyone. Enjoy food, live music, and exciting games and activities.
The little ones will love the inflatables and face painting, while adults can test their luck at casino games, enter the grand raffle, or grab a refreshing drink at the beer garden. Be sure to mark your calendar for this fantastic event and support a local school while enjoying a fun-filled fall evening!
Need To Know: Bring cash and plan for parking; the festival gets crowded.
The Jessamine Fall Festival is a fun event that brings the community together to celebrate the arrival of autumn. Taking place in Nicholasville, KY, the festival has a lot of activities and entertainment for everyone.
You can listen to live music, shop at the local vendor stalls, and savor tasty food from food trucks. There are also carnival rides, games, and a petting zoo for the kids, while adults can explore arts and crafts. One of the main attractions is the classic car show, which attracts car enthusiasts from all over.
13. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill's Harvest Fest
Wow Factor: The standout activity at Harvest Fest is the opportunity to watch sorghum processing and apple cider pressing.
Need To Know: Harvest Fest is included in your general admission to Shaker Village.
Looking for some Kentucky fall activities for the whole family? The Harvest Fest at
" target="_blank">Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in Harrodsburg is the place to be! You'll get to experience the rich history and traditions of the Shakers while enjoying live music, historical reenactments, and traditional craft demonstrations.
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There's something for everyone, from workshops and wagon rides to sorghum processing, apple cider pressing, and a market where you can buy delicious treats like honey, bread, and jams. With hayrides, pumpkin painting, pony rides, and more, it's the perfect way to kick off the harvest season.
Add in live music, an outdoor bar, and food trucks, and you've got one of the best fall festivals in Kentucky.
Free & Cheap Kentucky Fall Activities
These free and affordable options highlight the best of what this state has to offer. From scenic parks to charming small towns and historical sites, there's something for everyone to enjoy while going easy on the wallet.
Wow Factor: Take a horse-drawn trolley ride - it's a charming experience that offers a scenic way to explore the park's beautiful grounds.
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Need To Know: Ticket prices are affordable, with children aged 5 and under getting in free, and parking is also complimentary, making it a budget-friendly outing for the whole family.
The Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington is a great place to visit, especially if you love horses or want to add some fall fun to your weekend. It's not far from downtown Lexington and has a lot to offer, like horse exhibits, shows, and beautiful trails.
You can check out the International Museum of the Horse, watch horse shows, and see the farm in action. Visiting in the fall is extra nice because the weather is cooler. And the ticket price is definitely worth it, so it's a top choice for a fun and affordable group outing in the fall.
Need To Know: Downtown Frankfort offers free and metered street parking, with several public lots available. Check signs for time limits and meter requirements. Overall, parking is generally accessible and affordable.
Check out the lovely architecture, take pictures of the Kentucky River, and explore charming shops and cozy cafes. The streets are filled with colorful fall leaves, and local parks have plenty of places to take a break and people-watch.
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Seasonal events and farmers' markets add to the autumn atmosphere, too, making Downtown Frankfort a fantastic and affordable way to experience the local culture and autumn scenery.
Need To Know: Parking is available in several lots and metered streets nearby, and the park is fully accessible with restrooms and water fountains throughout.
Get away from the busy city life without actually leaving the city by visiting Louisville's Waterfront Park. This free, 85-acre park along the Ohio River offers beautiful river views and lots of open space. You can take a leisurely walk along the pretty paths, admire the colorful autumn leaves, or have a picnic on the Great Lawn with the river in the background.
The park also has the famous Big Four Bridge, which is perfect for a relaxed walk or bike ride. With big grassy areas and a family-friendly vibe, it's a great place to relax or enjoy outdoor activities.
Kentucky truly shines when the leaves start to change color. Have you explored any of these top fall spots? I’d love to hear about your favorites and any tips you might have—share your experiences with us!
