Nestled in the heart of the American South, Kentucky is a treasure trove of natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural attractions. April is the perfect time to visit the Bluegrass State, as the weather is mild and the scenery is in full bloom. From exploring the rolling hills of horse country to sipping bourbon at legendary distilleries, here are the top 10 things to do in Kentucky in April 2024:
1. Visit the Kentucky Derby Museum
The Kentucky Derby is the most prestigious horse race in the United States, and the Kentucky Derby Museum is the perfect place to learn about its history and tradition. You can tour the museum’s exhibits, watch a film about the race, and even take a behind-the-scenes tour of Churchill Downs, the home of the Derby.
2. Take a Distillery Tour
Kentucky is famous for its bourbon whiskey, and there are dozens of distilleries to visit throughout the state. Take a tour of a distillery to learn about the bourbon-making process, sample some of the local spirits, and even buy a bottle or two to take home.
3. Visit Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the longest cave system in the world, with over 400 miles of explored passages. Take a guided tour of the cave to see its stunning formations, and learn about the history and geology of the area.
4. Explore Daniel Boone National Forest
Daniel Boone National Forest is a beautiful area of Kentucky with hiking trails for all levels of fitness. Hike to the top of Pilot Knob for stunning views of the forest, or take a leisurely walk along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway.
5. Visit the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a living history museum that tells the story of the Shaker community that lived there from 1805 to 1923. Take a tour of the village to see their historic buildings, watch demonstrations of traditional Shaker crafts, and enjoy a meal in the Shaker dining room.
6. Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Louisville Slugger is the official bat of Major League Baseball, and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a great place to learn about the history of baseball and the manufacturing process of baseball bats. Take a tour of the museum and factory, and even get a chance to swing a bat yourself.
7. Attend the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival
The Kentucky Shakespeare Festival is an annual festival held in Louisville that features performances of Shakespeare’s plays. The festival is held in Central Park, and it’s a great way to enjoy a night of theater under the stars.
8. Visit the Newport Aquarium
The Newport Aquarium is a world-class aquarium that features over 11,000 animals from around the world. You can see sharks, penguins, jellyfish, and even a giant Pacific octopus. The aquarium also has a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place to visit for families with children.
9. Visit the Museum of the American Revolution
The Museum of the American Revolution is a state-of-the-art museum that tells the story of the American Revolution. The museum has a collection of over 7,000 artifacts, including George Washington’s sword and Thomas Jefferson’s desk.
10. Visit the Creation Museum
The Creation Museum is a unique museum that presents a young-earth creationist view of the world. The museum has a number of exhibits that explore the creation of the world, the history of the earth, and the relationship between science and religion.
Culture, Best Months to Visit, Nearby Transportation, Local Food, Best Hotels, and Conclusion
Kentucky is a state with a rich culture and history, and there are many things to see and do. With its rolling hills, lush forests, and vibrant cities, Kentucky is a great place to visit any time of year. However, spring is an especially beautiful time to visit, with the flowers in bloom and the weather mild.
Kentucky is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. There are several major airports in Kentucky, including Louisville International Airport (SDF), Covington / Cincinnati International Airport (CVG), and Lexington Blue Grass Airport (LEX). Amtrak also provides train service to several cities in Kentucky.
Kentucky is home to a number of delicious local foods, including fried chicken, barbecue, and bourbon. You can find these local specialties in restaurants throughout the state.
There are a number of great hotels in Kentucky, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the best hotels in Kentucky include the Seelbach Hilton Louisville, the 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, and the Brown Hotel in Louisville.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Kentucky has something to offer everyone. So come on down and explore the Bluegrass State!
