Kentucky is a big and beautiful state full of geographical diversity that never ceases to amaze us. From the deep, expansive underworlds of Mammoth Cave, the Louisville Mega Cavern, and Carter Caves State Park to the expansive gorges of the Grand Canyon of Kentucky and the cerulean blue lakes of the south-central part of the state, Kentucky is a land of endless recreational opportunity. Today, we're exploring the state's best bodies of water and caves, in an epic Kentucky road trip sure to fuel and fan the flames of your wanderlust.
This road trip visits some of the most wondrous places in south-central Kentucky, from lakes to caves, in a 300-mile, 5.5-hour adventure.
While technically doable in a day, we have suggested accommodations listed below so you can enjoy the beauty of each featured destination! View an interactive Google Map to help plan your trip.
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Nolin Lake State Park is a hidden gem of a Kentucky State Park that tends to be overshadowed by its mammoth neighbor (more on that soon!).
Don't make that mistake. This 333-acre park boasts a beautiful 5,795-acre lake that's absolutely dazzling, and perfect for all sorts of recreation, from boating and fishing to waterside camping.
Ready to pitch a tent and stay awhile? We don't blame you! Nolin Lake State Park has 32 campsites with hookups for water and electricity, along with 27 primitive campsites.
This natural area offers 170,000 acres of outdoor beauty and adventure, from boating and fishing to hiking and camping.
Given its remote location and low light pollution, the stargazing at Land Between the Lakes is out-of-this-world! At Land Between the Lakes's Golden Pond Planetarium, you'll enjoy a truly otherworldly experience.
If you opt to participate in this activity, definitely plan on camping at Land Between the Lakes; you'll find a variety of lovely options whether you set up your RV or pitch a tent!
Now we're headed to Hopkinsville, Kentucky, where another aquatic adventure awaits: scuba diving.
Did you know you could go scuba diving in the Bluegrass State? There’s a place in western Kentucky where divers can experience turquoise waters and plenty of adventure. Pennyroyal Scuba Center at Blue Springs Resort in Hopkinsville is a hidden oasis in Kentucky and an epic scuba diving resort that you have to see to believe.
Next, it's time for a beach day! Yes, in Kentucky. Lake Malone State Park is a perennial summertime favorite for its sandy shores and fish-filled waters.
Kentucky's one and only national park, Mammoth Cave is a superlative superstar. A bucket-list must, the cavern system features over 400 miles of underground caverns and passageways, with more miles being added all the time. It's also one of the best places for stargazing in the country; a designated Dark Sky Park that's the first National Park Service operated site *and* Dark Sky Place in Kentucky, and it’s well-earned: the stargazing here is nothing short of extraordinary.
Mammoth Cave is a place of immense beauty and splendor, worth visiting again and again for its continually unfolding and infinite wonder.
But of course, Kentucky isn't just one world-famous headliner; the Bluegrass truly is the sum of all its parts, and we hope this road trip has you feeling newfound love and adoration for our beautiful state.
What are your favorite road trips in Kentucky? Your top spots for outdoor recreation? Share them with us in the comments below... we're always up for more Bluegrass adventures!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
There's something so addictive about getting lost in a good book, but one pleasure that's nearly as enjoyable is losing yourself in the shelves of an independent book shop. No matter how impossibly long my to-read list gets, I love stopping at local bookshops when traveling to check out the wares. It's so easy to feel at home in a cozy bookstore, and the aisles and aisles of reading material are like catnip to a bibliophile. If you've been searching for a fun afternoon road trip and love to read, you'll adore this easy trip to some of the best bookstores in Kentucky.
We're typically fans of lengthy road trips that take days and days, but for this one, we figure you want to spend as much time as possible in these wonderful bookshops, so you'll only have to be behind the wheel for about two hours. The trip is centered between Lexington and Louisville, though obviously, there are plenty of great bookstores in other parts of the Bluegrass State, too! You can check out the full itinerary on Google Maps. It's customizable, so feel free to add additional stops to really make the trip your own.
We'll start off our journey at Carmichael's Bookstore in Louisville. There are actually two locations in Louisville, and the first opened up way back in 1978. This is one of Louisville's most iconic stores, and we love the focus on local authors. Neither branch of the store is particularly large, but there's an emphasis on quality, and it's a pretty good bet that if Carmichael's stocks it, it's worth a peek.
For our next stop, we'll head to Frankfort, where you'll find Poor Richard's Books. It's located across from the old state capitol building and features wall-to-wall books of every genre. There are thousands of books in this place, and bookworms can easily spend all day browsing the new and vintage selections. This is the type of quintessential stuffed-into-every-nook-and-cranny bookstore that comes to mind when you imagine an old bookshop.
Continue driving east to Lexington to come to our next stop: sQecial Media. This delightful shop is located near the UK campus and has a wide array of products that include gifts, candles, tarot cards, jewelry, and crystals, in addition to, of course, books. The store has been around since 1972 and loves to focus on the quirky and slightly off-the-wall, which makes it a perfect brick-and-mortar alternative for products you'd normally have to go online to find.
We'll remain in Lexington for the rest of the afternoon, and you'll definitely want to pay a visit to Friends Book Cellar. The store is operated by the Friends of the Lexington Public Library and operates out of the library's central branch. The library itself is also worth taking the time to explore, but make sure to head downstairs and check out the thousands of books available for purchase at the Book Cellar. They're organized by genre and all purchases go to support the library's operating costs.
Last but not least on this bookstore road trip is Joseph-Beth Booksellers. This popular shop has several locations throughout the Kentucky and Ohio area, but the Lexington branch was the first and remains a beloved part of the Lexington literary scene today. The two-story bookstore regularly hosts author readings and events and is also home to the Kentucky Book Festival, which takes place each November.
Have you ever visited any of these bookstores? Did your favorite not make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Looking to support a local bookstore but not able to buy in person right now? Check out Bookshop.org, where a portion of each sale goes to your local independent bookshop.
