In the southern state of Kentucky, visitors will uncover a whole world of superlatives: exceptional bourbon, prestigious horse racing, soulful music and exquisite cuisine. Yes, even its native son Louisville-born Muhammad Ali was nicknamed “The Greatest”.
CALL OF THE WILD
Keen adventurers won’t want to miss Mammoth Cave, named the longest recorded underground cavern system in the world with more than 405 miles of passageways. This Unesco-listed gargantuan site is located within the eponymous national park, itself offering more than 50,000 acres of lush wilderness to explore.
Another natural attraction worth suggesting is Cumberland Falls, within the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Measuring 68 feet tall and 125 feet wide, its majestic beauty has earned it the title of “The Niagara of the South” and, during a full moon, visitors may be able to witness the extremely rare “moonbow”, an optical phenomenon also known as a lunar rainbow.
Those seeking an adrenaline rush can try scaling Red River Gorge, rated top among climbers thanks to its spectacular rock features, including sandstone arches and natural bridges. Visitors who prefer to stay on ground level can still appreciate its awe-inspiring terrain through scenic drives and hikes or by canoeing or kayaking on the river.
HORSING AROUND
You can’t mention Kentucky without talking about its horses. The state’s farming history also means a rich equestrian heritage and, indeed, the region is home to Lexington, the Horse Capital of the World, as well as Shelbyville, the Saddlebred Capital of the World.
Arrange visits to famed horse farms – there are 450 in the Lexington region alone – so clients can see first-hand what it takes to breed, raise and train these regal creatures for the racetrack, while guided tours will dig deeper into Kentuckians’ love of horses.
The state also knows how to put on a show exceptionally well and hosts numerous events throughout the year, the most famous and thrilling of which is the Kentucky Derby, held at the famous Churchill Downs racetrack in Louisville. It has taken place every year since its inauguration in 1875, making it the oldest continuously held major sporting event in the US.
Also suggest a visit to Keeneland, another iconic racetrack which is also home to the thoroughbred industry’s leading auction house.
IN TUNE
Music is another reason for putting Kentucky on your clients’ maps. As the birthplace of bluegrass, there will be myriad festivals and live gigs at which visitors can sway and tap their feet, perhaps with a local lager or even a glass of bourbon in hand.
The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro helps guests truly understand Kentucky’s impact on the American music scene through its limited-time exhibitions and permanent features of the instruments, as well as the people who have made it so hugely popular today.
Guests can also catch jam sessions and concerts here, including the three-day ROMP Fest in June – a celebration of all things bluegrass and roots that also features organic vendors, yoga, art installations and professionally led children’s activities, making it fun for all the family.
FEAST FOR THE SOUL
When it comes to food and drink, Kentucky really sets the bar high. Little wonder, as the state is also the birthplace of bourbon, America’s answer to whisky. In fact, 95% of the world’s bourbon is produced here!
Clients can sample a multitude of bars, restaurants and distilleries along Louisville’s Urban Bourbon Trail or, for the ultimate experience, explore Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, to see where iconic brands such as Jim Beam and Bulleit are made and even enjoy a bourbon-themed meal at Bourbons Bistro in Louisville.
There’s also the opportunity to visit Bardstown, previously voted the Most Beautiful Small Town in America, and from there it’s off to Anderson County – where they’ve been making bourbon for two centuries – for a tour of distilleries including the famous Wild Turkey brand.
When bellies start rumbling, be sure to suggest Bluegrass specialties, including Hot Browns (an American hot sandwich originally created at the Brown Hotel in Louisville in 1926), bourbon balls, beer cheese and West Kentucky barbecue.
There are also a number of culinary trails to sample, which provide an immersive way to experience the best the state has to offer for foodie visitors.
With so much to see, do and taste in Kentucky, whatever customers set their hearts on there’s no doubt the Bluegrass State has the key ingredients for travellers to make memories of a lifetime.
