Our family adventure through Kentucky began early one morning, backpacks packed and kids full of excitement. We’d spent weeks planning and were eager to hit the road. When thinking about things to do in Kentucky with kids, it’s easy to get overwhelmed—there’s so much! But with a little research, we had the perfect itinerary mapped out, full of fun, learning, and great food.
Mammoth Cave: A Journey Underground
Our first stop was Mammoth Cave National Park. As we drove through the rolling hills, I could feel the excitement bubbling up in the backseat. Once there, the kids couldn’t wait to get underground. This was no ordinary cave; it’s the longest cave system in the world. The park offers a variety of tours, and we opted for the “Frozen Niagara” one, which is perfect for families. The walk is manageable, even for little legs, but still filled with awe-inspiring rock formations.
Once inside, the cool air hit us, and I was glad I packed light jackets for the kids. The way their faces lit up as they saw the stalactites and stalagmites made every step worth it. We learned so much about the geology and history of the cave, but the real magic was seeing the kids’ curiosity grow with each turn.
If you’re planning this stop, book your tour ahead of time, especially in the busy months. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Kentucky with kids, and spots can fill up quickly. And trust me, those sturdy walking shoes I had everyone wear were lifesavers—those cave floors can get slippery!
Meeting the Animals at Louisville Zoo
Next on our journey was the Louisville Zoo. As soon as we walked in, the kids were entranced by the lush landscaping and the sounds of animals calling out. We strolled through the different habitats, watching gorillas munch on leaves and polar bears swim effortlessly in their pools. The zoo is large, so I was glad we’d brought a stroller for our youngest.
We made sure to time our day around the animal feedings, which were a hit with the kids. At the giraffe feeding station, their faces lit up as they handed leaves to these gentle giants. If your little ones need a break, there are plenty of shaded spots to rest or grab a quick snack.
Speaking of food, after a few hours of exploring, we decided to leave the zoo and grab lunch at Hammerheads, a local favorite not too far away. The burgers were incredible, and they had kid-sized portions, making it the perfect stop for a family-friendly meal.
A Day at the Horse Farms in Lexington
Kentucky is famous for its horses, so we couldn’t miss a visit to the horse farms in Lexington. The kids were beyond excited to see the magnificent animals up close. We chose to visit Kentucky Horse Park, which is ideal for families. Not only can you tour the stables and pastures, but they also offer horseback rides for kids.
Seeing the foals running in the fields and learning about horse care was fascinating. The park also has a museum where we spent time learning about the history of horse racing. If you go, try to visit early in the morning when the horses are more active, and make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking around the large grounds.
I recommend packing a camera because there were so many moments we wanted to capture, from the kids petting horses to the picturesque barns that seemed straight out of a movie. This is one of the best things to do in Kentucky with kids who love animals or just want to experience the heart of horse country.
Kentucky Science Center: Hands-On Fun
Our next stop was an indoor treat: the Kentucky Science Center in Louisville. We needed a break from the outdoor activities, and this museum delivered. The kids jumped right into the interactive exhibits, touching, building, and experimenting. They spent time learning how circuits work and we even tried out the astronaut training simulation.
The best part was watching their faces light up as they learned through play. If you have science lovers in your family, this is a must-visit. And if you’re looking for indoor things to do in Kentucky with kids, it’s a perfect option for rainy days or when you need a break from the sun.
Canoeing at Cumberland Falls
Our trip wouldn’t have been complete without an outdoor adventure, so we headed to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Often called the “Niagara of the South,” this spot offers not just scenic views but also the chance to canoe on the river.
The kids loved getting out on the water, splashing around in their life jackets while my partner and I paddled. The falls themselves are stunning, and if you’re lucky enough to visit during a full moon, you might catch a glimpse of the rare “moonbow,” a rainbow created by the moonlight.
Pro tip: Bring water shoes or sandals with good grip, as the rocks near the falls can be slippery. And if your kids are like mine, they’ll want to jump in and out of the water, so waterproof phone cases were a lifesaver for capturing those spontaneous moments.
Stepping Back in Time at Dinosaur World
One of the quirkiest, most exciting stops for the kids was Dinosaur World in Cave City. Imagine life-sized dinosaurs set along a walking trail through the woods—it was like stepping into a prehistoric world! The kids were in awe of the towering T-Rex and triceratops, and they loved pretending they were back in the time of dinosaurs.
But the highlight of this stop was the fossil dig. The kids were thrilled to dig through sand to uncover real fossils, which they got to keep as souvenirs. It was educational and fun all wrapped in one.
If you visit, make sure your kids wear comfortable clothes because they’ll be running around in excitement. And bring plenty of water because it can get hot walking those outdoor trails!
Kentucky Railway Museum
Our final stop was the Kentucky Railway Museum in New Haven. We boarded a vintage steam train for a ride through the countryside, and the kids were mesmerized by the chugging engine and the scenic views. We even got to see some wildlife along the way, thanks to the binoculars we brought along.
The museum offers themed rides, so if you time your visit right, you can experience special events like the Polar Express during the winter months or Day Out With Thomas. Our train-loving little ones had the time of their lives!
Delicious Eats Along the Way
Kentucky has plenty of great spots to eat, but some were especially kid-friendly. Joe Bologna’s in Lexington served up giant pizzas and garlic breadsticks, which were a hit after our long day at the horse farms. And The Homemade Ice Cream and Pie Kitchen in Louisville was the perfect place to indulge after a day at the zoo—homemade ice cream in all sorts of flavors, paired with delicious pies.
Final Thoughts
Our Kentucky adventure was filled with so many memorable moments, from exploring caves to feeding giraffes, and even canoeing under a waterfall. If you’re looking for things to do in Kentucky with kids, you’ll never run out of options. Just pack some snacks, bring your camera, and get ready for a family adventure that your kids will talk about for years to come!
