Discover

Kentucky

Kentucky offers visitors a truly unique experience, with a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore the rolling hills of horse country, where the world’s best thoroughbreds are bred and trained. Immerse yourself in the state’s rich history, from the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln to the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Savour the delicious cuisine, from hot browns to burgoo, and the world-famous fried chicken. Experience the hospitality of the people and the energy of the state’s vibrant urban centres, such as Louisville and Lexington, which offer everything from world-class museums and galleries to lively music and nightlife scenes. Kentucky is a destination that will captivate your senses and leave you with unforgettable memories – we’ve featured 10 unforgettable things to experience in the Bluegrass State for you in our dedicated guide.

 

What you’ll love most about Kentucky

  • Visit Kentucky Horse Park, a world-renowned equestrian facility with museums, tours, and horse shows
  • Mammoth Cave National Park is a vast underground cave system with stunning formations and a rich history, located in south-central Kentucky that’s worth taking the time out to explore
  • Learn about the history of baseball and see how Louisville Slugger bats are made at Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
  • Follow the Bourbon Trail, a tour of some of Kentucky’s most famous distilleries, such as Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve, offering tastings and behind-the-scenes insights
  • Head to Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, the most famous horse race in the world
  • Daniel Boone National Forest is a vast wilderness area with hiking, camping, and scenic drives, located in eastern Kentucky
  • Located in Louisville, check out the Muhammad Ali Centre, the museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the legendary boxer

Where to Book

  • Cumberland Falls - Kentucky Tourism

  • Kentucky Derby, Louisville - Kentucky Tourism

  • Cumberland Gap National Historical Park - Kentucky Tourism

  • Jerusalem Ridge Bluegrass Festival in Rosine - Kentucky Tourism

  • The Gorge underground canoeing - Kentucky Tourism

  • Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville - Kentucky Tourism

  • Kentucky Capitol Building in spring, Frankfort - Kentucky Tourism

  • Dale Hollow Lake State Resport Park golf course - Kentucky Tourism

  • Lake Cumberland wakeboarding - Kentucky Tourism

  • Kentucky cuisine - Kentucky Tourism

  • Lost River Cave boat tour in Bowling Green - Kentucky Tourism

  • Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument reenactors - The Gorge underground canoeing - Kentucky Tourism

  • New Riff Distillers - Kentucky Tourism

  • Kentucky Horse Park in winter - Kentucky Tourism

  • Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park - Kentucky Tourism

  • Master Musicians Festival in Somerset - Kentucky Tourism

  • Lexington Bourbon Review - Kentucky Tourism

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 5℃
  • 8℃
  • 15℃
  • 21℃
  • 25℃
  • 30℃
  • 32℃
  • 31℃
  • 28℃
  • 21℃
  • 14℃
  • 8℃
  • 7
  • 7
  • 9
  • 9
  • 9
  • 8
  • 7
  • 6
  • 5
  • 5
  • 7
  • 8

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January in Kentucky is typically cold, with average temperatures ranging from -2°C to 6°C. Frost-covered landscapes and occasional snowfall add a magical touch to the countryside.

February

February continues the chill, with temperatures averaging 0°C to 8°C. While the weather remains brisk, it’s a great time to explore historic towns like Bardstown or cosy up in local cafés.

March

March brings the first hints of spring, with daytime highs reaching around 10°C. The weather begins to thaw, and the state’s natural beauty comes alive as nature awakens.

April

April sees temperatures averaging 15°C, with blooming flowers and fresh greenery across the Bluegrass State. It’s a great time to visit horse farms or enjoy outdoor hikes in places like Red River Gorge.

May

May offers mild and pleasant days, with average highs of 20°C. The lush landscapes, complete with rolling hills and wildflowers, create the perfect backdrop for springtime exploration.

June

June is warm and sunny, with temperatures around 25°C to 28°C. The longer days are perfect for exploring Louisville’s urban culture or attending horse racing events at the iconic Churchill Downs.

July

July can be humid, with daytime temperatures often reaching 30°C. Outdoor activities such as canoeing on the Kentucky River or attending local festivals become popular during these summer days.

August

August offers slightly cooler evenings, with average highs of 28°C. Visitors enjoy exploring Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail or hiking through the Daniel Boone National Forest.

September

September brings cooler, comfortable weather, with average temperatures of 22°C. The changing leaves and the onset of autumn make it an ideal time for scenic drives and outdoor activities.

October

October is rather crisp, with temperatures around 15°C. The vibrant autumn foliage transforms the landscape into a palette of red, gold, and orange, especially in the Appalachian region.

November

November has cool and breezy weather, with average temperatures of 8°C. While the state begins transitioning into winter, it remains a beautiful time to explore historic sites and state parks.

December

December is chilly, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 6°C. The holiday season brings festive events to towns like Lexington and Louisville, and the countryside offers a delightful winter charm.

Our Ratings

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Where to book


A specialist tour operator offering tailor-made fly-drives and city breaks throughout the USA and Canada. Offering a professional, yet personal service their staff have a first-hand and excellent knowledge of the USA and Canada and enjoy planning each unique holiday.

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American Sky offers luxury tailor-made tours and holidays specialising in providing expert travel advice and exceptional unhurried customer service. With a wealth of experience we will find the perfect trip for you.

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Enjoy the benefits and convenience of escorted travel, ample free time to explore your destination the way you want, and longer stays in key cities so that you can immerse yourself in the local culture.

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Discover North America, doesn’t do ‘one size fits all’ holiday packages. Their experienced travel specialists take great pride in curating individually tailored itineraries designed to your interests, time, and budget. So, sit back, relax, and let them help you discover North America.

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At Freedom Destinations, we take the trouble out of travel. We offer everything you need in one place; a great range of hotels, tours and activities, coupled with first-class service from dedicated specialists who work with you to create your perfect itinerary. With FREEDOM you can….

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Offering the very best in bespoke designer holiday for 50 years with a true passion for North America. With our wealth of experience plan your wild west adventure, romantic break, relaxing holiday or escorted tour with the USA experts.

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Purely America is an award winning tailor-made tour operator specialising in Holidays to North America. Let their experienced team tailor-make your dream holiday. For 20 years they have only created North America itineraries, so they know it inside out.

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With over 40 years of making travel simple. Travelbag are ATOL protected so you are covered. Book with confidence. Find great prices on tailor made luxury holidays, flights, hotels and tours worldwide! Secure payments. Expert advice. UK based shops. Worldwide destinations.

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