places to visit in kentucky for christmas

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The Best Christmas Towns In Kentucky To Visit This Holiday Season

It’s Christmastime and these Kentucky towns are not shy about showing their holiday spirit. From hometown parades and holiday teas to Christmas carolers and festive light displays, it should come as no surprise that some of the most magical holiday experiences are tucked away in Kentucky's most charming towns. Expect town squares dressed to the holiday nines and local restaurants with merry, seasonal menus. Though you'll find cheer in every corner of the state, these are the best small towns to visit for a Kentucky Christmas.

In Paducah , small, local businesses drum up big holiday magic. Downtown watering hole Johnson Bar goes all-out for Christmas; last year their “Home Alone”-themed pop-up featured hanging paint cans, themed drinks and snacks, and a pizza partnership with a neighboring restaurant. Coffee and tea shop, Pipers , presents their annual “12 Days of Pipers Hot Chocolate” which features one-of-a-kind hot chocolate Christmas specials.

The Paducah arts community also pulls out the stops. The Paducah Symphony Orchestra and Chorus’ “A Christmas Celebration” concert is a beloved holiday tradition, and Market House Theatre presents a Christmas-themed production annually. This year, the “Sanders Family Christmas” tells the story of a gospel-singing family snowed in at the local church on Christmas Eve. Yeiser Art Center , Paducah’s oldest non-profit art organization, also presents “The Affordable Art Show,” an annual holiday tradition that showcases local artists’ work, with every item priced under $500 and a portion of the profits supporting the organization.

Don't miss Santa at the annual Christmas in the Park at Noble Park. He arrives the day after Thanksgiving by horse-drawn carriage to officially light up the park at the free event. Enter beneath the twinkling arches to a world of a half million colored light bulbs that lead to Santa’s House and other holiday vignettes.

The holiday fun begins in London the first week of December with “ Randy Smith Christmas on Main Parade ” (named for the deceased former chamber of commerce director who started the event) which features the largest nighttime Christmas parade in southeast Kentucky. London also celebrates the season with its annual 84-foot tree in Town Center Park.

In the last week of December, the winners of the Lights Around London are announced. Businesses and residents compete all month long to see who has the best Christmas lights. Visitors can enjoy lavish light displays on the driving tour and vote for the best. This tour has raised thousands of dollars for London’s Shop with a Cop program.

“We have a Christmas concert with our community orchestra, a Christmas Book Walk for children at our downtown businesses, and just last year we debuted a Christmas Drone Show at Town Center Park,” said Willie Sawyers, who works with the City of London, promising that the drone show this year will be even bigger.

It may be one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, but Georgetown firmly retains its small-town feel with a pristine Victorian downtown with more than 200 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Georgetown welcomes revelers to come “Home for the Holidays” with its annual downtown Christmas tree lighting and parade in early December and lots of holiday activities and open houses taking place throughout the season.

Even before Santa flips the switch on the city's towering downtown tree, the Southern Lights Holiday Festival gets underway at nearby Kentucky Horse Park. Drive through three miles and millions of enchanting holiday lights, the vignettes leading to the North Pole where kids of all ages can wave to Santa, then take a camel or pony ride at Animal Land.

On select December weekends, step inside Ward Hall, Georgetown’s gracious Greek-Revival-style mansion, resplendent in its holiday trappings amidst the glow of dozens and dozens of candles. The annual Christmas Candlelight Tours show off the 12,000-square-foot villa where Sallie Ward, the “Belle of Louisville,” once lived and entertained in grand style.

Grab a bite at Fava’s , a local favorite diner, or enjoy a Kentucky bourbon-glazed salmon or other signature specialties at Wilshire’s . Both downtown restaurants decorate lavishly for Christmas. Settle in for a long winter’s nap at Bluebird Studio ; its trimmed trees and wreaths create a subtle elegance.

Not surprisingly, one of the most beautiful small towns in Kentucky is also one of the state's best to visit at Christmas. With its town square anchored by a towering Christmas tree, historic mansions dressed in seasonal splendor, and festive trains, Bardstown is as idyllic as it comes for Christmas cheer.

It all begins on Nov. 24 with Light Up Bardstown and the lighting of the Christmas tree in Court Square which includes music, refreshments, and pictures with Santa. On Dec. 7, Santa arrives during the annual Bardstown Kiwanis Club’s Christmas Parade.

Meanwhile, the vintage train at the Kentucky Railway Museum makes its yearly excursions to the North Pole for Saturday and Sunday afternoon and evening excursions in December. On Sunday, Dec. 3, 10, and 17, guests can join the train for a 30-minute ride to the Legacy at Dant Crossing for brunch, a hot chocolate bar, holiday crafts, and pictures with Santa.

Bardstown’s most famous landmark, My Old Kentucky Home , is decorated each season and welcomes visitors for its annual “Merry & Bright” event. Ladies in hoop skirts and gents in tailcoats will guide visitors through the mansion trimmed with a half dozen, 12-foot Christmas trees, each featuring a Kentucky theme. Learn about traditional Victorian-era Christmas customs like the history of the Christmas pickle and that of Krampus who punished bad children. Travel through different time periods celebrating Christmas, from colonial times to the Roaring Twenties.

Harrodsburg and Shaker Village

Harrodsburg, Kentucky's oldest town, and neighboring Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill come to life each December with holiday events. The annual Christmas parade in historic downtown Harrodsburg lights up the town on Dec. 5, and you can't miss a holiday stay at the century-old  Beaumont Inn .

In Shaker Village, home of the largest restored Shaker community in America, it's a holiday extravaganza. Let the littles dress in their holiday best for Tea Time with Mrs. Claus, which takes place on the first three Saturdays in December. Big kids can gather with friends and family for Holiday Afternoon Tea in the 1839 Trustees’ Office, held on Saturday and Sunday afternoons in December.

Shaker Village powers up the holiday wattage for its Illuminated Evenings, held on the first three Saturday evenings in December. The event includes holiday music, roaring fires, twinkling lights, and meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus. You can also stop by the Elf Shop and create a holiday craft.

Join a Candlelight Tour of the Village and learn about the holiday traditions of the Shakers. Board the Jingle Bell Shuttle, a decked-out holiday hay wagon, to tour and hear about Kentucky’s largest National Historic Landmark. Gather around the outdoor Christmas Tree for caroling and the lighting of the tree, and shop The Shops for Shaker-made and holiday items.

Book the Enjoy the Holidays Package at The Inn at Shaker Village and spend the night in one of 72 guest rooms, suites, and private cottages spread throughout 13 historic Shaker buildings.

Madisonville

Visit Madisonville to see City Park transform into a Christmas wonderland from Nov. 23 through Jan. 1, 2024; rides include two Gondola Ferris wheels, a merry-go-round, a Reindeer Ride, and an inflatable snowman bounce house. Plus, beautiful holiday displays, a walk-thru LED ornament, meet-and-greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and festive holiday food make this a can't-miss affair.

Take the Mistletoe Art Stroll on Dec. 1 when downtown Madisonville shops host guest artisans for a shopping experience full of one-of-a-kind art, candles, jewelry, pottery, and more. The family-friendly event includes local shop and restaurant specials, a Christmas tree lighting, a local brass ensemble, free horse-drawn carriage rides, and ornament decorating too.

Come for the Christmas Parade on Dec. 2 with a theme of “Christmas Around the World” that will showcase different cultural traditions. Explore beautifully decorated homes on the afternoon of Dec. 3 during the Woman’s Club Holiday Tour of Homes .

For a seasonal treat, pick up a gourmet cupcake or iced sugar cookies at Maggie’s Cakes & More , Madisonville’s newest bakery. Stay overnight on Main Street at The Hammack Moore House B&B to be in the middle of the magic.

The Towns of Northern Kentucky

Lots of little towns comprise Northern Kentucky and all join together like the Whos of Whoville to sing in the holidays.

Burlington’s drive-through Light Up the Fair has so many blinking, winking holiday vignettes—including the smiling visage of Clark W. Griswold—that it takes months to engineer it. The free ChristmasTown event at Petersburg’s Creation Museum is a magical walk-through experience, with lights illuminating gardens and footbridges and reflecting in the ponds. Deck the Y’alls at the Florence Y’alls Stadium blings out for its interactive walk-through Lightfest with over two and a half million lights synchronized to music, plus ice skating, a kids train, and Friday night fireworks.

