It’s summer! That means kids are out of school and there is a little more time to explore and enjoy some of the great things around us. Some families are heading off to the beach, the mountains or out on family vacations. But for many others, work schedules and budgets don’t allow for long or extravagant time away.
Here are five options that don’t cost a penny for admission. Who says you have to head out of state to enjoy a summer adventure?
- Mcconnell Springs, Lexington: This is a free historical site hidden minutes from downtown Lexington behind several industries and businesses. It is clearly marked, easy to find and worth the time. There is a nature education center with books, puppets, turtles, posters and chairs where you can view the local birds and wildlife. A very easy paved walkway takes you through the woods past the Blue Hole and Boils Springs. Along the path are some beautiful stone fences and picturesque photo ops. http://www.reallifedeals.com/?p=18692
- World’s First Kentucky Fried Chicken, Corbin: If you love Kentucky Fried Chicken, and you are traveling on U.S. 75 between Lexington and Knoxville, you need to stop for your next meal at the original, very first KFC. You can sit beside a life size Colonel Sanders, take a look at the first kitchen and view several display cases with Colonel Sanders memorabilia. I loved the atmosphere. You actually eat in the original dining room. Note: The prices are the same as any KFC, but it’s the atmosphere and decor that make it worth the stop! There is no charge to view the displays and memorabilia http://www.reallifedeals.com/?p=18888. You can drive 10 minutes from KFC and hike over to the Cumberland Falls. http://www.reallifedeals.com/?p=18871
- Salato Wildlife Center, Frankfort: This is a great place to see Kentucky live wildlife up close (bear, deer, elk, buffalo, wildcat, eagle, fish…….) plus an inside museum with lots of interactive exhibits. We’ve visited Salato many times over the past 7 years and had a great time. Each time we visit, they have added or enhanced the exhibits. If you have not visited Salato, you need to add this to your summer list. http://www.reallifedeals.com/?p=24838
- Natural Bridge, Slade (45 minute east of Lexington): This is a Kentucky State Park with a natural rock arch and an amazing hike.
Tips for your hike to the top:
- This is not a hike for strollers, the injured or those with health issues. There are many steps.
- Wear tennis shoes, not flip flops.
- The path is well marked and has rails on most of the trail but not on the bridge or at the lookouts.
- It may take several hours so take a bottle of water or a snack.
- There are benches positioned along the trail.
- There is a small wildlife center that is free and open to the public.
- Paddleboats, swimming and picnic areas are available as well.
Once you get to the top of the hike, you will need to go through two rock walls and climb a stone staircase. If you decide you don’t want to tackle the hike or squeeze through the staircase, you can ride the skylift. This wasn’t open when we got there, so if you plan to ride this better call first!
The view is worth the hike! The kids are so proud of themselves that they have hiked to the top of the Natural Bridge. What a great day. http://www.reallifedeals.com/?p=26593
Kentucky has so many amazing places to visit, things to experience and memories waiting to happen. Take some time this week and get out there and save some money by enjoying real life in Kentucky.
Sharon Williams blogs about saving money in real life at www.reallifedeals.com and ways to pursue your hobbies without breaking your budget at www.hobbiesonabudget.com
