Looking for Things to Do in Kentucky in the Winter?

Animal Tracks in the Snow

Although these events have expired, there is always something to see and do in Kentucky. Visit our Kentucky Events  page for up to the minute happenings and be sure to check out our Things to Do in Kentucky  page.

My unbridled excitement for winter and snow makes me suspect that I owe an apology to those of you who hate winter. In my own family, I have several loved ones who look at me like I have two heads when I rejoice over snowfall or get giddy when I “get” to buy new gloves or winter socks.

I can’t help myself… I love winter!

Fortunately, I love each of the four seasons, so weather never gets me down. Admittedly, it’s a lot easier to come and go without snow on the ground, but these days were custom made for staying inside and drinking hot chocolate.

When you do venture out this winter (which is an excellent cure for the winter doldrums that some people suffer from), consider making your way to a Kentucky State Park.

Not only are the Kentucky State Parks open all winter, they have plenty of outdoor and indoor events planned.

These events include wildlife viewing weekends for elk, eagles, sandhill cranes, the Winter Adventure Weekend Jan. 23-25, 2014 at Carter Caves State Resort Park, a Family Adventure Weekend at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park Jan. 16-18, 2014 and 5K races.

Did you know that there are more than 250 miles of hiking trails at Kentucky State Parks?!

For those who like to stay inside, there are special events planned for a Thanksgiving Day buffet, New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day, dinner theaters, and two indoor pools at Lake Cumberland and Lake Barkley State Resort Parks.

Winter remains a busy time with many special events at our state parks, Parks Commissioner Elaine Walker said. Many groups hold meetings and holiday gatherings at our park facilities during the winter months.

All 17 resort parks will be open every weekend all winter and will be serving the annual Thanksgiving Day buffet. The winter schedule will take effect the week of Nov. 17, 2014.

Seven resort parks lodges will remain open seven days a week. They are: Cumberland Falls, General Butler, Jenny Wiley, Kentucky Dam Village, Lake Barkley, Lake Cumberland and Natural Bridge. The other 10 resort parks will have lodges and restaurants open Thursday dinner through Sunday lunch from mid-November through March 8. Groups interested in lodging, meals and meeting space should call the parks’ sales department to check on availability. All resort parks will be open seven days a week starting March 9, 2015.

Cottages at all resort parks are available for rental seven days a week.

The park system’s golf courses remain open, weather permitting. Six park campgrounds will also remain open during winter months: Carter Caves, Columbus-Belmont, Fort Boonesborough, General Butler, Paintsville Lake and Levi Jackson.

For more information about park hours and special events, visit www.parks.ky.gov or call 1-800-255-7275.