Kentucky is known for a few things, including Bourbon, baseball, and horses, and now, it’s time to let it be known for amazing romantic getaways in Kentucky. With various destinations, including cities like Louisville and small towns like Maysville, there’s no shortage of romantic getaways in Kentucky, and there’s something for every couple out there.
Enjoy Bourban? Take a trip down to Bardstown to visit their many distilleries. Want to get out in nature? Escape into the mountains of the Red River Gorge. In Kentucky, there are unique experiences for every couple out there, and we’ve brought you not only the top destinations in Kentucky but the best things to do and places to stay. So, let’s get it started with Kentucky’s largest city: Lousiville.
No time to read the whole article? NO worries! Our top recommendation for a romantic getaway in Kentucky is a trip to Bardstown, a stay at the beautiful Bourbon Manor, and a date on a bourbon distillery and tasting tour!
Romantic Getaways in Kentucky in Louisville
Don’t want to stray too far from the city? No worries! Here are some romantic getaways in Kentucky, in and around Louisville.
Romantic Things to Do + Date Ideas
Louisville: I don’t know about you, but baseball is the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, there’s so much more to enjoy, and many of the best romantic getaways in Kentucky are found here. As it’s the largest city in Kentucky, you’ll be able to find all the charms of the South with all the modernities and excitement of big city life!
To kick off the romantic things to do in Louisville, one of the best ways to enjoy the city views is hanging out on the river! Stroll along the riverwalk or join a river cruise with the Belle of Louisville cruise boats, where you can float down the river and enjoy a romantic dinner or relaxing afternoon.
Perhaps you need to feel a romantic dinner cruise; then, in this case, we suggest you satisfy your hunger with a local twist on a foodie tour, including six stops — perfect for all the foodie couples.
Another side of the fun things to do in Lousiville is to visit its spooky history. There are various tours to meet the local ghosts, including this ghost walking tour through Old Louisville or this one, which includes spirit tasting and small bites.
Lastly, we must remember to mention baseball! Of course, you’re welcome to go see a Cardinals game and bond over the fandom of whichever team is playing, but making a real treat out of your shared love for the sport, check out the Louisville Sluggers Museum and Factory.
Best Places to Stay for Kentucky Romantic Getaways Near Louisville
Here are our top recommended hotels for a romantic getaway.
Omni Louisville: Luxurious Romantic Louisville Getaway
Omni Lousiville offers a vibrant downtown escape, with plenty of onsite amenities and nearby attractions for a successful romantic getaway in Kentucky. On site, there’s a heated rooftop pool, various upscale bars and restaurants, and even the Mokara Spa — heck, you don’t even need to leave the hotel for a romantic time!
The rooms, each featuring city views through floor-to-ceiling windows, boast classic designs that exude the story of Louisville, seating, and, of course, plush bedding to get cuddly on.
The Brown Hotel: Historic Gem in Downtown Louisville
The Brown Hotel is a testament to sophistication, history, and elegance in the heart of Louisville –perfect for couples who love to indulge in luxury when staying at romantic hotels in Kentucky. The hotel offers an on-site bar, cafe, and restaurant.
The hotel radiates unique opulence from its grand lobby to the meticulously designed rooms featuring detailed wooden furniture and elegant furnishings. To add the cherry (or should we say strawberry) on top, count on their romance package and be greeted with chocolate-covered strawberries and champagne awaiting you in the room.
Inn at Saint James Court: Romantic Victorian Mansion
Nestled inside a 1900s Victorian Mansion, Saint James Court is the perfect romantic place for couples that love small and unique lodgings. Step inside Saint James Court, and you’ll be transported back in time as the rooms feature charming, historic-inspired decor. One of the best parts is that breakfast is included, so don’t worry about where to go; the Inn has got you covered!
Galt House Hotel: Romantic Kentucky Getaway Near Everything in Louisville
The Galt House Hotel is in an ideal location in Louisville to experience the best the city offers, from museums, the river walk, and the urban Bourbon trail. With spacious and charming rooms that feature city or river views, at the Galt House, you’re conveniently based to explore it all in the heart of Louisville with a cozy place to rest every night.
Romantic Getaways in Kentucky in Lexington
Things to Do + Date Ideas
Lexington is the place to plan one of the best romantic getaways in Kentucky for down-to-earth couples looking for a hip and charming Southern escape. Oh yeah, and did we mention that Lexington is the horse capital of the world?
The charm of the South seems to ring through the air in Lexington, so first things first — farm life! We can’t think of a more fun activity for couples in Lexington than enjoying a picnic with goats. Just 15 minutes outside the city, enjoy a romantic picnic lunch and make friends with the cutest goats.
Now, if goats aren’t you’re thing, and you’ve come to Lexington for the horses, there are plenty of farms to enjoy these majestic beauties.
Outside of the farm life, there are also unique sites to visit, such as the Kentucky Arboretum, perfect for a relaxing stroll among the gardens, or the Kentucky Castle, which offers fine dining on its 80 acres of land — we’ll talk more about staying there later!
Best Places to Stay for Kentucky Romantic Getaways Near Lexington
Here are our top romantic getaway hotel picks.
