Dinosaurs, Kangaroos, and Caves! The Perfect KY Fall Break Family Trip

While all of Owensboro caravans to Panama City Beach next week, you may be wondering how to make the most of Fall Break with a day or weekend trip.  If you are looking for "staycation" ideas, luckily, Kentucky is full of family-friendly attractions within driving distance.

Kangaroos, Caves, and Wigwams

One of my favorite places to visit is the Horse Cave/Cave City area in Kentucky. Centrally located in the state, it makes for a perfect day trip, or there are lots of camping options. If that's not you're thing, there are also several nice hotels/AirBnbs close by, including the Wigwam Village, where you can sleep in an adorable Tipi Motel.

Outback of the Bluegrass

I remember visiting Kentucky Down Under when I was in elementary school, and I know Sutton still takes 3rd graders there for field trips.  The last time we went, my mom AKA "Mimi" and my son, Rollins, and I had a great time exploring the Outback of the Bluegrass.

Great Kentucky Road Trip Idea

We got there as soon as it opened, so we could take our time seeing and doing everything we wanted. Mimi was still recovering from back surgery, so we rented a golf cart to ride around. I would highly recommend this for anyone with mobility issues, but to be honest, it was a really fun aspect of the park. It was super hot that day, and the cart helped us all not get whiny about it. You know what I mean, parents!

We loved all of the birds and animals along the trail. This cutie was a whole mood!

We took one of the cave tours down into Onyx Cave. It was wild how much colder it was down there. Discovered by a 10-year-old girl in 1799, Mammoth Onyx Cave has some great rock formations.

We loved feeding and petting the kangaroos! They sure do love their snacks. This one kept sniffing our toes and tickling them.

Stunning Kentucky Views

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After a stop in the gift shop to pick out matching mood ring souvenirs, we drove around the trail just enjoying being in nature. It was a wonderful day, and we made some special memories without having to travel far from home. For more information about Kentucky Down Under Adventure Park, you can visit their Facebook page or website for tickets.

Dino-Obsessed Kids Will Love Dinosaur World

We've also spent a morning at one of Kentucky's quirkiest attractions, Dinosaur World. The one and only Tyler Childers played a live show there this summer because he always wanted to go as a kid and never did. You can see clips of that show here and read more about Dinosaur World here. 

What Pairs Better Than Coffee & Antiques?

One of the best coffee shops in the state is located in Cave City. Ace Coffee is the cutest spot. It used to be an old movie theatre, and they've stayed true to the vintage feel of the space. Gathering is highly encouraged. So slow down and enjoy your creative beverage or Jalapeño, Bacon, and Pimento Cheese Quiche. There are also lots of great antique shops in the area.

Here's an awesome video that showcases more adventures you could have this fall break.