Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips.
Our listing of Kentucky field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a Kentucky field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.
Highlands Museum & Discovery CenterAshland
The Highlands Museum & Discovery Center provides avenues of discovery to children and visitors of all ages. Interactive exhibits, educational experiences and innovative programs, both cultural and historical, celebrate our past, explore our present, and enrich our future.
Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic SiteBarbourville
Although Daniel Boone is often remembered as Kentucky's most famous pioneer, Dr. Thomas Walker was actually the first frontiersman in Kentucky, preceding Boone by 17 years. Come visit the Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic Site and follow in the footsteps of the famous--and not so famous--Kentucky pioneers. The park offers camping, basketball courts, miniature golf, picnic tables, and grills.
Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History and the Bardstown Historical MuseumBardstown
The Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History and the Bardstown Historical Museum occupy the main floor of Spalding Hall, a building that dates back to the 1820s. Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History displays a 50 year collection of rare artifacts and documents concerning the American whiskey industry dating from pre-Colonial days to post-Prohibition years. The museum includes exhibits on President Washington, Abraham Lincoln, authentic moonshine stills, antique bottles and jugs, medicinal whiskey bottles, unique advertising art, novelty whiskey containers, and much more. The Bardstown Historical Museum contains items relating to 200 years of area history. You will find Indian relics, Lincoln documents, pioneer papers, John Fitch land grant, a replica of his first steamboat, Stephen Foster memorabilia, a new Trappist monks' exhibit, gifts of Louis Phillippe and Charles X of France, Civil War artifacts and guerrilla Jesse James hat and wine bottle, St. Joe Preparatory School mementos and much more.
Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History and the Bardstown Historical Museum website
Bardstown's Museum RowBardstown
The Civil War Museum & the Women’s Museum of the Civil War are America’s largest and most complete Museums devoted to the Western Theater of the American Civil War. Over 8,000 Square feet of authentic period exhibits tell of the struggle between the forces of the Union and Confederacy, from the Appalachian Mountains west to the Mississippi and south to Georgia and the Gulf of Mexico. The collection of the Civil War Museum includes the flag of raider John Hunt Morgan’s 2nd Kentucky Cavalry, Confederate Brigadier General Lloyd Tilghman’s presentation sword and a silver flask presented to Confederate General John C. Breckinridge, the former Vice President of the United States. The very large collection is carefully balanced between both Union and Confederate displays. Specialty rooms are set aside for the Politics of the time, Slavery, Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and both brown and salt water Navies. Notable in the artillery room is John Mosby’s one pounder smooth bore cannon made by Tredegar Iron Works of Richmond, Virginia. The Women’s Museum chronicles the achievements of women of all backgrounds, races and creeds during the 1800s and Civil War. Achievements in science, medicine, nursing, writing, journalism, civil rights, suffrage, the arts, military service and more! A compelling women’s empowerment experience. The founders believe it to be the only museum of its kind in the country. The Museum’s buildings are adjacent to the Old Bardstown Village, a collection of ten original 18th and 19th Century log structures that form a Colonial period settlement along Bardstown’s Museum Row.
The Stephen Foster StoryBardstown
The Stephen Foster Drama Association is committed to providing a quality and memorable entertainment experience while sustaining the legacy and music of America's first great composer, Stephen Collins Foster. We produce The Stephen Foster Story at an outdoor amphitheater on the grounds of My Old Kentucky Home State Park. The "Classroom Under the Stars" program is available to students, teachers and additional adults at a discounted rate. Students ages 6 & up $15; Ages 2-5 $10; 1 free teacher/chaperone with every 10 students; Add. Adults-$25. Free backstage tour at 7PM/show at 8PM.
My Old Kentucky Home State ParkBardstown
Federal Hill was the inspiration for Stephen Foster's famous ballad, My Old Kentucky Home. Today, this Georgian-style mansion is as endearing to visitors as it was in 1852, the year Foster wrote what has become the official state song while visiting his cousins, the Rowan family. Step into the days of the antebellum South as costumed guides escort you through the stately mansion and formal gardens.
Kentucky Coal MuseumBenham
The Kentucky Coal Museum allows the public to learn about coal mining through access to perhaps the most comprehensive collection of mining memorabilia in the nation. The product of study and painstaking research, the Museum's collection uniquely portrays life in a coal camp.
Kentucky MuseumBowling Green
In addition to collecting, preserving, and exhibiting Kentucky artifacts, the museum provides educational opportunities for elementary, secondary, and college students and the general public. The Kentucky Museum contributes to the tourism and cultural offerings in the South Central Kentucky region as well. The museum is open free to the public. Individual visitors are welcome for self-guided visits on Wednesday through Saturday. All groups must complete online reservation requests forms.
National Corvette MuseumBowling Green
Since 1953 the Corvette has been America's Sports Car. The National Corvette Museum was established as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit foundation with a mission of celebrating the invention of the Corvette and preserving its past, present and future.
Buckhorn Lake State Resort ParkBuckhorn
Nestled among the hills; this is the perfect place for folks who want to get away from it all. The resort offers lodge rooms, cottages, a restaurant, and hiking trails. Other options include basketball, hiking, boating, fishing, horseshoes, birding, miniature golf, picnicking, a playground, and swimming.
Dale Hollow Lake State Resort ParkBurkesville
Overlooking a 28,000-acre lake, which has become the state's premier destination for scuba-divers, this park offers lodge rooms, cabins, a restaurant, and golf. Also available: bike trails, basketball courts, birding, boating, caving, eagle watching, fishing, hiking, miniature golf, camping, playgrounds, and swimming.
Dinsmore HomesteadBurlington
The Dinsmore Homestead is a unique historic site where visitors can learn what rural life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Nature enthusiasts enjoy the hiking trails developed in cooperation with the Kentucky Nature Conservancy and the Boone County park Department. It is a resource for students and scholars and an area where artists can sketch and paint. Those who enjoy antiques and historic interiors delight in touring the house that contains the original accumulated belongings of five generations of the Dinsmore family.
