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Louisville residents have access to world-class dining, sporting events, museums, and cultural attractions, but if you’re hoping to put the top down on your BMW 6 Series and hit the open road, here are some nearby destinations worth driving to.
Lexington, Kentucky
Located about an hour and 20 minutes east of Louisville, the Horse Capitol of the World is a great place to see some first-rate thoroughbred racing. Don your best suit or floral hat (and your luxurious new BMW) to experience a race at Keeneland. If horseracing isn’t your thing, instead head to the Windy Corner Market for some bourbon-flavored pulled pork barbecue and fried pickles. Prefer the bourbon by itself? Travel from downtown Louisville toward Lexington on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to sample some of the state’s best distilleries.
Red River Gorge
There’s plenty to love about Kentucky’s Red River canyon system, so if you’re up for hiking along sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, natural bridges, and rock shelters, Red River Gorge is the place to be. The gorge consists of a variety of ecological zones, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination. While here, you can spot everything from hummingbirds and woodpeckers to black bears and timber rattlers. What’s more, Red River Gorge is the only place left in the world that contains the endangered white-haired goldenrod, so be sure to bring the camera.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Since Cincinnati is just an hour and a half from Louisville, it’s typically the go-to spot for residents seeking a change in cityscape. Cincinnati is known for its incredible food and baseball, making it similar to Louisville in a lot of regards, but the city certainly offers its own spin on things. Have some homemade waffles at the Taste of Belgium, experience the gastropub scene at The Eagle Food and Beer Hall, and expand your historical knowledge at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Whether you’re here as a solo traveler or you’ve brought the family along, Cincinnati offers a little something for everyone.
Cave City, Kentucky
Another 1.5-hour drive from Louisville, Cave City may seem very low-key compared to the other options on this list, but it’s a great destination for one particular reason: it has a wigwam village. These Native American-style villages originally consisted of seven locations, but the popular Wigwam Village #2 is just one of the three remaining accommodations where you can sleep in a wigwam replica from the 1930s. Wigwam Village #2 is, without a doubt, the most unique motel in the entire state, and as kitsch as it may be, it’s worth a stay here to experience the site’s heritage. If you don’t want to stay in a wigwam, then you can throw a sleeping back in a brand new BMW SUV with enough room to camp!
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Three hours southeast of Louisville, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is one of the most beautiful locations in Kentucky. Often called “Little Niagara,” this state park features a gorgeous waterfall that provides a unique opportunity: the chance to see a moonbow. Otherwise known as a lunar rainbow, the phenomenon occurs on a clear night under the full moon within the waterfall spray.
With so many great destinations around Kentucky, there’s no reason not to explore. Start planning your next road trip today!