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If you’re traveling to Kentucky with kids, you’ll have no shortage of fun things to do. From natural wonders to amusement parks to museums, there is something for everyone. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the 11 best places to take kids in Kentucky.
If your family loves outdoor adventures, be sure to visit Cumberland Falls. This is Kentucky’s largest waterfall and is easily accessible along a short trail. Kids will love seeing the natural beauty of the state up close and personal. Another great option for outdoor fun is Mammoth Cave National Park, where you can explore above and below ground.
For those interested in history and culture, the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville is a must-visit. This interactive museum celebrates the life and legacy of the boxing legend. The Frazier Kentucky History Museum in Louisville is another great option, offering exhibits about Kentucky’s history and culture. No matter what your family’s interests are, Kentucky has plenty of options for a memorable vacation.
Louisville Zoo
1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213
If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination in Kentucky, the Louisville Zoo is a great option. As the state zoo of Kentucky, the Louisville Zoo offers a wide variety of animals and exhibits that are sure to entertain and educate visitors of all ages.
One of the highlights of the Louisville Zoo is the Glacier Run exhibit, which features polar bears, grizzly bears, and sea lions. Visitors can watch the bears swim and play in their habitats, and learn about their natural habitats and behaviors.
In addition to Glacier Run, the Louisville Zoo is also home to a number of other animal exhibits, including orangutans, gorillas, giraffes, rhinos, penguins, and more.
The Louisville Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. From animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours to Zoo Camp and Zoo Tram Tours, there are plenty of opportunities to learn about the animals and their habitats. The Zoo also hosts a number of special events throughout the year, including the Halloween Party and World’s Largest Halloween Party.
If you’re planning a visit to the Louisville Zoo, be sure to check the website for hours of operation and admission prices. The Zoo is open year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Members of the Zoo can enjoy early entry on select days, and discounts on programs and events.
Kentucky Science Center
727 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
If you’re looking for an interactive and educational experience for your kids, the Kentucky Science Center is a must-visit destination. With over 150 exhibits and a four-story IMAX theater, this center is perfect for families looking to learn about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.
The exhibits at the Kentucky Science Center cover a wide range of topics, from chemistry and physics to engineering and telecommunications. There are also exhibits on manufacturing, technology, health, and life sciences. Your kids will love exploring the three floors of exhibit experiences, where they can participate in interactive science experiments and learn about the world around them.
One of the highlights of the Kentucky Science Center is the four-story, 3D capable digital theater. Here, you can enjoy amazing movies that bring science and nature to life. With comfortable seating and state-of-the-art technology, the theater is a great place to relax and learn something new.
In addition to the exhibits and theater, the Kentucky Science Center also offers educational programs and workshops for kids of all ages. These programs are designed to help kids develop an interest in science and technology and provide hands-on learning experiences that are both fun and informative.
The Kentucky Science Center is a great place to take your kids if you want to give them an educational and entertaining experience. With so much to see and do, your kids will love exploring the world of science and technology at this amazing center.
Newport Aquarium
1 Levee Wy, Newport, KY 41071
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, Newport Aquarium should be on your list of places to visit in Kentucky. This aquarium is home to over 70 exhibits and 14 galleries, showcasing a wide variety of aquatic life.
Shark Central
One of the highlights of Newport Aquarium is Shark Central. Here, you can get up close and personal with some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures. You’ll see sharks of all shapes and sizes, including sand tiger sharks, zebra sharks, and even a shark ray. Plus, you can touch a shark in the Shark Central Touch Pool, where you’ll learn about the anatomy of these amazing animals.
Penguin Encounter
Another must-see exhibit at Newport Aquarium is Penguin Palooza. Here, you’ll get to meet some of the cutest and most entertaining creatures in the animal kingdom: penguins! You’ll see several different species of penguins, including rockhoppers, king penguins, and gentoos. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to see them swimming and playing in their Penguin Parade exhibit.
Newport Aquarium is a great place to take your kids for a day of fun and learning. With so many exhibits and activities to enjoy, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the wonders of the ocean.
Kentucky Horse Park
4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, head to the Kentucky Horse Park. This 1,229-acre equestrian park is located just north of Lexington and is dedicated to celebrating the relationship between humans and horses.
At the Kid’s Barn, your little ones can groom a horse, play equine detective, and run the miniature show-jumping course. They can also peruse the Breyer Horse collection, which features hundreds of model horses in various sizes and breeds.
In addition to the Kid’s Barn, the park offers a variety of other activities for kids of all ages. They can take a guided tour of the park, watch a horse show, or even go on a horseback ride. There are also several museums on site, including the International Museum of the Horse and the American Saddlebred Museum.
