Sample Northern Kentucky’s History, Attractions and Bourbon
Northern Kentucky provides a terrific array of attractions, restaurants and activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Sponsored by: meetNKY
Meet Northern Kentucky’s vibrant communities filled with historic sites, family fun, distinctive dining, fast horses and some mighty fine bourbon.
Part of the Cincy Region, this is where North meets South, and cultures collide. Enjoy Cincinnati’s urban offerings and major league teams on one side of the Ohio River, then cross over to the Bluegrass State to experience the Southern charm, creative spirit and natural beauty of Northern Kentucky. Last year, Condé Nast Traveler named NKY & Cincinnati one of the nation’s Best Places to Go – and there’s even more in store for 2024.
In This Article
Covington Offers All Kinds of Fun Amenities
A bridge-walk away from downtown Cincinnati, Covington features a vibrant art scene, enticing restaurants and charming historic districts, including Mainstrasse Village and Licking Riverside Historic District, home to the Baker Hunt Art and Cultural Center.
Public art is everywhere. The murals on the iconic Roebling Bridge floodwall depict 10,000 years of local history, while one of the city’s newest art installations Clive the Alien – goes futuristic.
Covington’s creativity is also on display at treasure-filled local shops like Hometown Vintage, Coda Co., Sole by Style and Handzy.
Additions to the city’s celebrated food scene include Opal Rooftop with a grill-centered menu; Honey Uninhibited’s un-bee-lievable Southern brunches; and Mama’s on Main, recently named the best new restaurant in the entire Cincy Region.
Sample the perfect mix of quaint and quirky in nearby Ludlow, known for Spanish tapas at Conserva and the surreal combination of circus meets beer at Bircus Brewing Co.
Florence Is Family-Friendly
The landmark “Florence Y’all” water tower offers a warm welcome to this family-friendly destination.
Burn off energy at Full Throttle Adrenaline Park, root for the home team at a Florence Y’alls baseball game and get in the swing of things at World of Golf.
For more family activities, make the short drive the Ark Encounter in Williamstown or Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Union, which highlights the area’s prehistoric past.
Florence is great for grown-ups, too. At Turfway Park Racing & Gaming, enjoy an action-packed day of horse racing before dancing the night away. When it’s time to turn in, the city has a host of hotel options including the new Hilton Garden Inn.
Enjoy a modern twist on a Southern staple at Maple Street Biscuit Co., sample homemade Mexican and Venezuelan dishes at La Torta Loca and fuel up on classic comfort food at Ford’s Garage.
Head to Newport in Northern Kentucky for Entertainment
Newport packs a lot of entertainment into 3.5 square miles. With a front-row view of the Cincy skyline, the riverfront area is home to a large selection of dining, retail and live entertainment venues.
MegaCorp Pavilion at Ovation is a favorite concert spot, the multilevel Newport on the Levee includes the award-winning Newport Aquarium and nearby Truist Arena at Northern Kentucky University hosts everything from college sports to comedy.
Sample local dining favorites in Newport and neighboring Dayton, including Amador Cuban, Galactic Fried Chicken and Lil’s Kitchen at Roebling Books & Coffee. For a twist on tradition, book an immersive experience at New Riff Distillery and take home a custom etched bottle of bourbon or rye.
Don’t Miss the B-Line Bourbon Tour in Northern Kentucky
No trip to Northern Kentucky is complete without sampling the state’s most famous export. Hop on the self-guided B-Line® bourbon tour with 25 stops throughout the region.
For more information, visit meetnky.com.
