Just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, the “Top of the South” welcomes you to Kentucky with outdoor adventure, fascinating history and bourbon galore.

Adventure flows all along the scenic waterways and byways of the Northern Kentucky River Region. Here, you can explore Kentucky’s bourbon culture along the B-Line or enjoy a relaxing float down the Licking River. Paddling, biking and birding are among the many outdoor pursuits in this region, and idyllic water views are just about everywhere you look. Enjoy archery or clay shooting at the prestigious Elk Creek Hunt Club, then treat yourself to a glass of local wine at Elk Creek Vineyards – one of several wineries in the region.

More Things To Do In The Northern Kentucky River Region

The vibrant riverfront cities of Covington, Newport and Maysville reveal gems like quaint MainStrasse Village and Newport on the Levee, an entertainment complex featuring dining, shopping, nightlife and the world-renowned Newport Aquarium. Taste the past, present and future of Kentucky bourbon at distilleries such as Old Pogue and New Riff, and visit Boone County Distilling Co. to learn why they say their bourbon is "made by ghosts." Perhaps the best way to experience Northern Kentucky's bourbon scene is on The B-Line, a trail of bourbon distilleries, bars and restaurants that winds through the region before you journey deeper into Bourbon Country.

 

Explore Kentucky history at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site, home to a bison herd and many prehistoric fossils belonging to mammoths and mastodons that once roamed this region. See an authentic Civil War battle reenactment at Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park. Flemingsburg, the Official Covered Bridge Capital of Kentucky, is a photographer's dream. And the awe-inspiring Ark Encounter is a must-stop, whether you're interested in Bible history or just want to see a modern engineering marvel; this true-to-scale replica of Noah's Ark is the largest timber-frame structure in the world. 

Trip Inspiration

Some Ways to Ring in the Holidays in Kentucky

State Wide

Family, music, stories, and tradition – all are words that come to mind when thinking about the holidays. From bluegrass to chorus, classical to country and pop to rock - Kentucky has it all. Choose one (or more!) of these musical performances to help your family ring in the holidays and get you in the holiday spirit.

 

 

A Cozy Christmas with the Queen City Cabaret at the Carnegie in Covington

 

The historic Carnegie in Covington will be alive with the Christmas spirit December 6-7 as the Queen City Cabaret puts on its holiday program. The Cincinnati-based arts organization and musical duo that brings captivating performances of vintage jazz and pop to venues across the mid-west and beyond. More information is available here.

An Old Kentucky Christmas Carol Tour in Bardstown

 

Even if you’ve visited My Old Kentucky Home before, their Christmas show is one you won’t want to miss. The talented cast will perform Charles Dickens’ novel, “A Christmas Carol,” the classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his journey to discover the true meaning of Christmas. The ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future will be on hand to lead you through the mansion’s decked halls and to perform Christmas songs. The musical tour will be offered December 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, and 20. Tours wrap up with cookies and cider in the carriage house, where you can meet Santa and take photos with his sleigh. More information can be found at here.

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