Kentucky Road Trip Itinerary
Embark on a captivating road trip through Kentucky! Starting in Louisville, you will travel through Lexington, Prestonsburg, Jenkins, Pineville, Berea, and Bowling Green, covering a distance of about 1616 km over the course of twelve days. The best time of year to take this journey is in the summer or fall, when you can take advantage of the comfortable temperatures and good road conditions. You will find plenty of curvy roads along the way, so be sure to stay alert and enjoy the scenery.
This road trip is an excellent way to experience the beauty of Kentucky while also creating lasting memories. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. So, get ready to explore the rolling hills and vibrant cities of Kentucky and have the adventure of a lifetime!
12
number of days
1,616 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Louisville
Distance 1,616 km
Driving time 19.6 h
Pace: fast
484.9 kWh
Airports
SDF
[detailsContainer]
Louisville, Kentucky is the perfect starting point for the Kentucky Road Trip. Famous for its culture and history, Louisville offers a variety of attractions and activities to explore. From the Kentucky Derby Museum and Louisville Slugger Museum to the Louisville Zoo and Waterfront Park, there is something for everyone. History buffs can visit Churchill Downs, the home of the Kentucky Derby, and the historic district of Old Louisville. Art lovers will enjoy exploring the numerous art galleries and museums in the city.
For those traveling by air, Louisville International Airport (IATA: SDF) is the closest international airport to Louisville. The airport offers car rental services should you wish to explore the city and the rest of Kentucky by car.
If you are looking for a unique experience, don't forget to visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and taste some of the finest Kentucky bourbon. Louisville also has some great restaurants, bars and nightlife to explore.
So, plan your Kentucky Road Trip and start your adventure in Louisville, Kentucky!
1
Louisville
- Lexington
Distance 125 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
37.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready to explore some of the most interesting places in Louisville and Lexington, two of the most beloved cities in the United States. This stage of your tour is a 78mi drive between the two cities, taking no more than two hours.
In Louisville, the most interesting places to visit are the Muhammad Ali Center, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Kentucky Derby Museum, and the Louisville Zoo. In Lexington, you can visit the Kentucky Horse Park, the Mary Todd Lincoln House, and the Aviation Museum of Kentucky.
In addition to the attractions, you can also enjoy the culinary delights of both cities. Louisville is home to some of the most famous restaurants in the country, while Lexington offers a variety of local eateries.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy your journey between Louisville and Lexington!
Lexington - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
2
Lexington
- Prestonsburg
Distance 208 km
Driving time 2.4 h
Pace: fast
62.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you looking for a short yet exciting road trip? Then look no further than Lexington to Prestonsburg! This 129 mile drive will take you less than 3 hours, and you'll be able to take in some stunning scenery along the way. The road is very winding in some sections, so be sure to keep your eyes on the road. You'll be able to pass through some great places like Lexington, Winchester, and Mount Sterling on your way to Prestonsburg. Make sure to take in the sights and sounds of each of these cities. You'll also be able to visit some great attractions like the Kentucky Horse Park, the Red River Gorge Geological Area and the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame and Museum. No matter what you decide to do, you're sure to have an unforgettable road trip! For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Prestonsburg - United States - North America - Road Trip - en.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
3
Prestonsburg
- Jenkins
Distance 91 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
27.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a thrilling road trip from Prestonsburg to Jenkins! This 57-mile drive should take you less than an hour to complete, and you'll be rewarded with some spectacular views along the way. This winding road is full of scenic spots, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the most breathtaking sights. As you travel, you'll also find some interesting places to visit in both Prestonsburg and Jenkins. In Prestonsburg, you can explore the Mountain Arts Center, which is home to a variety of galleries, theaters, and shops. In Jenkins, you can take a walk along the Elkhorn City Rail Trail, which is a peaceful spot to take in the natural beauty of the area. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Jenkins - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
4
Jenkins
- Pineville
Distance 143 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: fast
42.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Jenkins, United States to Pineville, a journey of 89 miles that will take you less than two hours. This is one of the stages of an amazing tour, so don't forget to take pictures!
