#41 Fun Things To Do In Kentucky With Kids

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Is there anything worth seeing in Kentucky? What fun things can I do in Kentucky with my Kids?

If these are your burning questions, the answer is YES! Kentucky is a great place to explore, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do with your children. From fascinating attractions and outdoor activities to interactive museums and historical sites, there are plenty of family-friendly activities in this beautiful state.

#41 Fun Things to Do In Kentucky With Kids – Best Family-Friendly Attractions!

1: Aviation Museum of Kentucky

Get ready to take a journey through the skies and explore the rich history of aviation in Kentucky. From the Wright brothers’ first flight to the modern military planes flown today, you’ll be taken on a thrilling adventure through time.

Walk through the Classic & Historic Aircraft hangar and witness the planes that changed the course of history. Then, head over to the Modern Military hangar and see first-hand the innovative aircraft used today. The Aviation Museum of Kentucky is the perfect destination for anyone who has ever dreamed of flying high in the sky!

2. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Discover the story of one of baseball’s most iconic brands with a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. Explore interactive exhibits, watch skilled artisans craft bats, and even take a swing at a simulated pitching machine!

A behind-the-scenes experience offers an exclusive tour of the bat vault, a personalized bat, and access to the museum’s archives.

3: Historic Railpark & Train Museum

All aboard for an adventure you won’t forget! The Historic Railpark and Train Museum is the perfect destination for history enthusiasts and train buffs alike. Step back in time as you explore the stunning Train Depot, which has stood proudly since its construction in 1925. But it’s not just a pretty face; this landmark played a significant role in the Civil War and influenced the development of the city.

Did you know that mail was delivered by train for nearly 150 years aboard the Railway Post Office? You’ll get to witness this fascinating piece of history in action. And finally, the ultimate luxury is waiting for you in the form of the L&N presidential train car, built in 1911. Don’t miss your chance to experience the grandeur for yourself!

4: Badgett Playhouse

For a fun family outing, head to Grand Rivers and visit the Badgett Playhouse. This unique theater features musicals, plays, and other live performances that are sure to delight kids and adults alike.

Popular showings include the 70’s Show, The Beatles, The Kid and The King, It’s a Wonderful Life and more. With ticket prices at only $22.99 per adult and kids under 5 free, the Badgett Playhouse is a great choice for families.

5: River Discovery Center

Uncover the hidden secrets of Kentucky’s rivers with a visit to the River Discovery Center in Paducah. This interactive museum offers a variety of educational experiences, such as boat tours and river-themed exhibits.

Exhibits here include a boat simulator, music stations, a rain table, and more. The River Discovery Center is open Monday – Saturday from 9:30 – 5 pm and admission is only $12 for adults / $8 for kids (4 and under are FREE).

6: Zipline Through Kentucky River Palisades

Ziplining through the Kentucky River Palisades with kids is an unforgettable experience. With the safety of a harness and expert guides, kids can enjoy an exhilarating ride as they zip through the trees, taking in all the natural beauty around them.

Adults and kids alike will love the thrill of ziplining through nature.  You’ll see the deep limestone gorges, spring-fed creeks, and old-growth trees of the Kentucky River Palisades as you fly high overhead.

7: Bluegrass Railroad Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Kentucky railroads with a visit to the Blue Grass Railroad Museum. This museum features a variety of historic locomotives and artifacts, as well as interactive exhibits that tell the story of railroad travel in the state.

You can also take part in special events like train rides and themed dinners for an unforgettable experience. Popular train rides include the Civil War, Pumpkin Patch, and Santa Easter Bunny tours. With prices starting at $14 for adults and $12 for children, this makes for a fun thing to do in Kentucky with kids.

8: Kentucky Reining Horse Association

Get an up-close look at some of the best-reining horses in the state with a visit to the Kentucky Reining Horse Association. This organization hosts a variety of shows and competitions throughout the year, including the World Equestrian Games and the National Reined Cow Horse Competition.

Here, you can also take part in workshops and clinics to learn the basics of this thrilling sport. A visit to the Kentucky Reigning Horse Association is a treat for any horse lover!

