From historic buildings to one-of-a-kind geological formations and landscapes, there are a lot of Kentucky landmarks to choose from. In fact, there are so many that it may be difficult to narrow down which ones should go on your bucket list.
Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you! Here are 10 Kentucky landmarks you absolutely do not want to miss.
Top Landmarks in Kentucky
Kentucky Landmarks
Mammoth Cave National Park
If there’s one Kentucky landmark you’ve already heard of, it’s probably this one — and for good reason. Mammoth Cave National Park is so much more than just a series of stunning underground caverns. In fact, this cave system is the longest known in the world so far and it’s actually still in the process of being excavated and discovered!
Keep in mind that visitors can only venture into the cave with a professional tour guide, and these tours often sell out ahead of time, so you’ll want to book early. There are also some excellent hiking opportunities above-ground, if you’re not so sure about venturing into the darkness — totally understandable!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Only 45 minutes or so from the city of Bowling Green, Mammoth Cave National Park is close to a variety of other wilderness areas, including Nolin State Park and Blue Holler Offroad Park. Things to do in the city include the National Corvette Museum and Beech Bend Amusement Park.
Camping is available in the national park, and that is where we recommend staying.
Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park
Believe it or not, Abraham Lincoln was born in none other than LaRue County, Kentucky.
Today, the site of the cabin where he was born (though not the cabin itself, unfortunately) have been enshrined and memorialized at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park. It is marked with a beautiful ivory structure similar in design to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Along with learning more about this legendary man and his unique history, visitors can also enjoy some beautiful hiking trails around the grounds. This includes one that meanders by the Sinking Spring the Lincoln family used as a water source.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
A few miles south of downtown Hodgenville and only a short way further from Elizabethtown, Abraham Lincoln Birthplace Historical Park is close to My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Green River Lake State Park and others. Things to do in town include the Lincoln Museum and the Hardin County History Museum.
RV camping is available nearby at Lincoln Lodge & RV Camping.
Cumberland Falls
Sometimes called “the Little Niagara” or “the Niagara of the South,” Cumberland Falls offers an incredible cascade viewpoint that will make you feel as if you’ve traveled further afield.
Along with the epic falls themselves, this park is also home to the historic Pinnacle Knob Fire Tower as well as a gem mine. On top of that, the falls themselves can be seen via either a hiking trail or the Rainbow Mist boat ride. Fishing, birding, rafting, and horseback riding are all also enjoyed by the many annual visitors to this park, who come from both near and far.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
While Cumberland Falls State Park is a worthy destination in its own right, it’s also close to many other beautiful area wildernesses such as General Burnside State Park. Things to do in the nearby town of Corbin include the Pinball Museum of Corbin and the Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum.
Camping is available in the state park and is definitely our top pick.
Red River Gorge Geological Area
Tucked into the larger wilderness of the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge Geological Area is characterized by unusual rock formations including gravity-defying stone arches, towering sandstone cliffs, and more. Besides that, the beautiful Kentucky forest cover and endless summer sunshine the area offers are wonderful.
Comprised of about 29,000 acres, the Red River Gorge Geological Area has been designated a Geological Area, National Historic Landmark, and National Archaeological District. It;s also been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Long story short: you need to experience it for yourself.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
The wider Red River Gorge Geological Area is positively awash with outdoor recreation opportunities, from hiking and rock-climbing to swimming, rafting, paddling and so much more. Be sure to check out Natural Bridge State Resort Park and head into Lexington to see Kentucky Horse Park and Ashland – The Henry Clay Estate.
The Koomer Ridge Campground offers RV camping near the Red River Gorge and is a great place to call home for a few days.
Churchill Downs
Perhaps the most famous horse-race track in the world, Churchill Downs is where the Kentucky Derby is held each May. It is also home to the Kentucky Oaks race. The track was originally opened back in 1875 and was named for Samuel Churchill of the prominent Kentucky Churchill family at the time.