General Burnside Island State ParkBurnside
General Burnside Island State Park was named for the sideburn-whiskered Civil War general Ambrose Burnside. Burnside led patrols along the Cumberland River, circling this 400-acre island while on the look out for Confederate soldiers. Offers fishing, boating, camping, golf, picnic tables, grills, and a playground.
Thomas Edison HouseButchertown
Just after the Civil War, a 19-year old Thomas Edison is thought to have rented a room in this building during part of the 1 1/2 years he worked in Louisville, Kentucky as a telegrapher for Western Union. Built in the 1850s, the structure is one of the few remaining shotgun duplexes in the area. On exhibit are many of Edison's inventions, including cylinder and disc phonographs, incandescent bulbs and motion picture artifacts. As the museum is operated by volunteers, it is recommended that you call ahead to make sure someone is at the house when you plan on visiting.
Lake Barkley State Resort ParkCadiz
Lake Barkley State Resort Park offers lodge rooms, cottages, and camping. The grand scale, post-and-beam wood construction of Barkley Lodge features 3 1/2 acres of glass offering outstanding views of the lake. Offers biking, boating, birding, fishing, hiking, and swimming.
Green River Lake State ParkCampbellsville
Green River Lake State Park contains 1,331 acres of land and is situated along the shoreline of the 8,210-acre Green River Lake. The park has an 18-hole miniature golf course, hiking trails, a beach, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The state dock, Green River Marina, has boat rentals, a supply store, and a snack bar.
General Butler State Resort ParkCarrollton
Where the Ohio and Kentucky Rivers meet, sits this hillside resort honoring General William Orlando Butler. The Butler-Turpin House, built in 1859, offers a glimpse into the family history. Offers biking trails, boating, fishing, birding, canoeing/kayaking, hiking, miniature golf, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Columbus-Belmont State ParkColumbus
Columbus-Belmont State Park is a 156-acre site that played a fascinating role in the War Between the States. This is the site of fortifications built by the Confederates and later occupied by Union forces. The 1861 Battle of Belmont, a raid fought to test the strength of this Confederate stronghold, marked the opening of the Union's Western Campaign. It was also Union General Ulysses S. Grant's first active engagement in the Civil War. Some of the artillery, which shelled the Union troops, and the six-ton anchor that held the great chain stretching across the river, are on display in the park.
Cumberland Falls State Resort ParkCorbin
Known as the 'Niagara of the South,' the 125-foot curtain of water falling into a boulder-strewn gorge is dramatic day or night. But it is only during a full moon that you can see the moonbow, a phenomenon not found anywhere else in the Western Hemisphere!
Behringer-Crawford MuseumCovington
The Behringer-Crawford Museum is a center for the collection, presentation, study and enjoyment of our natural, cultural, and visual and performing arts heritage.
Kingdom Come State ParkCumberland
With an elevation of 2,700 feet, Kingdom Come is Kentucky's highest state park. The park offers scenic vistas second to none. Extraordinary rock formations are featured at this park, including Log Rock, a natural sandstone bridge, and Raven Rock, a giant monolith that soars 290-feet into the air at a 45-degree angle.
McDowell House MuseumDanville
McDowell House Museum is an 1800s historic house with a fascinating story, an apothecary, and two gardens. This National Historic Landmark site is the former home and office of pioneering surgeon Dr. Ephraim McDowell. They are open year-round for public tours, group tours, and field trips.
The Great American Dollhouse MuseumDanville
Activity abounds in the miniature village. Visitors will be intrigued by the social interaction and historical detail in its hundreds of buildings, and by the vivid characters that fill its streets, back yards, and park. As enchanting as it is educational, the extensive town provides both an unforgettable day trip and a dynamic lesson in American social history.
Pennyrile Forest State Resort ParkDawson Springs
Pennyrile Forest is the perfect back-to-nature hideaway. The park features rooms, cottages, camping, hiking, and golf. Also offers picnic shelters, grills, and playgrounds.
Lake Malone State ParkDunmore
The lake is enclosed by dramatic 50-foot sandstone bluffs rising above the water's edge and surrounded by hardwood forests. Discover the beautiful landscape of Lake Malone State Park on the 1.5-mile Laurel Trail or the .25-mile Wildflower Trail. These easy-rated hiking trails provide picturesque views of many rock walls, once used as shelters by Native Americans. Mountain laurel, holly, dogwood and wildflowers provide a rich tapestry of native flora. Natural wonders abound in this secluded wilderness! Visit with "Annette and Watson Malone" in the big field with their bugs, "Paige Malone" reading a book near the playground, "Happy Malone" at his campsite, "Bobber Malone" lakeside, or "Oakley Malone" along Laurel Trail. They are part of the new larger-than-life attraction "Big Twigs," a family of 14-foot giants that now inhabit the park.
Mineral Mound State ParkEddyville
This peaceful setting on the shores of Lake Barkley is historically linked to the author F. Scott Fitzgerald. 'The Cullan' golf course, picnic area, fishing pier and boat ramp offers fun for everyone.
Jefferson Davis State Historic SiteFairview
The 351-foot monument to Davis constructed on this site marks Davis' birthplace and rests on a foundation of solid Kentucky limestone. Our visitor's center features exhibits detailing Davis' political life before and after the Civil War, and offers Kentucky handcrafts, souvenirs, books and Civil War memorabilia.
Rough River Dam State Resort ParkFalls of Rough
Rough River State Resort Park is surrounded by rolling countryside overlooking a 5,000 acre lake. Overlooking a 5,000-acre lake, Rough River offers some of the finest fishing in the state as well as boating. Park features disc golf, hiking, swimming, an orienteering course, picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds.
Kincaid Lake State ParkFalmouth
Explore the lake in a rental boat from the marina, or soak up the summer sunshine at the lakeside swimming pool. Surrounded by open woodland, the campground offers quiet seclusion with all of the modern conveniences campers expect. Park features include pedal boat rental, hiking trails, and miniature golf.
Vent Haven MuseumFort Mitchell
The world's only museum dedicated to the art of ventriloquism. Open by appointment only.
