12 Best Things To Do In Northern Kentucky

things to do in northern kentucky
Louise
Louise 
Updated
| 5 min read

Located in the Midwest region of the US, Kentucky is a breathtaking state with lots to offer. It is famous for its beautiful parks, horse racing, bourbon, and tobacco. This state is home to cities and towns such as Louisville, Lexington, Frankfort, Bowling Green, Paducah, Owensboro, and more. Northern Kentucky is exceptionally charming as well. Here, you will find the vibrant counties of Boone, Campbell, and Kenton. In Boone County, you can visit Union, Burlington, and Hebron, while Campbell has Alexandria, Newport, and Dayton. In Kenton, you will find Covington, Independence, and Taylor Mill. No need to worry about accommodations too as Northern Kentucky offers plenty of places, ranging from Airbnb vacation rentals in Lexington to historic hotels in Louisville.Planning to explore this side of the country? Check out our list of the best things to do in Northern Kentucky.

1. Play a round of golf at A.J. Jolly Golf Course in Alexandria

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

Posted by A.J. Jolly Golf Course on Sunday, October 30, 2022

A.J. Jolly Golf Course is a hidden gem for golf enthusiasts. Located in Alexandria, Kentucky, this 18-hole course provides a serene and nature-friendly environment for an enjoyable golfing experience. Spanning 6,235 yards and boasting a par of 71, it offers a satisfying challenge for players of all skill levels.

The rates are reasonable, ranging from $18 for 9 holes walking to $57 for 18 holes riding in a cart. This affordability, combined with the exceptional quality of the course, makes A.J. Jolly a must-visit for golf enthusiasts in search of a memorable golfing experience.

A.J. Jolly Golf Course

Address: 11541 Alexandria Pike, Alexandria, KY 41001

Website: A.J. Jolly Golf Course

Price: Starts from 18 USD

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2. Visit Behringer-Crawford Museum in Covington

This museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the unique arts, heritage, and culture of Northern Kentucky. It used to showcase the impressive collections of William Behringer, featuring fossils, minerals, and animal specimens from around the world. Today, it has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub, offering engaging educational experiences in history, art, music, and more for visitors of all ages.

Adjacent to the museum’s main parking lot, NaturePlay@BCM provides an additional treat for visitors. This free and accessible green space offers a world of adventure for children and families. The gardens, filled with native plants and shrubs, create a serene environment where kids can engage with nature while learning about heritage and natural history.

Behringer-Crawford Museum

Address: 1600 Montague Road - Devou Park, Covington, Kentucky, 41011

Website: Behringer-Crawford Museum

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3. Explore the hills on a horseback riding adventure at First Farm Inn in Petersburg

Horseback riding
Source: Pixabay

If you are going on a vacation in Kentucky, the charming community of Petersburg has lots to offer to its visitors. For nature-lovers and those who are into outdoor adventure, First Farm Inn is a place that you must not miss while in town. Nestled in the vast countryside, this attraction is an inn that was built in the 19th century. Rooms in the hotel are excellent as they are beautifully decorated, cozy, and have WiFi access. Its main attraction is its night sky effect on the ceilings. Besides the hotel, lots of tourists choose to book accommodation at First Farm Inn because it has a horseback-riding school. Experience riding a friendly horse as you explore the countryside and enjoy the fresh air.

First Farm Inn

Address: 2510 Stevens Rd, Petersburg, KY 41080, United States

Website: First Farm Inn

Opening hours: 8am - 5pm (daily)

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4. Meet exotic aquatic creatures at Newport Aquarium

Newport Aquarium
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Sorah Fukumori used under CC BY 3.0

One place to visit in Northern Kentucky with your family is the Newport Aquarium. From its name, you can tell that this is a fun-filled aquarium that revolves around marine life. It has aquariums that house different species of marine animals. You will get to see sharks, rays, eels, crabs, octopuses, penguins, alligators, and a lot more. Get ready to be fascinated by stunning exhibits including Shipwreck Realm of the Eels, Freshwater Falls, Gator Alley, and Frog Bog. Not only that, but Newport Aquarium also offers activities that everyone can try.

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5. Enjoy a dinner cruise along Ohio River with BB Riverboats

Cruise
Source: Pixabay

Another thing to do in Northern Kentucky this weekend is to have a lovely dinner on a boat while sailing down the Ohio River. If you like the idea, score a ticket in one of the many dinner cruise packages of BB Riverboats. This Newport-based tour agency has daily sightseeing tours and dining escapades offered for tourists. Lunch and holiday cruises are also available, but if you are with your partner, you might want to opt for StoneBrook Winery Sunset Cruise as the views of the sunset add romance to the experience. Plus, events can be arranged for large groups. Every cruise experience comes with a lavish buffet and a bar.

BB Riverboats

Address: 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071, United States

Website: BB Riverboats

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6. Check out the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington

Best Things To Do In Northern Kentucky
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Nheyob used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Wondering what to do in Northern Kentucky? Visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington. This remarkable church was built in 1895. Designed by Leon Coquard, this cathedral is styled on the famous Notre-Dame de Paris. Its structure is made of Bedford stone, while red Ludovici tiles make up its roofs. Although it was renovated in 2002, you can still see some of its original features. Your Covington visit will not be complete without dropping by this holy cathedral.

Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington

Address: 1140 Madison Ave, Covington, KY 41011, United States

Website: Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption

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7. Discover what's inside Noah's Ark at Ark Encounter in Williamstown

Ark Encounter
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user OlinEJ used under CC0

Williamstown is one of the many beautiful cities in Northern Kentucky with a lot to offer. Besides the gorgeous lakes and charming parks, Ark Encounter is another popular attraction in town. This family-friendly facility, which is 510 feet (155 meters) long, 85 feet (25 meters) wide, and 51 feet (15 meters) high, is a replica of Noah’s Ark in the Bible. Inside, there are three decks with world-class exhibits narrating the biblical tale. On your visit here, you will learn how Noah tended to the animals during the Flood, and how the vessel was able to fit all the animals on board.

