These Have Been Named the Top Three Kentucky Road Trips

When you say "Kentucky road trips," you're speaking my language. When you say "top three Kentucky road trips," you're screaming in my ears. I got it. I'm with you. Yes, I'm excited, but lower the volume.

This summer, we set out to venture into parts of the Commonwealth we had never before visited. And I may have looked forward to whatever we might encounter even more than the many vacations I've taken to destinations that are HUNDREDS of miles away. I'm a native Kentuckian, and I feel like it's incumbent upon me to see it all--from the Virginia state line to the Mississippi River. (And I covered THAT first one this summer.)

As for the "top three Kentucky road trips," I am prepared to experience them all at some point. And I tip my hat to Kentucky Living for its annual "Best in Kentucky" awards. Now, let's "hit the road." (These are in no particular order, if KL does rank them.)

The Red River Gorge Geological Area

Enjoy camping, ziplining, and the beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest. But don't forget the beauty that lies BENEATH the trees:

And, by all means, your road trip HAS to include what is arguably the centerpiece of this particular getaway:

The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience

Bardstown is actually perfect for a Kentucky road trip from anywhere within the Commonwealth thanks to its central location. Loaded for bear with a number of bourbon distilleries, this historic city is home to the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience. Taste the product, enjoy the Five Brothers Bar & Restaurant, visit the many galleries, and check out the 1935 Distillery Theater. Then you won't wonder why this made the cut.

Hatfields and McCoys Historic Feud Sites Driving Tour

What a fascinating piece of Kentucky history. I've read about the Hatfields and the McCoys. I've seen a couple of TV movies from two different eras and liked both of them. And now I just need to saddle up and head east and immerse myself once and for all.

Every single one of those suggestions fits perfectly into the fall frame of mind. If that's your current lot in life, then have a safe trip.