Things to Do in Kentucky

The Frazier History Museum offers a wide variety of exhibits about Kentucky’s history. See historic artifacts, get an in-depth look at the invention and distillation of Kentucky bourbon, and enjoy gallery talks. The three floors of exhibition space hold a variety of events ranging from whiskey tastings to performances by costumed actors.

Make a pit stop at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky, to take in more than six decades of Corvette history. You’ll find over 80 of the classic American cars—rare and concept cars, classic models, and prototypes organized by time period—as well as historic photographs and memorabilia.

Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate is the former residence of the famed US politician, who served as a speaker of the House and a secretary of state. A National Historic Landmark, the 17-acre (7-hectare) estate has been meticulously restored, and comprises an 18-room Federate-style mansion, six outbuildings, and expansive gardens and grounds.

Kentucky’s long-standing transportation hub, the L&N Depot, once had more than 20 trains departing the site daily. The depot and Historic RailPark and Train Museum are now home to an extensive collection of vintage railcars, transportation exhibits, and interactive displays. Take the whole family for a day of educational entertainment.

Quilting has a long history, especially in America, but only one museum is dedicated solely to the art and history of quilts and quiltmakers. With over 500 masterful quilts on display in permanent exhibits and temporary exhibits of the fiber arts, it is considered to be one of the world’s finest quilt collections.

The museum attracts art enthusiasts as well as quilters from around the world. Often exhibits are centered around a theme, exploring both nontraditional and traditional methods of quilting. There are items such as miniature quilts, heritage quilts, and art inspired by quilting on each floor. Top fiber artists and quilting experts are represented.

With three galleries, many of the items on display are rotated 8-10 times annually so there’s usually something new to discover. The museum also focuses on education, frequently offering workshops for those at all levels to refine the craft.