Catch Scuba Santa’s Water Wonderland at the Newport Aquarium. At ChristmasTown at the Ark , enjoy holiday lights, carousel rides, Christmas caroling, gift shopping, and more at the life-size Noah’s Ark during this free event in Williamstown.

Watch the model trains chug around 250 feet of railroad track (and push dozens of activation buttons to your heart’s content) during Behringer-Crawford Museum’s Holly Jolly Days . Beginning in early November, the Covington venue pulls out all the festive stops with toy trains, antique Christmas decorations, and a winter wonderland of lights in the outdoor NaturePlay area.

Sip some Christmas cheer at the historic and cozy Tousey House in Burlington or the luxe Hotel Covington —both trimmed with greenery and aglow with candlelight.

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10 christmas places to visit in kentucky, it's christmas in kentucky..

There are many wonderful and beautiful places to visit in Kentucky to get you in the holiday spirit. Kentucky has a large selection of things to do around this time of year! There is no need to travel hours away to find a Christmas activity because there are plenty things to do in your own backyard. These activities are family friendly and fun for people of all ages. So give these places a try before driving somewhere else!

1. The Southern Lights Holiday Festival. Lexington, KY.

2. ice skating at triangle park, lexington, ky., 3. my old kentucky dinner train north pole express. bardstown, ky., 4. lights under louisville. louisville, ky., 5. christmas in the park. leitchfield, ky., 6. "the nutcracker" ballet. at the eku center for arts. lexington, ky., 7. christmas at the galt house hotel. louisville, ky., 8. fifth third bank's a christmas carol. louisville, ky., 9. the holidays at shaker village. harrodsburg, ky., 10. live nativity. bardstown, ky., subscribe to our newsletter, grateful beyond words: a letter to my inspiration, i have never been so thankful to know you..

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

You have taught me that you don't always have to strong. You are allowed to break down as long as you pick yourself back up and keep moving forward. When life had you at your worst moments, you allowed your friends to be there for you and to help you. You let them in and they helped pick you up. Even in your darkest hour you showed so much strength. I know that you don't believe in yourself as much as you should but you are unbelievably strong and capable of anything you set your mind to.

Your passion to make a difference in the world is unbelievable. You put your heart and soul into your endeavors and surpass any personal goal you could have set. Watching you do what you love and watching you make a difference in the lives of others is an incredible experience. The way your face lights up when you finally realize what you have accomplished is breathtaking and I hope that one day I can have just as much passion you have.

SEE MORE: A Letter To My Best Friend On Her Birthday

The love you have for your family is outstanding. Watching you interact with loved ones just makes me smile . You are so comfortable and you are yourself. I see the way you smile when you are around family and I wish I could see you smile like this everyday. You love with all your heart and this quality is something I wished I possessed.

You inspire me to be the best version of myself. I look up to you. I feel that more people should strive to have the strength and passion that you exemplify in everyday life.You may be stubborn at points but when you really need help you let others in, which shows strength in itself. I have never been more proud to know someone and to call someone my role model. You have taught me so many things and I want to thank you. Thank you for inspiring me in life. Thank you for making me want to be a better person.

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life..

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Don't freak out

This is a rule you should continue to follow no matter what you do in life, but is especially helpful in this situation.

Email the professor

Around this time, professors are getting flooded with requests from students wanting to get into full classes. This doesn't mean you shouldn't burden them with your email; it means they are expecting interested students to email them. Send a short, concise message telling them that you are interested in the class and ask if there would be any chance for you to get in.

Attend the first class

Often, the advice professors will give you when they reply to your email is to attend the first class. The first class isn't the most important class in terms of what will be taught. However, attending the first class means you are serious about taking the course and aren't going to give up on it.

Keep attending class

Every student is in the same position as you are. They registered for more classes than they want to take and are "shopping." For the first couple of weeks, you can drop or add classes as you please, which means that classes that were once full will have spaces. If you keep attending class and keep up with assignments, odds are that you will have priority. Professors give preference to people who need the class for a major and then from higher to lower class year (senior to freshman).

Have a backup plan

For two weeks, or until I find out whether I get into my waitlisted class, I will be attending more than the usual number of classes. This is so that if I don't get into my waitlisted class, I won't have a credit shortage and I won't have to fall back in my backup class. Chances are that enough people will drop the class, especially if it is very difficult like computer science, and you will have a chance. In popular classes like art and psychology, odds are you probably won't get in, so prepare for that.

Remember that everything works out at the end

Life is full of surprises. So what if you didn't get into the class you wanted? Your life obviously has something else in store for you. It's your job to make sure you make the best out of what you have.

Navigating the Talking Stage: 21 Essential Questions to Ask for Connection

It's mandatory to have these conversations..

Whether you met your new love interest online , through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

1. What do you do for a living?

What someone does for a living can tell a lot about who they are and what they're interested in! Their career reveals a lot more about them than just where they spend their time to make some money.

2. What's your favorite color?

OK, I get it, this seems like something you would ask a Kindergarten class, but I feel like it's always good to know someone's favorite color . You could always send them that Snapchat featuring you in that cute shirt you have that just so happens to be in their favorite color!

3. Do you have any siblings?

This one is actually super important because it's totally true that people grow up with different roles and responsibilities based on where they fall in the order. You can tell a lot about someone just based on this seemingly simple question.

4. What's your favorite television show?

OK, maybe this isn't a super important question, but you have to know ASAP if you can quote Michael Scott or not. If not, he probably isn't the one. Sorry, girl.

5. When is your birthday?

You can then proceed to do the thing that every girl does without admitting it and see how compatible your zodiacs are.

6. What's your biggest goal in life?

If you're like me, you have big goals that you want to reach someday, and you want a man behind you who also has big goals and understands what it's like to chase after a dream. If his biggest goal is to see how quickly he can binge-watch " Grey's Anatomy " on Netflix , you may want to move on.

7. If you had three wishes granted to you by a genie, what would they be?

This is a go-to for an insight into their personality. Based on how they answer, you can tell if they're goofy, serious, or somewhere in between.

8. What's your favorite childhood memory?

For some, this may be a hard question if it involves a family member or friend who has since passed away . For others, it may revolve around a tradition that no longer happens. The answers to this question are almost endless!

9. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be?

We all have parts of our lives and stories that we wish we could change. It's human nature to make mistakes. This question is a little bit more personal but can really build up the trust level.

10. Are you a cat or a dog person?

I mean, duh! If you're a dog person, and he is a cat person, it's not going to work out.

11. Do you believe in a religion or any sort of spiritual power?

Personally, I am a Christian, and as a result, I want to be with someone who shares those same values. I know some people will argue that this question is too much in the talking stage , but why go beyond the talking stage if your personal values will never line up?

12. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Even homebodies have a must visit place on their bucket list !

13. What is your ideal date night?

Hey, if you're going to go for it... go for it!

14. Who was/is your celebrity crush?

For me, it was hands-down Nick Jonas . This is always a fun question to ask!

15. What's a good way to cheer you up if you're having a bad day?

Let's be real, if you put a label on it, you're not going to see your significant other at their best 24/7.

16. Do you have any tattoos?

This can lead to some really good conversations, especially if they have a tattoo that has a lot of meaning to them!

17. Can you describe yourself in three words?

It's always interesting to see if how the person you're talking to views their personal traits lines ups with the vibes you're getting.

18. What makes you the most nervous in life?

This question can go multiple different directions, and it could also be a launching pad for other conversations.

19. What's the best gift you have ever received? 

Admittedly, I have asked this question to friends as well, but it's neat to see what people value.

20. What do you do to relax/have fun?

Work hard, play hard, right?

21. What are your priorities at this phase of your life?

This is always interesting because no matter how compatible your personalities may be, if one of you wants to be serious and the other is looking for something casual, it's just not going to work.

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Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in challah bread or easter bread.

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

A few weeks ago, I was given a loaf of bread called Challah (pronounced like holla), and upon my first bite, I realized it tasted just like Easter Bread. It was so delicious that I just had to make some of my own, which I did.

