Best Seasonal Activities in Kentucky: Year-round Adventures in the Bluegrass State
Kentucky is a state that truly shines in every season, offering a little something special no matter the time of year. From vibrant spring blooms in the rolling Bluegrass hills to crisp autumn air filled with the scent of bourbon and bonfires, there's always an adventure waiting.
We're breaking down the best seasonal activities in Kentucky for both visitors and locals and including a variety of resources to get you started. Are you staying in Kentucky for a while? Browse our variety of charming inns and B&Bs to complement your unforgettable Kentucky vacation and book with the best innkeepers in the state.
Grab your hiking boots, your warmest flannel, or your best sunhat—let's dive into the best seasonal activities the Bluegrass State has to offer.
Spring Activities in Kentucky
As winter fades and Kentucky's landscapes come to life with blooming flowers, mild temperatures, and vibrant festivals, spring is one of the best times to explore the Bluegrass State. Whether you love outdoor adventures, horse racing, or scenic drives, there's something for everyone when nature wakes up and snow thaws out. Check out the official website of Kentucky Tourism for specific information and dates.
Known as the most prestigious horse race in America, a trip to Kentucky is best complemented with a visit to the Kentucky Derby. We think this is one of the best things to do in Louisville, KY, and something that should be on everyone's bucket list. You can also check out the Keeneland Spring Meet in Lexington.
See the Tulip Festival at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens (Crestwood)
This is the perfect spring family activity in KY, and If you love flowers, the Tulip Festival at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens is a must-visit. Visitors can stroll through thousands of vibrant tulips in full blooms and explore themed gardens, scenic trails and historic castle-like greenhouses. Even if you're not passionate about flowers, in the springtime, this activity is a great way to explore the area and get out in the sun. You can even pack a picnic and find a nice spot to relax with a good book.
Go Horseback Riding Through Kentucky's Countryside
Spring is the perfect time to experience Kentucky's famous horse farms and trails. Visitors and guests can take a guided horseback ride at Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington. Create unforgettable memories while riding horseback through the stunning countryside. Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area offer some stunning scenery and trails for visitors to ride a at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.
Spring rain makes Kentucky's waterfalls especially beautiful and might be the perfect spot for a spring picnic in KY. Some of the best spots include:
Cumberland Falls – Known as the "Niagara of the South" and home to a rare moonbow at night.
Yahoo Falls – The tallest waterfall in Kentucky, surrounded by lush spring greenery.
Have a Waterfall Chasing Adventure or Go Kayaking or Canoeing
Spring is a great time to hit Kentucky's waterways as the rivers and lakes are full from seasonal rains.
Paddle through Elkhorn Creek for a scenic and relaxing ride.
Explore Rockcastle River, a favorite for adventure seekers.
Spring in Kentucky is a season of renewal, offering a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're hiking through the Red River Gorge, enjoying the excitement of horse racing, or simply soaking in the beauty of blooming flowers, there's no shortage of ways to have a spring adventure in Kentucky.
Summer Activities in Kentucky
Summer in Kentucky is a time for adventure, relaxation, and exploring the state's natural beauty, rich history, and cultural traditions. Whether you're looking for outdoor excitement, cool indoor escapes, or family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best summer activitiesto experience in the Bluegrass State.
Visit Mammoth Cave National Park & Other Top Parks
Beat the summer heat by heading underground into Mammoth Cave, the world's longest cave system.
Take a guided tour to explore massive caverns, underground rivers, and unique rock formations.
Enjoy above-ground activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking on the Green River.
For a peaceful and historic summer experience, visit Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. Walk through beautifully restored 19th-century buildings and enjoy farm-to-table dining and scenic countryside views. Take a riverboat ride on the Dixie Belle for a relaxing water excursion. If you're looking for other historic sites, check out the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Hodgenville, KY.
Go Boating, Fishing or Kayaking on Kentucky's Lakes
Kentucky is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in the country, making it a prime destination for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Lake Cumberland – Known as the "Houseboat Capital of the World," it is the perfect place for renting a houseboat or enjoying some summer padding in a canoe or kayak.
