Kentucky is where 95% of world bourbon comes from, and the Corbin is a small town in the southeast part famous for nearby beautiful falls and as a home of Kentucky Fried Chicken. The city lies within the Appalachians, surrounded by the incredible Daniel Boone National Forest. If you travel on Interstate 75 between Knoxville and Lexington, Corbin can be a great place to explore nature while offering plenty of attractions for a whole day or two.
Going to Kentucky
If you plan on exploring the South on the crossroads of Kentucky, Tennessee, West Virginia and North Carolina, you will need travel authorization. ESTA Visa for America is the best option to get to the US. You can expect the resolution of your application within three days. After that, you can visit for up to 90 days with a valid ESTA.
Kentucky has numerous attractions you should definitely check out during the visit, like Mammoth Cave National Park, which is the most extensive cave system globally. Also, the Bluegrass State is home to the best bourbon manufacturers. In addition, it’s known for horse racing and breeding.
What to do in Corbin?
Harland Sanders Café and Museum is a restaurant where Colonel Sanders worked and developed its formula for Kentucky Fried Chicken back in the 1940s. You can find KFC related memorabilia. Also, see the original design of the place with modernized amenities.
Outside of the town, you can find the Niagaras of the South within a short driving distance. In beautiful Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, you can find the impressive Cumberland Falls, a 60-feet high waterfall, and one of the few in the world with a moonbow above the powerful and abundant water stream that pours over the edge. Aside from guided tours to the waterfall, State Park offers more than 15 miles of hiking trails. You can swim in warmer months, have a picnic or go on rafting.
Laurel River Lake is a vast water reservoir built by the American army in 1977 on the Laurel River. Its located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, and it attracts big crowds each year. You can relax in a secluded cove, go fishing, swimming, and scuba diving. There is also numerous water sport available in spots on the lake.
Although relatively small, Corbin has a wide selection of restaurants with various cousins like Italian, home cooking, stakes, and even seafood. In addition, downtown Corbin has a few antique shops, bars and a pleasant area to take a stroll and enjoy southern hospitality.
Things to do in Harrodsburg KY
Another authentic small town in Kentucky you might want to visit is Harrodsburg. Founded in 1774, it is the oldest city in the state, and its located in the centre of Kentucky near Lexington. The historic district has well-preserved houses, restaurants and shops on Main Street. Buildings are from the late 19th century, and in nearby Olde Towne Park, you can enjoy a huge cascading fountain.
One of the most famous historical monuments in Old Fort Harrod State Park features wooden structures on the original Fort Harrod, established in 1774. The location was the first permanent settlement of settlers in Kentucky. You can find a full-scale replica of the settlement and original furnishing.
If you’re travelling with the family, visit Devine’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch. A colossal maze is within the historic James McAfee Farm. Besides exploring the corn maze, the farm offers hayrides, zipline and other activities. You can also grab ingredients at the local Farm market.
After going through Harrodsburg attractions, you can rest a bit in Lemon’s Mill Brewery, which offers more than 15 varieties of their own beer and a wide selection of guest beverages.
Things to do in Central City, KY
Going to the southwest from Harrodsburg, another attractive small town awaits. Central City is a northern and less known relative of Nashville, both cities with musical heritage. Central City is home to the famous Everly Brothers. In addition, a legendary country songwriter and representative of picking guitar playing Merle Travis is also from the area. Other attractions of Central City include an antique car show and various options for outdoor recreation.
Before booking a flight for your US visit, you should wait for travel authorization. You can always click on check my ESTA Application status to see whether it’s granted, or if you forgot how much it lasts, you can check if it is still valid.
Bottom line
Kentucky may not focus on the mainstream tourism industry, but its state relies heavily on visitors. Aside from natural beauty and historical landmarks, you can explore small towns with rich history and numerous attractions. Kentucky is home to the best world bourbon, and Corbin is the birthplace of KFC.