Capital City MuseumFrankfort
Housed in a 150 year old building that represents all that is left of the Capital Hotel, which burned in 1917, the museum is a large room filled with history and character. There are plenty of details to explore, with exhibits painting a vivid picture of both political and personal life in Kentucky over the past 200 years.
Kentucky Historical SocietyFrankfort
The Kentucky Historical Society, founded in 1836, operates three Kentucky history destinations: the museum at the Kentucky History Center, the Old State Capitol and the Kentucky Military History Museum. Activities on the Society's campus include group tours, educational programs for kids and adults, the finest genealogical research library in the state and a host of special events.
Georgetown and Scott County MuseumGeorgetown
The museum's mission is to provide exhibits and programs that celebrate community history and tell the stories of the citizens of Georgetown and Scott County--how they have influenced and been influenced by the region, state, and nation in which they lived. The museum provides programs for adults, students, and families that encourage them to actively participate in learning about the history of the community. Through the museum's annual program schedule, community members can tour historic areas of the community, listen to local authors and historians discuss local history, and participate in activities that promote an appreciation for the community's heritage.
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort ParkGilbertsville
This park offers hiking, swimming, golf, boating, and eagle watching.
Greenbo Lake State Resort ParkGreenup
Enjoy poet laureate Jesse Stuart's writing in the reading room, explore the multi-use trail system, or relax on the 225-acre lake. The park offers playgrounds, camping, hiking, mountain biking and horse trails.
Kenlake State Resort ParkHardin
Located on the mid-west shore of Kentucky Lake, with the longest shoreline of any man-made lake in the eastern United States, Kenlake is the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors. Offers hiking, playgrounds, swimming, boating, and eagle watching.
Devine's Corn Maze and Pumpkin PatchHarrodsburg
A real working farm where education and fun meet! Enjoy learning about milk production from "Mable the Marvelous Milking Moo," free dairy education materials, 3 corn mazes to accommodate any age group, a hayride tour of farm on the way to the pumpkin patch, "critter" petting area, children's play area with hay maze, rubber duck races, "Corn Hopper", "Trike Track", Human Hamster Wheel and other activities, and a covered picnic area.
Shaker Village of Pleasant HillHarrodsburg
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a landmark destination that shares 3,000 acres of discovery in the spirit of the Kentucky Shakers. Home to the third largest Shaker community in the United States between 1805 and 1910, the vibrant site offers experiences designed to ignite curiosity, expand imaginations and inspire generations. This is where discovery starts—but it doesn’t end until your hands are dirty and you’ve tried something new. Plan a visit to Shaker Village this year and find the explorer in you. Spirited hospitality, fresh-air adventures and great discoveries are just around the corner.
Old Fort Harrod State ParkHarrodsburg
In 1774, James Harrod established the first permanent settlement west of the Alleghenies in what would become Central Kentucky. Preserving Kentucky's pioneer history, the fort has been reconstructed near the site of the original. Heavy timbers form stockade walls and enclose the cabins and blockhouses. Interpreters in period-correct clothing perform pioneer tasks such as woodworking, weaving, broommaking, and blacksmithing and tend the farm animals and gardens.
John James Audubon State ParkHenderson
Explore the woodlands where famed naturalist John James Audubon studied various birds from 1810 to 1819. The museum interprets Audubon's life through his art and personal memorabilia, while the nature center features a wildlife observatory leading to secluded boardwalks and trails. The park also offers picnic areas, grills, and playgrounds.
The NKU Museum of AnthropologyHighland Heights
Founded in 1976, the Anthropology Museum is located on the 2nd floor of Landrum Academic Center. Our collections focus on contemporary arts of Native Americans, and contemporary ethnographic and folk arts of world cultures, especially those of Latin America, Africa, Southeast Asia, and New Guinea. With these collections and additional instructional aids, the Museum serves its educational goals through displays, exhibitions, courses, lecture and film series, tours, and other specifically designed programs of an educational nature for groups of all ages.
Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic SiteHodgenville
Explore the Birthplace Unit, the place Abraham Lincoln was born. Step inside the Memorial Building which houses the Symbolic Cabin. Then explore the Knob Creek Tavern, a log home, and step into the place where Abraham Lincoln formed his earliest childhood memories.
Lincoln Museum of KentuckyHodgenville
Located in the Downtown Hodgenville National Historic District, The Lincoln Museum welcomes you to wander through the pivotal points in the life of the 16th President. A series of life-size dioramas, period artifacts, and a superb collection of wax figures brings to life the major events in Abraham Lincoln's life. From the "Cabin Years" to "Ford's Theatre" and the years between, visitors of all ages enjoy this close-up experience with one of the world's greatest leaders. The Museum galleries include civil war memorabilia, a collection of original Lincoln art, a funeral train exhibit and more.
Pennyroyal Area MuseumHopkinsville
The Pennyroyal Area Museum was Hopkinsville's first museum and is the only Hopkinsville museum featuring Edgar Cayce and African American history.
Woody Winfree MuseumHopkinsville
Cruise down memory lane with classic cars at this Kentucky museum – the Woody Winfree Fire and Transportation Museum. Part of the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville Christian County family of museums, the museum resides in the old Hopkinsville Fire Station. The collection traces the history of transportation with a buggy, wagons, early horse-drawn vehicles, gas pumps from the 1930s and ‘40s, a 1927 Chevrolet Pumper antique fire truck – Hopkinsville Fire Engine No. 1, a 1928 La France Firetruck, and these classic cars: 1909 Model 10 Surrey – “Little White Buick” and a 1926 Model “T” Ford Touring Car.
Lake Cumberland State Resort ParkJamestown
With more than 60,000 acres of water and 1,225 miles of shoreline, Lake Cumberland is one of the finest fishing and boating areas in the eastern United States. The park also offers camping, swimming, hiking, geocaching, disc golf, playgrounds, and picnic areas with grills.
Oldham County Historical SocietyLa Grange
The campus is comprised of three historical buildings, a cellar original to the Peyton Samuel Head home and Colonial garden, and the new Dahlgren Pioneer Barn. They offer hands-on activities, year-long programs for children and adults, an Author Dinner Series, walking tours, holiday workshops, and monthly programs, including Living Treasures and Barnyard Fun.