In Jenkins, make sure to visit the Jenkins City Park, a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. In Pineville, take a trip to the Pine Mountain State Resort Park, a beautiful natural area with stunning views. Here, you can go hiking, biking, and even horseback riding.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Pineville - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
5
Pineville
- Berea
Distance 136 km
Driving time 1.5 h
Pace: fast
40.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Pineville-Berea road trip stage! This 84mi journey is a great way to explore the beauty of the American Midwest. You'll have plenty of time to take in the sights along the way, as the drive should take you less than two hours.
As you drive, keep an eye out for the scenic roads that make this route so special. You'll pass through small towns and rolling hills, with plenty of chances to stop and explore.
In Pineville, be sure to visit the historic downtown area, where you can find charming shops and restaurants. In Berea, take a walk around the campus of Berea College, and explore the many galleries and museums.
No matter where you stop along the way, you're sure to find something special. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Berea - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
6
Berea
- Bowling Green
Distance 279 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: fast
83.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome road-trippers! This stage of your tour will take you from Berea, United States to Bowling Green, a 174mi journey that will take you fewer than 4 hours.
In Berea, make sure to visit the Boone Tavern Hotel & Restaurant, a historic hotel built in 1909, and the Kentucky Artisan Center, which showcases the works of Kentucky artisans.
On the way to Bowling Green, you can visit the Mammoth Cave National Park, a World Heritage Site, and the National Corvette Museum, where you can admire the history of the iconic American sports car.
Once you arrive in Bowling Green, you can explore the Historic Railpark & Train Museum, with its collection of vintage locomotives, and the Lost River Cave, an underground river where you can take boat tours.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your tour!
Bowling Green - United States - North America - Road Trip - pixabay.com
❯
❮
7
Bowling Green
- Grand Rivers
Distance 215 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: fast
64.6 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an awesome road trip experience starting in Bowling Green and ending in Grand Rivers? This 134mi journey will take you less than 3 hours and will be full of fun! You will be able to explore the beauty of the countryside and enjoy the scenic road.
If you start your trip in Bowling Green, make sure to visit the National Corvette Museum and the Historic Railpark and Train Museum to learn more about the city’s history. The Beech Bend Park & Splash Lagoon is also a great place to spend a few hours with family and friends.
When you reach Grand Rivers, you can visit the Badgett Playhouse, the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area, and the Grand Rivers Community Park. If you’re looking for a unique experience, don’t miss the Kentucky Opry and the Patti’s 1880’s Settlement.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. Get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!
Grand Rivers - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
8
Grand Rivers
- Evansville
Distance 154 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
46.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for an unforgettable road trip from Grand Rivers to Evansville? This journey is only 96 miles long and will take you less than two hours to complete. You will be delighted by the winding roads and the stunning views of the countryside. Along the way, you will find many interesting places to visit, such as the Grand Rivers Park, the Grand Rivers Museum, and the Grand Rivers Marina. In Evansville, you can explore the Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science, the Evansville Zoological Society, and the Evansville Botanical Garden. Don’t forget to visit the Angel Mounds State Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Bon Voyage!
Evansville - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
9
Evansville
- Louisville
Distance 265 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: fast
79.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Evansville to Louisville! This 165-mile journey will take you fewer than 4 hours, and you'll be able to take in the scenic beauty of the winding roads along the way. Start off in Evansville and make your first stop at Angel Mounds State Historic Site, where you can explore the ancient Native American civilization that once inhabited the area. Then, head to the John James Audubon State Park, where you can take a stroll around the lake and enjoy the wildlife. After that, you can make your way to the Falls of the Ohio State Park and explore the fossil beds and the interpretive center. Finally, you can end your trip in Louisville and visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, the Frazier History Museum, and the Louisville Zoo. Don't forget to check out the Itinerary for this stage of the trip for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route.