9: Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area

Explore Kentucky’s natural beauty with a trip to the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. This lush park features over 125,000 acres of breathtaking scenery, including vast forests, rugged trails, and pristine rivers.

You can take part in activities like hiking, camping, and canoeing to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of this majestic landscape. Ranger-led activities, the Go Big Challenge, and the annual music festival are just a few things you can do to make your time here truly unforgettable.

10: Ralphie’s Fun Center

If you’re looking for some family-friendly fun, head to Ralphie’s Fun Center in Lexington. This expansive entertainment center features a variety of activities, including skating, mini golf, laser tag, and bowling.

You can also enjoy dinner at the on-site restaurant before playing a few rounds of putt-putt or jumping on the inflatables. At only $17 for an inclusive wristband, Ralphie’s is a great place for families!

11: John James Audubon State Park

For a peaceful nature retreat, visit John James Audubon State Park in Henderson. This park is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife, including the rare prothonotary warbler and wood thrush.

You can also take part in outdoor activities like fishing, and hiking and stroll the Audubon Wetlands boardwalk to explore the park’s lush natural beauty. For those looking to extend their stay, be sure to check out the cute cottages.

12: Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park is the world’s longest-known cave system with over 400 miles of passageways! A variety of underground tours are offered at Mammoth Cave National Park. We opted for the self-guided tour at $8 per person, but we will definitely be returning for one of the other tours, as this one left a lot to be desired.

In addition to the cave, you’ll also find nature walks, bike trails, horseback riding, canoeing or kayaking down the Green River, and more at Mammoth Cave National Park. Make sure to check out the ranger programs too! Little ones can also participate in the Junior Ranger program and earn a badge. You can print the book HERE or they have them available for $2 (in 2022) at the visitor center.

13: Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area

Experience Kentucky’s spectacular beauty with a trip to the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area. This stunning outdoor destination features over 170,000 acres of forests, hills, and lakes.

You can take part in activities like camping, fishing, boating, and birdwatching to truly appreciate the region’s natural beauty. Popular attractions at Land Between The Lakes Nationa Recreation Area include The Elk & Bison Prarie, an 1850s Working Farm, and the Planetarium.

14: Old Louisville

Explore one of Louisville’s most historic neighborhoods with a visit to Old Louisville. Sign up for a walking tour to get the most out of your time here. This charming district features a variety of Victorian-era homes, parks, and monuments that offer a glimpse into the city’s past.

You can also take part in special events like the St. James Court Art Show or explore the area’s many antique stores and boutiques.

15: Russell Sims Aquatic Center

Make a splash with a visit to the Russell Sims Aquatic Center in Bowling Green. This expansive facility features a lazy river, slides, and an interactive play area, perfect for cooling off during the hot Kentucky summers. You can also take part in swimming lessons or join one of the center’s many aqua aerobics classes.

Pricing is just $10 for adults and $8 for kids, or you can get a family season pass for just $200.

16: Red River Gorge Experiences

Challenge yourself with a trip to the Red River Gorge in south-central Kentucky. This area features some of the most rugged and breathtaking scenery in the state, including sheer cliffs, deep gorges, and pristine rivers.

Red River Gorge offers customized itineraries to help you make the most out of your experience. Book a rock climbing or guided hike on private property and local nature preserves.

17: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Discover Kentucky’s unique cultural heritage with a visit to the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. This restored 19th-century village features dozens of original buildings, offering insight into the lives and beliefs of the Shaker people.

You can also explore the area’s historic farms and gardens, or take part in special events like dinner theater and workshops. Tickets are just $14 for adults / $7 for children and get you full access to self-guided tours, demonstrations, hands-on activities, and more.

18: Kentucky Kingdom

Enjoy a day of fun and thrills with a visit to Kentucky Kingdom in Louisville. This expansive amusement park features more than 70 rides, including roller coasters, water slides, and kiddie attractions.

You can also take part in special events like live shows or fireworks displays for an even more unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for things to do in Kentucky with kids, you can’t go wrong with an amusement park!

19: Louisville Mega Cavern

Explore the mysterious underground with a visit to the Louisville Mega Cavern. This massive man-made cavern offers an array of activities and attractions, including ziplines, tram rides, ropes courses, and even glow-in-the-dark mini-golf.