Lexington Ballet CompanyLexington
Lexington Ballet Company was founded in 1974 in Lexington, KY as a 501c3 nonprofit with a mission of artistic performance, education, and community outreach. The Nutcracker is presented every December, a classic story ballet such as Cinderella or The Jungle Book is presented each spring, as well as other artistic works throughout the season. Educational performances are scheduled on weekdays so that schools and non-profit groups may attend at reduced rates. These include detail introduction, question and answer time with the Artistic Director, and study guides.
Waveland State Historic SiteLexington
The Bryan family accompanied Daniel Boone through the Cumberland Gap to the Bluegrass Region, and established Bryan's Station in 1779--one of Kentucky's first settlements. Tours of Waveland focus on the Bryan family and life on a 19th-century Kentucky plantation.
International Museum of the Horse HomeLexington
"The International Museum of the Horse is committed to educating the general public, equestrian and academic communities about the relationship between man and the horse throughout history and the world." With over 38,000 square feet of exhibition space, IMH is dedicated to the history of the horse and its unique relationship with humans through time. Permanent museum exhibitions highlight the history of the horse from ancient times to the many popular sporting events of modern times.
University of Kentucky Art MuseumLexington
"The University of Kentucky Art Museum, part of the UK College of Fine Arts, promotes the understanding and appreciation of art from diverse cultures and historical periods, providing meaningful encounters for audiences of all ages. Through our temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and permanent collection of approximately 5000 objects, we are a resource for the campus community and a cultural destination for citizens of the Commonwealth and beyond. Our Free Admission policy removes any financial obstacle that might stand in the way of opportunities for contemplation and connection."
Safety CityLexington
Safety City is a no-cost safety education program designed for elementary age children in second grade. Lexington Police Department instructors provide information on a range of topics which run the spectrum of safety concerns. These currently include traffic, pedestrian, bicycle, seatbelt and firearm safety. Instruction is given in an age appropriate manner and provides children with the information they need to be safer in their community. Safety City features a student-sized roadway with traffic signals that students utilize while driving our special cars. Miniature buildings replicating the community make up the “city” in Safety City. It is complete with a police station, restaurant and fire station. Reservations are required. See website for more information.
Mary Todd Lincoln HouseLexington
The Mary Todd Lincoln House was the family home of the future wife of the 16th President. The 14 room house contains period furniture, family portraits and furnishings from the Todds as well as the Lincolns.
Ashland, The Henry Clay EstateLexington
The highlight of a visit to Ashland is the guided tour of the 18-room mansion, which begins with a brief introductory video before your guide greets you and escorts you through the house. Guided tours of the mansion take one hour. Additional time may be spent visiting the permanent Henry Clay exhibit room, taking the self-guided tour of the outbuildings, strolling the formal garden and walking trails, shopping in the Museum Store, or having a bite to eat or a refreshing glass of iced tea at the seasonal Ginkgo Tree Cafe (open mid-April through mid-October, weather permitting).
Bodley-Bullock HouseLexington
Built circa 1814, the Bodley-Bullock House offers fine examples of the Federal, Greek Revival, and Victorian architecture and furnishings. It is noted for its delicate three-story stairway, the finest example of a cantilevered elliptical staircase in any Kentucky Federal-style house. Just off the house's beautiful side porch lies a gorgeous garden that has been restored to its original master plan. Also featured in the house are the Bullocks' snuff bottle collection and portraits, as well as pieces of Dr. Bullock's sculpture. The Bodley-Bullock House is open to the public throughout the year for tours and special events such as Gallery Hops and ghost tours.
Lexington History Museum in Hunt-Morgan HouseLexington
The 1860s home of Kentucky's first Nobel Prize recipient, the Dr. Thomas Hunt Morgan House houses the Lexington History Museum. Current exhibits include the life and work of Nobel Prize-winning geneticist Dr. Thomas Hunt Morgan, IBM, early Lexington, agriculture, bourbon, tourism, the city’s expansion, and the horse industry in Lexington’s history, as well as a portrait gallery!
Aviation Museum of KentuckyLexington
The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is located at Blue Grass Airport, Lexington. The facility has 12,000 square feet of display area, a fully equipped shop for aviation restoration projects, an office, a library/archive and a gift shop. The Museum is a dynamic entity which includes not only older restored aircraft and memorabilia, but also air-worthy, flyable aircraft for the public to enjoy.
American Saddlebred MuseumLexington
The American Saddlebred Museum presents the traditions and heritage of the American Saddlebred Horse through the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts, fine art, photography and the written word.
Lexington Children’s MuseumLexington
The Lexington Children’s Museum provides an immersive learning experience that lights a creative spark for discovery and lifelong learning. Within ten discovery zones, hands-on exhibits encourage children to learn by doing. They also offer events & camps.
Lexington Legends BallparkLexington
The Lexington Legends are a professional baseball team that plays 63 home games during the season. They offer a variety of fun promotions, specials and events throughout the season. They periodically offer an Education Day game for schoolchildren at 10:15 a.m. am that has a variety of fun activities and specials for the kids in addition to the actual game. They offer group options, picnics, team parties, birthday parties and much more.
Battle of Camp WildcatLondon
On October 21, 1861, Confederate forces under the command of Felix Zollicoffer attacked Federal positions at Camp Wildcat along the Wilderness Road. In the resulting action, Zollicoffer was defeated and forced back into Tennessee. This victory was one of the first Union victories in Kentucky and provided a much-needed morale booster to the North. The battlefield today looks much different from the etchings made in 1861. Most of it has been logged over several times. A few trails lead to the faint outlines of old trenches that remain. The remoteness of the location of this battle makes it unique because you can still view these trenches. You can hike those trails all year long. The Battle of Camp Wildcat is an annual Civil War Reenactment the 3rd weekend of October every year at the base of Wildcat Mountain in Hazel Patch, Kentucky.
Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State ParkLondon
Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park combines the beauty of a rolling, wooded hills park with a historic site that honors the pioneers who braved the perils of the wilderness to settle Kentucky. The park offers hiking, camping, mini golf, and a pool. The tree-top adventure park features 60 elements of fun, including zip-lines, rope bridges, suspended tunnels and much more! They also have a reproduction working watermill built in 1939 with millstones brought over the Wilderness Road in 1805.
Yatesville Lake State ParkLouisa
Yatesville Lake is a 2,300-acre mountain reservoir offering the best bluegill fishing in Eastern Kentucky as well as golf and many boating opportunities. The park also offers camping, hiking, playgrounds, and birding.
Kentucky State FairLouisville
Schedule a field trip to the Kentucky State Fair & enjoy a day full of fun & educational activities! The fair is held for 11 days every August. Group discounts available.
WaterWorks MuseumLouisville
Step inside the WaterWorks Museum to see the history of Louisville’s drinking water come to life! Located inside the west wing of Louisville Water Company’s original Pumping Station No. 1, the WaterWorks Museum highlights Louisville Water’s archive of historic photographs, films, and memorabilia, some of which date back to 1860. Discover the company’s contributions to safe drinking water through its innovations in science and engineering. Special exhibits rotate throughout the year. Plus, tour a giant steam engine and step inside the Louisville Water Tower, the nation’s oldest standing ornamental water tower. A visit to the WaterWorks Museum at Louisville Water Tower, offers a real-world, one-of-a-kind educational experience. For school groups, the tour experience meets content standards in science, social studies, practical living, literacy, and math to bring water to life. Field trips offer students of all ages the opportunity to engage with history, innovation, and the importance of water in the community. Enhance the experience by adding a stop at the Crescent Hill Reservoir and Gatehouse.
E.P. Tom Sawyer State ParkLouisville
A 554-acre oasis on the outskirts of Louisville, the rolling fields that were once farmland are now the site of some of the finest indoor and outdoor recreation facilities in Kentucky. Stop by for a swim, play a round of tennis, or bring your pet to the dog park! The park also offers a seasonal splash pad, an astronomy center, an orienteering course, hiking trails, archery targets, a BMX track, a playground, and soccer and softball fields.
Speed Art MuseumLouisville
Kentucky's oldest and largest art museum with over 13,000 pieces in its permanent collection. Its extensive collection spans 6,000 years, ranging from ancient Egyptian to contemporary art. The museum has distinguished collections of 17th century Dutch and Flemish painting, 18th century French art, Renaissance and Baroque tapestries, and significant holdings of contemporary American painting and sculpture. African and Native American works also represent a growing segment of the museum's collection.
KMAC Contemporary Art MuseumLouisville
KMAC is Louisville's premier educational contemporary art museum in historic downtown on Museum Row. Through exhibitions, education, and outreach, KMAC works to fulfill our mission of connecting people to art and creative practice. KMAC offers camps and family programs.
Muhammad Ali CenterLouisville
Muhammad's dream to share his inspiration with the world is being realized through the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky. The Center appeals to the heart, spirit, and imagination. It inspires both children and adults to form new commitments in their lives in areas of personal growth, integrity, and respect for others, and it gives them the tools to make these commitments happen.
Portland MuseumLouisville
Discover the charm of Portland, Louisville's riverside community. Explore Louisville's river heritage through vivid dioramas, life-sized character mannequins, automated sound track, documentaries, and much, much more. Discover the Portland neighborhood, once an independent town below the Falls of the Ohio, through walking tours, restored historic properties, archaeology and interpretation at Portland Wharf Park, art exhibits, programs, and heritage events.
Farmington Historic PlantationLouisville
Once a 550-acre hemp plantation, six miles from Louisville on the Bardstown Pike, Farmington was home to the John Speed family and as many as 70 enslaved people. The 1816 main house gracefully embodies the Federal style of architecture popular on the early Kentucky frontier. Farmington welcomed future president Abraham Lincoln for three weeks in 1841, the only extended time he spent on a plantation sharing the luxurious planter lifestyle. Farmington opened as Louisville’s first historic site museum in 1959 and continues to welcome you to visit and experience the agriculture and people of the early Kentucky Commonwealth.
Locust GroveLouisville
Locust Grove is a National Historic Landmark on 55 acres of the original 694 acre farm established by William and Lucy Clark. Revolutionary War hero, George Rogers Clark, spent the last nine years of his life at Locust Grove, from 1809 until his death in 1818. Locust Grove also hosted three U.S. Presidents, Monroe, Jackson and Taylor, and was a stopping point for famed explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark upon their return from their expedition to the Pacific. In addition, Locust Grove was home to numerous enslaved African-Americans who lived and worked on the farm and contributed to its success. Locust Grove tells the story of George Rogers Clark, early Kentucky history, western expansion and everyday life on the frontier.
Kentucky Derby MuseumLouisville
"The Kentucky Derby Museum, which sits on the front steps of historic Churchill Downs, is a very visible part of our community. Graciously welcoming over 200,000 guests through the doors each year and giving them a first hand look at the event for which Louisville, Kentucky is known worldwide. The Museum aims to provide a lasting impression of tradition, hospitality and pride to our many visitors. The Kentucky Derby Museum, in addition to being the guardian of the Kentucky Derby, offers so much more to our community. Through our Education Department, we offer a free kids program to all public and parochial schools within the states of Indiana and Kentucky. Our Outreach Program travels to communities within our state to educate Kentucky youth about the economics, history and significance of the Kentucky Derby."
Kentucky Science CenterLouisville
Discover the fun of the Science Center. You'll find all the major sciences brought to life with exciting, interactive exhibits that engage your hands, your mind and your imagination! Kids, families, adults, grandparents, students ... there's something for everyone. See it all or explore one topic in depth. A full schedule of special events, temporary exhibits and IMAX® films means there's always something new.
Louisville Slugger MuseumLouisville
It takes a special place to craft the Official Bat of Major League Baseball. Since 1884, Louisville Slugger has put prime lumber in the hands of the greatest players of the game. A visit to the museum shows you how the sport has changed a bit between then and now, but the "crack of the bat" remains one of the sporting world's most thrilling moments.
