Discover the Bluegrass State of Kentucky
Whether you’re looking to explore Kentucky’s natural beauty, experience its music and bourbon culture, or learn about its fascinating history and heritage, a road trip or escorted tour is the perfect way to discover all that the Bluegrass State has to offer.
Find exactly what you’re looking for via the links below – or keep scrolling to discover the delights of Kentucky for yourself:
15-Day Sips, Sights & Sounds of Kentucky Self-Drive Tour | 15-Day Kentucky & Tennessee By Motorhome | 15-Day Bourbon, Bluegrass & Horse Country Self-Drive Tour
Find Your Adventure In Kentucky | Blog: Kentucky Festivals – A Celebration Of Music, Bourbon, Cuisine, And Equestrian Excellence | Visiting Kentucky Throughout The Year | Watch The “Kentucky Moments” Video
Explore the Best of Kentucky With These Recommended Tour Itineraries
From June 2023, British Airways will be flying five days a week direct from London Heathrow to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) – so you’ll now have even more time to explore the Bourbon Trail!
15-Day Sips, Sights And Sounds Of Kentucky
Delve into the history of bourbon, Bluegrass, local cuisine and Kentucky-born heroes including Muhammad Ali on this road trip of discovery.
From £1,905pp
Including flights
Operated by America As You Like It
- Enjoy the Bluegrass music scenes of Owensboro and Renfro Valley
- Take a walking-foodie tour in Lexington
- Follow the the Country Music Highway
- Visit Bardstown – first settled in 1780 and known as the Bourbon Capital of the World
- Explore the UNESCO Creative City of Paducah and see the colourful Lower Town Arts District
- Visit the birthplace and homestead of the Father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe, in Rosine
- 14 nights accommodation
- 14 days car hire
- Return International flights
- ATOL protected
15-Day Bourbon, Bluegrass & Horse Country
Embark on a journey to explore distilleries, bluegrass music and the horse culture in Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio and Indiana.
From £1,399pp
Operated by Discover North America
- Catch a horse race at one of Kentucky’s renowned racetracks
- xplore the beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest
- Visit Mt. Vernon, nestled in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains
- Frequent the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame
- See the thoroughbred horses at Darley at Jonabell Farm, where Kentucky Derby winning stallions have been bred
- Spend time at one of Kentucky’s most revered distilleries: Buffalo Trace
15-Day Kentucky & Tennessee By Motorhome
Explore the best of these scenic, neighbouring states at your own pace while enjoying many adventures along the way.
From £2,825pp
Including flights
Operated by North America Travel Service
- Spend time at the “Niagara of the South,” in Cumberland Falls State Park
- Explore Newport, Kentucky – the gaming predecessor to Las Vegas
- Enjoy hiking, trails and caves, paddling and kayaking at Carter Caves State Park and Cave Run Lake
- Step back in time at the Shaker Village in Pleasant Hill
- Take a Belle of Louisville sightseeing cruise
- Experience boating and fishing on the 5,100-acre Rough River Lake
- 4 nights hotel accommodation
- 10 days C25 motorhome rental
- Return international flights
- ATOL protected
Find Your Adventure in Kentucky
There’s a wealth of experiences in store for you to uncover when you visit Kentucky. We’ve selected what we think you’ll love most.
Bourbon
Culinary
Kentucky’s culinary landscape offers a mouthwatering array of flavours deeply rooted in Southern tradition. From savoury barbecue and crispy fried chicken to comforting bourbon-infused dishes, the state tantalises taste buds with its rich gastronomic heritage. Louisville’s vibrant food scene boasts diverse eateries, while the Bourbon Trail invites enthusiasts to savour the spirit’s history. Whether indulging in hearty southern classics or innovative farm-to-table fare, Kentucky’s culinary experiences promise a delicious journey through its flavourful traditions.
Music
Kentucky’s vibrant music scene encompasses a diverse range of genres deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. From traditional folk tunes to modern-day hits, the state’s musical legacy is celebrated through various festivals and events. Whether it’s the soulful melodies of Appalachian ballads, the lively rhythms of country and bluegrass, or the electrifying sounds of rock and roll, Kentucky offers a rich tapestry of musical experiences for enthusiasts to explore. Festivals such as the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and the Kentucky Folk Festival showcase the state’s musical diversity, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its melodious traditions.
Equestrian Experiences
Equestrian enthusiasts can explore Kentucky’s rich equestrian heritage through a variety of experiences. Guided tours offer visitors the opportunity to delve into the state’s renowned Thoroughbred horse culture, where they can immerse themselves in the history and breeding traditions of these majestic animals. Alternatively, they can opt for leisurely rides through Kentucky’s picturesque countryside, soaking in the beauty of the landscape while appreciating the state’s deep-rooted equestrian traditions.
History & Heritage
Visitors to Kentucky can immerse themselves in the state’s historical tapestry by visiting pivotal Civil War sites, Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace, and the quaint Maysville Historic District. Museums such as the Kentucky Historical Society and the Muhammad Ali Center offer enriching experiences, shedding light on the diverse cultural heritage and storied past of the Bluegrass State. These destinations provide visitors with an opportunity to delve deeper into Kentucky’s legacy, fostering a greater appreciation for its historical significance and enduring contributions to American culture.
Outdoors
Kentucky Festivals: A Celebration Of Music, Bourbon, Cuisine, And Equestrian Excellence
Kentucky boasts a myriad of renowned attributes – its horse racing prestige, warm southern hospitality, and globally acclaimed bourbon. Yet, amidst these notable features lies a thriving music and festival scene, often overlooked but deeply ingrained in the state’s cultural fabric…
Visiting Kentucky Throughout the Year…
- Spring in Kentucky is characterised by mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Temperatures average 12-23°C during the day. Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington hosts its annual spring meet during April
- Summer in Kentucky is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 26-32°C or higher. The Kentucky State Fair is held in Louisville during August, featuring livestock shows, concerts, and carnival rides. The Bourbon Trail and Kentucky Horse Park are popular destinations during the summer months
- The fall months of September to November are a popular time to visit Kentucky due to the changing foliage colours, Temperatures are mild, averaging 15-23°C during the day. October is a great time to visit due to events like the Bourbon Festival in Bardstown and the Kentucky State BBQ Festival in Danville
- Winter in Kentucky can be cold and snowy, especially in the eastern part of the state. Temperatures typically range from 1-5°C during the day. December is a festive time to visit, with events like the Southern Lights Holiday Festival in Lexington and the Festival of Trees and Lights in Louisville