Experience It All

There’s plenty to explore at Cumberland Falls. Called the “Niagara of the South,” our impressive waterfall is just the beginning of your adventure. Go horseback riding through the scenic forest, take in the sights while birding at the historic lodge, or enjoy a short hike that ends with an amazing view of the falls. Relax for the evening while dining at the Riverview Restaurant, known for its gorgeous scenery and locally sourced menu. And don’t forget to check the calendar to plan your trip around the elusive moonbow!

Take a trip back in time to the first great gateway of the West at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, where more than 300,000 people crossed the Appalachian Mountains to settle America. Make sure to visit Tri-State Point, where you can stand in Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia at once. While you’re there, head just a little bit west into Middlesboro, KY, and explore 1.5 miles of Gap Cave, or book a guided tour of the historic Hensley Settlement atop Brush Mountian.

Blaze a new trail at Boone’s Ridge. Currently a work in progress, this soon-to-open tourist destination deserves a place on any thrill seeker’s itinerary! From hiking trails with gorgeous views to an abundance of wildlife—including bison enclosures, butterfly habitats, and bird observatories—you’ll get an immersive experience of the landscape that once drew travelers to these magnificent wildlands.

Visit the first cabin built in Kentucky at Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic Park. Built by Dr. Thomas Walker himself, the first frontiersman in Kentucky who preceded Daniel Boone by 17 years, you’ll get the chance to learn about Kentucky’s early history in a beautiful, family-friendly setting. Continue your trip back in time at Tommy’s Rootbeer Stand for a classic root beer float, or stop by the Knox Historical Museum, where you’ll find exhibits of artifacts from early America.

A premiere attraction for both music fans and history lovers alike, the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame takes you on a journey through Kentucky’s rich music heritage. From bluegrass and country to pop and blues, you’ll find artifacts and memorabilia from all music genres. Plus, you’ll even get the chance to interact with instruments and create your own sound. While you’re here, don’t forget to check out a show at the world-famous Renfro Valley Entertainment Center. Browse their show calendar for a list of upcoming events.

Home to some of the most extraordinary views and rock formations in Kentucky, Kingdom Come State Park offers a peaceful day in nature. With 14 hiking trails spanning 5 miles of the park, all our trails are less than one mile in length—perfect for a peaceful stroll in nature. If you’re looking to get out on the water, rent a pedal boat or go fishing in the stunning 3.5-acre lake. Don’t forget to pack a lunch to enjoy at one of our scenic picnic shelters. If you’re a history buff, take a detour at the Kentucky Coal Museum to learn some fascinating details about the history of the area.

The perfect place for a family adventure, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park has everything you need for a full day of adrenaline-packed activities. From mini-golf and swimming to the Mountain Life Museum and Treetop Adventure—including 60 aerial obstacles to challenge the whole family—you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring everything this park has to offer. Stop by McHarge Mill to see a working watermill and purchase some fresh ground corn. Visitors can also relax year-round in our 146-site campground, nestled in beautiful open woodland.

Hike your way through the Kentucky Ridge State Forest at Pine Mountain State Resort Park. With some moderately strenuous hikes—including Hemlock Garden Trail and Honeymoon Falls Trail—and birding opportunities unlike anywhere in the state, you’ll be charmed by the scenic views of Kentucky's first state park. If you’re up for a challenge, hike Chain Rock Trail to see the 101’ chain holding a boulder formation in place right above the city of Pineville. Take a detour to Pine Mountian Settlement School, where you can experience the music, art, history, and beauty of Appalachia through guided workshops and classes.

Tour an actual coal mine by rail car! You’ll get the chance to gear up in traditional coal miner protective attire before hopping in a rail car to visit animated exhibits along the tour. Not only will you get the chance to see inside a real mine, but you’ll also experience what it was like to work in a mine before mechanization. Continue your experience at the Kentucky Coal Museum for an in-depth look at how the coal industry shaped Appalachian culture.

Located on scenic Rockcastle River—one of the best whitewater streams in Kentucky—the Rockcastle Outdoor Company offers guided stand-up paddle boarding lessons, teaching you the basics of paddleboarding before setting out on an adventure through Rockcastle River. If paddle boarding isn’t for you, experience the adventure of a lifetime with a motorcycle tour. You’ll travel through the back roads of Southeastern Kentucky while enjoying stops along the way. It’s the perfect opportunity to take in all the natural beauty Kentucky has to offer. Reservations are required, so be sure to schedule your visit in advance.

Located in and around Manchester, the authentic swinging bridges mark Clay County’s historic past. Enjoy a self-guided tour of these historic suspension bridges and traverse across rivers, creeks, and canyons throughout the backroads of Appalachia. Though not all the bridges are passable, they make for great photo opportunities. While on the hunt for these famed bridges, take a detour at Rawlings Stinson Park to see the Stone of Witness, a Red Bird Petroglyph rock with ancient inscriptions.

Have you ever wanted to know the history behind Kentucky Fried Chicken? At Sanders Cafe & Museum you can see the kitchen where Sanders developed the KFC® secret formula—and eat there too! Don’t forget to stop by Sanders Park to take your picture with Colonel Harland Sanders.

Located in the heart of Daniel Boone National Forest, Wood Creek Lake is home to some of the best fishing in the state of Kentucky. As peaceful as it is beautiful, this is the perfect destination to get away from it all. Get out in the water in a kayak, fish peacefully off the shore or in a boat, or pack a picnic lunch and take in the beautiful forest scenery.