Kentucky the Bluegrass State, what an absolutely spectacular state to visit. There are so many unique and surprising things to do in this fascinating state when one plans to travel here really explore all there is to see and do before coming as we were blown away by how much there actually is and things you just wouldn’t see anywhere else.
Kentucky is known as horse country and if a person should road trip through the state you will see why. Horses are a huge part of Kentucky and seeing so many horses in beautiful green pastures of rolling hills lined with three and four board black fencing is stunning.
Let’s start with the obvious Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby. Probably the most famous horse racing venue in the world. People come from around the world to attend the Kentucky Derby.
There is the Kentucky Derby Museum in which you can take daily tours. We did the Ultimate Churchill Downs Tour which included an up-close view of the horses, jockeys and trainers in the training room views of the spires and a grandstand tour, we also took the backstage Superstars tour which took us behind the scenes to the stables, up to the VIP lounges, Millionaires row, the Stakes Room and the Turf Club. They both were excellent tours, and I recommend doing both if possible.
The museum was absolutely wonderful and there are interactive displays that are fun experiences for the whole family.
We had a lot of fun doing the interactive displays. Since we were there, they have added the “Winners Circle” display. I guess that means another return trip for us.
Make sure you check ticket prices, reservations, days and times ahead.
For Museum information go to:https://www.derbymuseum.org/
For visiting information go to:https://www.churchilldowns.com/
Our next favorite place we visited was the Ark Encounter in Williamstown Kentucky. We purchased the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum Combo ticket which gave us entry into both. We spent a full day at Ark Encounter and were completely amazed at the full exhibit. For ticket information click on the link here: https://arkencounter.com/tickets/
The Ark Encounter is a massive replica of Noah’s Ark and built to the biblical dimensions described in the book of Genesis. It consists of three decks each focusing on how the Ark may have been structured.
Deck 1 is where the storage and supply areas are located and also has a variety of species of animals. It also focuses on the structure of the ark. The sheer enormity of the Ark is captivating.
Deck 2 explores the pre flood world and how Noah had to prepare for the task ahead. So much information that helps one understand the enormity of the job Noah had.
Deck 3 shows how Noah and his family may have lived on the Ark for those 40 days and nights.
Some of the exhibits use animatronics and interactive displays. There are information panels throughout the Ark.
There is a virtual reality experience, make sure you purchase your ticket and get your time slot upon arrival. Adjacent to the Ark is also the Ararat Zoo featuring a variety of live animals, including kangaroos, alpacas, goats, camels and more. Camel rides are also available for an additional cost.
There are also a variety of places to eat on and around the grounds and be sure you wear good walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
Next is Creation Museum, for ticket information click on the link here: https://creationmuseum.org/
Creation Museum located in Petersburg Kentucky, was a fun place for us to visit, it walks you through the bible from the very beginning of creation of the earth and mankind to the Garden of Eden, into the dinosaur era and through the Great Flood and then the post flood world.
Here besides the museum itself, you and your family will enjoy the 4D theatre, Butterfly house, Botanical Gardens, creation zoo and animal encounters and many other displays and events.
We spent another full day here; there is dining and snack options on and around the grounds.
Kentucky offers a huge variety of things to do and depending on your time allowance you could easily road trip across the state to see and do a variety of interests.
Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and factory where wood meets wonder or visit the Mammoth Cave National Park or visit Museum Row with a variety of museums and interests. With numerous lakes, waterfalls, rivers, mountains and cities to explore you will be inspired by the sights and sounds of this beautiful state. For further information on a few above-mentioned attractions, I have included links for your convenience. So, plan a trip to Kentucky, I know I will be returning again someday as there is so much, we have yet to see and do.
Louisville Slugger Museum Ticket information: https://www.sluggermuseum.com/
Mammoth Cave national Park tour and Ticket Information: https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/234640
Museum Row Ticket information: https://museumrowlouisville.com/
theroamingretirees.net 