Frazier History MuseumLouisville
Founded in 2004 and located in the West Main District of downtown Louisville, the Frazier History Museum is where the world meets Kentucky. An affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, the Frazier documents stories from history using artifacts, exhibitions, and guided tours led by a talented staff of educators. Subjects of permanent exhibitions include the pop culture of Kentucky, the history of Kentucky, Bourbon whiskey, and Lewis and Clark. The Frazier houses of one of the largest collections of toy soldiers and historical miniatures on permanent public display in the world, The Stewart Collection, donated by Charles Stewart of Frankfort. The Frazier History Museum offers camps in the summer, fall, and winter seasons; youth, family, and homeschool programs, including Family Days, field trips (in-person and virtual), and the Great Louisville Hunt; Teacher Professional Development sessions, and more. In 2022, the Frazier’s education team introduced The Journey: Unsung Stories of the Underground Railroad—a free walkable and drivable audio tour of significant Underground Railroad locations and landmarks along both sides of the Ohio River in Kentuckiana.
Conrad-Caldwell House MuseumLouisville
Visit Louisville's #1 Victorian House Museum. The Conrad-Caldwell House symbolizes the spirit and Victorian grandeur of Louisville's Progressive Era. Constructed in 1895 by Louisville architect, Arthur Loomis, this Richardsonian Romanesque castle stands as an ornament to the city of Louisville, a distinguishing marker in one of America's largest concentrations of Victorian homes and is a site of cultural and architectural significance to the city of Louisville.
Louisville ZooLouisville
The Louisville Zoo serves as a living classroom, helping students of all ages develop an appreciation for and sense of responsibility toward the treasure of animal and plant life on our earth.
Barren River Lake State Resort ParkLucas
This resort park is located near Kentucky's famous cave area, which includes Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world! The park offers a bike trail, hiking trails, two orienteering courses, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
Historical Society Museum of Hopkins CountyMadisonville
Housed in the former Hopkins County Library, the museum is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features an original 1910 Buick Buggybout – one of only three left in the world! Other memorabilia dates back to the early 1800s and showcases the region’s coal industry, political history, lifestyles, and more.
Mammoth Cave National ParkMammoth Cave
Mammoth Cave is the world's longest cave system. The website offers historical information about the park for those who cannot visit in person.
Nolin Lake State ParkMammoth Cave
The 5,795-acre lake and the 333-acre park are located along the northern edge of Mammoth Cave National Park in Edmonson County. The park offers approximately 9.2 miles of single track trails for mountain biking and hiking. Also available: swimming, camping, and picnic tables and grills.
Clement Mineral MuseumMarion
Crittenden County is believed to be the first place in Kentucky where the mineral fluorspar was mined. Fluorspar is used primarily as a flux in the steel-making industry and to a lesser extent in the production of hydrochloric acid. In the predawn of history, migrating Indians discovered the soft, colorful deposits of fluorite in the forests of what is today the Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky Fluorspar Region. Using stone-age technology, they were the first to fashion ornaments and carvings from the mineral. Unknown to them were the secrets of the substance that in the years to come would give rise to a global industry. The Clement Mineral Collection is comprised of specimens of exquisite beauty from throughout the world. Thousands of these minerals are from the mines of the famous Southern Illinois and Western Kentucky Fluorspar Region.
Middle Creek National BattlefieldMiddle Creek
The story about the battle begins January 10, 1862, when an unknown colonel, James A. Garfield (who would later be President of the United States), led the Union soldiers against the experience of Brig. Gen. Humphrey Marshall and his Confederate solders. Visitors will encounter several interpretive experiences including Confederate Loop Trail with interpretive signage, Union Loop Trail with interpretive signage, and an information station (kiosk) with historical depictions of the battlefield and the Civil War in Eastern Kentucky.
Cumberland Gap National Historical ParkMiddlesboro
Cumberland Gap was the first great gateway to the west. Come follow the path of bison, Native Americans, longhunters, and pioneers. Walk where 300,000 people crossed the Appalachians to settle America. Explore 85 miles of trails and 14,000 acres of wilderness. Stand in 3 states at once. Explore a cave, see Hensley Settlement, or camp under the stars.
Kentucky Folk Art CenterMorehead
The Kentucky Folk Art Center (KFAC) is one of Kentucky's unique places. The center houses a permanent collection of nearly 1,400 pieces of regional folk art. The works displayed portray the culture and heritage of Appalachia. Browse rotating exhibits in the center's first-floor gallery and learn how beauty can be born of hard times. New exhibits in the second-floor gallery throughout the year feature folk and fine art, textiles, photography, and historical content. KFAC also has a gift shop offering original folk art, crafts, and more. KFAC hosts or sponsors cultural events and activities, including the Appalachian Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair, held on the first Saturday in December each year.
Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort ParkMt Olivet
Throughout history, the salt springs at Blue Licks State Park have attracted prehistoric animals, Indians and pioneers such as the legendary Daniel Boone. The park offers a museum, hiking trails, picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds.
Wrather West Kentucky MuseumMurray
The primary mission of the Wrather West Kentucky Museum is to highlight and promote an understanding of the social, cultural and economic development of West Kentucky and the Jackson Purchase. Acquisitions, exhibits and special programs support this mission. Both permanent and changing exhibits are open to the public at no charge.
Kentucky Railway MuseumNew Haven
At the Kentucky Railway Museum in New Haven, Kentucky, recapture the romance of the local passenger train when it was small-town America's link to the world. The exhibit hall includes artifacts, memorabilia and a large HO model train lay-out. The museum also includes outdoor displays and historic cars that you can view from the exterior. You can also enjoy a 22 mile, 90-minute train excursion through the scenic and historic Rolling Fork River Valley on a restored passenger train.
Carter Caves State Resort ParkOlive Hill
Beneath the forested hills of this resort, nature has hidden more than 20 twisting caverns, where you'll discover a 30-foot underground waterfall, and many more surprises! Carter Caves State Resort Park offers commercial cave tours, nature hikes, living history programs, and various nature programs for grades K-12. They also offer archery and orienteering programs for grades 5-12. You can book a canoe trip for grades 7-12. Also available: swimming, gem mining, playgrounds, picnic tables, and grills.