The recipe is as follows:

Ingredients

2 tsp active dry or instant yeast 1 cup lukewarm water 4 to 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 cup white granulated sugar 2 tsp salt 2 large eggs 1 large egg yolk (reserve the white for the egg wash) 1/4 cup neutral-flavored vegetable oil

Instructions

• Combine yeast and a pinch of sugar in small bowl with the water and stir until you see a frothy layer across the top.
• Whisk together 4 cups of the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
• Make a well in the center of the flour and add in eggs, egg yolk, and oil. Whisk these together to form a slurry, pulling in a little flour from the sides of the bowl.
• Pour the yeast mixture over the egg slurry and mix until difficult to move.
• Turn out the dough onto a floured work surface and knead by hand for about 10 minutes. If the dough seems very sticky, add flour a teaspoon at a time until it feels tacky, but no longer like bubblegum. The dough has finished kneading when it is soft, smooth, and holds a ball-shape.
• Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and place somewhere warm. Let the dough rise 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
• Separate the dough into four pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a long rope roughly 1-inch thick and 16 inches long.
• Gather the ropes and squeeze them together at the very top. Braid the pieces in the pattern of over, under, and over again. Pinch the pieces together again at the bottom.
• Line a baking sheet with parchment and lift the loaf on top. Sprinkle the loaf with a little flour and drape it with a clean dishcloth. Place the pan somewhere warm and away from drafts and let it rise until puffed and pillowy, about an hour.
• Heat the oven to 350°F. Whisk the reserved egg white with a tablespoon of water and brush it all over the challah. Be sure to get in the cracks and down the sides of the loaf.
• Slide the challah on its baking sheet into the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through cooking. The challah is done when it is deeply browned.

I kept wondering how these two breads could be so similar in taste. So I decided to look up a recipe for Easter Bread to make a comparison. The two are almost exactly the same! These recipes are similar because they come from religious backgrounds. The Jewish Challah bread is based on kosher dietary laws. The Christian Easter Bread comes from the Jewish tradition but was modified over time because they did not follow kosher dietary laws.

A recipe for Easter bread is as follows:

2 tsp active dry or instant yeast 2/3 cup milk 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup white granulated sugar 2 tbs butter 2 large eggs 2 tbs melted butter 1 tsp salt

• In a large bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, salt, and yeast; stir well. Combine milk and butter in a small saucepan; heat until milk is warm and butter is softened but not melted.
• Gradually add the milk and butter to the flour mixture; stirring constantly. Add two eggs and 1/2 cup flour; beat well. Add the remaining flour, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. When the dough has pulled together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 minutes.
• Lightly oil a large bowl, place the dough in the bowl and turn to coat with oil. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place until doubled in volume, about 1 hour.
• Deflate the dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into two equal size rounds; cover and let rest for 10 minutes. Roll each round into a long roll about 36 inches long and 1 1/2 inches thick. Using the two long pieces of dough, form a loosely braided ring, leaving spaces for the five colored eggs. Seal the ends of the ring together and use your fingers to slide the eggs between the braids of dough.
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place loaf on a buttered baking sheet and cover loosely with a damp towel. Place loaf in a warm place and let rise until doubled in bulk, about 45 minutes. Brush risen loaf with melted butter.
• Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Both of these recipes are really easy to make. While you might need to have a day set aside for this activity, you can do things while the dough is rising or in the oven. After only a few hours, you have a delicious loaf of bread that you made from scratch, so the time and effort is really worth it!

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer..

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake , have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart , no matter how dirty the water may look.

Every year when summer rolls back around, you can't wait to fire up the boat and get back out there. Here is a list of things you can probably identify with as a fellow lake-goer.

A bad day at the lake is still better than a good day not at the lake.

It's your place of escape, where you can leave everything else behind and just enjoy the beautiful summer day. No matter what kind of week you had, being able to come and relax without having to worry about anything else is the best therapy there is. After all, there's nothing better than a day of hanging out in the hot sun, telling old funny stories and listening to your favorite music.

You know the best beaches and coves to go to.

Whether you want to just hang out and float or go walk around on a beach, you know the best spots. These often have to be based on the people you're with, given that some "party coves" can get a little too crazy for little kids on board. I still have vivid memories from when I was six that scared me when I saw the things drunk girls would do for beads.

You have no patience for the guy who can't back his trailer into the water right.

When there's a long line of trucks waiting to dump their boats in the water, there's always that one clueless guy who can't get it right, and takes 5 attempts and holds up the line. No one likes that guy. One time my dad got so fed up with a guy who was taking too long that he actually got out of the car and asked this guy if he could just do it for him. So he got into the guy's car, threw it in reverse, and got it backed in on the first try. True story.

Doing the friendly wave to every boat you pass.

Similar to the "jeep wave," almost everyone waves to other boats passing by. It's just what you do, and is seen as a normal thing by everyone.

The cooler is always packed, mostly with beer.

Alcohol seems to be a big part of the lake experience, but other drinks are squeezed into the room remaining in the cooler for the kids, not to mention the wide assortment of chips and other foods in the snack bag.

Giving the idiot who goes 30 in a "No Wake Zone" a piece of your mind.

There's nothing worse than floating in the water, all settled in and minding your business, when some idiot barrels through. Now your anchor is loose, and you're left jostled by the waves when it was nice and perfectly still before. This annoyance is typically answered by someone yelling some choice words to them that are probably accompanied by a middle finger in the air.

You have no problem with peeing in the water.

It's the lake, and some social expectations are a little different here, if not lowered quite a bit. When you have to go, you just go, and it's no big deal to anyone because they do it too.

You know the frustration of getting your anchor stuck.

The number of anchors you go through as a boat owner is likely a number that can be counted on two hands. Every once in a while, it gets stuck on something on the bottom of the lake, and the only way to fix the problem is to cut the rope, and you have to replace it.

Watching in awe at the bigger, better boats that pass by.

If you're the typical lake-goer, you likely might have an average-sized boat that you're perfectly happy with. However, that doesn't mean you don't stop and stare at the fast boats that loudly speed by, or at the obnoxiously huge yachts that pass.

Knowing any swimsuit that you own with white in it is best left for the pool or the ocean.

You've learned this the hard way, coming back from a day in the water and seeing the flowers on your bathing suit that were once white, are now a nice brownish hue.

The momentary fear for your life as you get launched from the tube.

If the driver knows how to give you a good ride, or just wants to specifically throw you off, you know you're done when you're speeding up and heading straight for a big wave. Suddenly you're airborne, knowing you're about to completely wipe out, and you eat pure wake. Then you get back on and do it all again.

You're able to go to the restaurants by the water wearing minimal clothing.

One of the many nice things about the life at the lake is that everybody cares about everything a little less. Rolling up to the place wearing only your swimsuit, a cover-up, and flip flops, you fit right in. After a long day when you're sunburned, a little buzzed, and hungry, you're served without any hesitation.

Having unexpected problems with your boat.

Every once in a while you're hit with technical difficulties, no matter what type of watercraft you have. This is one of the most annoying setbacks when you're looking forward to just having a carefree day on the water, but it's bound to happen. This is just one of the joys that come along with being a boat owner.

Having a name for your boat unique to you and your life.

One of the many interesting things that make up the lake culture is the fact that many people name their boats. They can range from basic to funny, but they are unique to each and every owner, and often have interesting and clever meanings behind them.

There's no better place you'd rather be in the summer.

Summer is your all-time favorite season, mostly because it's spent at the lake. Whether you're floating in the cool water under the sun, or taking a boat ride as the sun sets, you don't have a care in the world at that moment . The people that don't understand have probably never experienced it, but it's what keeps you coming back every year.

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8 places for holiday fun in Kentucky

KENTUCKY — Nothing warms up the holiday spirit quite like piling into a car with a hot thermos full of hot chocolate and taking in the magical twinkle of Christmas lights!

What You Need To Know

 there are plenty of light shows and festivals across the state a short drive away, charlestown, ind., hosts christmas town, with lots of vendors, christmas lights and the charlestown express  kings island in ohio has its annual winterfest, where the park transforms into 11 enchanting winter wonderlands most activities take place from now until jan. 1, with plenty of holiday spirit to go around.