Today, the track is open for races, and tours of the track are also available through the Kentucky Derby Museum. Keep in mind that, while there isn’t an official dress code, people are expected to dress for the occasion — there are guidelines listed on the website in case you’re unsure if your outfit will fly!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located in the historic-yet-happening town of Louisville, Churchill Downs is just the beginning of the exciting things to see and do in this part of the state. One great thing to see in Louisville is the Louisville Mega Cavern.
You can set up camp at the Louisville South KOA Holiday.
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
If you’re at all a baseball fan (or even if you’re not), you owe yourself a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. Along with the informative museum, you’ll also be able to see first hand where these incredible bats have been made since 1855. To top it all off, you can get one of your own personalized at the onsite museum store.
Perhaps the best part is the Hold a Piece of History exhibit. Here, visitors get to put their own hands on bats that were used by legends like Mickey Mantle, Johnny Bench, David Ortiz, and Derek Jeter. (Yes, really.)
Attractions and Camping Nearby
While you’ll find plenty to do in Louisville, don’t forget that this big city is just a short while away from some beautiful wildernesses. Taylorsville Lake State Park is a great option just a short way outside of town.
RV camping is available in the aforementioned state park and it really is a great place to stay while exploring the area.
Belle of Louisville
A beautiful and historic steamboat that originally dates back to the early 20th century, the Belle of Louisville is indeed a looker. It’s also an amazing opportunity for those looking for a new way to see the city.
Cruise along the water and enjoy the skyline like you’ve never quite seen it before. You can also plan a special, just-for-you charter cruise for a birthday, anniversary, or even a wedding.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
You know the drill: check out the rest of Louisville for some amazing options. Besides the options mentioned above, we also love the Louisville Zoo and Conrad-Caldwell House Museum.
Silver Creek RV Park is another great place to stay near the city.
Louisville Water Company Pumping Station
Also known simply as the Louisville Water Tower, the Louisville Water Company Pumping Station, has been designated a beautiful waterfront park. This stunning tower is actually the oldest ornamental water tower in the world, older even than the Chicago Water Tower.
Along with offering an incredible photo opp, this water tower is also a unique event venue and a common spot for Louisville lovers to tie the knot.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Meander along the Ohio River towards downtown to enjoy the scenery. Eventually, you will arrive at the heart of Louisville itself, awash with eateries, shops, museums and the attractions mentioned above.
Looking for even more Louisville area RV camping options? You might consider Brooks RV Park.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
Looking for a hands-on history experience that’ll outshine even the very best classroom lesson? Kentucky’s own Big Bone Lick State Historic Site has you covered. This spot derives its name from the one-of-a-kind Pleistocene megafauna fossils that can be found here, thanks to the mammoths that were attracted to this area because of the salt deposits around the sulphur springs.
Along with viewing the bones of these long-ago residents, visitors can also get familiar with the creatures who call this place home today. These include a herd of bison and an array of native birds and insects. There’s also an onsite museum, so you can turn the venture into a whole weekend.
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Located northeast of Louisville en route to Cincinnati, Ohio, this park is also within easy driving distance of Kincaid Lake State Park.
Camping is available in the park, meaning you can totally immerse yourself for the duration of your trip, which is a fantastic bonus.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Okay, we’ll admit, this one’s cheating a bit — because it’s actually a whole series of landmarks. That said, if you’re a fan of the sweet, vanilla-laced scent and taste of good Kentucky whiskey, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a landmark not to be missed.
Including a wide range of distilleries scattered across the span of the state, you can explore the Bourbon Trail via a DIY tour or with one of the many tour companies available in the area just waiting to show you around. Just make sure to designate someone as a sober driver!
Attractions and Camping Nearby
Given that the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is spread across a large section of the state, there’s plenty to see and do along the way. As always, head to Louisville for a big city Kentucky experience, and be sure to check out the state parks that populate this part of the state.
RV camping can be found at most state parks and we find these parks make wonderful spots to escape into nature.
Planning an RV Trip to Kentucky
An RV trip is the perfect way to string together a great trip that allows you to see all of these amazing Kentucky landmarks. Mammoth Cave National Park should definitely be a part of the trip, as should some of the state parks Kentucky is lucky to have in its roster. Louisville is also a must-see and stopping 10 best campgrounds in the state will ensure you camp in comfort the whole time.
