15 Incredible Trips in Kentucky That Are Bucket List Worthy

When it comes to planning the best trips in Kentucky, there's an overwhelming number of attractions to choose from. Fortunately for locals, there's no need to break the bank or endure a long plane ride to experience an awesome trip. We're lucky to have places right here in our own state that make for fun and memorable trips, regardless of age or interests.

From romantic weekend getaways to family-friendly day trips, we have so many options available as Kentuckians. Explore these 15 incredible day trips, along with a few staycations and weekend activities in the Bluegrass State to enjoy.

1. Take a Train Ride Through the Countryside

We don't have many passenger trains for commuting in Kentucky, so there's a certain novelty about taking a train trip. We have a few options for fun day trips you can take via train, including My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown, which offers a gourmet meal on an excursion through the beautiful countryside, or the Big South Fork Scenic Railway in Stearns, which runs through the gorge of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.

2. Ride a Chairlift for a Breathtaking View

The incredible Natural Bridge Skylift typically opens in spring and is a must-visit destination. Located in Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade, this chairlift takes visitors to the top of Natural Bridge. Soak in the stunning views of the surrounding valleys and explore the hiking trails at the top. Beauty abounds in this natural environment.

3. Descend Into the World's Longest Cave System

This stunning subterranean wonder is located in Mammoth Cave National Park. There is no shortage of amazing outdoor activities to do here. For visitors who want to stay above ground, there are also 84 miles of hiking trails—for people of all skill levels. There are also spots for camping and two rivers to enjoy and explore. Arguably one of the best day trips in Kentucky.

4. Paddle Through the Only Underground Boat Tour

Speaking of caves, the Lost River Cave is home to the only underground boat tour in the state. Located in Bowling Green, this spot is considered the "shortest, deepest river in the world." The cave's waterway—which is 400 feet long and 437 feet deep— has even been recognized by Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Stop by this amazing sight in the summer for a boat tour and be prepared for an unforgettable experience.

5. Behold the Beauty of the "Niagara of the South"

Cumberland Falls is located in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Corbin. This huge waterfall is one of the most popular attractions in the state and is something every Kentuckian should see at least once. This waterfall is the only place in the western hemisphere where a moonbow occurs, meaning light from a full moon is refracted off the water of the falls, creating a rainbow in the middle of the night.

Victoria Falls in Africa is the only other place in the world where a moonbow happens regularly. This state park features other magnificent waterfalls like Eagle Falls and Dog Slaughter Falls—all of which make for a memorable getaway experience.

6. Take a Break at This Secluded Resort

Cliffview Resort is a secluded place to relax and unwind in the Red River Gorge area. It's a great place to take an affordable vacation or host a special event, like a wedding or birthday party. Guests can even go zip-lining right on the property, or settle down at the resort's lobby or restaurant after a tiring day exploring the natural beauty of the gorge. It's one of the most charming spots in the Bluegrass State.

7. Visit the "Most Beautiful Small Town in America"

Named "the most beautiful small town in America," Bardstown, Kentucky, makes for the perfect day trip. This walkable town is located right in Bourbon County, surrounded by one of many world-class distilleries. Other activities include hiking in the beautiful Bernheim Forest, riding the Old Kentucky Dinner Train, or simply exploring the quaint and historic downtown.

Visit the Old Bardstown Village to learn about what life was like 150 to 200 years ago, or enjoy a meal at the Old Talbott Tavern—the oldest bourbon bar in America and the oldest restaurant in the state.

8. Interact With Australian Animals

When people think about animals in Kentucky, they probably think about horses, not kangaroos. But at Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, guests can get up close and personal with various animals. Pet kangaroos, milk a cow, or even hold a snake at this unique zoo in Horse Cave. Since 1990, this zoo has been a family-friendly must-see spot and a cherished part of the community.

9. Take a Dip in the State's Bluest Water

Falling Rock Park, also known as the La Grange Quarry or simply "the Quarry," is a beautiful place for a summer day trip. This pristine swimming hole is located in an old rock quarry. Guests must be at least 18 years old to visit Falling Rock Park and must have a flotation device with them. It's a great place to spend hot summer days; you'll definitely want to spend a few hot summer days relaxing here.

10. Get Cozy at This Relaxing Bed and Breakfast

Snug Hollow Farm Bed and Breakfast, located in Irvine, might be the coziest bed and breakfast in the state. No matter what time of year it is, a weekend spent here is sure to relax and rejuvenate. It's located on a beautiful farm in the foothills of the mountains, and the meals are prepared mainly using fresh produce grown on the farm. There's really no bad time of year to visit—every season is just as cozy and delightful. Pictured above is their cozy farmhouse.

11. Take One of the Most Beautiful Hikes in the State

It's no secret that the Red River Gorge is one of the best places in the state to go hiking. But for the most beautiful hike, try the Auxier Ridge Loop, with views of the variety of scenery the Gorge offers. Parts of the trail feature the valley, interesting rock formations, such as Courthouse Rock, Double Arch, and Haystack Rock, and lush, green forest.

12. Go Back in Time at This Old Village

Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill is located in Harrodsburg, Kentucky's oldest town. Shakers built this historic village in the 1800s, but now it is a 3,000-acre preserve full of history. Out of the 260 structures that once stood at Pleasant Hill, only 34 now remain. Visitors can tour these structures and watch demonstrations to better understand how the Shakers (a historic Christian community) lived.

13. Visit This Charming Town Surrounded By Lakes

The town of Grand Rivers is the perfect spring or summer vacation destination. The charming town is located right near Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, making it a great spot to go boating, swimming, fishing, and more. It's also a short drive to the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which has great hiking and camping. Between its stunning nature and friendly community, tourists are bound to fall in love with this town.

14. Relax on a Beach (Yes, They Do Exist Here)

A beach day in Kentucky sometimes requires driving to a coastal state. But in reality, the state is home to a few different bodies of water, including Green River Lake. This gorgeous lake has a beach that visitors can camp out on and enjoy the sunrise and sunset, take a dip, or dig their toes in the sand. It feels like a summer beach spot, but it's right in the Bluegrass State.

15. Play and Camp at a Unique Campground

Falls Campground in Louisa offers a variety of campsites, making it the perfect place to make summer memories. The Falls of Blaine Creek are the main attraction at this campground—they form a natural waterslide and excellent swimming hole pool at their base. There's so much to love about this family-friendly spot.

Do any of these weekend getaways or day trip destinations in Kentucky stand out? Plan a trip to the Bluegrass State today—there's so much to see and explore!