There’s no shortage of venues in Kentucky where you can catch some amazing lights. Or you can even take a short drive out of state for even more holiday fun. Here are some of the best places for holiday fun in Kentucky: 

• Location: Louisville Mega Cavern
• Cost: $34.99 for a standard vehicle (There’s also an option for a priority pass for $79.99) 
• Dates: Nov. 11, 2022 to Jan. 1, 2023
• Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (Christmas day: 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.)
• Purchase tickets and learn more on their  website.

Head over to Louisville Mega Cavern to experience the only underground holiday light show in the world! Lights Under Louisville features over 40 themed displays, approximately 900 lit characters, holiday music and over 6,000,000 points of light that will “immerse visitors in a megadose of holiday cheer.” This is a drive-through experience, and they charge by the vehicle. 

Winter Woods Spectacular

• Location: Iroquois Park
• Cost: $15 for adults, $14 for seniors, $10 for children 3-12, and children 2 and under are free
• Dates: Nov. 25, 2022 to Jan. 1, 2023
• Hours: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
• Purchase tickets and learn more on their  website .  

Just about everyone knows about the annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular hosted by Iroqouis Park. But did you know they also now host a Winter Woods Spectacular? Presented by the Parks Alliance of Louisville, this is a ⅓ mile walkthrough event in Louisville’s south end. It features millions of twinkling lights integrated into dazzling holiday displays set to music. Proceeds benefit the Parks Alliance of Louisville. 

Gardens Aglimmer

• Location: Waterfront Botanical Gardens
• Cost: $7.50 for WBG members, $10 for non-members, $5 for ages 7-12, free for children 6 and under (prices are higher on peak nights) 
• Dates: Dec. 1 to Dec. 30, peak nights are Dec. 3, Dec. 10 and Dec. 14-23
• Hours: 5:45 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Visit length is 45 minutes)
• Advanced tickets are required. Purchase tickets and learn more on their  website.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens is hosting Gardens Aglimmer, a “sparkling winter wonderland of swans, snowflakes, deer, Moravian stars, light bursts and a multicolor tunnel of lights.” From Dec. 1-23, you can visit Santa and his sleigh in the Graeser Family Education Center and Mrs. Claus’ Cottage in the Ellen T. Leslie Botanical Classrooms. They also offer holiday beverages for purchase in the Jingle All the Way Cafe. 

Southern Lights Holiday Festival

• Location: Kentucky Horse Park
• Cost: $30 per car in advance, $35 per car at the door
• Dates: Nov. 25 to Dec. 31 (closed Christmas Day)
• Hours: 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Purchase tickets and learn more on their website.

Celebrating its 29th year at the Kentucky Horse Park, the Southern Lights Holiday Festival is a “magical holiday tradition for thousands of families throughout the Bluegrass and beyond.” The festival boasts more than a million twinkling lights you can see from the safety of your car. The event also includes photos with Santa, Animal Land, model trains and more in the Southern Lights Holiday Village.

Christmas at Mustard Seed Hill

• Location: Millersburg, Ky. 
• Cost: $15 per person (extra costs for special programming, refreshments and items from vendors)
• Dates: Dec. 1 to Jan. 1 (special programming runs Thursday-Sunday)
• Hours: 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 

Christmas at Mustard Seed Hill is a spectacular holiday tradition in Millersburg, just 30 minutes north of Lexington in the heart of Bourbon County. You can stroll the breathtaking lights, enjoy music and shop for the perfect gift. The venue boasts a 3-acre Christmas light display, highlighted by a magnificent 30-foot ribbon tree and a 32-foot glowing ribbon arch. Special programming includes their Gingerbread House Exhibit, Artisan’s Market & Holiday Cafe and Christmas Campfire experience. You can purchase advanced tickets on their site and a few walk up tickets are available each day. 

Northern Kentucky

ChristmasTime at Ark Encounter

• Location: Ark Encounter (Williamstown, Ky.) 
• Cost: Free ($15 for parking, food and other programming for additional cost)
• Dates: Nov. 25 to Dec. 30 (check calendar for a few dates when it will be closed)
• Hours: 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. 
• Learn more on their website.

Looking for a light show of biblical proportions? Take in festive lights, live music, holiday dining, gift shopping and more at the life-size Noah’s Ark in Williamstown. ChristmasTime features a brilliant lights display, the Ararat Ridge Zoo and Amazing Animals program. The event is free, but parking is $15 and there are other rides and experiences for an additional cost. 

Charlestown’s Christmas City

• Location: Charleston City Square, Greenway Park and Family Activities Park
• Cost: Free (There are activities, concessions and vendors that cost money)
• Dates: Nov. 1 to Jan. 1
• Hours: 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (special event times and activities vary)

Just a short drive across the river will find you in the enchanted Charlestown Christmas City. Christmas city features three hubs of activity: Greenway Park, Family Activities Park and the City Square. Greenway Park will glow with “Hallmark-card worthy lights” and include a 55-foot tree. Live reindeer will be at the park on Wednesday, Dec. 21. The Family Activities Park will feature a Winter Holiday Market, with vendors selling holiday decor, gift items and handmade crafts. You can also take a ride on the Charlestown Express, visit Santa, and meet the Grinch! At the City Square, enjoy an animated light show every night through Jan. 1. Be sure to check their website , as times and dates for many activities vary.

WinterFest at Kings Island

• Location: Mason, Ohio
• Cost: $29.99 online, $45 at the gate
• Dates: Weekends now through Dec. 17, Dec. 18-23 and Dec. 26-31
• Hours: Fridays and weekdays 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., New Year’s Eve 4 p.m. to midnight.  

If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Kings Island (just outside of Cincinnati) hosts its annual WinterFest. It is an “unforgettable holiday experience” where Kings Island transforms into 11 enchanting winter wonderlands, and was voted in 2021 as one of the top theme park events in the country. The annual event features ice skating on the Royal Fountain, the Eiffel Tower turned into a magical Christmas tree, the WinterFest Wonderland Parade, and over five million lights throughout the park. The park is open Friday-Sunday through Dec. 17, and then open every day Dec. 18-23 and Dec. 26-31. 

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Top Towns for Christmas in Kentucky The 5 Most Festive 

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Your go-to guide for everything kentucky, these christmas towns near kentucky are great for a magical winter getaway.

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If you love Christmas as much as we do, you might want to consider a getaway to these Christmassy towns this winter!|

We’ve listed these Christmas towns near Kentucky in order of distance from Lexington, but depending on your exact location in Kentucky they may be more or less close to you!

Santa Claus, Indiana (2 hr 15 min from Lexington)

It may come as no surprise that a town named after the big red guy himself would be extra special at Christmas time. In fact, the town is home to Christmas fun year round, but really ramps things up in December. There are tons of special events and holiday traditions in Santa Claus during their three-weekend Santa Claus Christmas Celebration. The excitement includes festive shopping experiences, holiday events, and plenty of Christmassy lodging to complete your thematic getaway. Make sure to check out the Santa Claus Museum & Village and pose for a pic in front fo the 22-foot Santa statue. You can also hand cancel your holiday mail with the Santa Claus Post office. Visit Santa Claus, Indiana’s Website to plan your trip and find their event guide for this year’s celebration.

Find hotels for your Santa Claus getaway on Expedia.com . Or, for a bit more room for the whole family, check out Hollow Creek Cabin which sleeps 14, or find other properties in Santa Claus on VRBO.

Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (3.5 hrs from Lexington)

During the winter months, (usually from mid-November to mid-February) Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are draped with more than 5 million sparkling lights during the Winterfest celebration. These incredible light displays are absolutely gorgeous and can be seen for free from your own vehicle. Tons of other Christmassy things are happening all around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge including Smoky Mountain Christmas at Dollywood . We think Gatlinburg is a great getaway for the whole family, check out our favorite family-friendly activities in the Gatlinburg area .

Book a hotel for your Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge getaway on Expedia , or search for a cabin or vacation home rental on VRBO .

Frankenmuth, Michigan (6 hours from Lexington)

Step right into a Bavarian Christmas in Frankenmuth, MI. This town is fun to visit all year long with tons of German eats and beautiful architecture, but the town really shines during the holidays. Enjoy beautifully decorated streets and holiday wonder in every direction. The Frankenmuth Visitor’s Center has a map of all of the fantastic holiday light displays around town. Santa also makes frequent stops throughout Frankenmuth and there are other places where you can stop and write a letter to Santa. They’ve recently added an ice rink at Zehnder Park, right in the heart of downtown for even more holiday fun. Check out the Frankenmuth Visitor’s Bureau Website for more information on all of the festive fun happening in this Christmassy town near Kentucky.

