The Best of Kentucky
Haley Kirk – May 7, 2011
To most outsiders, Lexington, Kentucky is known as the Horse Capital of the World. However, to its locals, some of the best things about Kentucky are often forgotten. There are great places to visit in most towns in Kentucky and Lexington is not excluded from this list, yet it seems like many natives don’t take full advantage of the “tourist” activities that are offered here.
The tourist map of Kentucky is filled with historical landmarks, water parks, hiking trails, caves, thoroughbred farms and more. Whether your family is full of avid campers, Civil War history buffs, or just looking for a day of family fun, you can find it all without leaving the state.
Below are some places every Kentucky native should visit:
Keeneland Race Track:
Keeneland is a place for the entire family. There is truly something for everyone found at one of the most beautiful race tracks in the country. All Kentuckians should visit the race track at least once in their life; after all, Kentucky is the horse capital of the world. Horse racing is a major part of the Kentucky culture.
Mammoth Cave National Park:
Kentucky is known by scientists to be rich in limestone, and as a result the state has the longest known system of underground caves. Mammoth Cave offers cave tours, as well as other activities like horseback riding, and canoeing. Whether you are making a day trip or camping for several days, you won’t run out of fun things to do. While en route you can enjoy other attractions like Dinosaur World, and the Mammoth Cave Wax Museum.
Ale 8 One Bottling Plant:
Invented in 1926 by G.L. Wainscott, Ale 8 One is the only Kentucky-invented soft drink still in existence. The bottling plant resides in Winchester, Kentucky. The plant offers tours to anyone and everyone they can and the best part is the tours are free and last around 30-45 minutes each. After the tour you can go to their shop and buy many unique items.
Kart Kountry:
Kart Kountry is located in Shepherdsville, KY and offers the longest Go-Kart track in the world, measuring 1.5 miles long. Kart Kountry also offers a variety of activities for all ages, including batting cages, bumper boats, mini-golf, and many other activities.
Martin Castle:
Rex Martin started building the Martin Castle in 1969, after an inspirational trip to Europe, where his new bride fell in love with castle architecture. After running out of money, Rex was unable to finish his huge project, and put the castle up on the market. The castle now has a new owner, and after a huge fire, the house on the inside walls is completely rebuilt. The castle is now home to large charity functions, and a small hotel.