The Kentucky Horse Park is open year-round, but hours vary depending on the season. Admission prices also vary depending on the activities you choose to participate in. Be sure to check the park’s website for the most up-to-date information before you go.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave National Park is a must-visit destination for families with kids in Kentucky. It is home to the world’s longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored passageways. The park offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages, including hiking, cave tours, horseback riding, and more.
Cave Tours
The cave tours are the main attraction at Mammoth Cave National Park. There are several different tours available, ranging from easy, wheelchair-accessible tours to more strenuous, off-trail adventures. Some of the most popular tours include the Historic Tour, the Domes and Dripstones Tour, and the Frozen Niagara Tour. Each tour offers a unique perspective on the cave system and its history.
Hiking
Mammoth Cave National Park offers over 84 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. One of the most popular hikes is the Green River Bluff Trail, which offers stunning views of the Green River and the surrounding landscape. The trail is 4.3 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete.
Horseback Riding
For families who love horses, a horseback riding adventure through Mammoth Cave National Park is a must. Double J Stables & Campgrounds offers guided horseback tours through the park’s trails, giving visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the area from a different perspective. The trails are suitable for riders of all skill levels, and camping facilities are available for those who want to make a weekend of it.
Other Activities
In addition to cave tours, hiking, and horseback riding, Mammoth Cave National Park offers a variety of other activities for families with kids. The park has several picnic areas, playgrounds, and ranger-led programs throughout the year. There are also opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in the park’s rivers and streams.
Mammoth Cave National Park is a fantastic destination for families with kids in Kentucky. With so many activities to choose from, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
800 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
If you’re visiting Kentucky with kids, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a must-see attraction. Located in Louisville, this museum is dedicated to the history of baseball and the famous Louisville Slugger bats.
One of the highlights of the museum is the factory tour, where you can see how the world-famous Louisville Slugger bats are made. You’ll get an up-close look at the manufacturing process and learn about the history of the company.
In addition to the factory tour, there are plenty of other exhibits to enjoy at the museum. You can admire the World’s Biggest Bat, which stretches 120 feet into the sky, and learn about baseball history through interactive exhibits.
Admission to the museum costs $14 for adults and $8 for kids between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under enter for free. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM EST and on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM EST.
The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a great place to take your family. All the exhibits are kid-friendly and educational, making it an enjoyable and informative experience for everyone.
The Kentucky Railway Museum
136 S Main St, New Haven, KY 40051
If your kids love trains, then the Kentucky Railway Museum is a must-visit destination. Located in New Haven, this historic museum is filled with locomotive history and train rides that your kids will love.
The museum offers train excursions on a regular basis, including the “Train Robbery” and “North Pole Express” during the holiday season. The train rides are a great way for kids to experience the thrill of riding a real train and learn about the history of railroads in Kentucky.
In addition to the train rides, the museum also has a collection of historic locomotives and railcars on display. Your kids can explore the trains and learn about the different types of locomotives that were used throughout history.
The Kentucky Railway Museum is open from April to December, with train rides offered on weekends and special events throughout the year. Tickets for train rides can be purchased online or at the museum.
Here are some quick details about the Kentucky Railway Museum.
| Ticket Prices |
|---|
| Adults: $21.60 |
| Seniors: $18.90 |
| Military: $18.90 |
| Children (ages 2-12): $16 |
| Young Child (under 2 years old w/ accompanying adult): Free |
| Quick Details |
|---|
| Duration: 1.5 hours |
| Location: New Haven, KY |
| Train rides offered on weekends and special events |
| Train rides must be booked in advance |
| Museum admission included with train ride ticket |
The Kentucky Railway Museum is a fun-filled destination that your kids will love. With train rides, historic locomotives, and special events throughout the year, there’s always something new to discover at this unique museum.
The Explorium of Lexington
440 W Short St, Lexington, KY 40507
Lexington Children’s Museum, previously known as the The Explorium of Lexington, is a hands-on learning environment that is perfect for kids of all ages. This museum is a great place to take your kids to have a great time and learn. You can touch and play with everything in this museum, which makes it a fun and dynamic place to visit.
The museum is open Tuesday – Friday from 10AM to 5PM, Saturdays from 10AM – 5PM, and Sundays from 1 to 5PM. Admission is $10 per person. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Lexington Children’s Museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs that are designed to inspire imagination and curiosity in kids. The museum has a variety of exhibits that cover a range of topics, including science, technology, engineering, art, and math.
The museum also offers special events, programs, and camps throughout the year. You can check the museum’s website for more information on upcoming events and programs.
Lexington Children Museum is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational experience. The museum offers a variety of exhibits and activities that are designed to inspire imagination and curiosity in kids.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
7351 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a must-visit destination for families with kids in Kentucky. Located in Corbin, this park is home to the famous Cumberland Falls, which is also known as the “Niagara of the South.” The falls are 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide, making them the second largest waterfall east of the Rockies.
