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States & Destinations

Explore Kentucky by...

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About Kentucky

Introduction  Facts

Find inspiration for Kentucky...

IDEAS
WhistlePig's Big, Bold Hospitality in a Transformed Kentucky Bank Building

WhistlePig Whiskey opened its doors near historic Whiskey Row on National Repeal Day

IDEAS
Louisville Unveils Fusion of Southern Soul and British Pub Culture

Louisville’s iconic Highlands neighbourhood starts a new culinary chapter

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15+ festivals and events to attend this winter in Louisville

Foodie fests, concerts, Broadway performances, and the Harlem Globetrotters are all on the wintry horizon in Bourbon City.

IDEAS
Bourbon City's Must-Visit Holiday Pop-up Bars

These 6 holiday bars are sure to make your spirits bright.

IDEAS
They’re Off! Kentucky Derby 152 Tickets On Sale

America's Longest Continuously Held Major Sporting Event Returns May 2, 2026

IDEAS
Louisville's Iconic Architecture

In honour of Architecture Month, Louisville is sharing its variety of architectural styles – from traditional to modern to somewhere in between.

IDEAS
Step Inside Kentucky’s Awe-Inspiring Ark Encounter

Rising from Kentucky’s hills, the Ark Encounter is a breathtaking blend of imagination and adventure – a place where stories, animals and wonder come to life.

BROCHURE
The Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide 2025

Plan your Bluegrass adventure with the Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide 2025 — your essential companion to bourbon, horses, music, outdoors and unforgettable small-town charm.

VIDEO
Explore Danville – the birthplace of Kentucky.

Discover Danville, the birthplace of Kentucky. Explore Constitution Square’s historic cabins, enjoy bourbon and local dining, and experience outdoor adventures, arts, and events in this charming small city.

VIDEO
Experience Paducah, KY Your Way

From the scenic riverfront and thriving arts scene to warm southern hospitality and local flavours – experience the charm, creativity, and culture of Paducah, an UNESCO Creative City.

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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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