Kentucky, Two Ways: From Bourbon Trails to Natural Wonders

Including Lousiville, Lexington, Covington, Mammoth Cave and More

Kentucky, located in the southeastern United States, is renowned for its rich history and diverse geography. Known as the “Bluegrass State,” it features rolling hills and fertile land ideal for horse farming and bourbon production. Historically significant, Kentucky was a key battleground in the Civil War and played a prominent role in American frontier expansion. The state’s geography ranges from the lush Bluegrass Region and the rugged Appalachian Mountains in the east to the flat agricultural lands of the Jackson Purchase in the west. With attractions like Mammoth Cave National Park, the Kentucky Horse Park, and vibrant cultural traditions, Kentucky offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth.

Kentucky Regions

Kentucky is divided into several regions.

Bluegrass Region: The heart of Kentucky, known for its rolling hills, horse farms, and bluegrass music. Key cities include Lexington and Frankfort, with attractions like The Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Race Course, and various bourbon distilleries.
The Horses & History region of Kentucky primarily refers to theportion of Bluegrass Region around Lousiville. This area is renowned for its deep-rooted equestrian culture and historical significance.
Knobs Region: Features unique knob-shaped hills and rural charm. Highlights include Bernheim Arboretum and Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park.
Northern Kentucky: Bordering the Ohio River, this area blends urban and rural experiences with cities like Covington, Newport, and Florence.
Southern Lakes Region: Known for large lakes and outdoor activities, including Lake Cumberland, Dale Hollow Lake, and General Burnside State Park, with cities such as Somerset, Russell Springs, and Monticello.
Eastern Kentucky (Appalachian Region): Also known as Daniel Boone Country. Known for its mountainous terrain and cultural heritage, including Red River Gorge, Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, and the Country Music Highway.
South Central Kentucky: Features farmland, caves, and historic sites, including Mammoth Cave National Park, the National Corvette Museum, and Lost River Cave, with cities like Bowling Green and Glasgow.
Western Coal Field (Bluegrass, Blues, and Barbecue Region): Celebrates musical heritage and barbecue, with attractions like the International Bluegrass Music Museum and ROMP Fest.
Western Kentucky (Jackson Purchase): Characterized by flat landscapes and agriculture. Notable spots include Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, and Kentucky Lake.

The Same

Both the Dinks and the Family have visited Kentucky several times but definitely did things differently. The main overlap comes in that they both visited Louisville.

Louisville

Louisville, strategically situated between the Bluegrass and Knob regions, is a vibrant and dynamic city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and thriving arts scene. As the largest city in the state, Louisville offers a unique blend of Southern charm and urban sophistication. It is renowned for hosting the iconic Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, a prestigious horse racing event that draws visitors from around the world each May.

Check out our different takes on Lousiville, KY.

Two Takes on Louisville, Kentucky: Thrills of the Derby to The Bourbon Trail

Local Cuisine

Kentucky’s local cuisine offers a delightful journey through the state’s rich culinary heritage, blending traditional Southern flavors with unique regional influences. From the iconic bourbon-infused dishes and savory fried chicken to rich country ham and sweet bourbon pecan pie, Kentucky’s food scene is a testament to its diverse agricultural bounty and cultural history. In this blog, we’ll explore the distinctive flavors and beloved dishes that define Kentucky’s local cuisine, highlighting local favorites, hidden gems, and the stories behind the dishes that make this region’s food truly special.

Here’s a list of must-try foods when exploring Kentucky’s local cuisine:

