Things to Do in Kentucky

• What is Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate?
  • Ashland is a registered National Historic Landmark located in the heart of the Bluegrass region.
  • It was a 600-acre plantation where enslaved people labored both inside the mansion and on the farm.
• What historical significance does Ashland have?
  • Ashland was the home of Henry Clay, a 19th-century Kentucky statesman, who lived there until his death in 1852.
  • The estate offers a tour titled "Traces: Slavery at Ashland", which educates visitors about the site's dark past and the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
• What can visitors expect on a tour of Ashland?
  • Tours showcase the Federal-style mansion, including Italianate details added during later renovations.
  • Visitors will gain a comprehensive understanding of Henry Clay and his legacy as a statesman.
  • The estate features stunning architecture and beautifully maintained surrounding lands.
• Are there any special events held at Ashland?
  • Ashland hosts many events throughout the year, including historical tours and educational programs.
  • During the holiday season, visitors can enjoy the Candlelight Tour at Ashland, which offers a festive and immersive experience.
• Where is Ashland located?
  • 120 Sycamore Rd, Lexington, KY 40502, Phone: 859-266-8581

• What is the Louisville Mega Cavern?
  • The Louisville Mega Cavern is a vast 17-mile network of manmade caverns and corridors beneath Louisville.
  • It brings together science, history, and adventure in a unique underground experience.
• What activities are available at the Louisville Mega Cavern?
  • Mega Zips: The world's only fully underground zip line course, offering an adrenaline-pumping adventure.
  • Mega Tram: A guided underground adventure conducted on an SUV-pulled tram, perfect for all ages.
• What special events take place at the Louisville Mega Cavern?
  • During the holiday season, visitors can experience Lights Under Louisville, a 30-minute underground light show that has been voted one of the top ten in the nation.
• Who would enjoy visiting the Louisville Mega Cavern?
  • The cavern is suitable for visitors of all ages, from families with children to adventure-seekers.
  • Whether you're interested in science, history, or pure adventure, there’s something for everyone.

Address: 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213, hone: 502-855-6342

• What is the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory?
  • The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory is a museum dedicated to the history of the Louisville Slugger baseball bat and its role in baseball and American culture.
  • It is located on Kentucky’s Museum Row and provides an interactive experience for baseball fans of all ages.
• What can visitors expect at the museum?
  • Visitors can explore a variety of interactive exhibits that showcase the rich history of the Louisville Slugger brand.
  • The museum is housed within the Louisville Slugger Factory, allowing guests to tour the factory and see how the iconic bats are made.
• What are some must-see attractions at the Louisville Slugger Museum?
  • The World’s Largest Baseball Bat: A massive bat weighing 68,000 pounds stands outside the museum.
  • Famous Player Bats: Visitors have the chance to hold bats used by legendary players such as Mickey Mantle and Andre Dawson.
• Who would enjoy visiting the Louisville Slugger Museum?
  • The museum is perfect for baseball enthusiasts, history buffs, and families looking for an engaging and educational experience.
  • Even those who aren’t baseball fans will enjoy the behind-the-scenes look at bat craftsmanship and the impact of the Louisville Slugger on the sport.

Address: Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, 800 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, Phone: 877-775-8443

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

• What is the Kentucky Derby Museum?
  • The Kentucky Derby Museum is a museum in Louisville dedicated to preserving the history of the Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races in the world.
  • Since its founding in 1985, the museum has provided visitors with an in-depth look at the Derby’s rich traditions and impact on horse racing.
• What can visitors expect at the museum?
  • The museum offers a variety of exhibits, films, and photographs that tell the story of the Kentucky Derby.
  • Guests can explore how foals are bred and trained from birth to become elite thoroughbred racehorses.
• What are the highlights of the Kentucky Derby Museum?
  • 360-Degree Theater: A unique theater experience that brings the excitement of the Derby to life.
  • Exhibits on Trainers and Jockeys: Learn about the key figures who help make the Derby a world-class event.
  • Champion’s Cemetery: Pay tribute to past Derby winners, including legendary horses like Sunny’s Halo and Dust Commander.
• Who would enjoy visiting the Kentucky Derby Museum?
  • The museum is perfect for horse racing fans, history lovers, and families looking for an interactive experience.
  • Even those unfamiliar with the Kentucky Derby will appreciate the behind-the-scenes look at thoroughbred breeding and training.

Address: Kentucky Derby Museum, Churchill Downs, 704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, Phone: 502-637-1111

• What is Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill?
  • Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a National Historic Landmark in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, preserving a once-thriving Shaker religious community.
  • Founded in the early 19th century, it was active until 1910 and remains one of the largest historic communities of its kind.
• What can visitors see and do at Shaker Village?
  • Explore over 2,800 acres of picturesque farmland, with thirty-four original 19th-century buildings still standing.
  • See how the Shakers built their community using traditional tools and methods.
  • Engage in guided tours, wagon rides, and interactive demonstrations that bring Shaker history to life.
• Who maintains the village today?
  • The village is continuously preserved by farmers, naturalists, and historians who work to keep the land and buildings as authentic as possible.
  • Efforts are made to replicate the original way of life while allowing visitors to experience Shaker culture.
• Are there any special events at Shaker Village?
  • Yes! Seasonal festivals, workshops, and educational programs are scheduled throughout the year.
  • Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities, farm tours, and craft demonstrations that showcase traditional Shaker practices.

