When you think of Louisville, Kentucky, a few famous institutions likely pop into your head: the Kentucky Derby, the Muhammad Ali Museum, and a couple of very distinguished sports teams (the University of Kentucky Wildcats and the University of Louisville Cardinals). Let’s not forget baseball bats and bourbon trails!
But as of now, some of those indoor options are offering limited access, which means outdoor events are the heart of the action. Before the summer gets away, plan a day trip from Fort Knox to investigate what Louisville has to offer outside. From hiking and boating to a Mega Tram and ice cream, there’s something for everyone!
Take a break from your PCS chores and hit the road for a day away!
Ok, so this one is technically inside, but it's inside an enormous cavern. The activities in Mega Cavern are all things you would find in an outdoor adventure park. Zip lines, walking and bike tours, a tram ride, and an aerial ropes challenge course are waiting beneath the city in a space that encompasses 100 acres. The cavern is a perfect escape from the heat, because the temperature stays at 58 degrees all year round.
For those who crave the outdoor life, Jefferson Memorial Forest has all the options you're looking for, without heading too far out of the city. The entrance is just 15 miles south of downtown Louisville. The forest has more than 35 miles of woodland trails for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Equestrian trails are open and your dog is welcome on a leash. Start at the welcome center for copies of trail maps, insider tips on how to enjoy the forest, and to pick up a snack.
3) The Parklands of Floyds Fork
The four sections (plus the Strand) of 4,000 acres within the Parklands has all the outdoor adventures you can handle! Fishing, hiking, mountain biking, kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards are all available within Beckley Creek Park, Pope Lick Park, Turkey Run Park, and Broad Run Park.
Playgrounds and spraygrounds are on the property as is Barklands of Beckley Creek Park, which of course is a fenced dog park! Community gardens and sports fields round out the plentiful options to enjoy the day outside.
The fairgrounds will look different in 2020, as required by state health laws, but the shows and attractions are going forward. Music, food, and AG Land and Thrill Ville are all scheduled to go. Starting in 1902, the Kentucky State Fair is an institution that has brought the community together through agricultural competitions and general entertainment.
"Donut Burger" at the Kentucky State Fair. Image via Chris Kuehl.
No outdoor activity list is complete without a mention for the city’s zoo. The Louisville Zoological Gardens is a combination of a zoo park and a botanical garden. The zoo is often cited for its award winning Gorilla Forest and Glacier run, but there are more than 1,000 animals and exhibits to visit throughout sites that include: Africa, Islands, New World Exhibits (North, Central and South America), Australian Outback, the HerpAquarium, and the Metazoo Education Center.
6) Outfitter and Adventure Companies
Need a little help planing your outside fun? Choose from one of these companies to create a perfect day in Louisville.
End the day with a huge scoop of the good stuff from regional favorite, Graeter’s ice cream. Celebrating 150 years of business, Graeter’s is offering limited editions, such as Brown Butter Bourbon Pecan and bonus flavor, Peanut Butter & Jelly. They’re also known for their twist on ice cream sandwiches, lovingly nicknamed Chip Wheelies, thanks to the chocolate chip cookie stand in for the sandwich parts. There are seven locations throughout the city, including a roving food truck.
For a weekend of adventuring, or a day filled with outdoor fun, make the 45-minute drive into Louisville from Fort Knox to revel in the diverse city and park settings to relax and take in a little peace of mind before the next work week begins.
If Fort Knox, Kentucky, is your PCS destination, stay up to date with housing availability. Click below to see homes for rent and for sale on MilitaryByOwner!