Romance in Kentucky: Planning a Romantic Getaway in Kentucky

Imagine sitting on a porch with the person you love, watching the sun set over rolling blue hills. Crickets sing as early stars start to twinkle in the tie-dye sky. What could be more romantic? The Bluegrass State may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a romantic getaway, but Kentucky is a honeymoon paradise for couples looking to relax and reconnect. Here are some of our top things for couples to do in Kentucky.

Enjoy the Landscape

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If the image we painted for you in the introduction sounds beautiful, wait until you see the rest of the state. Kentucky's scenery is nothing short of breathtaking. Located in the heart of Appalachia, the landscape is surprisingly diverse, with mountains to the east, rolling hills and plains to the west, and lush forests and wide rivers throughout. Here are some of the best ways for couples to soak in the views.

Caves

Mammoth Cave National Park: The largest known cave system in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mammoth Cave is more than just a cave– it's a unique biological, ecological, and historical treasure.
Lost River Cave: Looking for a unique wedding venue? Why not get married in a cave? In addition to boat tours through the cave, Lost River Cave is also an event venue. The best part? Your rental fees support the preservation and maintenance of the park.
Hidden River Cave: You don't have to go deep into the country to visit a cave; Hidden River Cave is located right on Main Street in Horse Cave, KY. Home to the World's Longest Swinging Underground Bridge and Sunset Dome, this is an experience you can talk about for years to come.

National and State Parks

Daniel Boone National Forest: The best hiking, rock climbing, and fishing in Kentucky, Daniel Boone National Forest is great for sporty couples looking to bond in the great outdoors.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park: Located right next to Daniel Boone National Forest, this state park is perfect for an intimate hike. The natural sandstone arch that the park is named after is gorgeous all year round, perfect for snapping some photos together to remember your trip.
Kingdom Come State Park: The crowning jewel of Pine Mountain, Kingdom Come State Park offers extraordinary rock formations, dense forests, and panoramic views, making it the perfect setting for adventurous couples.

Horseback Riding
Kentucky is known for its horse races, but not all Kentucky horses are for the track. Many are for the trails. Some of the state's best views are on horse trails, making horseback one of the best ways to sightsee.

Can you imagine a scene more idyllic than riding into the sunset side-by-side? Whether you're a seasoned rider or new to the reins, horseback riding through Kentucky's gorgeous countryside will make you feel like you're in a romantic movie.

River Boats
Kentucky isn't all rolling hills and mountains. Kentucky boasts some truly spectacular rivers, including the Kentucky River, the Ohio River, and the mighty Mississippi River. With great rivers comes great river cruises.

Enjoy dinner for two on a historic riverboat while you watch the landscape float by like a dream. Dance on the deck under the stars to live music from a Jazz or Bluegrass band, accompanied by the soft sounds of water lapping against the boat. Talk about having a night to remember.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

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If you know anything about alcohol, you know about Bourbon. Easily Kentucky's biggest export, Bourbon remains a stable part of Kentucky's economy and culture. There are nearly 60 distilleries on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail, so you'll find a distillery wherever you go! Whether you take your whiskey neat or sweet, here are a few of our recommended day-date distilleries.

Four Roses
Established back in 1888, Four Roses Distillery is perfect for couples who want a taste of history along with a smooth bourbon. The beautiful grounds and upscale bar offer a peaceful atmosphere for couples to connect over a shared drink.

Wild Turkey
One of the most popular, not to mention large, distilleries on the trail, Wild Turkey Distillery is a can't-miss for couples who love a good drink. Crafted by the World's longest-tenured Master Distiller, Jimmy Russell, and his fellow Master Distiller (and son) Eddie Russell, Wild Turkey is hard to beat.

Woodford Reserve
Looking for a truly intimate bourbon tasting? Visit the oldest and smallest distillery on the trail for a historic upscale feel. Located in the country, surrounded by bluegrass hills, Woodford Reserve Distillery is one of the most romantic locations on our list.

Jim Beam
Another renowned name in bourbon, the Jim Beam Distillery tours fill up fast! In addition to traditional tours and tastings, the distillery also offers fun release events and mixology classes, making it great for couples who love a hands-on experience.

Maker's Mark
Yes, the bourbon is delicious and the distillers are knowledgeable, but it's the grounds that make Maker's Mark a showstopper. Located in rural Kentucky, the distillery is a scene ripped straight out of a storybook– if storybooks featured whiskey. It's the perfect spot for falling in love.

Vineyard and Winery Tours

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Kentucky bourbon is world-famous, but the state's wine scene is growing. With over 70 wineries offering everything from sweet muscadine blends to dry, sophisticated reds. If you're idea of romance is sipping on a crisp rose instead of a smoky bourbon, here are some romantic wineries to set the mood.

Lovers Leap
Lovers Leap lives up to its name: the peaceful surroundings and simple but elegant winery is great for lovers. Couples can stroll through the vineyard, enjoy a tasting on the wraparound porch, or book a guided tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process for a romantic afternoon.

Rising Sons Home Farm Winery
This family-owned winery makes guests feel like family. Surrounded by rolling farmland, Rising Sons is a great place to enjoy a quiet tasting flight, especially their signature red blends and seasonal fruit wines.

Purple Toad Winery
Known for its fruit-forward wines, especially the blackberry and chocolate varieties, Purple Toad combines a fun, lively tasting experience with southern hospitality. Perfect for couples looking for a casual tasting experience, at Purple Toad, you can enjoy a tasting flight while soaking up the laid-back vibes.

Revel in History

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If your idea of romance includes exploring towns with historic charm and cobblestone streets, Kentucky has many options to choose from. Whether you want to tour Victorian mansions in Louisville or dig deep into the state's small towns, Kentucky is full of stories for you to discover together. Here are some of the top romantic historic destinations.

Historic Harrodsburg
If you want history, start with Harrodsburg- the state's oldest town. Founded in 1774 by James Harrod (hence the name), the town has retained much of its old-time feel. Harrodsburg has been voted one of Choice Review's "20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2014", and is frequently listed as one of the top hidden gem destinations in the United States.

Immerse yourself in pioneer life at Old Fort Harrod State Park, or glimpse into the unique lives and beliefs of the Shaker Community in the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. Shop in the historic downtown district listed on the National Register of Historic Places, or enjoy sme of the vibrant festivals that take place several times a year. Whatever you decide to do together, you are sure to make memories.

Bardstown
Once named the "Most Beautiful Small Town in America," Bardstown is a romantic setting straight out of a Hallmark Card. Also founded in the late 1700s, Bardstown is a place rooted both in history and legend.

Stop by My Old Kentucky Home State Park for a taste of the town's complex history. Visit the Old Talbott Tavern, a place patronized by historic figures like Daniel Boone, Abraham Lincoln, and (possibly) the infamous outlaw, Jesse James. Celebrate the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and stop by some of the local Distilleries, Heaven Hill and Lux Row Distillers. Or, if you are in the mood for something really special, visit Bardstown at Christmastime for a truly dazzling holiday experience.

Bed and Breakfast Association of Kentucky

A romantic vacation requires romantic accommodations, and nothing says "honeymoon hideaway" quite like a Bed and Breakfast.
Whether you are looking for a Bourbon-themed hideaway on the Bourbon Trail or a cozy historic inn in the bluegrass hills, there's a Kentucky Bed and Breakfast waiting for you.
See how romantic Kentucky can be when you book now!