8 Best Kentucky Towns For A Weekend Trip
Looking for a weekend getaway? Look no further than Kentucky. The Bluegrass State gathers millions annually for the Kentucky Derby in May, but its small towns also offer plenty to keep one occupied for a fun weekend. From exploring scenic landscapes to discovering rich history, there’s something for everyone. Within these small towns, one can see a moonbow, climb canyons, visit the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, and feed carrots to retired racehorses. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking relaxation, consider staying at these eight Kentucky towns for a weekend getaway.
Georgetown
Located in Central Kentucky, just a short drive away from Lexington, Georgetown is an ideal spot to learn about the thoroughbred horses that regularly race in the Kentucky Derby and enjoy locally made Bourbon. In fact, at Royal Spring Park, visitors can explore the spot where Elijah Craig first used bourbon oak barrels to create the famous drink. The park also includes several historic log cabins, with one built in 1874 by formally enslaved Milton Leach.
Speaking of historic structures, Georgetown is the home of the luxurious Ward Hall, an 1853 Greek Revival mansion with 27-foot high Corinthian columns and a double elliptical staircase. On the other hand, horse lovers can interact with retired racehorses at the Old Friends Retire Thoroughbred Farm. Those looking to get out and ride a horse can visit the Kentucky Horse Park, which has multiple trails. After the fun, retreat to one of the many hotels in town, including Home2Suites by Hilton and Best Western Plus.
Hodgenville
Hodgenville is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about Abraham Lincoln or a U.S. history buff in general. It was here that Abraham Lincoln was born and spent his early years prior to moving across the Ohio River to Indiana. There are multiple opportunities to experience Lincoln's life here, including The Lincoln Museum, which gathers artifacts and wax figures telling the story of his life. Similarly, the Lincoln Boyhood home preserves a log cabin and many of the places where Lincoln spent his early days. The largest Lincoln attraction is the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Park which includes a memorial marking the spot of his birth along with several peaceful hiking trails, such as the Overlook Trail at Knob Creek. Visitors can stay at the Lincoln Lodge & Campground for an outdoorsy experience matching the town’s vibe.
Berea
Berea has a rich history as the home of the earliest desegrated college in Kentucky. Today, the college remains a major part of the town, and its students regularly partake in Berea's old pastime: folk crafts. Berea is known as the Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky, and there are several spots in town to see that art. These are the Fire and Fern Glass Studio, the Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen, and the Student Crafts and Education Center. Along with showcasing art, these sites offer information and lessons on various art forms.
Berea is nestled in the Appalachian portion of Kentucky, so there are some beautiful outdoor sites to explore as well. The best hike in Kentucky is The Pinnacles in the Berea College Forest, which has picturesque overlooks. There are also historic hotels that visitors can relax in without breaking the bank. One of the top-rated ones is the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant, a great place to rest for your weekend trip.
Paducah
Artists, quilters, and creative people will want to try out Paducah for a weekend getaway. This charming town has been designated as a UNESCO Creative City for its dedication to the arts. One such art is quilting, which Paducah honors at The National Quilt Museum, the first stop for anyone wanting to see beautiful quilts or learn how to quilt themselves. For other artistic endeavors, visitors can see fine art at the Clemens Fine Arts Center or enjoy a live show at the Market House Theatre.
Those looking for a great day on the lake should head straight to the nearby Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley and the Land Between the Lakes. The latter offers water activities, hiking trails and a 19th century working farm called The Homeplace. The Land Between the Lakes also has camping options, with developed campgrounds like Energy Lake offering electric hookups at less than $35 a night. To stick closer to town, the Respite Bed & Breakfast is a great downtown hotel.
Slade
For a truly scenic weekend getaway in Kentucky, Slade is a hidden gem. It is centrally located within the Red River Gorge Geological Area, a Kentucky canyon on the Red River. The area itself is quite large, and the Slade area contains one of the best sites in Kentucky: The Natural Bridge State Resort Park. By taking a skylift or hiking, one can see a natural sandstone arch that overlooks the gorge. Slade also offers paddling and fishing right on the Red River; visitors can rent a kayak or canoe in the lower section of the river. Climbers from around the world visit Slade to try out rock climbing and rappelling with the Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure. The best way to experience this area is to rent a cabin in The Ascender, High Rock Cabin, or others.
Cave City
As the name suggests, Cave City is the gateway to one of Kentucky's greatest natural wonders: Mammoth Cave National Park. With over 400 miles of explored passageways, it holds the title of the longest cave system in the world. Visitors can embark on a variety of guided tours, such as the awe-inspiring Frozen Niagara Tour, which showcases stunning formations, or the Historical Tour, offering a glimpse into areas humans have traversed for thousands of years. Above ground, the park features serene hiking trails like the Green River Bluffs Trail, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy scenic views and spot local wildlife.
Beyond the caves, Cave City offers charming boutique shops like Hippie Joe's and The Market KY, specializing in crafts, gifts, and unique souvenirs. Families can also enjoy quirky attractions like Dinosaur World, where life-sized dinosaur replicas make for a fun outing. To complete your weekend, consider staying at The Lodge at Mammoth Cave, which combines modern comfort with proximity to the park's wonders.
Bardstown
Bardstown is an unparalleled destination for bourbon lovers and a key stop on the iconic Bourbon Trail. This charming town is home to various distilleries, including Barton 1792, crafting spirits since 1879, Heaven Hill, and the Log Still Distillery. The Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History takes visitors through the drink’s storied past, showcasing thousands of rare bottles and artifacts.
History lovers will also appreciate My Old Kentucky Home State Park, a serene estate featuring an 1818 Federal-style mansion and plantation that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song. Outdoor adventurers can explore the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, where Scandinavian-inspired giants crafted from recycled materials add a whimsical touch to the natural beauty. For accommodations, visitors can choose from well-known hotels like Holiday Inn Express & Suites or Fairfield by Marriott, ensuring a comfortable stay in this bourbon paradise.
Corbin
Corbin, a hidden gem in southeastern Kentucky, offers natural beauty and quirky attractions. At Cumberland Falls State Park, visitors can marvel at the "Niagara of the South," a breathtaking 70-foot waterfall. The park is one of the few places in the world where a moonbow—a rainbow created by the light of a full moon—can be seen, making it a magical experience for nighttime explorers.
Corbin is also the birthplace of Kentucky’s most famous culinary export: Kentucky Fried Chicken. The Harland Sanders Café and Museum preserves the original restaurant founded by Colonel Sanders, along with fascinating artifacts that showcase its history. For a touch of nostalgia, the quirky Pinball Museum features machines ranging from 1969 to 2022, offering hours of fun. Visitors can unwind at affordable accommodations like Super 8 By Wyndham, rounding out a memorable weekend in this delightful town.
Conclusion
Kentucky is a treasure trove of weekend getaways, offering everything from scenic hikes and historic landmarks to vibrant arts and bourbon culture. Whether you're exploring the vast Mammoth Cave system, marveling at Cumberland Falls, or savoring the rich history of Bardstown, these small towns have something special for everyone. With charming accommodations and unforgettable experiences, Kentucky’s small towns promise a weekend filled with adventure, relaxation, and discovery.
