Rolling hills, wooded landscapes, and lush meadows—there’s no shortage of stunning scenery in Georgetown, Kentucky! Whether you’re an avid hiker, a paddling enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys the serenity of nature, Georgetown has something to offer everyone.
From horseback riding scenic trails to picking apples at an orchard, these outdoor activities are a must on your next trip to Georgetown!
Mountain Biking at Lytle’s Fork Recreation Area
Grab your helmet, hop on your mountain bike, and head to Lytle’s Fork Recreation Area. This 1,100-acre woodland landscape is best known for its Skullbuster Trails, a playground for mountain bikers looking to test their skills. With 11 miles of intermediate trails, you’ll encounter various challenges, from tight turns to rocky climbs, making it a must-visit for anyone ready to push their limits.
These trails wind through serene forests, tranquil meadows, and limestone rock formations, giving you a glimpse into the region’s geological history. Prefer to explore on foot? This area also has hiking trails for every level. And they’re dog-friendly, too (leash required)!
Kayaking at Elkhorn Creek
Make a splash on Elkhorn Creek, one of the longest creeks in Kentucky! Spanning 17 miles, this peaceful creek surrounded by a thick canopy of trees is perfect for a fun day on the water. Glide along the creek in a kayak or canoe and take in the natural beauty of Central Kentucky. Bring your own gear and jump on the creek at one of the many access points, or book a rental through Kayaking the Midway. And be sure to watch for wildlife—this creek is home to plenty of Kentucky critters.
And if you’re into fishing, Elkhorn Creek is considered one of the state’s best streams for smallmouth bass!
Horseback Riding at Whispering Woods
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Georgetown, Kentucky, is on horseback. At Whispering Woods Riding Stables, you can choose from 24 horses and explore 250 acres of lush woodlands, rolling hills, and creek crossings on trails designed for every skill level. These stables offer 45- or 90-minute guided trail rides where you can learn more about the local landscape and wildlife. You might even spot a deer or turkey along the way!
If you’ve brought the little ones, book a hand-led pony ride! Don’t forget to visit the onsite Tack Shop to browse rustic home decor and horseback riding accessories like saddles, brushes, and reins—perfect souvenirs to remember your horseback riding adventures.
Pet the Horses at Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm
If you’ve ever wondered what happens to Kentucky Derby winners after they retire, visiting Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm is a must. This 136-acre farm is the final home for over 200 retired racehorses, including Breeders’ Cup Champion Amazombie, Kentucky Derby winner Silver Charm, and stakes winners Game On Dude and Ide.
On a guided walking tour, you’ll have the opportunity to meet these famous horses up close and hear more about their racing careers, personalities, and how they’re enjoying retirement. Along the way, you’ll also explore their living quarters, and you might even get to feed them a carrot or two! Keep an eye out for the farm’s many cats, including Lucy, the “office potato,” and Bobby, head of “rodent control.”
Explore Equine History at the Kentucky Horse Park
With over half a million visitors every year, the Kentucky Horse Park is another must-visit destination for horse enthusiasts. Start your visit at the International Museum of the Horse, a 64,000-square-foot museum showcasing exhibits on the relationship between humans and horses. You’ll find displays on the history of the Arabian horse, horse-drawn vehicles, and five million years of equine history.
Don’t miss the 35-minute guided horseback rides or the shorter pony rides for the little ones. Be sure to catch the Parade of Breeds show throughout the day—complete with music, narration, and hands-on activities. This show is the best way to learn more about horse breeds like the American Quarter Horse and the Marwari.
Apple Picking at Evans Orchard and Cider Mill
If you’re visiting Georgetown in the fall, a trip to Evans Orchard and Cider Mill is a must. This fifth-generation family farm, spanning 175 acres, is home to Central Kentucky’s only cider mill. Depending on the season, you can pick your own apples or pumpkins, then hop on a hayride out to the corn maze.
This farm also boasts a massive play area with a ropes course, hay castle, ball pit, and mega tube slide. The barnyard petting zoo is also a hit, with friendly goats, pigs, donkeys, and sheep. Feeling hungry? Stop by the onsite Sweet Apple Cafe for some fantastic barbecue and burgers. Treat yourself to a fresh apple cider slushie, an apple cider donut, or a fried apple pie for dessert!
Fall Fun at Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse
Spanning 185 acres, Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse offers farm markets, greenhouses, and plenty of kid-friendly activities – spending an entire day on this property would be easy! From September through November, this farm hosts Kentucky’s largest fall farm festival, complete with a 5-acre corn maze, hayrides to the pumpkin field, pumpkin picking, and the Pumpkin Vine Zip Lines. If you’re feeling brave, check out the Spooky Farmhouse—a haunted house designed for all ages.
Enjoy yard games like corn hole and life-size versions of Jenga and Connect Four for family-friendly fun. After you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite at the Farmhouse Grille, serving burgers, hot dogs, and fried apple pies. Don’t forget to visit the Sweet Shoppe for over 40 varieties of fudge and homemade baked goods—and be sure to pick up some apple cider donuts for the drive home at the country market.
Grab a Drink at Country Boy Brewing
After a day of farm fun, grab a drink at one of the local breweries. You can’t go wrong with Country Boy Brewing, one of the best local hangouts in Georgetown! Grab a table out on the patio or sit at the bar in the laid-back taproom and sample beers like the Shotgun Wedding, a brown ale aged on vanilla beans, or the Cougar Bait, an American blonde ale. If you’re in the mood for something fruitier, try the Orange Cream Cider!
The food is just as great as the brews, with options like massive burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, wings, and cheesesteak sandwiches. For a behind-the-scenes look, take a brewery tour, which is offered for the price of a beer!