Ark Encounter

Address: 1 Ark Encounter Dr, Williamstown, KY 41097, United States

Website: Ark Encounter

Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 10am - 6pm; Wed - Fri: 10am - 8:30pm; Sat: 9am - 8:30pm; Sun:1pm - 8:30pm

Price: From 15 USD

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8. Take a canoe trip along Licking River

Canoeing
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mahyongg used under CC BY-SA 3.0

You will never run out of places to visit and things to do in Northern Kentucky. If you like extreme adventures, why not go on a canoe trip along Licking River in Butler, Kentucky. To help you with accommodations and preparation, book one at Thaxton’s Canoe and Paddler’s Inn. The hotel offers cabins for families, couples, and solo wanderers. It offers canoe rentals for tourists who wish to take on the challenge of gliding through the waters of the Licking River. You can book group tours or join a group. You can also choose a 6-mi (10 km) trip, 12-mi (19 km) trip, or 18-mi (28 km) trip, depending on your endurance. Besides canoeing, fishing is also a fun activity to do in the river as it is home to more than a hundred species of fish.

Thaxton's Canoe and Paddlers' Inn

Address: 33 Hornbeek Rd, Butler, KY 41006, United States

Website: Thaxton’s Canoe and Paddlers’ Inn

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 7pm; Fri - Sun: 8am - 7pm

Price: 25 USD

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9. See a herd of bison at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Union

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mattguyver used under CC BY 3.0

Nestled in Big Bone in Boone County, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is a fascinating park whose name was derived from Pleistocene megafauna fossils found in the area. It is a paradise filled with trees, beautiful lakes, and hiking trails waiting for tourists who like outdoor activities and cardio exercises. Tourists can camp in the park overnight with a total of 62 campsites available. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site has an on-site museum with updated exhibits. Another thing that people love doing in the park is bison and birdwatching. It also has a minigolf course, a playground, a tennis court, and a swimming pool.

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

Address: 3380 Beaver Rd, Union, KY 41091, United States

Website: Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

Opening hours: 6am - 9:30pm (daily)

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10. Enjoy a beer at the rooftop of Braxton Brewing Company in Covington

Beer
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user U3144362 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

You can’t just end your Covington visit without a beer at Braxton Brewing Company. It is an excellent bar that showcases a rustic, industrial-style interior with yellow lighting that creates a cozy atmosphere indoors. Most people like to take advantage of the rooftop bar because of the fresh air and stunning city views. The best part? Braxton Brewing Company offers rotating seasonal brews.

Braxton Brewing Company

Address: 27 W 7th St, Covington, KY 41011

Website: Braxton Brewing Companyt

Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 3pm - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 12pm - 9pm

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11. Learn more about the history of the Bible at Creation Museum in Petersburg

Creation Museum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user David Berkowitz used under CC BY 2.0

Creation Museum is a 75000-square-foot (6967-square-meter) facility located in Petersburg. The museum is open to tourists who want to learn more about the creation of the world. Inside, there are exhibits on biblical history, botanical gardens, a petting zoo, and a planetarium. To add to the fun, this building also features a 200-seat special-effects theater, animatronic dinosaurs, and a zipline adventure course. With a lot of things to keep everyone occupied, there’s no better way to spend some quality time with your family than taking them to this state-of-the-art museum.

Creation Museum

Address: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Rd, Petersburg, KY 41080, United States

Website: Creation Museum

Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 10am - 8:30pm; Sat: 9am - 8:30pm; Sun: 1 - 8:30pm (closed on Thu & Fri)

Price: 30 USD

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12. Indulge in Covington's cuisine and culture in a guided walking tour (from USD 75.0)

Covington is a beautiful city in Kentucky that boasts gorgeous bodies of water, luxurious hotels, excellent dining spots, and a vibrant nightlife. It is a hideaway destination for tourists who like to relax and indulge in luxurious attractions. If you are the type of tourist who is a certified foodie, be sure to explore MainStrasse Village’s pubs and eateries. Make sure to take souvenir pictures at the iconic Goebel Park and witness the gorgeous Cincinnati sky at Huge Devou Park. If you want to make the most of your time in Covington, check out this guided walking tour by Viator.

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Roebling Point Food and Culture Tour in Covington KY

Duration: 3 hours

11 reviews

Have a merry holiday in Northern Kentucky

Northern Kentucky has cities and towns that offer an abundance of attractions, from natural wonders and iconic landmarks to upscale shopping centers and dining spots. If you are longing for an adventure, plan an exciting trip to Northern Kentucky.

Editor’s Note: Due to Covid-19, the business hours of Creation Museum and Ark Encounter may differ from the stated timings in this article. Please be sure to check the updated hours from their websites.

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Frequently asked questions about best things to do in Northern Kentucky


  • What cheap activities are available in Northern Kentucky?

    Northern Kentucky offers a range of affordable activities for those looking to have fun without breaking the bank. A few options are checking out the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington and exploring the hills on a horseback riding adventure at First Farm Inn in Petersburg.

  • What are the top attractions to visit in Northern Kentucky?

    Northern Kentucky is filled with a diverse range of attractions that offer something for everyone. Some of the top attractions to visit in the region are Newport Aquarium with its mesmerizing array of marine life and Ark Encounter, a life-sized replica of Noah’s Ark.

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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She is a lover of life and a very optimistic person. She thinks of herself as a vessel of a billion possibilities, which can harness limitless potential. Trying new experiences, going places she's...Read more

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