History & Heritage in Kentucky

There is a lot of history in the Bluegrass state. Kentucky is the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis, leaders of the opposing sides in the American Civil War. Muhammad Ali and the father of Bluegrass music, Bill Monroe, were also born here.

There are sites and museums dedicated to these and other influential Americans. And of course, Colonel Sanders, founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, perfected his secret recipe and launched his global empire from the café that you can still visit.

Visit Kentucky and uncover the storied traditions of the region of Appalachia. Walk historical sites such as American Civil War battlefields. Follow the path of the explorer, Daniel Boone. Wander around the fascinating downtowns of Main Street Kentucky’s cities and towns for fashion, gifts and antiques unique to Kentucky state history.

Lovers of the great outdoors will marvel at the Mammoth Cave National Park, where you can see the world's longest known cave system - over 400 miles of it! It's not only the gargantuan cave that draws visitors; Mammoth Cave National Park also contains more than 70 miles of backcountry trails through forested Kentucky hills which are just perfect for hiking, horseback riding, or cycling.

Because of the State’s rich history and heritage, you’ll find dozens of Kentucky museums and memorials commemorating everything from the Civil War to music, bourbon and horses. Celebrate the legends of Kentucky horse racing at Churchill Downs’ Kentucky Derby Museum, and the International Museum of the Horse at the Kentucky Horse Park. Visit the childhood home of Abraham Lincoln in Hodgenville, or view the Civil War battlefields of Perryville and Richmond.

Hear some of the earliest, most influential sounds of American music, and discover dozens of famous native Kentucky musicians at the Kentucky Music Hall of Fame Museum. While in Owensboro, don't forget to stop by The International Bluegrass Music Museum.

There’s only one Kentucky, and it’s waiting for you to discover!

If you need help planning your Kentucky trip, please get in touch - our Kentucky State experts are on hand and always very happy to help!