Kentucky is one big treasure of a state. From unique museums and massive roadside monoliths to world-famous attractions, and entire hidden underworlds, you'll find all sorts of hidden gems in Kentucky. We've put together the following Hidden Gems Road Trip to explore some of the most unique and little-known places in Kentucky. Check it out and get ready to embark on a big Bluegrass adventure!
Our Hidden Gems Road Trip in Kentucky spans 316 miles through the south-central region of the state. It's a little over six hours, start to finish, but we've designed it to be taken over the course of two days, stopping for the night at a family-friendly campground in Cave City!
View a full Google Map of the trip here.
The first stop on our road trip brings us to a place that sort of doesn't exist at all.
Blue Heron Mine is Kentucky's very own ghost town. Blue Heron, also known as Mine 18, is an abandoned coal mining town and was a part of the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company's historic operation. The Blue Heron mines ran from 1937 until 1962, when operations ceased being profitable. Today, this mining ghost town is run by the National Park Service, and they offer guided tours along its abandoned railroad.
We've visited a ghost town, so it's only fitting that the next destination on our road trip is also paranormal.
Have you ever wondered about life on Mars? Or alien encounters? UFOs? Bigfoot? Conversations with the other side? Embrace your curiosity with a visit to the International Paranormal Museum and Research Center in Somerset, Kentucky!
How do you top a ghost town *and* a paranormal museum? Dinosaurs!
If you’re a fan of dinosaurs in Kentucky, look no further: Dinosaur World is the place for you. The park is mostly located outdoors (so dress accordingly!), making it a great opportunity to get some fresh air and stretch your legs. This real-life Jurassic Park has hundreds of life-sized dinosaurs on display, sure to please dino lovers young and old!
Another place of the past is Historic Wigwam Village No. 2.
Around since 1937, you can actually stay in one of these unique structures!
It's time to break for the night, and we're super excited about these accommodations!
There are lots of unique places where you can spend the night in Kentucky, but there’s nothing quite like this attraction in Cave City; it really is the Disneyland of Kentucky campgrounds!
New day, new adventures! Pop quiz: Did you know Duncan Hines was an actual person? And that he was from Kentucky? Or that, at the Kentucky Museum, "Recommended by Duncan Hines" is an eight-section exhibit celebrating the life and work of the boxed cake king?!
The exhibit is a look into Hines's own Kentucky kitchen, complete with retro appliances, mid-century decor, and a rather uncanny wax figure of Mr. Hines himself.
Next we're visiting one of the most wondrous waterfalls in Kentucky... and it might be one you've never heard of.
One of Lake Cumberland's most surprising treasures, 76 Falls is a lesser-known spot that makes for a great swimming hole in the summer, a relaxing oasis to admire in the winter, and an epic place for fall leaf peeping. A stunning natural spectacle, this cascade's moniker refers to its 76-foot stature, and it really is one of the state's most glorious hidden gem waterfalls.
Next, we're going to visit one of the most beautiful overlooks in the state: Buzzard Rock.
The Buzzard Rock Trail is a straightforward, 1.3-mile out-and-back trek that's super scenic and also accessible for all levels. While the scenic vista is the main attraction, the trail itself is also quite lovely. You'll be glad you stretched your legs along this hidden gem in Kentucky.
As our adventure winds down, it's time to fuel up and reminiscence about our journey.
Located right on Whitley City's Main Street, a stone's throw from Buzzard Rock, Dairy Bar is 1950s style diner known for its nostalgic vibes, delicious burgers, and classic, hand-dipped shakes. It's a fun little detour that is quite literally a cherry on top of this epic road trip adventure!
We hope this planned out road trip of hidden gems in Kentucky has inspired you to pack a bag, gas up your car and hit the road. So, what are you waiting for? Are you ready to see the Bluegrass State like never before? Let's go!
Have you been to the hidden gems in Kentucky listed in this article? What are some other lesser-known places in Kentucky you think people should know about? Let us know in the comment section below. We would love to hear from you!
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!
