Mammoth Cave National Park
Kentucky is a paradise for spelunkers. Made mostly out of limestone, the state is literally honeycombed with karsts, sinkholes and caves. The most famous of these is Mammoth Cave, a system of 367 explored miles of interconnected caves and tunnels (and an unknown number of unexplored passages); it's the world's largest cave. The extent of the cave gives visitors a range of guided tour options, with the longest and most difficult lasting six hours. There are also hiking trails, river boating options and horseback riding. Accommodations are available both at the park's own hotel and at its campgrounds.
1 Mammoth Cave Parkway
P.O. Box 7
Mammoth Cave, KY 42259
Visitor Information Line
(270) 758-2180
Keeneland
If Kentucky is the center of American horse racing, then Keeneland is the heart of the industry. As those in the industry know, while Churchill Downs might be where the Kentucky Derby is held, the pulse of the horse business is at the horse sales held at Keeneland. Any visitor to the Lexington area should check to see if there are any races or sales going on. The beautifully manicured grounds and race tracks are usually open to visitors who just want to stop by and have a look around.
4201 Versailles Rd
Lexington, KY 40510
(859) 254-3412
www.keeneland.com
Patton Armor Museum
Located inside Fort Knox near Louisville is not just the famed gold depository. There's also a museum that is both one of the U.S. Army's largest and one of the largest collection of tanks on display in the world. The tank collection is so large that it cannot be housed inside the building. There are almost as many vehicles on display outside the building in Keyes Park as there are inside it.
The Patton Museum
P.O. Box 208
Ft. Knox, Kentucky 40121-0208
(502) 624-3812
www.generalpatton.org
Red River Gorge
Serious back country hikers, rock climbers, nature lovers and cavers in Kentucky congregate in the Red River Gorge. Located in the larger Daniel Boone Natural Forest, this expansive canyon system contains state parks, small towns and a lot of untrammeled wilderness. Those looking for a little light outdoor adventure would do well to start with Natural Bridge State Park, with its famous sandstone arch and selection of short hiking trails. Hardcore outdoor adventurers, on the other hand, will be spoiled for back country choices.
Gladie Learning Center
3451 Sky Bridge Road
Stanton, KY 40380
(606) 663-8100
Article Written By Edwin Thomas
Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.