There are a variety of activities for families to enjoy at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Some of the most popular include hiking, fishing, and camping. The park has several trails that are perfect for families with kids, including the Eagle Falls Trail. This scenic trail offers some of the best views of Cumberland Falls and is a bucket-list must.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to enjoy the park, consider taking a picnic or enjoying a meal at the park’s restaurant. The park also offers guided tours, including moonlit tours of the falls, which can be a unique and memorable experience for families.
In addition to the falls, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park also offers a variety of accommodations for families, including cabins and campsites. The park is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is a great destination for families with kids who love the outdoors. With its stunning natural beauty and variety of activities, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for everyone.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
3380 Beaver Rd, Union, KY 41091
If you’re looking for a unique and educational experience for your kids, look no further than Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. This park is recognized as the key to understanding the life of the Ice Age on the North American continent over 10,000 years ago.
One of the top things to do at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is to visit the bison herd. This is a great opportunity for your kids to see these majestic animals up close and learn about their importance in American history. You can also take a short hike through the woods to the fenced-in field where the bison roam and graze.
Another must-see attraction is the Museum and Diorama Pit. The park, in cooperation with the Friends of Big Bone and the Cincinnati Museum Center, worked together to create and produce all new exhibits for the park. Your kids will love exploring the museum and learning about the history of the area.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, you can discover Salt Springs along the Big Bone Creek trail or camp overnight. The park also offers souvenir t-shirts, so your kids can take home a memento of their visit.
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational day trip. With its unique history and natural beauty, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for the whole family.
Final Thoughts on the 11 Best Places to Take Kids in Kentucky
Kentucky offers a plethora of fun-filled activities and attractions for families with kids of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or unique experiences, Kentucky has something for everyone.
From exploring Mammoth Cave National Park to visiting the Kentucky Horse Park, there are plenty of places to take your kids in Kentucky. The following table summarizes the 11 best places to take kids in Kentucky.
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Mammoth Cave National Park | Explore the world’s longest cave system |
| Kentucky Horse Park | Learn about horses and enjoy horseback riding |
| Land Between the Lakes | Go camping, fishing, hiking, or boating |
| Muhammad Ali Center | Discover the life and legacy of the legendary boxer |
| Newport Aquarium | See thousands of marine animals and touch stingrays |
| National Corvette Museum | Admire classic and modern sports cars |
| Frazier Kentucky History Museum | Learn about Kentucky’s history and culture |
| Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay | Ride thrilling roller coasters and water slides |
| Keeneland Race Track | Watch horse races and enjoy family activities |
| Barren River Lake | Go swimming, fishing, or kayaking |
| Cumberland Gap National Historical Park | Hike, bike, or explore the wilderness |
Kentucky also offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, such as The Grady Hotel, Lexington Griffin Gate Marriott Golf Resort & Spa, and Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a rustic cabin, you can find the perfect place to stay in Kentucky.
Kentucky is a great destination for families with kids who want to have fun, learn, and create lasting memories. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and head to Kentucky for an unforgettable adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions on the 11 Best Places to Take Kids in Kentucky
What are some unique places to visit in Kentucky with kids?
Kentucky has many unique places to visit with kids. One of the most unique is the Mammoth Cave National Park, which is home to the world’s longest known cave system. Another unique destination is the Kentucky Horse Park, where kids can learn about horses and even take a horseback ride. The Louisville Mega Cavern is also a one-of-a-kind destination, with underground ziplining and bike tours.
What are some fun things to do in Kentucky for families?
There are many fun things to do in Kentucky for families. Some popular options include visiting amusement parks like Kentucky Kingdom & Hurricane Bay, exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and attending the Kentucky State Fair. Outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating are also popular in Kentucky’s many state parks.
What are the top family vacation spots in Kentucky?
Some of the top family vacation spots in Kentucky include Lexington, Louisville, and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Other popular destinations include Mammoth Cave National Park, the Kentucky Horse Park, and the Newport Aquarium.
What are some fun places to take kids near Louisville, Kentucky?
There are many fun places to take kids near Louisville, Kentucky. The Louisville Zoo is a popular destination, as is the Kentucky Science Center. The Kentucky Derby Museum is also a great option for kids who love horses, and the Louisville Mega Cavern offers unique underground adventures.
Is Kentucky a family-friendly destination?
Yes, Kentucky is a very family-friendly destination. There are many attractions and activities that are perfect for families, including amusement parks, state parks, and museums. Kentucky also has a strong tradition of horse racing and breeding, which can be a fun and educational experience for kids.
What are the must-see attractions in Kentucky for families?
Some of the must-see attractions in Kentucky for families include the Kentucky Horse Park, Mammoth Cave National Park, and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. The Newport Aquarium, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Kentucky Science Center are also popular destinations for families.