Book a hotel in Frankenmuth on Expedia OR  book a vacation home rental in Frankenmuth on VRBO

Helen, Georgia (5 hours, 45 minutes from Lexington)

Helen, Georgia is a veritable winter wonderland with its Bavarian-style architecture and endless Christmas charm. This small town is a year-round destination with abundant scenery and outdoor activities and vineyards in the Blue Ridge Mountains foothills. You’ll feel more like you are spending in the Alps than in the Appalachian mountains with everything from a traditional Christkindlemarkt (German-style Christmas market), and the annual Christmas parade – a family favorite! Each year the town center is decked out in lights, kicked off with the Lighting of the Village festival that starts a full month of Christmassy activities. Visit Helen Georgia’s Visitor Bureau website for more info about everything that is going on this year.

Book a hotel in Helen, Georgia on Expedia or visit VRBO to book a cabin or vacation home .

Dahlonega, Georgia (6 hours from Lexington)

Christmas is a magical time of year in Dahlonega and throughout the surrounding area of Lumpkin County, Georgia. Tucked away in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega’s Old Fashioned Christmas celebration runs each year from the day after Thanksgiving until December 31st. The festival kicks off with the Lighting of the Square and a major highlight is the home-town Christmas parade where Santa officially comes to town. The parade is usually held on the first Saturday in December each year. Dahlonega is an attractive destination year round with tons of outdoor activities and hiking trails as well as wineries and historic sites. During Christmas, the whole town sparkles with holiday light and the local shops offer seasonal wares that will take care of your gift list, and your sweet tooth. For the full event schedule and more details, visit the Dahlonega Old Fashioned Christmas website.

Book a hotel on Expedia.com for your Dahlonega Christmas getaway or check out VRBO for great vacation home rentals .

McAdenville, North Carolina (6 hours 15 minutes from Lexington)

You might expect that a town with the nickname “Christmas Town, USA” would be a great town to visit during Christmas, and you wouldn’t be wrong. Throughout December, McAdenville is ripe with Christmas cheer, and the homes are all lit up for the holiday season. If you are in the area, you’ll certainly want to take a drive through some of the decked out neighborhoods. However, there’s plenty to stick around for including a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, a holiday festival with tons of events, and a festive 5K race. For more details and information to plan your Christmas getaway to McAdenville, visit the Town of McAdenville website .

Book a hotel on Expedia.com for your McAdenville Christmas getaway, or check out VRBO for great vacation home rentals .

Branson, Missouri (9 hours from Lexington)

Branson, Missouri is a bit farther away than the rest of the towns on our list, and it’s probably not a realistic drive for a weekend getaway from Central Kentucky, but it’s only 5 hours from much of Western Kentucky, which makes it a great choice for a quick Christmas getaway for some of us! Branson’s Ozark Mountain Christmas festival is a month-long festival with amazing music, twinkling lights and fun family-friendly parades. The Branson Scenic Railway’s Polar Express is a magical highlight for young and old alike. Other highlights include world-class live shows, stunning Christmas light displays, an 8-story Christmas tree, specialty shops and outlet malls for plentiful Christmas shopping and the annual Holly Jolly Christmas Light Parade. Visit the Explore Branson website for more information and the full event schedule.

Book a hotel on Expedia.com for your Branson, MO Christmas getaway or check out VRBO for great vacation home rentals .

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Lesser Known Christmas and Holiday Events in NKY and Cincy

The holidays are here! After the Thanksgiving turkey feast, you can head out to enjoy a feast of Christmas festivals, holiday shopping events, and merry things to do for the rest of the year. In fact, Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky have so many fun holiday events lined up, you could probably enjoy one every single day from now until Jan. 1!

Most people who live here, or travel to the Cincinnati and NKY region at this time of year, are familiar with the biggies; A Christmas Carol at Playhouse in the Park, The Nutcracker at Music Hall, the Krohn Conservatory Holiday Show, the Cincinnati Zoo Festival of Lights, Holiday Junction at the Cincinnati Museum Center. So, we thought we’d shine a sparkly light on some local holiday things to do that are just as fun, but maybe lesser known.

Newport’s Light Up the Levee – November 25

Head down to Newport on the Levee Sunday at 4 pm for the Tree Lighting ceremony, plus a new ice skating rink, a fireworks show, and Santa’s arrival, along with the debut of Santa’s House!

SantaCon – December 8

Here’s a unique way to warm up for the season while also raising money for a good cause! Dress up as Santa, Mrs. Claus, an Elf, or even a Reindeer and join hundreds of revelers in one of the biggest Christmas parties of the year.

Newport Aquarium’s Water Wonderland with Scuba Santa – November 23 – December 31

If you’ve never seen Scuba Santa at this “undersea holiday celebration,” you’ve missed one of our region’s unique holiday treats! Twinkling sea creature lights, magic bubbles, and a chance for your little ones to tell Scuba Santa their holiday wishes one-on-one!

Augusta, KY’s White Christmas Parade – December 8 and Christmas Home Tour – Dec. 15

Have fun honoring local legend Rosemary Clooney at the traditional White Christmas parade in scenic Augusta! One week later get tickets to see some of the beautiful, historic homes in our region decked out in their Christmas finest at the Augusta Christmas Home Tour. There will be carolers, local shopping and a free trolley to help you enjoy it all. 

Holiday Traditions at Behringer-Crawford Museum – Now through December 31

One of the coolest model trains displays that winds through a fascinating replica of NKY and Cincy, the Behringer-Crawford Museum’s Holiday Trains are a delight! There will also be live music and dance and more holiday fun!

Christmas at the Ark Encounter – November 23 – December 30

The Ark Encounter is sure to dazzle visitors again this year with their jaw-dropping display of Christmas lights. You can also enjoy ice-skating, zip-lines, and a unique shopping opportunity for gifts.

Dot Crane, Director of Content Marketing

Dot Crane is the Content Marketing Overlord for meetNKY. She's a proud resident of Covington, KY and loves helping others #lovethecov. You can find her sampling local craft brews at our more than 60 breweries, or capturing the perfect image throughout the NKY and Cincy Region to showcase our blend of Southern Charm and big city excitement. 

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7 Best Christmas Experiences In Louisville, KY

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Louisville, Kentucky, the largest city in Kentucky and the 29th most populous city in the U.S., is known for numerous attractions and events. Plus, its proximity to other metropolitan areas means it draws a high number of visitors. For example, the driving time to Louisville from Nashville is just over two hours; it’s less than two hours away from Cincinnati and less than three hours away from Indianapolis .

It’s also appealing that Louisville’s attractions and events don’t end just because winter is here. Whether you are from Louisville, are close by, or are a short trip away, here are seven seasonal activities you need to check out.

Winter Illuminations

Now to january 2.

New this year, Winter Illuminations is a trail walk through an illuminated Beckley Creek Park. The one-mile trail features more than 10 installations that combine lights and music with nature for an enjoyable experience. Tickets are required, and your ticket(s) can only be used on the specified day.

Please note, the trail features both paved and crushed gravel surfaces. It may be challenging to use a wheelchair or push a stroller on the gravel sections.

Holidays At The Big Bat (Louisville Slugger Museum And Factory)

Now To January 3

Any baseball fan — and even people who aren’t fans — recognize the Louisville Slugger name. Touring the museum and factory is always a treat, but it’s more special this holiday season.

All through the month, the museum is giving kids pre-packaged bat-nub ornament sets that include a pre-strung bat-nub, crayons, and holiday stickers. Sundays are a special day because that’s when limited-edition holiday mini-bats are given away to guests.

Holidays at The Big Bat offers free admission to the museum for kids 12 and under when parents, grandparents, or caregivers use a promo code FROSTY2020.

Gardens Aglimmer At Waterfront Botanical Gardens

Now to december 19.

Gardens Aglimmer at Waterfront Botanical Gardens allows taking a self-guided walk through illuminated outdoor gardens. Visitors are able to see swans and deer as well as Moravian stars, oversized flowers, light bursts, candles, and even a multicolor tunnel of lights.

