All aboard! Today we're taking a trip back in time -- literally -- with an overnight adventure sure to stoke any locomotive lover's wanderlust. From a ride along the Bluegrass Scenic Railroad to an overnight stay at a renovated train station VRBO, this train-themed trip in Kentucky is as unique as it is fun -- and educational, too!
There are numerous train rides in Kentucky, each offering scenic excursions and fun experiences. Just outside of Versailles, the Bluegrass Railroad Museum is an oft-overlooked treasure that's truly delightful.
Operating seasonally (and opening for the season each April), visitors can climb aboard for a leisurely 11-mile, 1.5 hour round-trip ride through the heart of the rolling blue hills and horse farms of Central Kentucky.
In addition to its scenic excursions, this attraction also has an exhibit hall with antique memorabilia, historic artifacts, and intricate models, making it both an educational *and* fun day trip in Kentucky.
Please note: Bluegrass Railroad Museum is open seasonally starting in April; be sure to visit the website for upcoming excursions and events.
After exploring Central Kentucky via an old-fashioned train ride, it's time to decamp for the night -- and this accommodation is sure to make your locomotive-loving heart go pitter patter.
Located on a working thoroughbred horse farm right off Paris Pike, this renovated train station VRBO is easily one of the most unique and charming accommodations in Kentucky.
Once upon a time, Hutchison Station was part of the L&N railroad system; today, this VRBO retails much of its original features including the hardwood floors, 12' ceilings, and ornate molding.
This remodeled 1890's train station is beautiful in its simplicity, with two bedrooms outfitted with soft linens that look out into a pristine Bluegrass horse farm.
Come and enjoy a marvelous escape in the heart of Kentucky Horse Country, complete with a charming train ride and memorable night at a cozy train-station-turned-farmhouse. What could be better?
Have you gone for a ride on this little-known Kentucky railroad before? The Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum is a hidden gem in Kentucky that, when paired with a night in a real, live train station, makes for the ultimate adventure on the rails.
The Bluegrass State is my home and has been for the past 17 years. Even before then, I lived just across the river in Cincinnati and always thought of Kentucky as this beautiful place that's filled with horses and rolling hills. Turns out, it is, plus more than most people realize. The Bluegrass State surprises its visitors with natural beauty, friendly locals, lively culture, a nod to both history and today, and yes, bourbon. I may spend my days in this state that I love, but I had the opportunity to enjoy a quintessential Kentucky getaway in Lexington with my husband and the Bluegrass State surprised and charmed me all over again.
advertisement
Lexington is a little over an hour from my home and my husband and I headed south in the late afternoon. I've always loved the drive; passing the Kentucky Horse Park and then driving into a city that feels more like a small town. Our first stop was Lost Palm, a rooftop bar at The Manchester, a gorgeous hotel in Lexington's historic distillery district.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
As much as I love the typical vibe of Lexington, it was refreshing to be swept away into the tropical oasis of Lost Palm. On a Wednesday evening, small groups were meeting after work and several people were coming in for drinks and bites. The ambiance was inviting, the staff were friendly, and the drinks were delicious.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
After our unwinding stop at Lost Palm, we headed to our dinner reservation at OBC Kitchen (Tip: Make a reservation! They were full, even on a Wednesday evening.) Full disclosure, I had eaten at OBC Kitchen before. But when deciding where to eat in Lexington with my husband, I knew I wanted to return.
OBC stands for Old Bourbon County, and yes, bourbon is a big theme here. But, I would visit again simply for the warm bread and handmade butter that they bring to the table. Our server, the manager, all of the staff were incredibly knowledgeable and welcoming. I'm not exaggerating when I say that every single sip and bite were perfection.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
From classic to modern, after dinner we made our way to 21c Museum Hotel in the heart of downtown Lexington. If you're not familiar with these unique destinations, they are a fascinating mix of museum and hotel and always take on a theme that represents their location.
We stayed in a Deluxe Suite, which had a living area and separate bedroom. There was more than enough space and the rooms were cheerful and relaxing. I honestly wish we would have had more than one night here, but it was still the perfect little escape.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
After a wonderful night's sleep, I woke up very early for one very important reason - a visit to Spalding's Bakery. I had heard about this local bakery that's been around since 1929 and since it was just a few minutes down the road, I made an early morning visit (they often sell out by 8am).
I came back and settled in on the couch with coffee and the best chocolate glazed donut I've ever had.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
Later that morning, we said farewell to the blue penguin standing guard at our hotel door, and checked out. We did wander through the museum space before breakfast (round two) and it was as cool as you would imagine. Guests of the hotel have full access to these spaces 24/7.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
Before getting on with our day, we stopped at the restaurant on-site, Lockbox. It is right off the hotel's elevators and also features a rotating gallery and inviting space. But the food was really the star, here. This breakfast sandwich was fresh and tasty and the crispy potatoes were a highlight on their own.
advertisement
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
Our quintessential Kentucky day continued just twenty minutes away in Georgetown at Old Friends, a working farm that is home to retired race horses. It was a GORGEOUS day in the Bluegrass and I was thrilled to spend it at Old Friends.
