6 Kentucky “Trails” Worth Traveling For
The best way to experience Kentucky is by hitting the trails! While the Bluegrass State has plenty to choose from, we've selected six trails that are sure to tempt you. Image: Kentucky Tourism
From Kentucky bourbon and barbecue joints to ghost tours and garden strolls, the Bluegrass State has trails that showcase Kentucky’s soulful food, storied history, and vibrant culture. While we’re just scratching the surface, here are six standout Kentucky trails worth packing a bag (and your appetite) for.
*You can use the links below to jump to specific trails!
- Kentucky After Dark: Where Legends Linger
- Kentucky Garden Trail: Blooms, Beauty, and Botanical Bliss
- Kentucky Music Trail: The Soundtrack of the Bluegrass State
- West Kentucky BBQ Belt: Where Smoke Meets Soul
- West Kentucky Brewery Hop: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Brews
- Western Kentucky Wine Trail: Sip, Swirl, and Savor
Kentucky After Dark: Where Legends Linger
If you love a good ghost story or a brush with the eerie and unexplained, Kentucky After Dark is your kind of adventure. This spine-tingling trail leads you through some of the state’s most haunted and historic places.
There are 21 stops on this spooky trail, but here’s a sampling:
- Waverly Hills Sanatorium | Louisville: Once a sanatorium for tuberculosis, today the home of shadowy people and ghostly children. Visit one of the most haunted spots in the country … if you dare!
- Hauntings at The Elm | Henderson: Built in 1904, The Elm in historic downtown Henderson has several ghosts, including two ghost boys and a creepy doll (that moves!).
- Octagon Hall Museum | Franklin: A Civil War-era home with a long history of paranormal sightings, Octagon Hall is home to a ghostly teenage girl who won’t leave.
- Rohs Opera House | Cynthiana: Live theatre, movie screenings, and spectral sightings? Sign us up!
SB Tip: Many locations offer night tours for extra thrills.
Kentucky Garden Trail: Blooms, Beauty, and Botanical Bliss
The Kentucky Garden Trail celebrates nature at its finest, taking you through some of Kentucky’s most beautiful public gardens and arboretums. Perfect for springtime or a peaceful weekend escape, there are 12 stops on this trail, including:
- Mahr Park Arboretum | Madisonville: This 265-acre park features a natural environment filled with wildlife, native trees, and plants. Enjoy trails, the Nature Play Area, fishing ponds, kayak launch, dog park, disc golf courses, and picnic pavilions. Be sure to stop by the Mahr Historic Home.
- Yew Dell Botanical Gardens | Crestwood: A nationally recognized destination with display gardens, walking trails, and seasonal events, Yew Dell is the only National Register-recognized landscape in Kentucky.
- The Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky | Lexington: Visitors are immersed in the natural splendor of Kentucky at The Arboretum, home to 100 acres of themed gardens, walking paths, and Kentucky-native plant life.
- Liberty Hall Historic Site | Frankfort: With its historic homes and gardens, Liberty Hall boasts almost five acres of beautifully maintained green spaces and two homes that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Kentucky Music Trail: The Soundtrack of the Bluegrass State
From the hollows of Appalachia to the honky-tonks of Western Kentucky, music is in Kentucky’s DNA. The Kentucky Music Trail celebrates the state’s deep musical roots, from bluegrass to blues and beyond. Experience venues, landmarks, and live music, including:
- The Muhlenberg Music & History Museum | Central City: Explore the legacy of The Everly Brothers, Merle Travis, John Prine, and more. Then, head outside to visit Festival Square, a charming green space that pays homage to the musical legends who called Central City home.
- Lexington Opera House | Lexington: Recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, this premier performing arts center offers something for everyone: music, ballet, comedy, dance, and more.
- The Amp at Log Still | New Haven: Catch live music, events, and concerts at The Amp at Log Still — a state-of-the-art amphitheater with an intimate setting on the grounds of Log Still Distillery.