Please note that registration must be made online in advance. No admission tickets are sold at the door. There are four timed ticket entry slots nightly.

Lights Under Louisville (Mega Cavern)

Louisville’s Mega Cavern is a 4-million-square-foot underground area featuring 17 miles of underground passageways. During Lights Under Louisville for the Christmas season, the area features holiday lights.

Contactless drive-through means you can travel through the cavern safely while seeing more than 850 lit characters with more than 3 million points of light. The driving trip takes approximately 30 minutes.

Winter Woods Spectacular

Now through january 2.

The producers of the popular Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular have created Winter Woods Spectacular in Louisville’s Iroquois Park. The half-mile trail, which is drive-through, winds through the woods. It features millions of lights, artistic scenes, sounds, and the woods themselves to create a “winter wonderland.”

The purchase of Winter Woods Spectacular tickets directly supports the non-profit Louisville Parks Foundation.

Paristown’s Fete De Noel Winter Holiday Festival

Paristown’s Fete De Noel (“Festival of Christmas”) Winter Holiday Festival features Louisville’s only outdoor ice skating rink. What’s more, the 100-foot-by-50-foot ice rink is made of real ice, not synthetic material.

Although ice skating is outside, masks are required, and this season the rink is operating at 50 percent capacity. All staff members wear a mask and must pass a temperature check.

Brown-Forman’s The Nutcracker

December 7 to 15.

This year’s live performance may have been canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but you can still watch the Louisville Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker . Tickets for streaming the production, which was filmed by WDRB Louisville live last year, are available now. More about other virtual productions of The Nutcracker you can enjoy from home can be found here.

Of course, during these uncertain times, please check with venues and event staff for more details before planning your trip to any of these Louisville seasonal events.

Jim Fulcher has been a writer and editor his entire career. In addition to writing, he also enjoys traveling--particularly in an RV. Over the course of numerous trips, Jim has driven an RV through West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming. His favorite national park is Yellowstone, which he has visited three times.

Best Christmas Towns in Kentucky

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Burlington is One of the Best Christmas Towns in Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati

The Christmas season is set to be another special one this year. Christmas in Kentucky and Cincinnati can offer a lot to travelers.

What’s Christmas in Kentucky like? For me, it’s about festivities, family, friends, and creating memorable experiences for every guest. With so much to do during Christmas in Kentucky and Christmas in Cincinnati, you’ll never have a boring moment.

The picturesque Christmas town of Burlington is dotted with rolling hills and a beautiful and historic township. You’ll love our private and secluded B&B with a range of suites to choose from. Come and see us this Holiday Season and see why Christmas in Kentucky and Christmas in Cincinnati is always so special.

Christmas in Cincinnati at Fountain Square

Downtown Cincinnati is always a great Christmas town, with outdoor festivities, restaurants, and streetlight displays that you can enjoy simply by walking around and exploring.

We’re just across the river from Cincinnati. You can relax in luxury at Willis Graves Bed & Breakfast and spend your evenings checking out the Christmas town.

We’re just a 25-minute drive from downtown Cincinnati, where you’ll find plenty to do leading right up to Christmas Day. Fountain Square is one of my favorite places for a romantic and exciting evening in the snow under the Christmas Lights. Christmas in Cincinnati is always memorable. The Ice Rink and Fountain Square with the big tree are open daily. Throughout December, the rink is open until 9:30 PM with skating and bumper cars.

From the end of November to mid-December, Fountain Square hosts its annual Winter Wonder Lights show. This impressive light display dances across the rink every 90 minutes, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that really gets you into the spirit for Christmas in Cincinnati.

Drive Through a Winter Wonderland at Boone County Fairgrounds Right Next Door!

Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky are perfect for the authentic look and feel of a winter wonderland. This is on display at its best at Light Up The Fair next door in Burlington KY

This is considered one of the best drive-through light displays, and one of the best Christmas towns in the area. Light Up The Fair is a drive-through light show covering a full two miles of custom displays amongst the barns and corals and hopefully some fresh snowfall. There’s something different here every year, so even if you’ve made the trip to this Christmas town before, you can see dazzling new sights for Christmas in Kentucky.

Explore ChristmasTown at the Creation Museum

The Creation Museum is just a 15-minute drive through beautiful rolling countryside from Willis Graves Bed & Breakfast.

This is one of the best places to visit when you spend Christmas in Kentucky. The ChristmasTown event has free entry for the Garden of Lights, Live Nativity performance, the Eden Animal Experience, Children’s Playground, and the Encounter the Wonder 3D SFX Show. The Planetarium Show and Glice® Skating experience are reasonably priced for an affordable day of ChristmasTown fun.

The Creation Museum is a wonderful way to experience Christmas in Kentucky and the Ham/Turkey Christmas meal is perfect for the festive season so be sure to try it when you plan a trip out here.

Check the Creation Museum website for opening times and event hours as there are usually a few days of the Christmas Season when attractions are closed to the public.

See This Year’s ChristmasTime Event at the Ark Encounter

If we’re talking about the best Christmas towns in the region, we can’t leave Williamstown out. Just a 35-minute drive from our luxurious B&B in Burlington, it’s home to the one-of-a-kind Ark Encounter theme park.

You can check out the ChristmasTime 2021 ChristmasTime Event at the Ark Encounter on most days from late November to December 30 from 5:30-8:30 PM. Please check the calendar on the Ark Website for excluded days.

The ChristmasTime event at the Ark Encounter is always memorable and it’s family friendly. Nobody ever tires of Christmas lights and the ones at the ChristmasTime event at the Ark Encounter are among the best you’ll see in America. The light show is projected onto the Ark itself, with brilliant displays in ever-changing rainbow colors.

There’s a ChristmasTime event at the Ark encounter for everyone. Beyond the light show, there are live ChristmasTime music programs, animal presentations, and the jaw-dropping Encounter the Wonder ChristmasTime video presentation that the park displays on a 70-foot-wide LED screen, one of the largest of its kind.

The park also has all its usual attractions so you can make your own ChristmasTime event at the Ark Encounter. The VR Show is unlike anything that you can experience. Talk to me or any of the team at Willis Graves to learn about the upcoming ChristmasTime event at the Ark Encounter. We can plan your day trips, give you a hand with directions or car rentals, and you could even take a packed lunch, charcuterie, fruit, and cheese to go. I prepare everything myself in our Gourmet Kitchen right here at Willis Graves.

Christmas in Kentucky is so much more exciting when you include places like Williamstown and the Ark Encounter on your to-do list.

Visit Our Quiet Christmas Town and Stay in Historical Luxury at Willis Graves Bed & Breakfast

At Willis Graves Bed & Breakfast, you’ll enjoy personal service and real hospitality to make your Christmas in Kentucky extra special. Our visitors love our luxurious furnishings and warm cozy rooms, spa-like bathrooms, and the high-end service and atmosphere that you won’t find at local hotels.

I can help you to plan your Christmas in Cincinnati as you explore the Christmas towns of Burlington, Williamstown, Cincinnati, Petersburg, and plenty of other lovely little spots in the region. You’ll love the mouthwatering meals and Christmas treats that I have planned for 2021.

Spending Christmas in Burlington gives you the best of both worlds. There’s the big glowing metropolis of Downtown Cincinnati for that “Christmas in the City” feel, but you’ll never be far from the quieter spots in Northern Kentucky.

I love Christmas in Kentucky. Stay with our friendly family at Willis Graves and I’ll make sure that you do, too.

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Kentucky's Most Charming Small Towns You Simply Have To Visit

Posted: December 21, 2023 | Last updated: December 25, 2023

Southern charmers

Famous for folk music, smooth liquor, and handsome horses, the small towns of the Bluegrass State are blessed with immense Southern charm, golden bourbon, and green vistas. Miles of trails crisscross Kentucky, stringing together plenty of picturesque little towns and attractions that can be visited in one trip.

Designated 'trail towns' are dotted along historic or cultural routes where you’re sure to find guides, lodgings, and a hearty meal along the way.

Read on for our pick of the best charming small towns in Kentucky...

Paducah, McCracken County

Full of quaint old town charm, Paducah is sited at West Kentucky’s Four Rivers Basin making it a great place to board a traditional steamboat cruise or follow the marked River Walk trail. It’s also an epicenter for folk arts and crafts with vintage stores, pretty cottage stores, and such a strong quilting tradition that there’s a space – the National Quilt Museum – devoted to it.