Louisville
[detailsContainer]
Louisville, the largest city in the state of Kentucky, is the perfect end to the "Kentucky Road Trip". Louisville is known for its history, culture and art. The city is home to the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, where visitors can learn about the history of baseball bat making, and the Muhammad Ali Center, which celebrates the life and legacy of the late heavyweight champion. Louisville is also known for its bourbon, and many distilleries offer tours and tastings.
Visitors can explore the city's many parks and outdoor attractions, including the Waterfront Park, Cherokee Park and the Big Four Bridge. The Louisville Zoo and the Louisville Mega Cavern are also popular attractions, offering family-friendly activities and experiences. For those looking to experience Louisville's nightlife, the city's downtown area is home to a variety of bars and restaurants.
Travelers can reach Louisville by car via Interstates 64, 65 and 71. The closest international airport is Louisville International Airport (IATA code: SDF), located approximately 10 miles from downtown.
No matter what kind of experience you're looking for, Louisville is the perfect way to end your "Kentucky Road Trip".
Kentucky Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Louisville
-
End:
Louisville
-
Distance:
1,616 km
-
Stay:
12 days
-
Getting there:
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an enchanting 1616 km (1004 miles) Road Trip through the heart of the Bluegrass State, beginning in the vibrant city of Louisville and winding through the rich heritage and natural splendor of Lexington, Prestonsburg, Jenkins, Pineville, Berea, and Bowling Green. This comprehensive 12-day itinerary provides the perfect combination of metropolitan excitement and the serenity of the outdoors, designed for travelers with a moderate budget who relish both culture and nature.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Louisville: Delve into baseball history at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and experience the thrill of thoroughbred racing at the iconic Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby.
- Lexington: Immerse yourself in the equestrian world at the Kentucky Horse Park, and soak in the historic atmosphere of Keeneland Racecourse, a National Historic Landmark.
- Prestonsburg: Uncover the richness of Appalachian culture at the Mountain Arts Center and find outdoor adventure at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, named after a pioneer heroine.
- Jenkins: Revel in the breathtaking vistas of the Pine Mountain area and step back in time at the David A. Zegeer Coal-RailRoad Museum.
- Pineville: Marvel at the panoramic views at Pine Mountain State Resort Park, Kentucky's oldest state park, and challenge yourself with outdoor activities like hiking and paddling.
- Berea: Experience the vibrant arts scene and explore the galleries and studios of local artisans in a town renowned as the Folk Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky.
- Bowling Green: Dive into automotive history at the National Corvette Museum and explore the subterranean wonders of the Lost River Cave, offering boat tours through its captivating underground river.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period for this Road Trip is between late spring and early fall, when the weather is typically pleasant and ideal for exploring both the urban sights and the great outdoors. Fall foliage season, in particular, offers a spectacular backdrop for your journey.
Potential Risks:
The drive includes winding and hilly Roads, especially in the Appalachian regions, which demand attentive driving. Remain vigilant and prepare for sudden changes in weather, especially when traversing more remote areas.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Kentucky boasts more navigable miles of water than any other state in the continental U.S., except Alaska, making it a haven for water-based activities.
- The state is internationally known for its bourbon production, with more barrels of bourbon than people. The famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers a taste of this rich tradition.
- Kentucky is also the birthplace of bluegrass music, and you can find live performances throughout the state.
- A moderate budget will cover accommodations ranging from cozy bed and breakfasts to state park lodges, and allow for sampling the state's diverse culinary offerings, from Southern comfort food to innovative farm-to-table fare.
A good choice for:
This Road Trip through Kentucky is a journey through the soul of American heritage, offering a tapestry of experiences from the hallowed grounds of horse farms to the majestic Appalachian Mountains. It is a voyage that beckons to those eager to traverse the scenic byways and delve into the vibrant culture that defines the Bluegrass State.
-
