
Most Scenic Road Trips in Louisville, United States
1. Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Visit world-renowned distilleries and experience the charm of bourbon country.
- Historical Distilleries: Tour historic sites like Jim Beam, Maker's Mark, and Woodford Reserve.
- Bourbon Tastings: Enjoy free tastings and learn about the bourbon-making process.
- Scenic Views: Admire rolling hills, horse farms, and quaint towns along the trail.
2. Louisville Loop
Explore Louisville's parks, neighborhoods, and landmarks on a scenic bike ride.
- Park Connectivity: Connects 100+ parks across the city for a continuous urban trail.
- Local Landmarks: Passes by historic sites, museums, and unique neighborhoods.
- Active Recreation: Ideal for jogging, biking, or walking – perfect for an active vacation!
3. Parkway of Roses
Experience the beauty of over 600 rose varieties at Cave Hill Cemetery.
- Largest Rose Garden: Home to one of the largest rose gardens in the United States.
- Historic Cemetery: Visit gravesites of famous Louisvillians like Muhammad Ali and Colonel Sanders.
- Seasonal Blooms: Bloom season begins in late May and lasts through October.
4. Oregon Fall Foliage Drive
Marvel at the vibrant fall colors of the Bluegrass Region.
- Scenic Byway: Travel along a designated scenic byway for stunning views.
- Fall Colors: Enjoy a kaleidoscope of colors as leaves change in October.
- Small Town Charm: Pass through charming small towns like Danville and Lebanon.
5. Northern Kentucky River Cities
Discover quaint riverfront cities with unique shops, restaurants, and historical sites.
- River Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Ohio River and its tributaries.
- Historical Sites: Visit historic sites like the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge or Covington's Devou Park.
- Local Cuisine: Savor regional dishes at local eateries and farmer's markets.
6. Shepherdsville Scenic Drive
Explore rural landscapes dotted with historic sites and charming small towns.
- Rural Landscapes: Travel through open fields, farms, and picturesque countryside.
- Historic Sites: Visit sites like the Waverly Hills Sanatorium or Bullitt's Lick Battlefield.
- Small Town Charm: Discover quaint towns like Shepherdsville and La Grange.
7. Southern Indiana Scenic Drive
Experience stunning vistas of the Ohio River Valley and Hoosier National Forest.
- River Views: Admire breathtaking views of the Ohio River and its tributaries.
- Forest Scenery: Travel through dense forests, rolling hills, and scenic overlooks.
- Historic Sites: Visit historical sites like Corydon, Indiana's first state capital.
8. Louisville Mega Cavern
Explore the world's longest human-walkable underground cave system.
- Unique Attraction: A unique attraction that offers various activities like zip lining and trams.
- Historical Site: Located in a former limestone quarry with mining history dating back to the 1800s.
- Year-Round Activities: Open year-round and offers attractions like ice skating during the winter.
9. Louisville Slugger Museum
Discover the history of baseball and see a giant baseball bat.
- Baseball History: Learn about the history of baseball and famous players.
- Giant Bat: See a giant bat made from more than 600 bats!
- Interactive Exhibits: Enjoy interactive exhibits like batting cages and the gift shop.
10. Cave Run Lake Scenic Drive
Experience the natural beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest.
- Scenic Byway: Travel along a designated scenic byway with stunning views.
- National Forest: Explore the Daniel Boone National Forest and its lakes and trails.
- Wildlife Spotting: Look for wildlife like deer, bears, and turkeys in their natural habitat.
11. Blue Licks Battlefield State Reservation
Learn about the history of the American Revolution at a historic battlefield.
- Historical Site: Visit the site where Daniel Boone was killed and learn about the battle.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails through the surrounding forest.
- Campgrounds: Overnight camping available for a true outdoor experience.
12. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Marvel at the moonbow, a natural rainbow caused by the moonlight.
- Natural Wonder: One of only four places in the world where moonbows can be seen.
- Waterfall Views: Enjoy stunning views of the 65-foot tall Cumberland Falls.
- Campgrounds and Cabins: Overnight camping or cabin rentals available for a true nature experience.
13. Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site
Visit the birthplace of America's 16th President.
- Historical Landmark: Explore the cabin where Abraham Lincoln was born.
- Nature Trails: Take a guided tour of the surrounding forest trails.
- Educational Exhibits: Learn about Lincoln's life, achievements, and legacy.
14. Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area
Experience the natural beauty of two lakes and numerous trails.
- Scenic Byway: Travel along a designated scenic byway with stunning views.
- Lakes and Trails: Enjoy activities like boating, fishing, hiking, or horseback riding.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like Fort Donelson and the Homeplace 1850s Living Historical Farm.
15. Big South Fork Scenic Railroad
Travel through the breathtaking Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.
- Scenic Train Ride: Enjoy a scenic train ride through the stunning river valley.
- Historical Sites: Visit historical sites like the Blanton Coal Mine and the Steam Engine Museum.
- Hiking Trails: Explore hiking trails, waterfalls, and gorges in the national park.