Adventure for All Ages: Exploring Kentucky’s Great Outdoors with the Whole Family

Kentucky’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for families of all ages. Whether you're traveling with toddlers or grandparents, the Bluegrass State offers a variety of outdoor activities that are both fun and accessible for the entire family. Here are a few easy ways to enjoy the outdoors together:

Hiking trails ideal for the whole family include Big Bone Creek Trail located in Northern Kentucky’s Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. It is mostly flat trail that includes paved and dirt walkways following along nature bluffs, past saltwater springs and interpretive signage about the park’s history.

In the western region of the commonwealth, is Overlook Trail. This trail leads hikers on a journey through history as it winds through the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park near Hodgenville.

There are dozens of botanical gardens and arboretums that are ideal for family outings. The Baker Arboretum in Bowling Green or the Creasy Mahan Nature Preserve in Goshen provide hours of fun, learning, and relaxation for both kids and adults.

Bernheim Forest and Arboretum in Clermont is massive and features a 17-acre natural playground, an edible garden and 40 miles of hiking trails for every skill level. The playground has been especially designed for children as it provides them with unstructured play opportunities that support healthy physical and mental development. Additionally, don’t miss the Bernheim Giants Trail where three wooden giants, built from regional recycled wood are perfect additions to fun family pictures.

For outdoor experiences, art and culture look no further than Frankfort’s Josephine Sculpture Garden. This non-profit outdoor gallery is free and open to the public seven days a week. It features walking paths through native meadows allowing visitors to view nearly seventy works of art, some permanent and some temporary, providing a new experience with each visit.

Kentucky, globally renowned for its equine industry features numerous horse farms offering public tours that provide insights into thoroughbred racing history, including Claiborne Farms, the former home of Triple Crown winner Secretariat. Additionally, several horse rescues welcome visitors. BraveHearts Equine Center in Paris rescues and rehabilitates draught horses and burros. Second Stride in Crestwood repurposes retired racehorses, allowing visitors to meet them and observe their retraining for adoption, showcasing the diverse roles these animals play beyond the track.