You can also take part in special events like zombie laser tag or explore the cave’s fascinating history. There are also walking, bike, or tram tours if you just want to see this massive cave up close.

20: Malibu Jack’s

Bring the kids for a day of family fun with a visit to Malibu Jack’s. This expansive facility features go-karts, laser tag, mini golf, and arcade games, as well as plenty of snacks and treats.

Other activities like bowling, virtual reality, and a basketball shootout make this a great place to spot for family time. You can also take part in special events like birthday parties or group outings for an even more enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for things to do in Kentucky with kids, this is a great choice for an afternoon of fun.

21: Chaney’s Dairy Barn

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to Chaney’s Dairy Barn in Bowling Green. This family-run farm offers an array of treats, including delicious homemade ice cream and fresh-baked pies.

Farm tours and a playground jumping pillow will add more fun to your visit. You can also explore the barn’s variety of animals or take part in special events like hayrides and corn mazes for a truly unique experience.

22: Belle of Louisville

Cruise down the Ohio River with a trip aboard the Belle of Louisville. This historical steamboat offers sightseeing tours, evening cruises, and special events like murder mystery dinners for an unforgettable experience.

You can also explore the boat’s many exhibits or take part in activities like jazz concerts to really get into the spirit of this timeless vessel.

23: Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours

Indulge your sweet tooth with a trip to Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours in Frankfort. This unique facility offers tours of their factory, where you can learn about the history and process of making fine handmade chocolates and candies.

You can also pick up some delicious treats as souvenirs or take part in special events like candy-making classes for a truly unique experience. Tours include a free sample of some delicious chocolate!

24: Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park

Discover the history of one of America’s most famous presidents with a visit to the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park. This peaceful site includes a memorial building, historic homesteads, and other exhibits that tell the story of the 16th president’s life.

You can also take part in special events like re-enactments or explore the nearby trails for an even more immersive experience. The memorial building is open daily from 9 am – 4:30 pm.

25: Kentucky Derby Museum

Experience the excitement of the world-famous Kentucky Derby at the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville. This interactive facility offers exhibits, artifacts, and unique displays that tell the story of this iconic horse race.

You can also take part in special events like Behind the Scenes tours or guided walking experiences for an even more unforgettable experience.

26: Green River Lake State Park

Spend a day outdoors with a visit to Green River Lake State Park in Campbellsville. This stunning area features miles of hiking trails, boating and fishing spots, and plenty of camping areas for an unforgettable experience.

You can also take part in activities like horseback riding for an even more enjoyable experience. Biking is also a popular activity here with 28 miles of trails to explore.

27: Newport Aquarium

Explore the ocean’s depths with a visit to Newport Aquarium near Cincinnati. This impressive facility features more than 70 exhibits and over 500 species of aquatic life, ranging from sharks and stingrays to sea turtles and jellyfish.

Activities like diving shows and the Jellyfish Experience offer even more immersive experiences. Plus, there are plenty of interactive exhibits that allow you to touch and feed the animals. Newport Aquarium is a great way for families to have fun and explore the world beneath the waves. If you’re looking for things to do in Kentucky with kids, this is a great stop!

28: Guntown Mountain

Explore the wild side of Kentucky with a trip to Froggetts Guntown Mountain in Cave City. This unique attraction features an old Western-style town full of shops, shows, and activities that make it easy to explore this thrilling part of the state.

You can also take part in special events like gunfights or check out their live reptile exhibit for an even more exciting experience. Be sure to try panning for gold while you’re there!

29. Daniel Boone Challenge

The Daniel Boone Challenge provides an experience like no other! With aerial elements such as rope bridges and zip lines, the course will push your limits and give you a unique perspective of the outdoors.

You’ll soar through the trees with confidence, both young and old alike, guaranteed to leave you with a sense of accomplishment. Boone Creek Outdoors is the perfect place for an unforgettable adventure!

30: Hidden River Cave & The American Cave Museum

Dive into Kentucky’s hidden gems with a visit to Hidden River Cave and the American Cave Museum in Horse Cave. The town of Horse Cave was built around a sinkhole now known as Hidden River Cave – how cool is that?!!

