Travel Advice

Kentucky Weather

Kentucky enjoys mild summers and moderately cold winters because of its central U.S. location, so any month is a great month to travel to Kentucky. The state experiences all four distinct seasons. Spring and Autumn are periods of pleasantly warm days and cool nights. Daytime temperatures during the Summer average 87 degrees (30.5 degrees C). Conversely, the Winter lows average around 23 degrees (-5 degrees C). Kentucky averages 49 inches  (124.5 cm) of precipitation annually, most of it in the form of rain. Autumn tends to be the driest season. 

Kentucky Time Zones

Kentucky is divided into two time zones. Most of the north central and eastern portions of the state, including Louisville, Lexington and Covington, are on Eastern Time, while the southern and western portions are on Central Time. The entire state observes Daylight Savings Time. 

Welcome Centres

Kentucky's eight interstate welcome centres offer travellers a hospitable respite from the open road. Stop in for maps, directions or a Kentucky Visitors Guide. Knowledgeable staff members are available, during normal business hours, to answer your questions.

Transportation

Getting in, out and around Kentucky is easy. You’ll find three primary airports conveniently located throughout the state (SDF, LEX, CVG) as well as, taxi, bus and even river ferry service. Amtrak operates two long-distance trains through Kentucky with five stations along the routes.

Kentucky has an extensive and well-maintained road system that is well numbered and clearly marked with directional signage. Speed limits vary and are clearly posted. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a major offence. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, you’ll find an abundance of transportation services.

Driving License

All non U.S. citizens may drive in the U.S. on their valid foreign license and International Permit for up to one year from the date of admission into the U.S. provided their home country is part of the Geneva Compact.

Sales Tax

Kentucky’s state sales tax is 6.0% on all retail items. Advertised prices rarely include the tax.  Additional taxes may apply at restaurants and lodging establishments. 

Accommodation in Kentucky

There’s a wide range of accommodation in every price range. All the major hotel chains are represented and there are dozens of smaller hotels and motels throughout the state. Kentucky has an extensive state park system with 17 resort parks that feature lodges and cabins. Bed and Breakfast Inns dot the state but they should not necessarily imply low cost for a B & B is often a historic home or unique property, usually of extremely high standard, and priced accordingly. 

Alcohol

Although Kentucky produces 95% of the world’s Bourbon some counties are “dry,” a leftover from Prohibition days meaning that alcohol is not sold in those counties.