18 Best Things To Do In Corbin, Kentucky - Updated 2024

things to do in Corbin KY
Herine
Herine 
Updated
| 8 min read

Corbin is a quaint little city found in the counties of Whitley and Knox in Kentucky. As of 2017, it had a population of 7,272 people. James Eaton, who was a postmaster, named the town after a local reverend, James Corbin Floyd. As the town grew, its economy majorly relied on rail transport but had to be diversified later. If music is your cup of tea, Corbin annually hosts the NIBROC festival which features open-air concerts that brings many popular artists on stage. In the 1940s, Colonel Harland Sanders founded the idea of Kentucky Fried Chicken in Corbin. Learn about the history of this popular restaurant chain and eat the tasty, crispy fried chicken at Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum. Corbin is a haven for outdoor adventure as it is a popular destination for hiking, white water rafting, and fishing. Places of interest in this city include First Christian Church, Nibroc Park, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, and Sanders Park. Book a stay in one of the top Airbnb vacation rentals in the city as you plan your vacation to this destination. If you’re wondering what is Corbin, Kentucky, known for, we’ve made a list of things to do and places to visit here. Scroll down for the best things to do in Corbin, Kentucky.

1. Go antique shopping at Antiques & Accents

Vintage Clothes, Jewelry, Pottery, Antique Furniture, Porcelain China, Home Furnishings, Lighting, Collectables, & More!...

Posted by Antiques & Accents on Monday, January 14, 2019

Antiques and Accents is a unique place of interest in Corbin, Kentucky, that many tourists and locals visit. The charm of this place lies in the uncommon and extraordinary things found here. From rugs to crockery, from antique chairs to old and battered containers, this tiny shop is filled with antique trinkets that you’ll love.

They also sell vintage clothes, sometimes brand new articles, in big sales. So, make sure you stop by this shop while exploring Corbin, and keep an eye out for any sale announcements on their Facebook page. If you’re lucky, you might even find a priceless vintage article that’s worth more than what you’ll pay.

Antiques & Accents

Address: 45 Lynn Camp Church Rd, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Antiques & Accents

Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)

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2. Take your kids to Corbin Splash Pad

Just in time for the hot days ahead, Geeta's Splash Park is now open! Located across from Corbin City Hall on South Main...

Posted by Corbin Parks and Recreation on Tuesday, May 30, 2023

Corbin Splash Pad, also known as Geeta Patel Splash Pad, is an exciting place in Corbin, Kentucky, for your kids to play safely. The water play area is designed for kids 12 or under and is only open in summer, so if you’re visiting Corbin on a trip, make sure to get the timing right to treat your children to this experience. It is a free admission zone where you can let your kids run around, play with water, and mingle with other children in the area.

Do remember to carry a change of clothes for your kids to avoid sickness.

Corbin KY splash pad

Address: 804 S Main St, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm; Sun - 1pm - 7pm (closed Oct - Apr)

Price: free

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3. Marvel at the majestic falls at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Cumberland Falls
Source: Photo by user Jim Bauer used under CC BY-ND 2.0

If you are looking for the perfect outdoor recreation getaway, this resort park is the place to be. Its main attraction is the majestic 68 feet (21 meters) tall Cumberland Falls. With various lodgings, cabins, and campsites with magnificent river views, staying for at least a night is worth it. An overnight stay allows you to see the famous waterfall’s Moonbow on a full moon night. This resort park offers various other activities to indulge in. Its scenic hiking trails make it a hiker’s paradise. Enjoy gem mining at the gemstone flume, bird watching and guided horseback riding suitable for beginners and experts. In Cumberland River, you can enjoy fishing and guided white water rafting. At the end of your visit, ensure you buy a souvenir from their gift shop.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Address: 7351 Hwy 90, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

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4. Cherish the calming effect of Laurel River Lake

Laurel River Lake Kentucky
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user George Green, U.S... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Relax and unwind as you admire the beautiful view of the lake and enjoy the calming effect that comes with looking at the water. This attraction in Corbin, KY, offers the perfect spot for outdoor recreational activities. Sit back and relax as you cast your fishing line into the waters and reel it in hoping to catch different types of fish including black bass, rainbow trout, and catfish. With seven ramps spread out on the lake, you can conveniently enjoy boating. Stop at the best spots for wildlife viewing in the lake. See birds such as Canadian geese and bald eagles, and wildlife such as deer along the shoreline.

Laurel River Lake

Address: 1433 Laurel Lake Rd., 40744 London, Kentucky

Website: Laurel River Lake

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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5. Go white-water rafting at Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


For the adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers, white water rafting at this spot is your cup of tea. During spring, they offer a full day intermediate gorge trip inclusive of lunch or a half-day beginner’s canyon trip exclusive of lunch. During summer and fall, you can enjoy rafting below Cumberland Falls. Maneuver through the rough waters which require teamwork. You can also stay in a camping site or cabin and enjoy other activities the resort has to offer. This includes canoeing, kayaking, tubing, zip-lining, wall climbing, geocaching, biking, and hiking.

Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort

Address: 2001 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Sheltowee Trace Adventure Resort

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 7pm; Fri: 10am - 8pm; Sat: 8am - 8pm; Sun: 8am - 7pm

Price: From 75 USD

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6. Enjoy camping at Falls Creek Cabins and Campgrounds

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Side porch

Posted by Falls Creek Cabins and Campground on Friday, November 12, 2010

Camping is always a fun activity to do. The campsite setting and being in the midst of beautiful nature make this experience worthwhile. Falls Creek Cabins and Campgrounds is a popular attraction in Corbin, Kentucky, for outdoorsy people. It features a variety of camping options. This includes resort and rustic cabins with different degrees of coziness, covered wagons, RVs and primitive tent sites. Choose whichever option you fancy and let your adventures begin. You can indulge in activities such as hiking, canoeing, white water rafting, and kayaking. At the end of a long and adventurous day, relax in your accommodation which also has WiFi.

Falls Creek Cabins and Campgrounds

Address: 1943 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Falls Creek Cabins and Campgrounds

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 10am - 7pm; Fri: 10am - 8pm; Sat: 8am - 8pm; Sun: 8am - 7pm

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7. Stroll along Engineer Street Bridge & Creek Walk


Engineer Street Bridge & Creek Walk is a bridge and walking trail that goes over Lynn Camp Creek. Admire the surrounding scenic views as you stroll along. Feel the cool breeze blowing around you and take in breaths of fresh air. This place to explore in Corbin, KY, will relax your mind and leave you feeling rejuvenated. You will also be keeping fit in this less vigorous but still effective form of physical activity.

Engineer Street Bridge & Creek Walk

Address: Corbin, KY 40701, USA

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8. Have fun roller-skating at Gerry's Roller Rink

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Visit Gerry’s Roller Rink which has been in operation since the 1950’s. The owners are friendly and are dedicated to ensure you have a fun time. Whether you are a beginner or expert, this joint accommodates everyone. At pocket friendly prices, you will get to roller skate as much as you want. With such great prices and friendly staff, it is no surprise that this place has remained open all these years. Do not miss out on this opportunity to have a lot of fun.

Gerry's Roller Rink

Address: 1301 Cumberland Falls Hwy, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Opening hours:Tue: 7pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 24 hours (closed on Mon, Wed, Thu & Sun)

Price: From 2 USD

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9. Sing your heart out at Muddy Boy Karaoke

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Muddy Boy Records Karaoke on Friday, September 21, 2018

Feel like a superstar as you sing to the tune of your favorite song at Muddy Boy Karaoke. This spot occasionally features special costume nights and live performances from renowned and upcoming artists. The karaoke is overseen by Muddy Boy Records which is a major Independent Record Label. Who knows, maybe when here you will discover that singing is one of your hidden talents. Even if that is not the case, you will still have a lot of fun. Visit this spot and experience karaoke at its finest in an amazing atmosphere.

Muddy Boy Karaoke

Address: 53 Redwood Ln, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Opening hours: Thu - Sat: 7pm - 12am (closed from Sun - Wed)

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10. Watch a movie at Tri-County Cineplex

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Tri-County Cineplex on Saturday, August 18, 2012

Enjoy watching a first-run or classic film at Tri-County Cineplex. To give you an unforgettable movie watching experience, the theater features 18 inches (46 centimeters) riser stadium seating, high back rocker seats with cup holders and armrests, and sufficient legroom. This ensures your comfort as you watch your movie. The DTS sound system and crisp clear imaging add to the amazing experience. Grab your snacks from the concession stand, sit back and relax and enjoy your movie.

Tri-County Cineplex

Address: 1871 Cumberland Falls Hwy, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Tri-County Cineplex

Price: From 6 USD

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11. Enjoy a night out at Felts' Music Place

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Felts' Music Place on Sunday, March 27, 2016

Dress up, put on your dancing shoes and go to Felts’ Music Place for a fun night out. It features live music performed by local and regional bands and a DJ on the decks playing music to which you can enjoy dancing to on the large dance floor. When not on the dance floor, enjoy playing billiards and drink your refreshing cold beer. On Thursdays are open-mic nights. This place provides the ideal environment for you to let loose, dance all night and create a memorable night.

Felts' Music Place

Address: 4672 5th St Rd, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Opening hours: Fri: 8pm - 12am; Sat: 8pm - 1am (closed from Sun - Thu)

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12. Learn about the history of KFC at Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

SandersCafeKFC
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Flickr User Brent... used under CC BY 2.0

Don’t know what to do in Corbin, KY? Visit this museum and get to learn about the origin of the crispy fried and finger licking good chicken from KFC that we all love. This café was opened by Colonel Harland Sanders in the 1940s and it is during this time that he developed the famous recipe used to make KFC chicken. Get to see the kitchen where he developed the 11 herbs and spices secret recipe, his office and KFC memorabilia at the museum. Come hungry and prepared to eat the delectable chicken from the adjacent restaurant after exploring the museum.

Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

Address: 688 Hwy 25, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum

Opening hours: 10am - 9pm (daily)

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13. Discover KFC stories at the expansive Sanders Park


Visit this Colonel Sanders theme park which honors Colonel Harland Sanders who came up with the famous KFC recipe. The park features his life size bronze statue, memorials, plaques and a garden believed to contain some of the 11 ingredients that make up his secret recipe. The plaques tell stories about Colonel Sanders making this park a great place to visit if you are interested in knowing more about him. Take amazing photos beside his huge statue. There are also several benches to sit and relax in as you enjoy the surrounding scenery.

Sanders Park

Address: 201 S Main St, Corbin, KY 40701-1455

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14. Eat the best pizza in town at Snappy Tomato Pizza & Arcade

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Visit this pizzeria which was started with money won from a horse race bet. The horse that won was called Snappy Tomato and that is how the restaurant got its name. Taking pride in making their pizzas from scratch using fresh ingredients on a daily basis, this restaurant ensures it serves you delicious pizza. Choose between thin and traditional crust with flavors such as Hawaiian, barbecue chicken and veggie. The restaurant also serves hoagies, pasta, calzones, wings and salads. Do not miss out on trying these amazing pizzas that are exceptionally tasty.

Snappy Tomato Pizza & Arcade

Address: 500 Master St, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Snappy Tomato Pizza & Arcade

Opening hours: Mon - Thu, Sun: 11am - 11pm; Fri - Sat: 11am - 12am

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15. Learn the art of pottery at Campbell’s Ceramics

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Ghosts on a fence message me to order this piece or come paint it yourself or join a class! Classes are Thursdays 10-1 or 6-9 or Saturdays 10-1.

Posted by Campbell's Ceramics on Tuesday, July 6, 2021

At Campbell’s Ceramics, you will get a chance to put your creativity into use and create an amazing piece. After paying the studio fees, you can pick a ceramic of your choice at an additional cost and get to work on it. Have fun using colors to paint and decorate it. The friendly owners are available to guide you through the entire process. Once you have finished your piece of art, you can take it home. If you want it glazed, you will have to come back for it after about a week. Explore your artistic side in a fun way when at this place.

Campbell’s Ceramics

Address: 211 S Main St, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 9pm (closed on Sun)

Price: 8 USD (studio fee)

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16. Have fun shopping at Trademart Shopping Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Trademart Shopping Center - Corbin, KY on Tuesday, April 17, 2018

A day of shopping is always therapeutic and an exciting way to spend your day. Trademart Shopping Center is a shopping mall in Corbin. Stores such as Belk, Ross Dress for Less, Maurices, and JCPenney specialize in apparel, cosmetics, shoes and home furnishings. JOANN Fabrics and Crafts sell fabrics and arts and crafts supplies. Big Lots features housewares, grocery items, and furniture. With over 20 stores to shop from, you will get a variety and definitely find something you fancy buying. The mall also has restaurants such as Pizza Hut and Old Town Grill.

Trademart Shopping Center

Address: 1000 Cumberland Gap Pkwy, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: Trademart Shopping Center

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17. Indulge in some finger-licking food at Bubby's BBQ

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Bubbys on Wednesday, June 9, 2021

For that delectable barbecue, head to Bubby’s BBQ. This restaurant serves delicious barbecue, offers a full menu and a buffet featuring American cuisine. From slow-smoked pulled pork BBQ, delicious ribs, deep dried catfish to crispy fried chicken, this restaurant has it all. It takes pride in serving you with fresh and tasty foods. If you do not want a barbecue or to order from the full menu, the buffet offers variety for you to choose from. Enjoy amazing meals that are worth every penny you spend in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Bubby's BBQ

Address: 2700 Cumberland Falls Hwy, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Opening hours: Wed - Sat: 11am - 9pm; Sun: 11am - 7pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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18. Watch a live concert at The Corbin Arena

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by The Corbin Arena at The Southeastern KY Ag & Expo Complex on Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Sitting on 100,000 square feet (9,290 square meters), The Cobin Arena offers space for events. It is conveniently located making it easily accessible. With great seating, sound, and lighting system, it guarantees you of an amazing time as you watch a concert here. Feel the chills and excitement that comes with watching a live performance. The crowd and electrifying performance all contribute to this amazing experience. Buy your ticket and go prepared for an unforgettable and exciting time.

The Corbin Arena

Address: 500 Arena Dr, Corbin, KY 40701, United States

Website: The Corbin Arena

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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Corbin: a beautiful city with exciting activities

For lovers of outdoor recreation, white water rafting, hiking, fishing, boating, and spectacular scenery are waiting for you. Also, get to learn about the history of the KFC chicken that you cannot get enough of. This city has a lot of exciting things to do. Discover it using our list of things to do in Corbin, Kentucky.

You can also check out some popular places near Corbin for day trips. Airbnbs in London, 20 minutes from Corbin, are very similar, so you can easily explore this city without feeling too much out of place. You can also check out the cabin rentals in Somerset, located 50 minutes away from Corbin, for a weekend camping trip nearby.

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Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Corbin, Kentucky


Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Herine is from Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. As a travel enthusiast, she always takes interest in learning about and visiting new places. She has traveled to many places within the country,...Read more

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