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

Articles

Shepherdsville: Bourbon Casual

Jim Beam Country

Shepherdsville, Kentucky, is “Jim Beam Country” – home to the #1 selling bourbon in the world and located just 20 miles south of Louisville on I-65.

The Jim Beam American Stillhouse’s “behind-the-scenes” tour offers an interactive, sensory and creative distillery experience. From its two-story interactive display and gift shop to the pilot plant highlighting the distilling process, the tasting room experience, on-site Kentucky-themed restaurant (The Kitchen Table) and scenic grounds, a day at the Jim Beam Distillery is one of Kentucky’s must-see Unbridled Experiences.

Wine & Whiskey Trail

Within a 9 mile radius, you will find our Wine, Whiskey & Ale Trail along beautiful Kentucky back roads. In addition to the Jim Beam American Stillhouse, the trail includes Four Roses Bourbon Visitor Experience and four award-winning local wineries – Brooks Hill, Forest Edge, Wight-Meyer, MillaNova Winery and Gallant Fox Brewing Co.

Bernheim Forest & Family Adventures

Families and adventure-seekers alike will enjoy hiking, biking and year-round special events at Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. The forest is larger than the island of Manhattan and includes lakes, gardens, trails, a children’s play area and a Leeds Certified Visitors’ Center. Other attractions include: Kart Kountry, home to the longest go-kart track in the world; Heritage Hill Golf Club’s award-winning golf course; and a variety of parks and recreational activities and events.

A Shopping Adventure

Shop at Amazon’s 6pm.com Shoes & More Outlet plus visit seasonal outdoor markets including The Most Awesome Flea Market in the World. Shop distillery and winery gift shops, as well as the gift boutique at the Fire Art Glass Gallery. With a stay in Shepherdsville, you are also only minutes from Kentucky’s newest outlet mall, The Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass.

Ready to explore everything this area has to offer? Shepherdsville also has more than 1,000 affordable hotel rooms conveniently located off I-65 (Exits 117 & 121) only 20 minutes south of Louisville. Plan your Shepherdsville getaway – a casual, well-rounded Kentucky vacation at the gateway to Kentucky Bourbon Experiences which embodies the heart of Kentucky’s Unbridled Spirit!

Author Information

Shar Scanlon

Shar Scanlon is contributing writer for Kentucky Tourism.

Northern Kentucky River Region