The rest of KY

So this will probably be a bit of a series, but we've been trying to get out and see the surrounding area and learn more about KY beyond just Louisville. This post will include two things: one that actually required traveling and one that taught me about the state from my own city!

Over the weekend my husband and I took a trip down to Mammoth Cave which is about 1.5 hrs (75 miles) south of Louisville. The Cave is huge...actually the longest cave system in the world! They have discovered around 365 miles of paths through the caves, 12 of which are now on their walking tours. A few more miles can be done on the more strenuous "Wild Cave" tour which takes all day and is truly for those wanting to do some spelunking. We were not prepared for that, so we did the Grand Avenue tour ($24 for adults but well worth it), which was 4.5 hours and 4 miles long. It was really great and I would recommend to visitors they not do less than that tour, for you wouldn't get a real cave experience. Mammoth Cave also has a ton of mountain biking and outdoor hiking trails that are free. We didn't have the pleasure of doing any of these, but I hope to go back and tour these soon. There are also cabins, camping areas, etc for those looking for that type of trip.

My other experience with the rest of the state is the KY state fair that is currently going on in Louisville (ending 30 August) at the Fair/Expo center near Six Flags (combo tix available certain days of the fair). The fair cost $8 for adults to get in (plus $6 for parking) but was a great way to spend the day. Every county had a table so you could get any tourist information you may want. There was the typical competitions going on ranging from baking to livestock to hobbies. There was also a ton of different food, my favorite being the fresh made donuts and more bbq than you can handle. Lots of music and acts made their way to the stage. According to fair staff, KY is the third largest state fair (after TX and CA) and has the largest air conditioned facility in the country. I don't know how the ozone feels about that stat, but it did make the 95 degree day more bearable. In all it's a great way to learn and see more about the Bluegrass state!