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

Calling All Foodies for Amazing Culinary Experiences in Kentucky

State Wide

If you’re vacationing in Kentucky, you’ll create wonderful memories as you wind your way from one side of the Bluegrass State to the other. The question now is, what are you going to eat?

Whether you love down-home cooking or palate-pushing adventures, Kentucky has what you’re looking for.

 

Load up on carbs after climbing and exploring the wilderness of Red River Gorge at Miguel’s Pizza in Slade. For three decades, Miguel Ventura and his family have been serving nature and climbing enthusiasts with a “choose you own adventure” approach to pizza making, where you’re only limited by your own imagination.

 

 

Heading west and in the mood for a snack and soda? Stop in Winchester and try one of Kentucky’s favorite beverages, Ale-8-One. A ginger and citrus-flavored soft drink developed in 1926 by Winchester’s own G.L. Wainscott, Ale-8-One has been refreshing Kentucky natives for generations. The company store is fully stocked and worth the trip.

Want something to go with that soda? Check out any one of 15 stops on the Beer Cheese Trail winding in and around Winchester. Those who really love the native delicacy can grab a digital beer cheese passport.

 

Don’t leave the Lexington area without visiting any one of the nine restaurants in the Holly Hill portfolio. Owned by Lexington native and nationally-renowned chef, Ouita Michel, each one offers a unique take on local farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy an artisan hamburger at Windy Corner. Or, go on a culinary adventure in Michel’s flagship restaurant, Holly Hill Inn in Midway. There’s a restaurant that suits every taste.

 

Continue west down Interstate 64 to Louisville and find 610 Magnolia. Since 2003, Chef Edward Lee has built a name for himself and his city as a leader in boundary-pushing southern fusion cuisine that brings tastes from all over the globe. The food is made even better by the surroundings. Set in Oldtown Louisville, the restaurant is contemporary yet rustic, and elegant with original wooden beams, mullioned windows and French doors that open seasonally to an outdoor garden patio.

 

You can’t pass through Bourbon Country without stopping by Bardstown, the “Bourbon Capital of the World”. Whether you’re after a unique tasting experience, a fantastic meal, or both, area distilleries have you covered.

 

Independent and family owned since 1936, the Willett Distillery has the best of both worlds. With tours and tastings, and an onsite restaurant offering seasonal small plates and a full cocktail bar, it’s definitely a one-stop shop. History buffs should be sure to stop by Talbott Tavern, one of the oldest American bourbon bars. Since 1779, the tavern has been host to presidents, pioneers and outlaws. Now you can be a part of that history as you enjoy a cocktail and meal while taking in the old-world ambiance.

 

If you continue west, you’ll eventually find yourself in the charming river city of Paducah. Sitting at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, Paducah offers a variety of culinary options, including Kirchhoff’s Bakery. This legendary establishment has been supplying the city with sweet and savory baked goods since 1873. With its downtown location, it’s the perfect place to grab a loaf of fresh baked bread or a massive fried green tomato BLT as you picnic on the riverbank and watch the barges steam past.

 

These experiences are just the tip of the culinary iceberg in the Bluegrass State. No matter where you find yourself, you’ll never be far from a great meal and an even better experience.

Author Information

Ben Mackin holding a coffee cup while making a strange face.

Ben Mackin

Ben Mackin is a communications specialist for the Kentucky Department of Tourism.  Before joining KDT, Ben worked as a staff writer and freelancer for a number of publications including the Vicksburg Post, Williamsburg-Yorktown Daily and the State Journal in Frankfort. 

Related Articles

 

 

 

 

Horses, Hats, & Bourbon With Claudia Coffey

 

 

 

 

Share Northern Kentucky River Memories

Tag your photos when posting to Instagram. Follow us @kytourism

#TRAVELKY #KYMOMENTS #KYADVENTURES