The Ultimate Guide to Kentucky’s Offbeat Roadside Attractions

Vacations we took in my childhood were always planned out, but that didn't mean Dad wouldn't stop the Mercury, Pinto (yes, we road-tripped in a Pinto), or old Ford station wagon if he saw a billboard for a cool roadside attraction.

Kentucky performs well in this category, so let's jump in and begin with a destination in Slade, Kentucky, that we visited last year.

Kentucky Reptile Zoo

At the Kentucky Reptile Zoo, you'll get up close and personal with some of the deadliest snakes on the planet. Don't worry, there's thick glass between you and the serpents. Here, we have a Western African black mamba and an Eastern African green mamba at the top. The bottom image is of a Taylor's cantil from northeastern Mexico, not far from the U.S. border. It's a relative of the copperhead.

Alligators and large tortoises are also sights to see at this fun little roadside stop.

Vent Haven Ventriloquist Museum

Isn't all you need to know about this place is that it is the only museum on Earth dedicated to ventriloquist dummies and that the museum is loaded from top to bottom with examples from across the decades? I didn't think so.

Apple Valley Hillbilly Garden and Toyland

You'll come upon this offbeat attraction in Calvert City as you're driving down U.S. 68. Do not pass it by. This is why the term "offbeat attraction" exists. I bet you'll spend more time than you think you will. All those toys.

Harland Sanders Cafe & Museum

The whole KFC story is a fascinating slice of Americana, and you'll get the entire Colonel Sanders story, and then some, at this wonderful museum in Corbin.

Kentucky Stonehenge

You don't have to travel all the way to the United Kingdom to see Stonehenge. (Well, you do if you want to see the first one.) But if you don't mind a Bluegrass replica, make your way to Munfordville.

Dinosaur World

What did I tell you about Cave City? We're back, and this time we're hanging out at Dinosaur World, home to life-sized dinosaur replicas, interactive exhibits, and a dino-themed playground. Coolers are encouraged.

Wigwam Village

Let's wrap up in where else but Cave City. If you think you'll be spending multiple days in the region, here's the coolest motel you'll find. I stayed there as a kid, and now it's been renovated. Roadside attractions don't get much quirkier than this.

Enjoy your summertime Kentucky road trips, but don't forget to stop and enjoy the quirkier side of life.