Let’s be honest, sometimes the best spots are the ones hiding in plain sight. You know the kind: the places you drive by all the time without realizing how much magic, history, or fun is tucked just beyond the parking lot. This post is your reminder that adventure doesn’t always require a long road trip or a big production.
Here are five underrated, kid-friendly, and curiosity-sparking Kentucky gems to explore starting with one of Louisville’s most iconic (but often overlooked) landmarks.
1. Louisville Water Tower
📍Louisville, KY
💧 National Historic Landmark | Kid-Friendly | Educational
🕰️ Public Tours: Second Sunday of Each Month | 1–4 PM | $5/person
Did you know the Louisville Water Tower is the oldest ornamental water tower in the country? And one of only eight National Historic Landmarks in Louisville?
We recently visited with Baylor and had such a fun, hands-on experience learning how our water system works, something I honestly had never thought to dive into (pun intended). From the stunning architecture of the tower itself to the inside scoop on how Louisville Water keeps our drinking water clean, the whole visit was unexpectedly fascinating.
What to expect:
- Tours start every hour from 1–4 PM on the second Sunday of every month
- Fun hands-on stations for kids while you wait: blocks, books, puzzles, and more
- Walk outside along the Ohio River and inside the iconic tower and hear about the history, architecture and process to clean Louisville Water
- Wrap up in the interactive WaterWorks Museum
It’s the perfect blend of education + exploration, and at just $5, it’s an affordable way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Put it on your calendar for the second Sunday of each month, and thank me later.
Save the Date: July 13, they are having a special event called Tapper’s big adventure from 12 to 5 p.m. Tapper is the Water Tower’s mascot. The event will include special guests reading Tapper’s children’s book and will be followed by a guided tour of the oldest ornamental water tower in the U.S. Hands-on activities will be available for kids to enjoy as well as a firetruck and Louisville Water truck to explore. Reserve your spot in advance here or pay at the door. Tickets range from $3-5.
2. Locust Grove
📍Louisville, KY
🌿 Historic Site | Living History | Picnic-Perfect
Locust Grove often gets overshadowed by bigger-name attractions, but this hidden corner of Louisville is packed with charm. It’s the 18th-century Georgian estate of George Rogers Clark (yes, the explorer and military hero), and the grounds feel like something straight out of a period film.
From costumed interpreters to heritage gardens and walking trails, it’s a peaceful, history-rich place that’s surprisingly calming—perfect for an afternoon stroll, especially if you're a fan of vintage architecture or Kentucky history.
Bonus: Their Second Sunday events often feature special programming for kids and families.
3. Bernheim Arboretum’s Forest Giants
📍Clermont, KY
🌲 Outdoor Art | Nature Trails | Free with Suggested Donation
Okay, hear me out: giant wooden trolls in the woods. If you haven’t taken the kids (or your camera) to see the Forest Giants at Bernheim, you’re missing out. These towering sculptures by Danish artist Thomas Dambo are hidden throughout the arboretum, encouraging kids to run ahead on the trail and seek out the next surprise.
It's a perfect mix of art, nature, and imaginative play—and even better? It’s free (just leave a suggested donation at the entrance).
Pack a picnic, lace up your hiking shoes, and make a day of it.
4. Yew Dell Botanical Gardens
📍Crestwood, KY
🌼 Secret Gardens | Fairy Trails | Greenhouse Explorers
If your idea of magic includes secret gardens, fairy trails, and storybook-worthy greenhouse spaces, then Yew Dell is your next must-visit.
Tucked away in Crestwood just outside of Louisville, this lesser-known garden offers beautiful grounds to explore, scavenger hunts for kids, and even a castle-like structure on site. It’s equal parts peaceful and playful—and I’ve yet to meet a kid (or grown-up) who didn’t leave smiling.
Keep an eye on their calendar for workshops and family events, too.
BONUS: The Falls of the Ohio State Park
📍Clarksville, IN (Just across the bridge from Louisville)
🌊 Fossil Beds | Hands-on Museum | Ohio River Views
Technically just outside of Kentucky, but too good not to include. The Falls of the Ohio features one of the largest exposed Devonian fossil beds in the world. You can literally walk on 390-million-year-old fossils, which is a total hit with kids and curious minds.
The interpretive center brings the prehistoric era to life, and there’s something truly humbling about standing at the edge of the Ohio River knowing you’re walking on the remains of an ancient sea.
Best part? It’s just minutes from downtown Louisville, making it an easy add-on to a weekend itinerary.
Fun Fact, this is also where Reid and I got our engagement photos back in 2019. It’s a gorgeous spot for family photos, engagement photos and more!
Why These Spots Matter
When I started My Kentucky Bucket List, my goal was to show people that adventure doesn't have to mean flying across the world or breaking the bank. These places prove that some of the richest experiences are right in our own backyards, they’re just waiting to be noticed.
So next time you're looking for something new to do with the kids (or just want to explore somewhere a little different), try one of these "hidden in plain sight" gems.
Let me know which one you check off your list first—and tag me @mykybucketlist so I can follow along on your adventure.
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