Ride on over to Kentucky where a wide variety of budget-friendly activities awaits you.   There’s never a shortage of ideas to start your adventure and Kentucky offers your family a vacation experience unlike any other.

There’s no animal people identify more with Kentucky than the horse.  On the first Saturday in May, the spotlight shines on the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” – the Kentucky Derby.   But equine experiences abound year-round.  It’s always post-time somewhere in Kentucky.   You can experience the excitement of live thoroughbred racing at any of Kentucky’s renowned racetracks: Keeneland, Churchill Downs, Ellis Park, Kentucky Downs, The Red Mile and Turfway Park.

If a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of horses and horse racing is more your speed, check out the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington and the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville.  Additional opportunities to get up close and personal with horses include farm tours or enjoying a trail ride at one of several riding stables located throughout the state.

No trip to Kentucky would be complete without experiencing the art of bourbon-making.  As you explore the historic distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, not only will you see first-hand the 200-year-old art, but you’ll also enjoy the beautiful landscapes and rich history of the central Kentucky region.  Best of all, most distillery tours are offered free of charge. 

If outdoor activities are what you seek, Kentucky is your playground for unbridled adventure.

Kentucky’s diverse landscape, numerous waterways, variety of wildlife and a state park system reputed as “the nation’s finest,” make for an unbelievable getaway that no outdoor enthusiast can resist.  Biking, spelunking, climbing, hiking, camping, water sports and ATV adventures await you.  From rugged outdoor adventures to rest and rejuvenation amidst the beauty of nature, Kentucky offers a multitude of ways to reconnect with your family.

While in the Bluegrass State, why not explore a few trails?  The Kentucky Lincoln Heritage Trail is a series of important stops throughout the state that highlights the people, places and events that influenced Abraham Lincoln’s childhood and later shaped his presidency.  Take a trip along the Kentucky Music Trail and explore the state’s incredibly rich and diverse musical heritage.  Or, drive and putt your way across the Kentucky State Parks Golf Trail, which boasts 13 championship 18-hole courses.  Experience one or more of the many wineries that dot the state and you’ll not only savor the ancient craft of wine-making, you’ll also learn about our distinguished wine history, which includes being home to the first commercial vineyard in the United States.

These are just a few of the many exciting and unique experiences that await you in Kentucky.   Whether you enjoy the bustling energy of our cities or the laid-back charm of our countryside, you’ll find the Bluegrass State provides a wealth of places to enjoy with your family and friends.  Be sure to visit the Kentucky Department of Travel Web site for more great vacation ideas.