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Welcome Y’all: Meet Me in Northern Kentucky

Meet me in Northern Kentucky, the place where the South truly begins.

By Livability on March 8, 2023

Shot of a boat along the water in Northern Kentucky.

Welcome y’all to the place where the South truly begins. The northernmost tip of the Bluegrass State draws visitors in for a distinctive experience highlighted by an acclaimed dining and entertainment scene, creative spirit, historic soul and — of course — some mighty fine bourbon.

Part of the Cincy Region, Northern Kentucky features the perfect blend of Southern charm and Midwestern friendliness to ensure every guest feels right at home. Blessed with natural beauty, NKY spans three counties sprinkled with more than three dozen small towns and larger cities, anchored by Florence in Boone County, Covington in Kenton County and Newport in Campbell County.

A jockey on his horse at the Turfway's Jockey Night in Northern Kentucky.

The region offers a wealth of options to create the ideal itinerary for a family trip, romantic escape or fun weekend with friends. Cheer on the horses at Turfway Park Racing and Gaming, walk across a shark tank at Newport Aquarium and discover great art at The Carnegie. As the sun sinks down over the Ohio River, cap off the day with delicious dishes by creative chefs, great live music and shared laughter over local spirits. 

A flight of New Riff bourbon is served in Northern Kentucky.

NKY’s proximity to Cincinnati allows visitors to experience the urban vibe of a large metropolis while enjoying the ease and authenticity that comes from staying in a smaller community. When you’re ready to explore the other side of the Ohio River, travel across the iconic John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to enjoy major league sports, the renowned Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, historically important National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and massive Cincinnati Museum Center, which houses history, science and children’s museums in the art deco-style Union Terminal.  

Aerial shot of a Bengals game. Cincinnati, OH, is part of the Northern Kentucky region.

Another highlight is the amount of green space throughout the region, with more than 20,000 acres of land across  80 parks and 40 nature preserves. Just across the bridge in Ohio, the 45-acre Smale Riverfront Park connects to Paycor Stadium, home of the Cincinnati Bengals, and Great American Ball Park, where the Reds take the field.  

On the Kentucky side, soak in city views from General James Taylor Park on Newport’s riverfront. Enjoy a concert, play a round of golf or try out the new disc golf course at Devou Park in Covington. And get sporty at Boone Woods Park in Burlington with tennis, pickleball, bocce ball, disc golf and horseshoe pits. 

Fans enjoy a concert in Northern Kentucky.

Land and water trails connect the many communities along the 274-mile Ohio River Way. In Northern Kentucky, miles of pathways are ideal for hikers, trail runners, cyclists and mountain bikers. 

Whether looking for city lights or natural settings, you’ll find it here. Meet me in Northern Kentucky to discover all the region offers.

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