From Louisville to Lexington: the best stops in Kentucky

Don't be fooled into thinking the Bluegrass State doesn't have anything to offer besides horses. Take a look at some of the best spots in Kentucky and plan your very own scenic drive through the state to get a richer taste of the area's culture.

Explore local Louisville culture at the Muhammad Ali Center

Head to Louisville – the state's largest city, home to a vibrant food scene – and visit the award-winning Muhammad Ali Center in downtown along the Ohio River.

Dedicated to Louisville native and boxer Muhammad Ali, the cultural center features an interactive museum, educational programs and community events throughout the year that attract both local and out-of-town visitors of all ages.

Take a guided tour of the center for a more detailed understanding of Ali’s life and the legacy he built.

Revel in Baseball History at the Louisville Slugger Museum

If you’re traveling with kids or sports enthusiasts, the Louisville Slugger Museum is a must-see. Beginning with a 120-foot replica of Babe Ruth’s Louisville Slugger bat towering over the museum’s entrance, the tour — right down to the free souvenir mini bat — leaves quite an impression.

Allow at least two hours to enjoy the museum, or extend your stay with the All-Star Experience, a customized behind-the-scenes package designed with baseball’s biggest fans in mind.

Delve into the vast Mammoth Caves system

The Mammoth Cave National Park is a UNESCO heritage site just south of Louisville, where you’ll find the world’s longest cave system. It’s a popular spot for anyone looking to enjoy a little recreational time in nature.

Created through natural erosion of limestone via an underground river, the park spans over 52,830 acres and 400 miles of passageways. The area can be easily explored on your own, or you can sign up for one of the guided tours led by experts that offer details on historic sections of the caves.

You can also find a variety of activities in the surrounding area including camping spots, hiking trails, canoeing and cycling.

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Play with Horses at Kentucky Horse Park

Kentucky is home to the most exciting two minutes in sports, but it's also a pinnacle destination for horse culture year-round. At Lexington's Kentucky Horse Park, you can tour a real working horse farm and visit the International Museum of the Horse.

Get up close and personal with horses during a walking barn tour, take in the Parade of Breeds and discover Thoroughbred legends at the Hall of Champions. From mid-March through October, additional tickets are available for horseback trails and pony rides, two especially popular attractions for the park's younger guests.

Need a rest? Take a break and order a slice of Kentucky Derby pie – a luxurious sweet dish served at derby races.

Whether you're looking for big-city culture in first-class Louisville or you're eager to unwind while exploring a park or farm, Kentucky offers a range of experiences to suit almost any traveler. Get more tips for your trip with our Kentucky driving guide.