Grayson Lake State ParkOlive Hill
Sheer sandstone canyons and gentle slopes comprise the 1,512 acres of Grayson Lake State Park. This site was a favorite camping area for Shawnee and Cherokee Native American. The hiking trails offer several species of ferns, mosses, and lichens, the flowering rhododendron, "lizard head rock," and the unusual combination of beech-hemlock trees.
Big South Fork National River & Recreation AreaOneida
Encompassing 125,000 acres of the Cumberland Plateau, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area protects the free-flowing Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries. The area boasts miles of scenic gorges and sandstone bluffs, is rich with natural and historic features and has been developed to provide visitors with a wide range of outdoor recreational activities.
Owensboro Museum of Fine ArtOwensboro
Owensboro Museum of Fine Art expands and enhances the cultural environment of the region through a permanent collection of American, European and Asian fine and decorative arts dating from the 15th century to the present. Major traveling exhibitions; visual and performing arts; interpretive events and educational programs for children and adults occur throughout the year.
International Bluegrass Music MuseumOwensboro
Bluegrass is the official State Music of Kentucky, and Bill Monroe's "Blue Moon of Kentucky" shares with Stephen Foster's "My Old Kentucky Home" the honorable distinction of being the official Kentucky State Songs. The infectiously energetic style of dance that grew up around bluegrass and old time music is clogging, the official Kentucky State Dance. The International Bluegrass Music Museum is located in the RiverPark Complex at the foot of "the blue bridge" in downtown Owensboro, Kentucky. As you draw near, you'll hear the sounds of bluegrass music emanating from the museum's radio station, RBI, with audio speakers taking the music to the streets. Only a few hundred feet from the museum's entrance, the sound of music drifts downstream via the mighty Ohio River, the subject of more than a few memorable bluegrass songs.
Owensboro Area Museum of Science & HistoryOwensboro
The Owensboro Museum offers a wide range of educational programming to school groups and other organizations. All of our programming is in alignment with core content curriculum developed by the Kentucky Department of Education and the Indiana Department of Education.
Inland Waterways MuseumPaducah
"The Inland Waterways Museum (formerly River Heritage Museum) is located within the oldest surviving antebellum building in Paducah's historic downtown. Known locally as the Petter Building, this two-story, double-pile, brick structure was built in 1843 to house the newly formed Branch Bank of Louisville. The building still exhibits the original molded lintels, parapet end walls, and denticulated cornice that are characteristic features of the Greek Revival style. At the Inland Waterways Museum you will learn captivating stories and interact with exhibits to experience the rich heritage of inland waterways. Our museum offers a unique blend of education and entertainment, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. We offer special discounts for our partners, children, senior citizens, and veterans. Come and discover the wonders of the river at our amazing facility. We hope that you will leave with a newfound appreciation for the inland waterways."
William Clark Market House MuseumPaducah
The William Clark Market House Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the historical past of the town of Paducah, KY. The museum is located in the historic building that once served as the public market of Paducah and is over one-hundred-years-old. Exhibits and articles are displayed throughout the town’s history from the year 1905. Included in the exhibits is a life-like statue of Henry Clay, an attorney and statesman for the Union, and the interiors of the List Drug Store which are nearly a century old. Visitors can indulge in the interactive timeline, observing the first settlers, the first show of the American Quilter’s Association, and everything in between. The Historical Archives Photo Gallery offers a glimpse into the lives of Paducah’s past residents. Guided group tours are available or wander at your own pace and immerse yourself in the rich history of Paducah.
National Quilt MuseumPaducah
Welcome to The National Quilt Museum of the United States. Colors and designs flourish inside this attraction newly designated as The National Quilt Museum of the United States. The museum has three amazing galleries that showcase more than 150 quilts at a time. There is always something new to see. The museum is open year round and the quilt exhibits change regularly with approximately a dozen new exhibitions annually.
Perryville Battlefield State Historic SitePerryville
Perryville became the site of the most destructive Civil War battle in the state which left more than 6,000 killed, wounded or missing. The battlefield is one of the most unaltered Civil War sites in the nation; vistas visible today are virtually those soldiers saw on that fateful day in 1862. A self-guided walking tour on the battlefield interprets battle events.
Pine Mountain State Resort ParkPineville
A spectacular mountaintop wonderland overlooking the Kentucky Ridge State Forest, became Kentucky's first state park in 1924. The park offers hiking, swimming, and picnic areas.
Jenny Wiley State Resort ParkPrestonsburg
Located in the heart of the Appalachians, this mountain resort is named for a legendary pioneer woman. The park offers camping, multi-use trails, swimming, playgrounds, picnic tables and grills, a nature center, an amphitheater, and elk watching.
Fort Boonesborough State ParkRichmond
The site of Kentucky's second settlement has been reconstructed as a working fort complete with cabins, blockhouses and furnishings. View pioneer life and resident artisans performing craft demonstrations.
White Hall State Historic SiteRichmond
The restored Italianate mansion was built in 1798 and remodeled in the 1860's. The home of Cassius Marcellus Clay: emancipationist, newspaper publisher, Minister to Russia, and friend to Abraham Lincoln. Clay's daughter, Laura Clay, was politically active for women's suffrage and states' rights. In 1920, Laura Clay became the first woman to be nominated for U.S. President by a major political party.
Carr Creek State ParkSassafras
Carr Creek Lake was once home to some of the area's earliest pioneer settlements as early as the 1770s. The marsh environment in the Carr Creek area is unusual for the Mountains of Eastern Kentucky, but provides a wide assortment of watchable wildlife. Wood duck, great blue and green heron, ruffed grouse, bobwhite, wild turkey, red-winged blackbird, warblers, raccoon and striped skunk may be found making their homes in this area.
Painted Stone Settlers School Day ProgramShelbyville
A hands-on field trip to the 18th century! Over 20 re-enactors have stations set up depicting fire-starting, cooking, spinning, Native American lifestyle, blacksmithing, 18th century customs, and much more. Each year approximately 800 students visit our event at Red Orchard Park in Shelbyville, KY.
