If you’re planning a trip to Kentucky or simply want to immerse yourself in the beauty and history of the Bluegrass State, the right Kentucky travel guide can make all the difference. Whether you’re seeking unique destinations, hidden treasures, or historical insights, these Kentucky Travel Guides will give you a comprehensive overview of everything the state has to offer. With so many choices, it can be tough to pick the right one, so we’ve put together a list of the top 10 best Kentucky Travel Guides that will guide your adventure.
Best Kentucky Travel Guides to Explore Kentucky’s Wonders
By: Travel Enthusiast
#10 Kentucky Travel Guide 2024: A Local’s Guide to the Hidden Gems of the Bluegrass State (Off the Beaten Path Adventures)
Author: Alexander Atwood
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.3 out of 5 stars (32 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
This comprehensive guide provides detailed itineraries and insights into Kentucky’s off-the-beaten-path destinations. It’s an essential book for travelers seeking to explore the state’s hidden gems and lesser-known attractions.
Why You’ll Love It
With suggestions for outdoor adventures, unique destinations, and local favorites, this book ensures a fulfilling Kentucky experience for travelers who want more than the standard tourist destinations.
Fun Fact
The author, Alexander Atwood, is a Kentucky native who has dedicated years to uncovering the state’s best-kept secrets, from local eateries to scenic views.
#9 Kentucky Horse Country: Images of the Bluegrass
Author: James Archambeault
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.5 out of 5 stars (17 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
If you’re a fan of Kentucky’s iconic horse country, this book is for you. Featuring stunning images and insightful commentary, it takes readers on a visual tour of the Bluegrass region’s most famous farms and race tracks.
Why You’ll Love It
The combination of breathtaking photography and detailed historical context makes this book a must-have for equestrian enthusiasts and those interested in Kentucky’s legendary horse industry.
Fun Fact
James Archambeault is an accomplished photographer who has dedicated much of his career to capturing the essence of Kentucky’s horse culture.
#8 The Bourbon Journey: Kentucky Travel Guide
Author: Mark E. Meade
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.7 out of 5 stars (4 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
Kentucky’s bourbon heritage is world-renowned, and this guide delves into the state’s finest distilleries, offering detailed information about the bourbon-making process and the best distillery tours.
Why You’ll Love It
This book takes you behind the scenes of Kentucky’s famous bourbon industry, giving you access to some of the state’s top distilleries, and is a perfect travel companion for whiskey lovers.
Fun Fact
Mark E. Meade’s deep knowledge of Kentucky’s bourbon history makes this guide a definitive source for anyone wanting to explore the heart of bourbon country.
#7 Kentucky State Parks Bucket List: Travel Log & Memory Journal | America Passport & Stamp Book | Trip Planner & Outdoor Adventure Log List Guide
Author: Max Kukis Galgan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 out of 5 stars (4 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
This travel journal is ideal for outdoor adventurers. It combines a comprehensive list of Kentucky’s state parks with space to document your visits, creating a memorable keepsake of your travels.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for nature lovers, this guide includes stamps and markers for each park you visit, so you can track your progress and create a personal travel log.
Fun Fact
Max Kukis Galgan designed this journal specifically for people who love exploring and want to track their outdoor adventures in a creative and meaningful way.
#6 Insiders’ Guide® to Louisville (Insiders’ Guide Series)
Author: David Dominé
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (5 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
As an insider’s guide, this book offers expert recommendations on everything from the best places to eat to must-visit local attractions in Louisville. Perfect for anyone wanting to explore this vibrant city from a local’s perspective.
Why You’ll Love It
David Dominé’s deep connection with Louisville ensures that the guide includes hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path recommendations you won’t find in other travel books.
Fun Fact
David Dominé has written multiple books on Louisville’s history and culture, making him one of the best resources for learning about the city.
#5 Greater Than a Tourist- Louisville Kentucky USA: 50 Travel Tips from a Local
Author: E. Murphy
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.3 out of 5 stars (22 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
For those looking for local tips from someone who knows Louisville well, this book offers insights on everything from public transportation to dining spots and entertainment.
Why You’ll Love It
50 practical travel tips from a local will make your trip to Louisville smooth and full of insider knowledge that typical travel books don’t provide.
Fun Fact
The author, E. Murphy, spent years living in Louisville and knows the city like the back of her hand, making her recommendations highly reliable.
#4 A Dark Room in Glitter Ball City: Murder, Secrets, and Scandal in Old Louisville
Author: David Dominé
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.3 out of 5 stars (399 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
This book is for those interested in the darker side of Kentucky’s history. David Dominé takes you on a mysterious journey through the scandalous past of Louisville, blending local history with chilling true crime stories.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for readers interested in Louisville’s hidden secrets, this book takes a deeper dive into the city’s past with gripping, true stories of intrigue and murder.
Fun Fact
David Dominé is a longtime resident of Louisville and shares his passion for the city’s lesser-known stories in this fascinating book.
#3 Kentucky Bucket List Guide: Embark on 100 Adventures: Discover Hidden Treasures and Popular Destinations to Design Your Ideal Journey
Author: George B. Gilson
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.5 out of 5 stars (45 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
This guide combines the best of both worlds: classic Kentucky must-sees and off-the-beaten-path adventures. The unique format allows you to design your ideal Kentucky journey, perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers.
Why You’ll Love It
Featuring an interactive map and practical advice, this book is highly customizable, making it ideal for travelers with a range of interests.
Fun Fact
The interactive map included in this guide allows users to personalize their own Kentucky bucket list!
#2 Unique Eats and Eateries of Louisville
Author: Kevin Gibson
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.8 out of 5 stars (11 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
For foodies, this guide is a must-read. It offers a deep dive into Louisville’s thriving food scene, featuring everything from local delicacies to hidden gems.
Why You’ll Love It
Perfect for culinary enthusiasts, this book introduces you to the best food spots in Louisville—whether you’re craving a classic hot brown sandwich or something more unique.
Fun Fact
Kevin Gibson has been an avid food critic for over a decade and has a keen sense for discovering the best-kept secrets of Louisville’s dining scene.
#1 Kentucky Bucket List Adventure Guide: Explore 100 Offbeat Destinations You Must Visit!
Author: Paul McKee
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.3 out of 5 stars (161 reviews)
Category: Kentucky Travel Guides
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Why We Choose It
This guide is perfect for anyone looking to explore Kentucky beyond the common tourist spots. With 100 offbeat destinations, this book highlights quirky and lesser-known attractions that you won’t find in your typical travel guide. It’s an ideal companion for the adventurous traveler.
Why You’ll Love It
If you’re tired of the usual tourist traps, this book offers a fresh perspective. It’s loaded with fun ideas for anyone who wants to see Kentucky like a local, and it’s packed with hidden gems to make your trip even more special.
Fun Fact
Paul McKee, a lifelong Kentuckian, has a passion for discovering new places that even the locals might not know. This guide is the result of his extensive travels throughout his home state.
Explore Kentucky’s Wonders and Begin Your Adventure Today!
No matter what kind of traveler you are—whether you’re looking for culinary delights, hidden gems, or historical insights—these Kentucky Travel Guides offer something for everyone. Each one presents unique ways to explore Kentucky and experience all its beauty and charm. Be sure to pick up one (or more) of these top-ranked books to start planning your next adventure in Kentucky!
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