Paducah’s farmers' market is the perfect place to browse the region’s finest produce and immerse yourself in the local community.

Whitesburg, Letcher County

For a taste of eastern Kentucky’s Appalachian mountains, the hip town of Whitesburg on the edge of the coalfields is ideal. Here you’ll find the Appalshop arts center hosting live theatre, folk music, and movie nights, alongside vintage record stores, eateries, and bars serving up freshly cooked meals and distilleries such as Kentucky Mist Moonshine offering whiskey-tasting and tours.

Head to Falcon Overlook for a stunning overview of the surrounding scenery.

Georgetown, Scott County

A quintessential Kentucky town at the heart of the state, Georgetown has bluegrass, bourbon, and horses in spades. Not only does it lay claim to being the birthplace of bourbon but it’s also near the center of horse country, where you can visit Kentucky Horse Park and meet racing stars at Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm.

The town is a hub for fairs and festivals including antiques markets and the International Kite and Culture festival, where you’re sure to catch a local bluegrass band.

Elkhorn City, Pike County

Visitors curious about the Appalachians and keen on outdoor adventure will love this gem of a trail town in eastern Kentucky. It's long been established as the gateway to the Breaks Interstate Park.

Frontiersman Daniel Boone is said to have taken his first steps into modern Kentucky here, on a hunting expedition in 1767. Perched on the edge of the Big Sandy River and the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail, the small arty settlement is the perfect base for wild hiking and white water rafting.

Midway, Woodford County

The aptly-named Kentucky town of Midway sits in the center of the state, and is right in the middle of horse country, making it the ideal spot to experience Kentucky’s rich thoroughbred history. Gorgeous stud farms dot the area including the nationally renowned Airdrie Stud, Three Chimneys, and Lane's End Farm.

The pretty town is also a hub for boutique stores and restaurants with some of the finest dining in central Kentucky.

Berea, Madison County

The folk arts and crafts capital of Kentucky, the pretty trail town of Berea is full of homegrown charm. Browse the historic artisan village and watch out for ‘Studio Artists at Berea’ signs to see artists working at crafts from jewelry to instrument-making.

Kentucky Artisan Center houses locally-produced collections, while fascinating workshops such as Weston Glass Studio are open to visitors. Boone Tavern Hotel, which dates back to 1909, is perfect for an overnight stop.

Elizabethtown, Hardin County

Kentucky’s first self-styled urban trail town, Elizabethtown sits to the south of Louisville and offers plenty of attractions including the Hardin County History Museum, Historic State Theater, a vintage car museum, and retro shopping arcades in downtown. Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail is also known for its craft beer, and visitors can sample a Trail Town Ale at Flywheel Brewing.

It's also an ideal base for hiking, biking, and paddling adventures in the local lakes and parks.

Danville, Boyle County

Danville embodies original Kentucky – it was the first state capital and also where its constitution was signed in 1792. Visitors can still tour the historic buildings at Constitution Square (pictured) to learn about its history.

At Kentucky's geographical and historic center, the state’s first courthouse, college, and law school were all established here. The arts have a strong presence too, and the former federal building in downtown has recently been transformed into the GLASS National Art Museum.

Bardstown, Nelson County

As Kentucky’s second oldest city dating back to 1780, Bardstown is brimful of historic charm and is a must-visit on any trip to the state. It boasts 200 buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places including the quaint Old Talbott Tavern (pictured).

As the self-styled Bourbon Capital of the World, it sits at the beginning of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail so it’s a great place to sample the famous amber nectar, with 11 craft distilleries dotted within 16 miles of downtown.

Rabbit Hash, Boone County

The historic hamlet of Rabbit Hash on the Ohio River is a small but perfectly formed microcosm of Americana, named on the US National Register of Historic Places for its old tumbledown wooden buildings dating back more than 200 years. One of the most atmospheric is the Rabbit Hash General Store (pictured), generally considered the oldest example of its kind in the state, with a large front porch that still serves as a local focal point.

Noted for its humor, a dog is the town's ceremonial mayor.

Dawson Springs, Hopkins County

The state’s first certified trail town, Dawson Springs sits at the edge of Pennyrile State Park in western Kentucky and has long been a gateway to the great outdoors. Its beautiful lake, the 13-mile scenic Pennyrile nature walk and horse trails draw adventurous visitors, while its photogenic Main Street is part of a historic district with a museum and arts center, plus places to eat, stay, and stock up on a trip through the region.

Munfordville, Hart County

The streets of Munfordville are lined with heritage buildings and characterful places, not least the Old Munford Inn (pictured) which dates back to 1810. Kentucky’s very own Stonehenge, a replica of the UK site by late artist Chester Fryer, sits just outside the town.

Munfordville is another great entry point for Mammoth Cave National Park too, where you can discover prehistoric treasures.

Hazel, Calloway County

A hidden gem overflowing with Americana, the little town of Hazel in western Kentucky was named by Fodor’s Travel as one of the top 10 antiquing towns in the US, and it’s easy to see why. Its Main Street is lined with curiosity stores and boutiques stuffed with unique items such as old signage and hand-spun glassware.

Collectors spend hours browsing the old emporiums and vintage lovers will certainly not go away empty-handed. Stop by the Blue and White Grill for a delicious piece of coconut cream pie.

Corbin, Whitley County

Hungry travelers can trace the origins of KFC all the way to the little town of Corbin in southeastern Kentucky at the Sanders Cafe and Museum – the official birthplace of the original crispy fried chicken created by Colonel Sanders. The town is a convenient place to stay overnight if you’re hoping to catch sight of the famous moonbow at nearby Cumberland Falls too, known as Little Niagara for its impressive cascades that are the largest in the southern States.

Maysville, Mason County

This historic little town of Maysville on the banks of the Ohio River was established on the site of an 18th-century tavern run by frontiersman Daniel Boone. Many of its old buildings are preserved, making it a great place to experience old Kentucky.

Among its quirkier buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places, the Russell Theater in downtown is an atmospheric spot for a weekend movie, while the EAT Gallery and its retro sign show off the town’s timeless heritage.

Versailles, Woodford County

The attractive town of Versailles is bountiful in the Kentucky hallmarks of bluegrass, horses, and bourbon. WinStar Farm is one of the best places to get up close to the State’s famous thoroughbred stallions and Kentucky Derby champions, with stable tours and shuttle rides around the property.

At 200-year-old Woodford Reserve – a National Historic Landmark – bourbon blends with history, while nearby Kentucky Castle is the area’s very own Palace of Versailles with guest rooms where you can stay the night.

Harrodsburg, Mercer County

Another town drenched in historic charm, Harrodsburg is Kentucky’s oldest settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains. Old Fort Harrod State Park features a reconstruction of the original settlement and those following the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway should visit the Lincoln Marriage Temple, where the former president’s parents wed in 1806.

A highlight of Harrodsburg is pretty Pleasant Hill (pictured) with 34 original structures once home to the USA's third largest Shaker community.

Owensboro, Daviess County

The little city of Owensboro may be the fourth most populated area in the state but it’s brimming with country charm. Capital of Bluegrass, it’s one of the best places in the state to experience its famed live music scene and as Kentucky’s festival city, it hosts more than 20 annual events.

Positioned along the Country Music Highway, it’s home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum (pictured) and also sits on the iconic Route 66, making it an ideal stop on a classic American road trip.

Bowling Green, Warren County

As well as being blessed with a picture-perfect downtown centered on 19th-century Fountain Square Park, Bowling Green is bursting with vintage attractions including the Historic Railpark and Train Museum and the National Corvette Museum dedicated to the classic cars built exclusively in the town. Steeped in history, Bowling Green is a key stop on the Civil War Discovery Trail with signs of the past at every turn, while Lost River Cave is nearby, offering subterranean cave boat tours.

Cave City, Barren County

The gateway to Kentucky’s cave region and the famous Mammoth Cave National Park, which contains the world’s longest cave system, Cave City is a great base to explore the area’s 84 miles of trails and countless natural attractions. Alongside Mammoth Cave, explorers can also visit Hidden River Cave, Diamond Caverns, and Cub Run Cave, and local outfitters can arrange horse riding and canoeing tours.

