As a lifelong resident of Kentucky, I look forward to Fall every year. The diverse geography of the state allows spectacular and magnificent displays of autumn leaves over different terrains, waterways, etc. Kentucky is divided into five major zones including the Bluegrass Region, Pennyroyal Plateau, western Jackson Purchase, Cumberland Plateau and the Western Coal Fields. With two of the largest manmade lakes east of the Mississippi and the most navigable waterways in the lower 48 states, Kentucky is rich with various points of interest. If you’re planning a trip to Kentucky during the Fall season, then consider the following three areas of the state.
Locust Grove, Louisville, Kentucky
Locust Grove is a National Historic Landmark located in Louisville, Kentucky and today is situated on 55 acres of the original 694 acre farm. It was created by George Rogers Clark’s brother-in-law William Croghan and his wife, Lucy. Locust Grove became famous for being a stopping point for explorers Lewis and Clark, and also hosted Presidents Monroe, Jackson and Taylor.
The mansion built in Locust Grove was completed in 1790 and today is undergoing a renovation. The 55 acres with softly rolling hills is a Fall feast for the eyes. You can tour the estate and shop on site. Should you plan your Fall visit in late September, don’t miss the annual Antiques Market on Sunday, September 27 from 10:00 am – 4:30 pm, which features dealers from the South and Midwest. Admission is $6 for adults and $3 for ages 6-12 and also includes a tour of the historic house museum and estate. Here is more information on Locust Grove:
Contact Info: Historic Locust Grove
561 Blankenbaker Lane
Louisville , KY 40207
(502) 897-9845
e-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.locustgrove.org
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
To really enjoy the beauty of Kentucky during Fall, one of the best places to visit is Cumberland Falls State Resort Park which is located in Corbin. Cumberland Falls is known as the “Niagara of the South” and is a 125 foot wide waterfall. You may want to plan your Fall tour during the cycle of the full moon as you can view the moonbow over the Falls. This is a phenomenon found nowhere else in the Western Hemisphere.
Cumberland Falls Park has several trails comprised of 20 miles surrounding the Falls, Cumberland River, Laurel River and the Daniel Boone National Forest. In addition to traditional lodging, you can also stay in Woodland Rooms or cottages nestled in the tree lined hills and replete with gorgeous views of the changing colors of Fall. Be sure and take proper hiking gear as the terrain in Cumberland Falls is not flat.
If you would like more information about Cumberland Falls State Resort Park for your Fall excursion, go to www.corbinkentucky.us/cumberlandfallsstatepark.htm or www.parks.ky.gov/.
Kentucky Horse Park
The Kentucky Horse Park is located at 4089 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, Kentucky. This is approximjately 4 miles north of Lexington and 3 miles south of Georgetown, Kentucky. The Horse Park is within 30 minutes of Versailles, Midway, Paris, and Winchester, Kentucky. The Kentucky Horse Park will be home to the 2010 World Equestrian Games as well.
If you are planning to travel to Lexington, Kentucky during the Fall season, the Kentucky Horse Park is the one attraction you don’t want to miss. The park is comprised of 1224 acres of beautiful Kentucky bluegrass and displays a gorgeous view of the autumnal colors. This is an ideal locale for those who love to walk but not in a strenuous way. While there is a lot of walking there are no steps and the terrain is fairly friendly and smooth.
While you view the Fall foliage, you can also take in over 110 horses that represent over 50 different breeds. The horses are housed in scenic barns, and the landscape is incredibly peaceful and serene, especially during Fall.
The Kentucky Horse Park has a 260 site resort campground, but if camping is not for you, there are several hotels and bed and breakfasts places to stay within a 15-20 mile radius of the park. Check out the Gratz Park Inn or the Lexington Downtown Hotel and Conference Center. For more information about Kentucky Horse Park, call (859) 233-4303 or toll free at (800) 678-8813, or email them at [email protected] for more information.