Hot Brown: An open-faced turkey sandwich topped with bacon, tomatoes, and a rich Mornay sauce, often baked until bubbly and golden. This dish originated at the Brown Hotel in Louisville.
Bourbon-Glazed Ham: Kentucky is famous for its bourbon, and this dish features ham glazed with a sweet, smoky bourbon sauce, offering a rich flavor that’s both savory and sweet.
Fried Chicken: A Southern classic, Kentucky’s fried chicken is known for its crispy coating and flavorful seasoning. It’s a staple in local dining and a must-try for visitors.
Burgoo: A hearty stew made with a mix of meats (like beef, pork, and sometimes lamb) and vegetables, simmered together to create a rich, flavorful dish. It’s a traditional Kentucky dish often enjoyed at gatherings and festivals.
Country Ham: A dry-cured and aged ham that’s salt-cured and aged for several months. It has a distinct, savory flavor and is a traditional Southern delicacy.
Biscuits and Gravy: Flaky biscuits smothered in a creamy, sausage gravy. This dish is a breakfast favorite in Kentucky and showcases the region’s Southern comfort food.
Kentucky Bourbon Pie: A sweet pie made with a filling that incorporates bourbon, chocolate, or pecans. It highlights Kentucky’s famous spirit in a delicious dessert.
Beer Cheese: A beloved Kentucky specialty, beer cheese is a creamy, savory dip made from a blend of cheese, beer, and various seasonings usually served with pretzels.
Kentucky Ale and Bourbon: Sample local brews and spirits to experience the state’s renowned bourbon and craft beer scene. Kentucky is known for its high-quality bourbon, and many local distilleries offer tours and tastings.
Junction City Sausage: A regional specialty from Junction City, KY, known for its unique seasoning and preparation methods, adding a distinctive flavor to traditional sausages.
Fried Catfish: A Southern favorite, this dish features catfish fillets coated in seasoned cornmeal and fried to crispy perfection, often served with sides like coleslaw and hushpuppies.

The DINKs

Living in North Carolina for roughly 20 years, Kentucky made for a great weekend get away for us. We have visited several times but mostly visiting the same areas including Louisville, Lexington and Covington (Near Cincinnati, OH.) Lexington is probably one of the underrated cities in the United States.

Lexington (Bluegrass Region)

Lexington, often referred to as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is a city steeped in equestrian tradition and rich cultural heritage. Located in the heart of the Bluegrass Region, Lexington is surrounded by picturesque rolling hills, lush pastures, and world-renowned horse farms, making it a central hub for horse breeding and racing.

Keeneland Race Course: This historic racecourse hosts world-class thoroughbred racing events each April and October. Keeneland is not only a premier racing venue but also a major auction house for thoroughbred horses, attracting buyers and spectators from around the globe. We have been to some of the most known tracks across the country including Churchill Downs, Saratoga, and Belmont and this is by far the prettiest track. Even their tailgating before hand seems fancy with bloody mary bars out of their trucks.

University of Kentucky: Home to the Wildcats, the University of Kentucky is a major cultural and educational institution in Lexington. The campus offers a variety of attractions, including the Art Museum at the University of Kentucky and the UK Arboretum, a beautiful space for walking and exploring local flora. We haven’t been to any sporting events there but I did attend a graduation.

Distillery District: Lexington’s Distillery District, located along Manchester Street, is a revitalized area that combines the city’s rich bourbon heritage with modern amenities. It features craft distilleries, breweries, restaurants, and entertainment venues, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.

James E. Pepper Distillery: Revived in recent years, the James E. Pepper Distillery has a rich history dating back to 1780. The distillery offers tours that delve into the storied past of the brand and the distillation process, finishing with tastings of their high-quality whiskeys.
Barrel House Distilling Co.: This craft distillery produces a range of spirits, including bourbon, rum, and vodka. Visitors can tour the distillery, learn about the production process, and sample the spirits. The attached Elkhorn Tavern is a great place to relax and enjoy a cocktail made with Barrel House’s own products.
Elkhorn Tavern: Located within the Barrel House Distillery, Elkhorn Tavern offers a cozy setting with a menu of craft cocktails, local beers, and small plates. It’s an excellent spot to sample some of the distillery’s own spirits while enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
Ethereal Brewing: Ethereal Brewing is a cornerstone of the Distillery District, offering a diverse selection of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and Belgian-style brews. The brewery has a spacious taproom and a large outdoor patio, making it a popular spot for beer enthusiasts.

Bourbon Heritage: As part of the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Lexington is surrounded by several historic distilleries. Visitors can tour these distilleries to learn about the bourbon-making process and sample some of the finest bourbons produced in the region.

The Lexington area, nestled in the heart of the Bluegrass Region, is a key destination on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Here are some notable distilleries near Lexington, KY, each offering unique tours and tastings:

Woodford Reserve Distillery: Located in Versailles, KY (approximately 20 miles from Lexington,) It is one of the oldest and most prestigious distilleries in Kentucky. Woodford Reserve is known for its small-batch bourbon crafted in copper pot stills. The distillery offers comprehensive tours that cover the history of bourbon, the distillation process, and tasting sessions.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Located in Frankfort, KY (about 25 miles from Lexington,) it is one of the most historic distilleries in the state, Buffalo Trace has been producing bourbon for over 200 years. The distillery offers a variety of tours, including the Hard Hat Tour, which gives an in-depth look at the production process, and the Trace Tour, which focuses on the history and tasting of their award-winning bourbons. The grounds have beautiful gardens and is pet friendly.