Kentucky Lake & Lake Barkley – These massive lakes offer excellent opportunities for boating, kayaking, and spotting wildlife.
Tour the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
A trip to Kentucky in the summer wouldn't be complete without exploring the famous Bourbon Trail. While you can visit year-round, summertime is the most popular time to visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. You might run into long lines or wait times at the distilleries, so plan accordingly. Visitors can browse historic distilleries like Maker's Mark, Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, and Jim Beam. You can even have your pick of many local KY wineries and breweries. Enjoy bourbon tastings, scenic drives, and behind-the-scenes tours.
Attend a Bluegrass Music Festival or Kentucky State Fair
Kentucky is the birthplace of bluegrass music, and warm weather months are packed with amazing summer music festivals.
ROMP Fest (Owensboro) – One of the biggest bluegrass festivals in the U.S.
Festival of the Bluegrass (Lexington) – A must-attend event for traditional bluegrass fans.
The Kentucky State Fair is one of Kentucky's biggest events, including carnival rides, live concerts, and famous fair food.
Take a Scenic Drive on the Appalachian Backroads
Kentucky's scenic drives make for the perfect summer road trip. The Country Music Highway (U.S. 23) takes you through Kentucky's Appalachian region, rich in music history and breathtaking views. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, family fun, or a relaxing getaway, Kentucky has endless summer events and activities to offer. From boating on picturesque lakes to exploring historic sites and attending lively music festivals, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of your summer in the Bluegrass State.
Fall Activities in Kentucky
As the summer heat fades and the leaves begin to change, Kentucky transforms into a breathtaking autumn wonderland. From scenic drives and outdoor adventures to seasonal festivals and bourbon tastings, fall is one of the best times to explore the Bluegrass State. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun or a peaceful escape into nature, here are the top fall activities in Kentucky.
Take a Scenic Fall Foliage Drive
Kentucky's rolling hills and thick forests come alive with vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues during the fall months. Some of the best scenic Fall drives in KY include:
Red River Gorge Scenic Byway – A stunning drive through towering cliffs and colorful forests.
Pine Mountain Scenic Highway – One of the best spots for panoramic mountain views.
If you're traveling with children, we suggest collecting some fall leaves on your drive and making a nature book to take home with you! You can also soak in the fall colors on a horseback ride, as Kentucky has some of the best opportunities for horseback riding experiences.
Visit a Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze, or Apple Farm
Harvest Season in Kentucky is the perfect time to visit a pumpkin patch and enjoy classic autumn traditions like hayrides and corn mazes. Popular spots include:
Evan's Orchard (Georgetown) – A family-friendly farm with a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and apple cider.
Bi-Water Farm (Georgetown) – Offers a haunted corn maze, pumpkin picking, and fall-themed activities.
Experience a Fall Festival
Fall festivals in Kentucky are no short of captivating! Kentucky is home to several charming fall festivals filled with food, music, and seasonal fun. Some of the best include:
Pumpkin Festival (Harrodsburg) – Features pumpkin-themed contests, crafts, and food.
Middlesboro Fall Festival – A great small-town festival with live music and vendors.
Bardstown Arts & Crafts Festival – A perfect place to shop for handmade gifts and fall treats.
Cooler weather means it's time to enjoy warm, comforting Kentucky dishes. Must-try fall foods include:
The Hot Brown – A classic Kentucky dish made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce.
Burgoo – A hearty stew made with various meats and vegetables.
Apple Stack Cake – A delicious layered apple dessert, perfect for fall.
Waverly Hills Sanatorium (Louisville) – One of the most haunted places in the U.S. with night tours.
The Old Talbott Tavern (Bardstown) – A historic inn with a reputation for ghostly encounters.
Louisville is home to some of the best Halloween celebrations in Kentucky, including the Jack O'Lantern Spectacular. This is a magical display of thousands of glowing pumpkins at Iroquois Park. You can also check out the Louisville Zoo Halloween Party – A kid-friendly trick-or-treating event. There plenty of spooky haunted houses in Louisville. From The Devil's Attic to Danger Run, take your pick of some terrifying experiences!