Address: Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, 3501 Lexington Rd, Harrodsburg, KY 40330, Phone: 859-734-5411

• What is the Newport Aquarium?
  • The Newport Aquarium is a family-friendly attraction in Kentucky that is open every day of the year.
  • It features over fourteen galleries and seventy exhibits filled with interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
• What kind of exhibits are at the aquarium?
  • The aquarium boasts five tunnels that provide an immersive view of thousands of marine animals.
  • Visitors can explore themed sections such as the rainforest, the Amazon, Gator Alley, Penguin Palooza, Shark Central, and more.
  • One of the highlights is Sunshine, a rare shark ray from Taiwan.
• Does the Newport Aquarium have any unique features?
  • It is home to the largest jellyfish gallery in the Midwest.
  • The exhibits showcase marine life from around the world, offering up-close encounters with fascinating creatures.

Address: Newport Aquarium, 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071, Phone: 859-261-7444

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

• What is the National Corvette Museum?
  • The National Corvette Museum is a must-visit destination for automobile enthusiasts and families alike.
  • It is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where the legendary Corvette is produced.
• What can visitors see at the museum?
  • The museum showcases over 80 different Corvettes spanning various periods of American history.
  • Visitors can see one-of-a-kind prototypes that are not displayed anywhere else in the world.
  • It also features mint-condition classic models that highlight the evolution of this American sports car.
• Is there a racing experience at the museum?
  • The museum has an adjacent NCM Motorsports Park, where visitors can spectate races or even take a lap themselves.
  • Throughout the year, the park hosts major racing events such as the Michelin NCM Bash and the MiM Nascar in the South race.

Address: National Corvette Museum, 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY, 42101, Phone: 270-781-7973

• What is Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm?
  • Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm is a retirement sanctuary for thoroughbred horses in Georgetown, KY.
  • It serves as both a museum and an educational center focused on horse breeding and racing.
  • The organization actively promotes awareness about equine care and welfare.
• What can visitors experience at the farm?
  • Visitors have the unique opportunity to see and interact with retired racehorses.
  • The farm is home to Kentucky Derby winners and racing legends.
  • One of the famous residents is Popcorn Deelites, who starred in the movie Seabiscuit.
• Are there guided tours available?
  • Yes, the farm offers guided walking tours multiple times a day.
  • These tours allow guests to learn about the horses' racing history and life in retirement.

Address: Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm, 1841 Paynes Depot Road, Georgetown, KY, 40324, Phone: 502-863-1775

• What is the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum?
  • The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is a historic home-turned-museum in Louisville, KY.
  • It was built in 1893 by architect Arthur Loomis for Theophile Conrad and his wife.
  • The house later became the residence of William E. Caldwell and his family for 35 years.
  • It is now maintained by the St. James Court Historic Foundation.
• What architectural features make the house unique?
  • The home is designed in the Richardsonian-Romanesque style.
  • It features corner towers, elaborately carved fireplaces, high ceilings, and parquet flooring.
  • The house is adorned with stained-glass windows, gargoyle carvings, and intricate woodwork.
• What can visitors see inside the museum?
  • The museum houses a large collection of antiquities and period items.
  • Visitors can explore original furnishings and artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  • Outside, there is a beautifully maintained garden that enhances the estate’s charm.

Address: Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, 1402 St. James Court, Louisville, KY, 40208, Phone: 502-636-5023

• What is Mammoth Cave Adventures?
  • Mammoth Cave Adventures is an outdoor adventure park located in Cave City, Kentucky.
  • The park offers zipline courses, a Tarzan Swing, a tower drop, and horseback riding.
  • It provides a fun and safe environment for families and thrill-seekers to explore the outdoors.
• What zipline courses are available?
  • The park features Kentucky’s first zipline-style canopy tour.
  • Another course offers breathtaking views of the mountains in Mammoth Cave National Park.
• What is the Tarzan Swing?
  • The Tarzan Swing is a thrilling experience where visitors are hooked to a 40-foot pendulum swing.
  • The swing drops from an 80-foot tall Hickory tree, providing an adrenaline-pumping free-fall effect.
• Are there activities for visitors who prefer a calmer experience?
  • Yes! Guests can enjoy horseback riding through the scenic trails of Mammoth Cave National Park.
  • This activity offers a relaxing way to explore Kentucky’s beautiful landscapes.

Address: Mammoth Cave Adventures, 1994 Roy Hunter Road, Cave City, KY, 42127, Phone: 270-773-6087