Oak Grove, Kentucky

If the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area sounds like something out of an epic story, that’s because it is loaded with quest-worthy fun. The spacious 170,000-acre inland peninsula in the state’s southwest corner is formed by Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake, which were created after two rivers in the area were dammed. A mustvisit destination for anyone who loves outdoor adventure, the recreation area features about 100 miles of hiking trails; fishing for large mouth, small mouth and Kentucky spotted bass; deer and turkey hunting and more.

If you’re more interested in observing wildlife, the Elk & Bison Prairie is a 700-acre space that’s home to around 50 bison and 40 elk, which visitors can view from their cars. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area also offers four trails dedicated to backpacking and dispersed camping, including the 31-mile North End of the North/South Trail.

Around 50 bison reside on the Elk & Bison Prairie at Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

A park for every passion

Whether you’re looking to rev up or wind down, we’ve got a place just for you. Nestled in some of the state’s most beautiful settings, Kentucky State Parks offer a wide range of activities – from outdoor adventures to nature escapes – and accommodations from rustic campsites and cozy cabins to resort park lodges. Plus, 13 nationally recognized state park golf courses get you out on the links to soak up incredible views. Book your spring getaway at parks.ky.gov!

HISTORY & CULTURE

Plenty of famous figures throughout American history were born in Kentucky, including the charismatic Muhammad Ali. Channel your own greatness at the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville. While the museum and cultural center invites visitors to discover the famed boxer and activist’s life through video presentations, artifacts — such as fight-worn gloves and trunks, trophies and promotional fight posters — and a timeline of his life and accomplishments, the space is also meant to inspire.

Six sections of the museum are dedicated to Ali’s core principles: confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect and spirituality. In the dramatic Conviction Pavilion, interpretive panels and news reels retell the story of Ali’s refusal to join the U.S. Army after being drafted during the Vietnam War, while the Giving Pavilion shares his philanthropy. (He was a supporter of the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Special Olympics). The center, which is part of the United States Civil Rights Trail, also features an interactive exhibit space where you can try shadow boxing, punching a speed bag and more.

The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum charts the history of the energizing musical genre that was born in Kentucky. The Owensboro institution

At the heart of America’s inland waterways, find a sophisticated rivertown that inspires. Paducah, Kentucky is a confluence of cultural heritage and creativity where art goes beyond something to appreciate – it’s a way of life.

A designated UNESCO Creative City, Paducah is gaining acclaim as a destination for those who crave rich, authentic cultural experiences!

Plan your visit at Paducah.travel

1-800-PADUCAH takes visitors through bluegrass’ early days to the widespread popularity it enjoys today. Along the way, you can check out artifacts such as guitars, banjos, fiddles and stage wardrobe used by some of the genre’s most popular musicians. Be sure to check out the outdoor stage or Woodward Theatre, where you can hear live bluegrass music. History buffs will also want to visit the boyhood home and first memorial for one of Kentucky’s most famous native sons: Abraham Lincoln. Made up of two experiences, the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park offers visitors a chance to see the 16th United States president’s beginnings. Explore the Birthplace Unit to see the Memorial Building, a BeauxArts-style structure constructed to protect a symbolic cabin like the one where Lincoln was born in 1809. Built in 1911, 11 years before the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., the site also includes 116 acres of Sinking Spring Farm, which was owned by Lincoln’s father, Thomas. Ten miles away at the Boyhood Home Unit, travelers can see a re-creation of the cabin Lincoln lived in until he was 8 years old.