10 Biggest Kentucky Cities and Their Top Attractions

I'm a road trip lover from way back. I like 'em long or short. The thrill of discovery charges my batteries. Needless to say, I've traveled more roads in Kentucky than I'll ever remember. And I've visited every one of the top 10 most populous cities in Kentucky. If you do the same thing, you'll discover these popular attractions in each one. TripAdvisor contributors say these are the top tourist destinations in each one.

Louisville

If you have a gigantic cave under your metropolis, you should do something with it. And the Louisville Mega Cavern never sees a dull moment. When special holiday events aren't drawing visitors in droves, year-round ziplining fills the gaps.

Lexington

On days when the Kentucky Wildcats are playing at Rupp Arena or Kroger Field, Keeneland might not be Lexington's number one. But on the whole, folks love this legendary race track more than any other attraction in the city.

Bowling Green

Hop on a boat and take a tour of one of the many caves that lie beneath South Central Kentucky. But I do want to throw in an honorable mention. TripAdvisor consumers rank Lost River Cave JUST ahead of the National Corvette Museum. If you only do two things in Bowling Green, make it those two.

Owensboro

The first stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Green River Distilling Company, is also the 10th-oldest distillery in the Commonwealth. Kentucky and bourbon go hand in hand, and Green River will really educate you, as well as let you taste the magnificent goods on a tour.

Covington

St. Mary's Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption is among the most beautiful structures in the world. When you visit Northern Kentucky, there IS a lot to do. Make sure you put a visit to this magnificent cathedral on your list.

Georgetown

It makes perfect sense that there's a sanctuary for retired thoroughbreds in Kentucky. Where else would you put it? Old Friends at Dream Chase Farm offers interactive tours. Guests can feed horses, immerse themselves in equine history, and meet former Kentucky Derby and Preakness winners.

Richmond

Believe it or not, it is not Buc-ee's that tops the list, although I'm sure you'll visit if you go. No, the top Richmond, Kentucky, attraction is White Hall State Historic Site. Built in 1798, the mansion was home to Cassius Clay, an emancipationist who wore many hats. Abraham Lincoln's good friend was also the Ambassador to Russia, a politician, and a newspaper publisher. He is also Muhammad Ali's namesake; Ali was Cassius Clay before legally changing his name.

Elizabethtown

If you're a classic car aficionado, I may not HAVE to tell you about Swope's Cars of Yesteryear Museum. But if that description fits you, and you're new to Kentucky, then I'm happy to help. These vintage rides are in pristine condition. Vehicles today are largely utilitarian. Back in the day, they were that and works of art. The Swope's Museum celebrates that artistry.

Florence

Sherlock's Escape Rooms offer six mind-bending chambers for your puzzle-solving enjoyment--The Attic, Wizard's Curse, Cabin in the Woods, The Shipwreck, Bank Heist, and Graveyard Escape.

Nicholasville

Family-owned and operatedTaylor Made Farm used to just BOARD horses. Today, it's the global leader in thoroughbred sales and marketing. Guests will get an extensive education on breeding and what it takes to create a champion thoroughbred.

So...is your road trip planned yet? On your mark, get set, go.