The town has plenty of places to stay and eat, including tasty grill house Bucky Bee’s BBQ.

Bloomfield, Nelson County

Sleepy Bloomfield in central Kentucky’s Bluegrass region is older than the state itself. The first settlers arrived in the 1700s, and its agricultural industry took off quickly. This included the establishment of a flour mill and tobacco auction house in the 19th century.

Traces of its history can still be seen in the town’s architecture. Built in 1835, the Newell B. McClaskey House and plantation is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Hardin, Marshall County

In far western Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes – amid Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley – is a great place to get back to nature with more than 170,000 acres of forest, plus many miles of trails and scenic roads. The charming town of Hardin has its own marina with views over the lake – consider stopping for lunch at Cindy’s on the Barge, renowned for good food at affordable prices.

Winchester, Clark County

On the scenic Kentucky River, Winchester oozes old-time Southern charm, and its downtown Victorian-era architecture is meticulously preserved. Authentic Kentucky beer cheese is said to have been invented here, and the town is home to the Beer Cheese Trail with a string of eight local restaurants and eateries – some in great riverside spots – serving up variations on the original recipe.

The annual Beer Cheese Festival is hosted every June.

Hodgenville, LaRue County

On Kentucky’s Civil War Heritage Trail and the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway, Hodgenville is steeped in history. As the birthplace of legendary US president Abraham Lincoln, the area includes a national historical park with an impressive memorial building dedicated to Lincoln, as well as a dedicated statue and museum within the town center, plus a reconstruction of his boyhood home at nearby Knob Creek Farm.

Frankfort, Franklin County

Kentucky’s state capital is actually a small historic town full of rural Kentucky charm, surrounded by verdant horse farms and artisanal distilleries including the Buffalo Trace Distillery. As the resting place of celebrated frontiersman Daniel Boone, and a key stop on the Civil War Heritage Trail, Frankfort has a deep history that can be glimpsed in the old buildings of downtown, as well as at several history and art museums and the beautiful State Capitol building.

Now take a look at the world's most beautiful small towns...

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Worth the Drive: 8 museums across Kentucky to visit this spring

It's no secret that there are many things to do and places to explore in Kentucky, including parks and monuments, but the commonwealth is also home to some memorable museums, including right here in Louisville. 

From cars to sports, Kentucky's museums have plenty to offer, covering not only the history of the commonwealth, but exhibiting the impact the Bluegrass State has on the entire country.

While some great places like the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum are right here in town, if you're making plans to try a road trip this spring, here are some special sites to add to your list:

1. National Corvette Museum

350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green ; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Central daily

If you are a fan of cars, the National Corvette Museum is for you.

Along with seeing Corvettes from across the decades on display, people can take pictures inside the classic cars and there's even an activity area for children, according to the Kentucky Tourism page . 

For an additional price, people can take a ride in a historic Corvette or drive a C6 Corvette in a racing simulator.

People visiting can enjoy go kart racing at the NCM Kartplex, located near the museum in the Motorsports Park.

More: From Corvettes to caves: Bowling Green is the perfect Kentucky getaway

2. Kentucky Railway Museum

136 S. Main St., New Haven; 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturday, 12-4:30 p.m. Sunday during the spring season.

The Kentucky Railway Museum offers a unique experiences by taking visitors on a 22-mile ride through Rolling Fork River Valley, according to the Kentucky Tourism webpage.  

There are several trains for children and adults, including the Dinner Train, Mystery Train and Day Out With Thomas, according to the museum's website. 

More: Kentucky Derby Museum named among top sports attractions in US in reader's choice awards

3. Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum

409 Happy Valley Road, Cave City; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Central daily

This one is for animal lovers.

The Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum features 1,600 species of rare and exotic animals including tigers, bears and marine life, according to its website . 

Dozens of species of rare insects are also on display at the museum's butterfly house, which is part of its 14,000 square foot facility.

More: Explore Mammoth Cave: Your guide to a unique Kentucky attraction, world's longest cave

4. The Lincoln Museum

66 Lincoln Square, Hodgenville; 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday

The best way to learn about the 16 th President of the United States is in his home state of Kentucky. 

The Lincoln Museum “brings to life the major events in Abraham Lincoln's life” through dioramas, artifacts and wax figures, according to the Kentucky Tourism website .  

5. Great American Dollhouse Museum

344 Swope Drive, Danville; 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday

Travel to Danville where you will see with more than 200 dollhouses and buildings that show the country’s social history in miniature form.  

“Unlike the traditional museum configuration, the (Great American Dollhouse Museum) unfurls its exhibits in a vast, continuous landscape representing an American yesteryear,” the Kentucky Tourism website states. “Hundreds of antique and artisan-sculpted, historically-dressed citizens interact with family, friends and business associates in neighborhoods, rural lands and forests.” 

6. Kentucky Military History Museum

128 E. Main St., Frankfort; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday

“The State Arsenal for more than 100 years and a Civil War-era munitions factory, this Gothic Revival style building houses the exhibits Kentucky Military Treasures and George M. Chinn: Sights Set on Innovation and 19th-century war records (available for use by appointment),” the museum’s website states . 

People can enjoy a guided tour of the State Arsenal at 1 p.m. on the days the museum is open.

7. Kentucky Museum

1444 Kentucky St., Bowling Green; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday

There's much more to Kentucky than bourbon and horses and the Kentucky Museum at Western Kentucky University is a great road trip destination to do learn about it.  

The museum features rotating exhibits so there's always something new to discover, but it also has permanent exhibits including the Jonesville Buon Fresco Mural, Lego Big Red (yes, THE Big Red) and Basketmaking: Our Handmade Heritage.  

Some exhibits are closed or seasonal, therefore it is recommended to look online before making a trip. 

8. International Museum of the Horse

4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington; Seasonal hours vary.

Both a museum and a research center, the International Museum of the Horse is a great destination for horse fanatics.  

“The largest and most comprehensive museum in the world dedicated to exploring the important history of all horses and their impact on human civilization,” its website states.  

Some of its current exhibits are the Legacy of the Horse, Black Horsemen of the Kentucky Turf and Draft Horse in America. The nearby Kentucky Horse Park also allows visitors to see and even pet live horses. 

More: The Babe's special order and Ted Williams' returns: Dive into Slugger's private records

It's Not Christmas In Louisville Until You Do These 8 Enchanting Things

Andrea Limke

A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.

More by this Author

The holidays are a busy time of year and at times it is difficult to narrow down the countless options for Christmas activities in Louisville. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, we’ve narrowed it down to eight enchanting things to do around the city that will surely put you in the holiday spirit. It’s not Christmas in Louisville, Kentucky until you’ve done the eight best holiday attractions in the city.

1. Visit Holiday in the City.

2. Drive through Lights Under Louisville.

3. Head to Christmas in the Park.

4. Take a holiday stroll across the Big Four Bridge.

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5. see a performance of the nutcracker..

6. Visit Santa at the Louisville Zoo.

7. Go on a day trip to Bardstown.

8. Say hello to Santa!

Christmas in Louisville, Kentucky is a magical time filled with festive fun. Did your favorite holiday tradition make the list? Anything to add? Let us know in the comments!

If you are feeling up for a holiday adventure but want to stick to just Christmas lights, check out our holiday display road trip around Louisville . We know you will love taking in all the sights (and sometimes sounds!) of these dazzling displays! It’s a short drive but you may still want to check out our road trip packing list to make sure you have everything you could need for the best possible holiday adventure.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Christmas in louisville, kentucky.

Are there any Christmas train rides near Louisville?

The short answer to this question is yes!

• The Santa Express is a daytime excursion where riders can meet Santa and experience all the fun of a Christmas train ride.
• The North Pole Express is an evening expedition in which riders journey to pick up Santa and then he travels back to the depot with you, all while snacking on what else? Milk and cookies! To put you in the festive spirit, riders are encouraged to wear their favorite Christmas pajamas!

Where are the best places for Christmas in Kentucky?

There is something magical about strolling along city streets that are lined with Christmas lights.

• From La Grange to Pikeville, there is no shortage of main street Christmas charm.
• If you are looking to go beyond a main street for Christmas spirit, we have also gathered a list of some of the most magical Christmas towns in Kentucky . You’ll want to visit them all!

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