Four Roses Distillery: Known for its smooth and mellow bourbon and located Lawrenceburg, KY, Four Roses offers a charming tour experience in its Spanish Mission-style distillery. Guests can learn about the unique production techniques, including their use of 10 distinct bourbon recipes, and enjoy guided tastings.

Town Branch Distillery: Located right in Lexington, Town Branch Distillery is part of the Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. This dual brewery and distillery offers tours that include tastings of both their bourbons and ales. Town Branch is known for its Town Branch Bourbon and Town Branch Rye, as well as its Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale.

Bluegrass Distillery: A craft distillery in the heart of Lexington, Bluegrass Distillers produces small-batch bourbon using locally sourced ingredients. The distillery offers tours that highlight their hands-on production process, followed by tastings of their unique bourbon expressions. We took home a sampler back to share as gifts. My husband loved the rye while my favorite was the pickle bourbon which is great in a bloody Mary.

Lexington’s food scene is a vibrant blend of traditional favorites and contemporary innovations. Whether you’re diving into a plate of Hot Brown Fries or savoring a slice of Bourbon Pie with a craft beer, the culinary offerings in this city provide a delicious snapshot of Kentucky’s rich culinary heritage.

Parkette Drive-In: A historic eatery in Lexington, Parkette Drive-In has been serving up classic American diner fare since 1951. It’s a beloved local institution where nostalgia meets delicious comfort food. We tried the Hot Brown Fries and the Hot Brown Burger (You get the theme.) Both a creative twist on the traditional Kentucky Hot Brown, with fries and burger topped with turkey, bacon, and a rich Mornay sauce, then baked to golden perfection.

Other Breweries:

Sixth Street Brewing Company: Situated in downtown Lexington, Sixth Street Brewing Company is known for its craft beers that range from traditional styles to innovative brews. The brewery creates a laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying local flavors and excellent beer. Sixth Street Brewing has a unique arrangement where patrons can order food from the restaurant next door just by scanning the QR Code. For a quintessential Kentucky dessert, try the Bourbon Pie. This rich, decadent treat is made with a blend of bourbon, chocolate, and pecans, all encased in a buttery crust. It’s the perfect way to cap off a meal while sipping on a locally crafted beer.
Mirror Twin Brewing: Located in Lexington, KY, Mirror Twin Brewing is known for its innovative and diverse craft beers. The brewery offers a wide range of styles, from IPAs and stouts to sours and seasonal brews. With a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, it’s a great spot for both casual drinkers and beer enthusiasts to enjoy unique and high-quality brews.
Pivot Brewing: Also in Lexington, KY, Pivot Brewing focuses on creating distinctive, handcrafted beers with a commitment to quality. Known for their creative approach and diverse beer offerings, Pivot Brewing features a variety of styles including IPAs, porters, and lagers. The brewery provides a welcoming environment for patrons to sample their latest creations and enjoy a laid-back experience.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a renowned tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and craftsmanship of bourbon whiskey. Stretching across the beautiful Bluegrass State, the trail includes a collection of distilleries that offer tours, tastings, and a deep dive into the bourbon-making process.

We started from Louisville and made our way to Lexington stopping at a few distilleries along the way. I am not a huge bourbon fan so I was designated driver. they are only allowed to serve like 1.5 oz on the tours and there is usually 30 mins between stops. Since we have visited Lexington several times we have visited more distilleries in that area. In addition to the ones above we have visited:

Maker’s Mark Distillery (Loretto, KY): Known for its hand-dipped red wax seal, Maker’s Mark offers a picturesque distillery experience with guided tours through its historic grounds, showcasing the entire bourbon-making process from mash to bottle. Visitors can even dip their own bottle in the iconic red wax.

Jim Beam Distillery (Clermont, KY): As one of the world’s best-selling bourbon brands, Jim Beam provides comprehensive tours of its production facilities. The Jim Beam American Stillhouse offers tastings, a look at the Beam family history, and the chance to craft your own Knob Creek bourbon. Being in marketing, this was my favorite tour. It was more than a tour it was an experience.