We were greeted by the friendly volunteers and joined in with a tour group to walk around and meet these beautiful horses. We did the 90-minute General Tour, which is available all year long, but be sure to make advanced reservations.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
We met several horses and were able to feed many of them. We learned about their storied lives and saw a video showcasing their championships. I would highly recommend it as an outing in the Lexington area.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
Our final stop before heading north is one of my most favorite places in Kentucky. I've shared my love for Wallace Station before and I fall in love even more with every visit. It just feels so Kentucky and the food is delicious. There is often a line out the door, which is another sign that this local favorite is worth the stop.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
We always eat on the back deck and on this chilly day, soup and a pimento cheese sandwich hit the spot. When you leave, save time to drive around in this area, perhaps stop in Midway, and experience the beauty of Kentucky horse country.
Andrea Limke / Only In Your State
After living in Kentucky for nearly two decades, I am proud to call this state my home. I would recommend Lexington, specifically, for those looking for a night away, a weekend getaway, or even as a travel destination. Within a city that exudes small town charm, you can experience incredible food, outdoor adventure, natural beauty, history, art, sports, bourbon... and that's just scratching the surface. Don't overlook this lovely city and plan your own quintessential Kentucky getaway in Lexington.
Per journalistic integrity, we disclose that the creator of this content was invited to this location by VisitLEX, with accommodation and some other expenses covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this content are their own.
With a list of things to love that numbers far larger than its population of 300, the tiny community of Slade leaves us hard-pressed to find a more fun, beautiful, remote town in Kentucky. (And if you want to be more hard-pressed—literally—there's always Fat Man's Squeeze, a super-narrow, rock-walled passageway at Natural Bridge State Resort Park nearby).
advertisement
Lisa Battles/OnlyInYourState
Considered the gateway to the spectacular Red River Gorge National Geological Area, Slade has long held a special place in my heart. My parents grew up and met in Stanton, 11 miles northwest, along the Bert T Combs Mountain Parkway. My paternal grandfather helped build that road in the early 1960s, maneuvering heavy equipment to cut through the rock now lining the way.
For as long as I can remember, most of my mother's side of the family has hosted a reunion for us all. I've been fortunate to make it to most of them over the past 15 years, including a trek to Slade at least once during those weekends. I like to arrive at the state park at dawn and make it to the top of the sandstone arch of Natural Bridge to watch the sun burn off mountain fog. Ideally, I do it two or three times over the weekend.
You can sign up for AllTrails and get all the details on my favorite route, the Original Natural Bridge Trail via Lakeside Trail. It's a little over 2 miles and considered "out-and-back," but I will be real with you here: it's "up-and-down," and 8-year-old me didn't remember that when I started revisiting as an adult. Still, it's only rated moderately challenging, with plenty of places to stop and rest (or sit and gasp, as I admit I've done more than once). The views are 1000% worth it.
And here's the added beauty: You don't even have to hike to the top of Natural Bridge if you don't want to or aren't capable. The Skylift at Natural Bridge has been a popular option since 1967 and offers round-trip and one-way rides in both directions for a fee. Adult round-trip tickets are around $17, with discounts for kids, seniors, and active or retired military members.
I've ridden the lift once as an adult, and my sister and I enjoyed spotting wildlife along the way. We still giggle about our struggle to identify what turned out to be a very large groundhog who was scuttling around, oblivious to us cruising by far above.
When it comes to development, there's not much there, and yet, there is everything a person truly needs, at least in my book. Immediately after exiting the Mountain Parkway at Slade, there's a welcome center. A dozen or so businesses line the road to the state park, including Thrillsville Adventure Park, Red River Gorge Earth Shop, Thatcher Barbecue Company, Lil' Abner Motel and Cottages, The Pit House, Black Bear Lodge, La Cabana Mexican Restaurant, and Red River Gorge General Store.
One of the longest-enduring businesses on the road leading to the state park, Miguel's Pizza is nationally known as a clutch spot for climbers and equally loved by locals for its delicious food. Miguel's has a gear shop for rock climbers as well as a climbers-only campground. While the sites are primitive, the grounds have showers, bathrooms, a laundry facility, cooking pavilions, sinks, and free internet and phone charging.
Of course, there are many other traditional campgrounds for non-climbers in the area, too. Natural Bridge Resort Park is a great place to start exploring those options. The forested park and nature preserve covers 2,200 acres, including two campgrounds, a popular lodge with a pool and dining room, a 60-acre lake, and 22 miles of trails. It is the perfect place for a home base for exploring the surrounding Daniel Boone National Forest.
While I didn't get to visit this beautiful remote town in Kentucky for our family reunion this past Labor Day, I cannot wait for the opportunity to return. We'd love to hear about your experiences there if you've had a chance to visit. And if you make plans to go soon, we can't wait to hear all about your adventures in Slade!