Natural Bridge State Resort ParkSlade
It has taken nature millions of years to form the natural sandstone arch from which Natural Bridge is named. Located near the Red River Gorge Geological Area, the natural sandstone arch bridge spans 78 feet and is 65 feet high. Visitors can hike the scenic trail to Natural Bridge or ride the skylift.
Shaker Museum at South UnionSouth Union
South Union today is more than just a memory. It is a place to visit and learn firsthand about the Shaker way of life. Several of the original buildings have been restored and now house a fine museum of Shaker folklife and material culture, a unique gift shop, and overnight lodgings.
Lincoln Homestead State ParkSpringfield
Discover the original home of Lincoln's mother, as well as replicas of the 1782 cabin and blacksmith shop where his father was reared and learned his trade. The park offers a gift shop, golfing, picnicking and a museum.
Paintsville Lake State ParkStaffordsville
With steep cliffs and wooded coves along the shoreline, this state park lake in eastern Kentucky provides 1,140 acres for your boating, skiing, and fishing pleasure. The park offers three great trail options. Hikers will love the 1.6-mile Kiwanis Trail. The Dawkins Line Rail Trail is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders and stretches 18 miles from Johnson County to Magoffin County. The park also offers camping, a playground, and kayak rental.
William Whitley State Historic SiteStanford
The William Whitley House, also known as Sportsman's Hill, stands today as a monument to pioneer ingenuity and resourcefulness. It was the first brick home and circular racetrack built west of the Alleghany Mountains, completed in 1794 by William Whitley and his wife Esther. Dubbed the "Guardian of Wilderness Road," the house was a gathering spot for early Kentuckians, including George Rogers Clark and Daniel Boone.
Historic StearnsStearns
Historic Stearns was a hub of Kentucky's rich coal history in a town built during America's Gilded Age. A ride aboard Big South Fork Scenic Railroad will deliver visitors to Blue Heron, an interpretive coal camp ran by the National Park Service. A park ranger will greet your train. Train fare offers you complimentary admission to the McCreary County Museum, where you can explore coal, lumber, and railroad history, as well as exhibits on life throughout the ages. Stearns also offers many outdoor adventures, including golf on the state's 2nd oldest course and meals at Whistle Stop Cafe.
Taylorsville Lake State ParkTaylorsville
The park offers a 24-mile multi-use trail system, camping, two playgrounds, and an orienteering course.
Old Mulkey Meetinghouse State Historic SiteTompkinsville
The oldest log meetinghouse in Kentucky was built in 1804 during a period of religious revival. Many Revolutionary War soldiers and pioneers, including Daniel Boone's sister, Hannah, are buried here. Old Mulkey’s quest, "The View from the Pulpit," takes visitors through the old church records, the cemetery, the Meetinghouse, and even explores park signage. Do you have what it takes to complete the quest? All you need is a pencil, a little time, and a copy of the quest to find out! You may receive printed copies of the quest at the park office. In addition to the park’s quest, stop by the office and check out the selection of other "self-led" interpretative activities. The offerings include "Sensing the Park," "Sound Mapping," "Cemetery Search and Find," "Nature Walk Hunt & Find," and more! The meetinghouse and grounds can be seen free of charge. Self-guided tours are complemented by a recorded audio interpretation during regular park hours. Guided tours by appointment.
Big Bone Lick State ParkUnion
Visitors can see still-active salt springs, a re-created Pleistocene marsh, 20,000-year-old fossils, or even the modern-day Ice Age descendants, bison! The park offers a beautiful campground and an interpretive center.
Riverside, the Farnsley Moreman LandingValley Station
Riverside, the Farnsley-Moremen Landing exists to promote, preserve, restore and interpret historic farm life on the Ohio River. Today, visitors can tour the historic house and grounds which include: the reconstructed 19th century detached kitchen, on-going archaeological excavations (seasonal), and the kitchen garden where volunteers grow many of the same vegetables and herbs that would have been part of meals served during the period. A modern Visitors Center houses an auditorium, museum exhibits and a museum store. Visitors to Riverside can once again experience the majesty and beauty of the Ohio River by cruising on a riverboat from a landing on the site. The modern boat landing is completely accessible and it is the seasonal home of the Spirit of Jefferson, a replica paddlewheeler.
Woodford County Historical SocietyVersailles
The Woodford County Historical Society Museum features items of significance to Woodford County history. Permanent and changeable exhibits allow visitors to catch a glimpse of Woodford County's past. The collection contains many items of Civil War memorabilia, including General Grant's field glasses, presented to Captain Fuller after the siege of Vicksburg. Fuller was an uncle of Woodford County 19th Century Women's Rights activist, Josephine Henry, who resided in Woodford County most of her life.
Bluegrass Scenic Railroad MuseumVersailles
Located 15 miles from Lexington, the Bluegrass Railroad Museum offers a journey through the gently rolling hills and picturesque farmland known as the Bluegrass region of Central Kentucky.
Nostalgia Station Toy and Train MuseumVersailles
Located on Depot Street, this is a model train museum housed in a restored 1911 railroad staton. Exhibits include a reproduction of a 1926 standard gauge Lionel store display as well as children's toys and railroad memorabilia. A late 1950s Lionel store display includes accessories authentic to the original layout.
Wickliffe Mounds State Historic SiteWickliffe
Wickliffe Mounds is the archaeological site of a prehistoric Native American village of the Mississippian mound builders. The Welcome Center offers visitors an introduction to the Wickliffe Mounds, provides information on park activities and tourism opportunities, and is the admission desk for the museum.
Ark EncounterWilliamstown
Ark Encounter features a full-size Noah's Ark, built according to the dimensions given in the Bible. Spanning 510 feet long, 85 feet wide, and 51 feet high, this modern engineering marvel amazes visitors young and old. Ark Encounter is situated in beautiful Grant County in Williamstown, Kentucky, halfway between Cincinnati and Lexington and right off I-75.
