Nicholasville, Kentucky is a charming city located in the heart of the Bluegrass Region. Known for its beautiful horse farms and rich history, Nicholasville offers a variety of family-friendly attractions that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. As a local expert, I am excited to share some of the top attractions in Nicholasville that are perfect for families.
1.High Bridge Park
High Bridge Park is a must-visit attraction for families in Nicholasville. This 250-acre park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a splash pad for those hot summer days.But the highlight of the park is the High Bridge itself, which is the highest railroad bridge in the world and offers stunning views of the Kentucky River. For families with older children, there is also a zip line course that runs through the park, providing an exhilarating experience for all. And if you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of some wildlife such as deer or wild turkeys while exploring the park.
2.Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park
History buffs will love visiting Camp Nelson Civil War Heritage Park, which was once a Union Army supply depot during the Civil War. Today, the park offers guided tours and educational programs that provide insight into this significant period in American history. The park also has several hiking trails that lead to historic sites such as the remains of a hospital and barracks from the Civil War era. Families can also enjoy a picnic at one of the designated areas or attend one of the many events held at the park throughout the year.3.Jessamine County Public Library
The Jessamine County Public Library is not your average library.This state-of-the-art facility offers a variety of programs and activities for families, including storytime for young children, book clubs for teens, and even a makerspace where kids can explore their creativity through technology and hands-on projects. The library also hosts special events throughout the year, such as author visits, movie nights, and holiday-themed activities. And with a vast collection of books, movies, and other resources, the Jessamine County Public Library is a great place for families to spend a rainy day.
4.The Kentucky Castle
No trip to Nicholasville is complete without a visit to The Kentucky Castle. This stunning castle is not only a luxurious hotel and restaurant but also offers a variety of family-friendly activities. Kids will love exploring the castle's secret passages and hidden rooms while learning about its history. The castle also hosts special events such as princess tea parties and knight training camps for children.And for the adults, there are wine tastings, cooking classes, and live music events. The Kentucky Castle truly has something for everyone in the family.
5.Chrisman Mill Vineyards
For families with older children or those looking for a more relaxed outing, Chrisman Mill Vineyards is the perfect destination. This family-owned winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines and tours of their beautiful vineyards. But what sets Chrisman Mill Vineyards apart is its family-friendly atmosphere. Kids can enjoy playing in the outdoor games area while parents relax on the patio with a glass of wine.And on select weekends, the vineyard hosts live music events that are fun for the whole family.
6.The Aviation Museum of Kentucky
Located just a short drive from Nicholasville in Lexington, the Aviation Museum of Kentucky is a must-visit for families with aviation enthusiasts. The museum features over 20 aircraft, including vintage planes and military jets, as well as interactive exhibits and flight simulators. The museum also offers guided tours and educational programs that provide a fascinating look into the history of aviation. And for those who want to take their experience to new heights, the museum also offers biplane rides over the beautiful Bluegrass Region.7.The Kentucky Horse Park
No trip to Nicholasville would be complete without a visit to the Kentucky Horse Park. This 1,200-acre park is dedicated to all things horses and offers a variety of activities for families.Kids can take pony rides, visit the barns to see different breeds of horses, and even watch a live horse show. The park also has a museum that showcases the history of horses in Kentucky and offers guided tours of its famous Hall of Champions, where retired racehorses now call home. And for those who want to get up close and personal with these majestic animals, there are opportunities for horseback riding and carriage rides.
