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States & Destinations

Explore Kentucky by...

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About Kentucky

Introduction  Facts

Find inspiration for Kentucky...

VIDEO
Cincy Region: Discover Florence, Kentucky

Explore Florence, Kentucky, minutes from Cincinnati: Florence Y'alls baseball, thoroughbred racing at Turfway Park, shopping and family fun in the Cincy Region. Take a look.

VIDEO
Cincy Region: Discover Newport, Kentucky

Newport KY packs plenty onto its riverfront: the Newport Aquarium and its walk-over-sharks bridge, the dining and music of Newport on the Levee, and the purple pedestrian bridge across to Cincinnati. See for yourself.

VIDEO
Cincy Region: Discover Covington, Kentucky

Covington KY packs plenty into a few walkable blocks: The historic Roebling Bridge, the German streets of MainStrasse Village, and riverfront views of the Cincinnati skyline.

VIDEO
Savour The Best of the Cincy Region

The Cincy Region restaurant scene is one to watch. Explore flavours that span the globe and bring a touch of home comfort in one of the fastest growing culinary landscapes in the U.S.

IDEAS
Louisville’s Hotel Scene Earns Trifecta of Major Hospitality Industry Honours

Louisville hotel properties recognized by Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler and Marriott Hotels

IDEAS
Bourbon City's Best Rooftop Bars

Summer is here, and Louisville's rooftop bars are the best seats in the house for skyline views, craft cocktails and warm evenings out. 

IDEAS
Louisville Bourbon Inn Named Tripadvisor's No. 1 B&B and Inn in the U.S.

Louisville Bourbon Inn has been named the No. 1 Bed & Breakfast and Inn in the U.S. by Tripadvisor for the second year running, and No. 3 in the world.

BROCHURE
Official Cincy Region Visitors Guide 2026

Your next adventure is already calling. From the buzz of Cincinnati to the bourbon country of Northern Kentucky, Cincy Region loves to surprise you at every turn. Discover it all in the 2026 Visitor's Guide.

IDEAS
Your Guide to Summer Family Fun in Louisville

As summer kicks into high gear, create memories with a trip to Louisville.

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Kentucky

The Bluegrass State

Kentucky, known as The Bluegrass State, offers more than just famous fried chicken and fast horses. It’s a land of rich traditions, rolling countryside, world-class attractions, and some of the warmest hospitality in the USA. From Lexington’s horse farms to the deep underground networks of Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky is a state that surprises, delights, and invites you to explore both its famous highlights and hidden treasures.

Horse Country and Equestrian Heritage

Home to the legendary Kentucky Derby, the state’s equestrian culture runs deep. In Lexington, the self-proclaimed Horse Capital of the World, visitors can tour over 450 working horse farms, explore the Kentucky Horse Park, and even take part in guided horseback trails through scenic bluegrass landscapes. Live horse shows, pony rides, and family-friendly demonstrations make this area a must for any animal lover.

Neighbouring Ohio brings its own excitement with lakefront cities and a strong sports heritage, while Tennessee celebrates its world-famous musical legacy – Kentucky, in turn, offers travellers an experience grounded in tradition and the enduring spirit of the horse.

Bourbon, Food and Southern Flavour

If horses are Kentucky’s heartbeat, then bourbon is its soul. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail invites visitors to sip their way through historic distilleries, sample craft batches, and learn about the art of whiskey-making from local experts. With Bourbon Cooking Schools and regional culinary experiences, the food and drink scene blends bold Southern flavours with sophisticated heritage.

Both Kentucky and Tennessee share deep whiskey-making roots – Tennessee with its smooth charcoal-filtered styles and Kentucky with its long-established bourbon craftmanship. Each offers a distinct taste of Southern heritage worth experiencing.

Underground Wonders and Natural Attractions

For something unexpected, venture underground to Mammoth Cave National Park, home to the longest cave system in the world. This vast network of limestone tunnels offers guided tours for every level of adventurer.

Cities, Culture and Iconic Attractions

In Louisville, the state’s largest city, you’ll find vibrant arts, culture, and sports. Visit the Muhammad Ali Center, a modern museum celebrating the boxing legend’s legacy, or catch live music and events along the city’s revitalised waterfront. Louisville is also home to a growing food scene and a passionate love for sports cars. Visit the National Corvette Museum in nearby Bowling Green to dive into America’s premier performance vehicle history.

A State Built on Heritage and Heart

Whether you're sipping bourbon in Bardstown, saddling up in Lexington, or exploring ancient caves in the countryside, Kentucky promises a diverse and unforgettable American adventure. It blends the charm of small-town life with standout attractions and scenic escapes.

Come discover why Kentucky travel is all about heritage, heart, and a whole lot of horsepower.

Last Updated: 17/12/2025

 

Highlights

You can travel the world and not experience what you will find in Kentucky. There’s only one Bourbon Country and only one Horse Capital of the World – and that is Kentucky.

State Secret

The great outdoors comes alive in Kentucky with mountains, lush forests, caves, streams, rivers and lakes. The state has more than 12 million forested acres including Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world.

State Facts

Land Area: 39,485.4 sq miles

Water Area: 920.5 sq miles

Population: 4.5 million

State Capital: Frankfort

Largest City: Louisville

Local Time: 5 hours behind the UK

Climate: Summers can be very warm, but sometimes with cool evenings. For spring and autumn, it's a good idea to carry a light jacket as there can be a breeze. Snow falls vary widely from west to east across the Commonwealth. January has an average temperature of 30.5°F (-0.8°C); July's average is 75°F (23.8°C).

Ntl Parks:1 national park (Mammoth Cave), and 45 state parks

More Information

Kentucky Tourism
Tel: 01462 440766 |

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