Attractions Nearby Lexington, Day Trips and Excursions

(Lexington, Kentucky - KY, USA)

Kentucky is located on the western side of the USA, being directly to the north of Tennessee and south of Indiana and Ohio. Day trippers holidaying in Lexington are exposed to a myriad of possibilities and attractions when planning a day trip or similar excursion.

Numerous recreational attractions are close to Lexington, with both the Cumberland Gap National Historic Park and the Daniel Boone National Forest standing out. If you prefer more urban city attractions, then Lexington is also within reach of some epic US cities, including the likes of Cincinnati (Ohio), Frankfort and Louisville, and further afield in Tennessee, both Knoxville and Nashville.

Cincinnati

Address: Ohio (OH)
The city of Cincinnati lies alongside the meandering Ohio River and some 84 miles / 135 km north of Lexington. Cincinnati is an attractive city, with riverfront districts, lots of Art Deco architecture and an intriguing complex of Skywalk passageways. When it comes to tourist attractions, Cincinnati certainly obliges, with firm favourites including the well-presented Newport Aquarium, the extremely historic Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and the legendary Coney Island theme park.

Cumberland Gap National Historic Park

Founded in the summer of 1940, the Cumberland Gap National Historic Park stands on the state's southeasterly corner, at the point where Kentucky meets the neighboring states of Tennessee and Virginia. The Cumberland Gap marks an important break in the Appalachian Mountains and is overflowing with recreational activities and scenic views. The Cumberland Gap Visitor Center can be found on the US-25E highway, on the southerly outskirts of Middlesboro.
Open hours: daily; visitor center: daily - 08:00 to 17:00
Admission: free, charge for activities

Daniel Boone National Forest

A vast expanse covering more than 3,000 square miles / 7,700 square kilometers, the Daniel Boone National Forest is actually Kentucky's only National Forest and is directly southeast of Lexington. With endless hiking trails and outdoor attractions, those paying a visit to the Daniel Boone National Forest should look out for the Red River Gorge (perfect for keen rock climbers), Buckhorn Lake, the Sheltowee Trace Trail and the Cave Run Lake, where boating is always a popular summer activity.
Open hours: daily - 24 hours
Admission: free

Evansville

Address: Indiana (IN)
Across the border and in the state of Indiana, Evansville is located 195 miles / 314 km to the west of Lexington and is of possible interest as an excursion or weekend getaway. Evansville has become the county seat of Vanderburgh County and has innumerable museums, gardens and parks, such as the ever-popular Burdette Park and its exciting water slides. For a little culture, the Evansville Museum of Arts, History and Science is one not to miss and is home to the historical Koch Planetarium.

Frankfort

At just 26 miles / 42 km to the northwest of Lexington, a day trip to the state capital of Frankfort really does come highly recommended. Frankfort has grown up around the Kentucky River, with dissects the city as it meanders through, creating four main districts. The Kentucky State Capitol building is the number one attraction in Frankfort and this domed landmark dates back over 100 years, when it was built at the cost of $1 million. Interestingly, the staircases here are exact copies of those within the Opera Garnier in Paris. The Old State Capital Building in Frankfort may also be of interest, along with the Liberty Hall Historic Site.

Knoxville

Address: Tennessee TN
Sited within the Great Valley of Knox County and approximately 170 miles / 274 km to the south of Lexington, the Tennessee city of Knoxville is conveniently close to the Appalachian Mountains. Knoxville is where the University of Tennessee is sited, and a number of the city's most impressive attractions date back to 1982, when the World Fair was held here. From that era, the very eye-catching Sunsphere Tower has become something of an iconic symbol of the city and views don't come much better than those available from its observation decks.

Louisville

Fronted by the Ohio River, Louisville is a sizable Kentucky city, with a population of more than 250,000 residents. Louisville lies at just under 75 miles / 121 km to the west of Lexington and has long been a prominent river port city. Of all the attractions in Louisville, it is the world-famous Kentucky Derby each May that reliably draws the largest crowds.

Maryville

Address: Tennessee TN
The county seat of Blount County and just a short distance to the south of Knoxville, Maryville is a small city standing within the foothills of the famous Great Smoky Mountains. Maryville is located approximately 190 miles / 306 km to the south of Lexington. Visitors should be sure to check out the First Apostolic Church of Maryville, the Science Museum and Heritage Planetarium, and the Maryville Museum, which is operated by the Blount County Historical Trust.

Nashville

Address: Tennessee TN
Deservedly earning itself a reputation as nothing short of a haven for music lovers from around the world, Nashville has discovered many stars over the years, including Country and Western singer, Dolly Parton. Those wishing to learn more about the city's rich musical heritage should pencil in a trip to both the Grand Ole Opry and the acclaimed Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, while families may prefer to spend time at the Nashville Zoo or at the Wave Country water park. If you are based in Lexington and wish to travel to Nashville, you will find this city situated around 214 miles / 344 km to the southwest.