This fascinating destination features guided tours of the underground river and cave system, as well as an impressive museum full of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of this amazing natural wonder. We did the self-guided tour, which is basically just walking to the entrance of the cave, so if you want to actually go inside, make sure to opt for a paid tour instead.

31: Dinosaur World

You’ll take a walk back in time at Dinosaur World in Cave City, Kentucky. There is a huge Tyrannosaurus Rex standing guard on 1-65, so you really can’t miss it. Dinosaur world is set up similarly to a zoo, where you walk the path to see the different species.

Did you know that no one really knows the true color of dinosaurs? You’ll learn that and more when you walk through the dinosaur museum! Another fun thing to do is panning for gems. You’ll use a screen box and sluice to wash away the dirt from the gemstones. There’s also a playground and picnic area, making it a great spot for families to spend the day.

32: Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo

Experience the wild side of Kentucky with a trip to Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo near Horse Cave. Here you’ll find kangaroos, emus, sheep herding, Mammoth Onyx Cave, birds, and more! This is a 75-acre park that is definitely a must-visit if you’re in the area. Our favorite was the kangaroo habitat where we got to touch the kangaroos – you can also feed them, but we always forget cash so we just went for the cuddles.

Mammoth Onyx Cave was super fun too. The cave stays 58 degrees year-round, so make sure you dress accordingly. This 30-minute tour is a lot of steps and can get slippery, but it’s incredibly beautiful inside, so don’t skip it! Make sure you opt for the golf cart rental, Kentucky Down Under is pretty hilly and the attractions are spread out a bit. I believe the rental was $40 for the day, but it was totally worth it.

33: Louisville Zoo

Discover the wonders of the animal kingdom with a visit to Louisville Zoo. This impressive facility features over 1,500 animals from around the world, ranging from chimpanzees and tigers to giraffes and elephants. Activities like camel rides and the Insectarium add to the excitement.

Also, be sure to check out Penguin Cove for a chance to see these amazing creatures up close. The Louisville Zoo offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that are great for hands-on learning making this a great thing to do in Kentucky with kids.

34: Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm

Experience the best of Kentucky’s horse racing culture with a visit to Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm near Georgetown. This unique facility is home to more than 200 retired racehorses, and visitors can take part in guided tours (Thursday – Sunday) that allow them to meet some of the resident horses.

Tours are outside on a working farm, so be sure to dress accordingly. Also, no children under 10 are permitted on group tours.

35: Carter Caves State Resort Park

Experience the beauty of Kentucky’s natural wonders at Carter Caves State Resort Park in Olive Hill. This outdoor destination features a variety of trails, waterfalls, and caves that are perfect for exploring.

You can also take part in activities like swimming and fishing or explore the area’s many attractions, like underground boat tours or gemstone mining for an even more immersive experience.

36: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Step back in time with a visit to the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park near Middlesboro. This impressive park features interpretive exhibits and educational programs that make it easy to explore this unique area of Kentucky’s history.

One of the most popular things to do here is to stand in 3 states at once! The park straddles Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. The Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is a great spot for outdoor adventures and history buffs alike.

37: Ark Encounter

Experience the wonders of biblical history with a visit to the Ark Encounter near Williamstown. This massive wooden ark is a life-sized Noah’s Ark, complete with exhibits and models depicting biblical scenes.

You’ll get to meet Noah, explore the life-size replicas of animals, and learn about this important part of Christian history. The Ark Encounter is also home to a petting zoo, zip lines, a cafe, and much more! This unique attraction offers something for everyone in the family.

38: Smothers Park

Unwind with a visit to Smothers Park near Owensboro. This sprawling park is named the top playground in the world and features a wide range of attractions like cascading fountains, a waterfall, and swinging metal benches.

Smothers Park also offers games on the river, a concession stand, fountain shows, and more. With its stunning views and fun activities, Smothers Park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon if you’re looking for things to do in Kentucky with kids.

39: Beech Bend Raceway, Amusement Park & Splash Lagoon

Rev up your engines with a visit to Beech Bend Raceway, Amusement Park & Splash Lagoon near Bowling Green. This unique facility offers something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters and go-karts to bumper boats and mini golf.