- Rosemary Clooney House | Augusta: For something a little different, explore the childhood home of the celebrated “girl singer” and movie star. If you like the Christmas classic White Christmas, you will love the display of movie memorabilia!
West Kentucky BBQ Belt: Where Smoke Meets Soul
Western Kentucky does barbecue its own way, using mutton, pork, and unique sauces that set it apart from its Southern cousins. The West Kentucky BBQ Belt takes a smoky, tasty saunter through over 40 locations, including:
- Brother’s Bar-B-Que | Madisonville: At Brother’s, you’ll find family traditions and fantastic flavors in a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere.
- Old Hickory Bar-B-Q | Owensboro: With a history stretching back to 1918, this local fave is known for its hickory-smoked mutton and burgoo.
- Starnes Barbecue | Paducah: Famous for its vinegary sauce and perfectly smoked meats, this laid-back spot offers a fun vibe and generous portions.
- Thomason’s BBQ | Henderson: Follow your nose to Thomason’s BBQ. The smoky aroma wafting from the chimney will lead you to hickory-smoked meats pulled by hand and dipped to order.
SB Tip: Don’t forget to try the regional specialty, a chopped mutton sandwich with a side of tangy sauce.
West Kentucky Brewery Hop: Small-Town Charm, Big-Time Brews
Western Kentucky’s brewery scene is growing fast; this friendly trail gives you a taste of it all. The West Kentucky Brewery Hop gives you a mobile passport to try ales, pilsners, stouts, and lagers as you meander through locations in nine cities. Here’s a taste of what’s in store.
- Tradewater Brewing Co. | Madisonville: This small brewhouse uses local ingredients whenever possible to create a rotating range of delicious, small-batch brews. You’ll find a cozy taproom, a beautiful event space, and The Tee at Tradewater, the city’s premier indoor golf simulator.
- Henderson Brewing Co. | Henderson: Sample an array of approachable and award-winning beers in the comfortable, beautifully restored taproom.
- Paducah Beer Werks | Paducah: Located in a historic Greyhound Bus terminal, this cool, sleek downtown pub offers award-winning house-made brews, a rotating selection from guest breweries, and an inviting menu of local favorites.
- Hopkinsville Brewing Company | Hopkinsville: Woman- and veteran-owned, this downtown nano-brewery offers small-batch beers, live music, food trucks, and tons of charm!
Western Kentucky Wine Trail: Sip, Swirl, and Savor
Rolling hills, quiet countryside, and award-winning wines make this trail a delight for casual sippers and wine aficionados alike. Nine beautiful vineyards await on the Western Kentucky Wine Trail, including:
- Purple Toad Winery & Distillery | Paducah: One of Kentucky’s largest wineries, Purple Toad Winery is known for its award-winning gourmet sweet wines and Southern hospitality. They’ve recently branched out into dryer wines and a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. Stop by for a tour and sample your favorites in the delightful tasting room.
- Bluegrass Vineyard | Smiths Grove: Bluegrass Vineyard is a woman-owned business featuring a Tuscan-inspired winery, gorgeous views, a bed and breakfast, event space, and tasting room.
- Naimoli Estate | Hopkinsville: This lush vineyard is bringing a taste of Italy to Western Kentucky. You’ll find premium wines, tours and tastings, and special event venues in a beautiful setting.
- Reid’s Livery Winery | Alvaton: Sample award-winning wines, ranging from sweet blends to dry reds and whites. While you’re there, consider saddling up for a horse riding lesson!
Whether you’re chasing ghosts or flavor, Kentucky’s curated trails offer something for every kind of traveler. So pick your path (or mix and match a few) and let your journey be as memorable as the destination.
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Gaye Swan
As a professional writer of over 20 years, Gaye is an avid traveler and enjoys highlighting food, culture, and attractions around the South. While Gaye is passionate about life in Memphis, she grew up in Meridian and is still a Mississippi girl at heart.