Watch a Football Game at the University of Kentucky or Louisville
Football season is in full swing during fall, and catching a University of Kentucky (UK) Wildcats or Louisville Cardinals game is an exciting experience. Tailgate with friends and family and pass around some shareables like mini burgers, nachos, and chips with dip. it's hard to ignore the buzz and excitement that comes with tailgating in the autumn season with energy felt from the stadium in Lexington or Louisville.
Fall foliage in Kentucky is some of the best in the Nation. The season is filled with beautiful autumn colors, captivating landscapes, exciting festivals, and cozy traditions. Whether you're sipping bourbon, hiking through colorful forests, or getting into the Halloween spirit, there's no shortage of ways to make the most of autumn in the Bluegrass State.
Winter Activities in Kentucky
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Winter in Kentucky brings a unique mix of outdoor adventures, cozy getaways, and festive holiday traditions. Whether you love exploring snowy landscapes, sipping bourbon by the fire, or experiencing magical Christmas lights, there's something for everyone. Here are the top winter activitiesto enjoy in the Bluegrass State.
Go Ice Skating or Tubing (Louisville & Lexington)
Ice skating is a perfect winter activity, and Kentucky offers some fantastic rinks:
Lexington Ice Center (Lexington) – A fun indoor skating experience for all ages.
There are also some great spots for winter fishing in Kentucky worth checking out if angling is more your speed
Experience Christmas at the Ark Encounter (Williamstown + Louisville)
One of Kentucky's most unique holiday experiences takes place during the frosty season at the iconic Ark Encounter, featuring a breathtaking Christmas light display illuminating the life-sized ark. This is one of those captivating spots that you won't soon forget visiting. People love the festive atmosphere, featuring live music and seasonal treats.
Visit the Christmas Lights (Lexington & Ashland)
Kentucky towns light up like a Christmas tree during the winter with many hosting their own charming festival celebrations. The Southern Lights Holiday Festival at the Kentucky Horse Park is one of the best holiday attractions in the state. Drive through miles and miles of Christmas lights and displays. You can also visit the holiday village for crafts, food, and festive fun. Ashland's Winter Wonderland of Lights Festival is one of the largest holiday light displays in Kentucky. See more than 800,000 twinkling lights in Central Park. Enjoy Christmas music, treats, carriage rides, and snap a photo with Santa.
Enjoy a Cozy Bourbon Tasting on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Can you tell we love bourbon here? The colder fall and winter seasons are a fantastic time to experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with fewer tourists and a cozy atmosphere. This can even be a wonderful thing to do in Kentucky for couples who are visiting. Some of the best distilleries to visit include:
Buffalo Trace (Frankfort) – A historic distillery with a charming winter ambiance.
Maker's Mark (Loretto) – See the distillery beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Woodford Reserve (Versailles) – Enjoy a tasting in a warm, rustic setting.
Visit a Holiday Market for Unique Gifts
Support local artisans and find special gifts at Kentucky's winter markets during the holiday season. browse one of the biggest holiday markets in the region: Louisville's Christmas Gift & Decor Show. You can also check out the Shaker Village Holiday Market in Harrodsburg for a unique shopping experience in a historic setting. The craft fairs in Berea are also worth checking out. Find handmade crafts and winter gifts from talented local artists.
Stay at the Best B&Bs and Inns in Kentucky
Whether you spend your trip at a Kentucky B&B or stay somewhere else, we welcome you to the Bluegrass state! The Kentucky Bed and Breakfast Association provides the best accommodations from top innkeepers in the state. Browse our associated members and top lodging in Kentucky as you're planning your visit.
Todd Allen, Innkeeper for nearly 25 years, having restored and operated award-winning Maple Hill Manor Bed & Breakfast in Springfield, Kentucky as well as Bourbon Manor in Bardstown, KY. He has been a 22-year Board Member of the Bed & Breakfast Association of Kentucky, serving as 3x president. He leads their marketing, green-lodging certification, and education & conference planning committees. He has served as Advisory Council Board Member of the Professional Association of Innkeepers International. He was most recently elected to the Bardstown Tourism Commission Board, where he served as Chairman of the Board.