Activities like drag racing, thrilling roller coasters, and the water park offer an even more exciting experience. Plus, there’s plenty of food, games, and souvenir shops to explore. Beech Bend is a great place for families to have fun and make some lasting memories.

40: National Corvette Museum

Discover the world of America’s favorite sports car with a visit to the National Corvette Museum near Bowling Green. The National Corvette Museum is located just off I-65 and offers 115,000 square feet of corvettes.

In the lobby, you’ll find a Corvette simulator that for a small fee ($10 in 2022) you can drive around the racetrack. Heads up if you get motion sickness, skip this (ask me how I know). The National Corvette Museum is a great way to learn more about this iconic American sports car.

41: Forest Giants at Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest

Take a walk on the wild side with a visit to Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest near Clermont. This expansive arboretum features over 16,000 acres of forest and meadows, as well as displays like the Forest Giants exhibit which allows guests to explore some of Kentucky’s rarest trees.

Canopy Tree Walk, 75 feet above the forest floor is just one of the highlights of Bernheim. You’ll get to explore all sorts of natural wonders from wildflowers and tree frogs to bald eagles and beavers, without ever leaving the ground. The Forest Giants exhibit is a great way for families to experience nature up close and personal. With a cafe and educational programs, Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest offers something for everyone and is a great thing to do in Kentucky with kids.

What is Kentucky Known For?

Kentucky is best known for horse racing and bourbon. The state is the birthplace of both the Kentucky Derby and the Churchill Downs racetrack. It’s also home to many of the world’s most famous bourbon distilleries, such as Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark. Visitors can tour these historical sites to learn about the art of bourbon-making and sample the local flavor.

Kentucky is also known for its natural beauty, with many stunning national parks and forests. The Red River Gorge in Daniel Boone National Forest is especially popular with hikers, rock climbers, and campers. Finally, Kentucky is known for its music—bluegrass, jazz, blues, country, and folk—which can be enjoyed at live music venues across the state.

What is the best time of year to visit Kentucky?

The spring and fall months are especially popular, as the weather is mild and temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. During this time, many festivals take place including the Louisville Derby Festival in May and the Forecastle Music Festival in July.

During the summer months, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities in the state’s many parks and forests. In the winter, visitors can still participate in outdoor activities such as skiing and snowmobiling. Regardless of when you visit, Kentucky is sure to be an unforgettable experience!

Where To Eat

Kentucky is known for its delicious home-cooked Southern cuisine. Popular dishes include fried chicken, pork chops with gravy, and biscuits and gravy. Visitors can find these dishes at many local restaurants in Louisville or other cities around the state.

Some of the most popular restaurants in the state include the Café on Fourth in Lexington, which serves classic Southern-style dishes; Fonda’s Kitchen in Louisville, which specializes in Mexican cuisine; and The Blind Pig BBQ in Owensboro, which serves up a delicious smoked barbecue.

No matter what your tastes are, Kentucky has something to offer everyone! Bon Appétit!

Where To Stay

Our favorite campground in Kentucky is Diamond Caverns. This campground is not only included in our Thousand Trails membership, but it’s also conveniently located in the heart of Kentucky. There are also several amenities such as fire pits, grills, a playground and mini golf.

You will also find plenty of options in state parks like Mammoth Cave National Park and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, where you can explore nature trails, caves, and the real outdoors.

Conclusion: What Are Some Fun Things To Do In Kentucky With Kids?

Kentucky is full of things to do that the whole family can enjoy. From thrilling horse competitions to shopping sprees and outdoor adventures, Kentucky has something to offer. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed excursion, this southern state will not disappoint. Plan your trip today and experience the best that Kentucky has to offer!

Looking for more travel tips?

We love to share about our favorite destinations! Read more about Acadia National Park, including things to do in Acadia when it rains, Bar Harbor, top Cincinnati attractions, kid-friendly activities in Santa Rosa Beach, and how to spend Christmas in Florida.

For our favorite places to stay, check out our campground page where you can learn more about the top camping memberships, including Passport America and Thousand Trails.

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