Tour Stunning Kentucky Gardens

Known for abundant natural beauty, it’s no wonder that Kentucky also prides itself on its horticultural attractions. Below are just some of the beautiful arboretums and botanical gardens you can visit on your getaway.

Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest

Particularly great for any spring or summer visit to Kentucky, the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is must-visit destination. Found almost directly should of Louisville, and a short drive from Shepherdsville, the Bernheim Arboretum and Forest yields full days of tours, hikes, and educational talks.

Spread across 14,000 lush acres of central Kentucky land, the Bernheim Forest features a wide range of hand crafted statues, walk ways, museums, and is ideal for bird watching. Bernheim also features night programs, like the Full "Falling Leaves" Moon Hike, held on every full moon night.

The Arboretum

Take time to unwind in Lexington, the "Horse Capital of the World." Visit the campus of the University of Kentucky, located south of downtown Lexington, to stroll through the two-mile path of the wonderful 100-acre Arboretum. Established in 1991, this eastern Kentucky Arboretum provides environmental education for the entire community and features a variety of plants, gardens and greenspace.

View the Rose Garden, Herb Garden, Perennial Garden, Fragrance Garden, the Ground Cover Display, the Home Fruit and Nut Plantings, Historic Trees and Wetland. Visit from nearby Georgetown and see the fish pond, gazebo, fountains and Children's Garden – just a few of the features of the Arboretum. While on-site, visit the Dorotha Smith Oatts Visitor Center to view the exhibits and displays or partake in one of the special events.

Yuko-En on the Elkhorn

Enjoy the peace, tranquility, and overall ambiance of the Yuko-En on the Elkhorn – the official Kentucky-Japan Friendship Garden. Make your way into Georgetown, the charming city found just north of Lexington, and you'll find Yuko-En on the Elkhorn along Broadway Street and Payne Avenue.

Operated by the Scott Education and Community Foundation, Yuko-En on the Elkhorn is open year round, and hosts nearly 50,000 annual visitors. This impressive friendship garden was built in 2000, and features some highlights like the Zen Garden, Tahara Snow Lantern, and the Elkhorn Viewing Hut.