Northern Kentucky: Covington, Newport, and Florence

Northern Kentucky is a vibrant region known for its blend of urban charm and picturesque. It includes the cities of Covington, Newport and Florence. Together they offer a rich mix of history, culture, and entertainment, making Northern Kentucky a dynamic and engaging region to explore.

Covington: This city is notable for its historic architecture and revitalized riverfront. The MainStrasse Village district is a highlight, offering cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and a lively dining scene. Covington’s proximity to Cincinnati enhances its cultural and entertainment options, including theaters and festivals.

Doe Run Loop Trail: The Doe Run Loop Trail near Covington, Kentucky, offers a pleasant hiking experience around Doe Run Lake. It’s a pet-friendly, 2.5-mile trail ideal for enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The lake was quite low during our visit, so the views weren’t as stunning as expected.

Newport: Located just across the river from Cincinnati, Newport is famous for its entertainment and dining along the riverfront. The Newport Aquarium is a major attraction, featuring a variety of marine life and interactive exhibits. The city’s charming riverwalk and historic buildings add to its appeal.

Newport Riverwalk: The Riverwalk provides breathtaking views of the Ohio River and the Cincinnati skyline, making it a great spot for photography, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the sunset. The Riverwalk area includes parks and green spaces where visitors can relax, picnic, or enjoy outdoor activities. The park often hosts events and festivals, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the area. The Riverwalk area features a variety of dining options and shops, offering a range of cuisines and local goods. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or do some shopping while enjoying the riverfront setting.

Florence: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Florence boasts shopping centers like Florence Mall and various dining options. The city is also home to the popular Turfway Park racetrack, which hosts horse racing events and entertainment. Florence serves as a gateway to the greater Cincinnati area, offering a mix of suburban comfort and accessibility to urban attractions.

Turfway Park is a premier horse racing track just a short drive from Cincinnati. Known for its live thoroughbred racing events from December through March, the park offers a family-friendly atmosphere with activities like corn hole and plenty of space for kids to play. We even tried our luck with $40 in free play at their gaming machines.

Check out our experience as part of visiting Cincinnati, Ohio.

Two Takes on Ohio: City Life vs. Nature Escapes

The Family

As always, we avoid big cities and hit the National parks.

Mammoth Cave (South Central )

Mammoth Cave, located in central Kentucky, is a natural wonder and a key destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and adventurers alike. As the longest cave system in the world, it offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to different interests and experience levels. Mammoth Cave National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, showcasing over 400 miles of explored passageways with potentially more yet to be discovered. The park is known for its extensive cave system, diverse ecosystems, and rich history. The Mammoth Cave Visitor Center offers exhibits on the cave’s geology, history, and ecology. It also provides information on tour schedules and tickets.

Mammoth Cave offers a variety of guided tours that range in length and difficulty, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. Some of the popular tours include:

Historic Tour: This tour covers two miles and takes visitors through some of the cave’s most historically significant areas, including the Rotunda and the Gothic Avenue. It’s a great way to learn about the cave’s storied past.
Domes and Dripstones Tour: This moderately strenuous tour includes the dramatic Frozen Niagara formation and offers a look at the cave’s stunning geological features.
Wild Cave Tour: For the more adventurous, this tour involves crawling, climbing, and squeezing through tight passages, providing a true spelunking experience.

In addition to the cave tours, Mammoth Cave National Park offers a range of outdoor activities. The park has over 80 miles of trails that traverse diverse landscapes, from dense forests to river valleys. Popular trails include the Cedar Sink Trail and the Green River Bluffs Trail. The park features several bike-friendly trails, including the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike & Hike Trail, which follows an old railroad route. The Green and Nolin Rivers run through the park, providing opportunities for paddling and enjoying the scenic waterways.

Summary

In the end, who did Kentucky better? It really depends on what you’re after. The family had the unforgettable experience of attending the iconic Kentucky Derby and exploring the natural wonders of Mammoth Cave. On the other hand, the DINKs took a deeper dive into Kentucky’s charm, exploring the Bourbon Trail, horse country in Lexington, and the culture of Northern Kentucky. Both trips showcased Kentucky’s rich diversity, from urban excitement to natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a family adventure or a more laid-back exploration, Kentucky delivers on all fronts.

Doubletake Travel