The Campbell House: Sophisticated Equestrian-Themed Stay
From the exterior, the Campbell House boasts historic architecture. At the same time, on the inside, it brings a modern and sophisticated equestrian-themed edge. At this romantic hotel in Kentucky, they offer spacious rooms and suites with a welcoming design ideal for resting after a long day of travel. Plus, if you want to take it easy, there’s an onsite restaurant and cafe to fuel up without having to leave.
21C Museum Hotel Lexington: Creative Hotel in Lexington For Art Lovers
The 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville combines a modern hotel with a 9,000-square-foot contemporary art museum. Housed in a former warehouse, its rooms boast high ceilings large windows, and some feature original exposed brick walls and balconies.
The minimalist design has light hues and art to echo its museum vibe. It’s a must-visit for art and history-living couples in Louisville. It also offers a spa and restaurant for date ideas when you want to stay in!
Kentucky Castle: Romantic Escape from the City
Located in Versailles, near Lexington, the Kentucky Castle is a gem of romantic getaways in Kentucky. While we encourage you to enjoy all Lexington offers, the Kentucky Castle might beckon you to stay your whole trip.
The castle is a marvel with grounds to explore, and with upscale dining and a spa, you can book an unforgettable and romantic date without leaving. With various lodgings, including private tiny homes, cabins, and spacious guest rooms, you’re both bound to not be ready to check out when the time comes.
Storybook Inn: Charming Inn in Versailles
The Storybook Inn, located outside of downtown Lexington in Versailles, is a charming and historic inn, perfectly placed to explore Lexington and its surrounding areas — including horse farms!
The inn is based in a restored home built in the 1840s, and today is a quant and quiet romantic getaway, where you enjoy your morning coffee or tea from the terrace before kicking off a busy day. Some suites include whirlpool baths, ideal for romantic escapes in the Lexington countryside.
Romantic Getaways in Kentucky in Maysville
With a population of about 8,000, Maysville is one of the ideal romantic getaways in Kentucky to indulge in peace and take things slow. You can indulge in history and the arts, re-connect with nature, or kick back and wine and dine.
If you and your partner love museums, you’ll find both the Underground Railroad Museum and the May History Museum here, transporting you into Kentucky’s past. As for arts and culture, you can visit historic theatres, including the Washington Opera House and the Russel Theatre, or check out one of the many local art galleries.
But say the weather is perfect for spending time outside, then stop by Cummins Nature Preserve or even take a drive to see the oldest covered bridge in Kentucky, the Dover Covered Bridge.
French Quarter Inn: Cute Maysville Hotel With Riverfront Views
The French Quarter Inn brings that calm ambiance couples seek when in Maysville. The hotel boasts a beautiful interior and charming, colorful, yet simple rooms. For the best widows views, book a riverside room and enjoy the sight of the bridge lit up over the rover at night — or hang out on the patio and indulge in the sunset over the river. The quiet location makes for a romantic getaway in Kentucky, plus there’s an onsite pool for some extra fun.
Romantic Getaways in Kentucky in Berea
Located about a 45-minute drive from Lexington, the Berea trip is one of the best romantic getaways in Kentucky for a weekend trip (or even a day trip from Lexington!). This small college town is the ideal place to enjoy local arts and incredible nature in Kentucky.
Kicking things off, let’s talk about food — because it’s time to indulge here in Berea, where you can find one of Kentucky’s favorite local pizza chains, Apollo Pizza. And if you’re in the mood for a sweet treat after, be sure to please your sweet tooth at the Berea Fudge Shoppe. Chocolate is the food of romance, is it not?
Next, it might be time to hike off some of that pizza and fudge as Berea is home to many trails, including the Berea Pinnacles, which offers epic views on its 6-and-a-half-mile round-trip route. And to end a day of hiking, relax and enjoy the arts of Berea by making a necessary stop to get some local artisan goodies at the Asritsan Centre or support the local play scene with a show at Spotlight Playhouse.
Nacura Ranch: Luxury Farm Stay with Goats & Horses
A stay at the Nacura Ranch Inn & Stables makes for an extra memorable experience for couples who love animals — especially horses. On the ranch, you’ll have the chance to meet the beloved resident horses, goats, dogs, and chickens, so you can live the ranch life for a short time. With only three suites, the inn provides an intimate and romantic place to stay, and the rooms feature outdoor patios. Aside from the rooms, there’s a barn loft to hang out in and a lounge where a small breakfast is served daily.
Boone Hotel & Restaurant: Historical 100-Year-Old Hotel in Berea
For over a century, the Boone Tavern, Hotel, and Restaurant has provided stellar Southern hospitality in Kentucky’s mountains, complete with an onsite cafe and Southern dishes — talk about romantic dinner nights? Plus, you can use complimentary bicycles to explore the town in a fun way.
Not just a romantic getaway, the Boone Tavern celebrates the town’s creativity, with its 63 rooms showcasing high ceilings, soaking tubs, and furnishings crafted by Berea College students.
Romantic Getaway Ideas in Kentucky in Red River Gorge
The Red River Gorge is one of the best romantic places in Kentucky for couples who love to be in nature and enjoy activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, or hiking. Plus, with plenty of dining options in the park, you’ll be able to extend any adventure date in the day into a relaxing date night.
Whatever the activity you’re into, the Red River Gorge is your outdoor escape. Extreme sports lovers (haha, pun intended) can enjoy the adrenaline rush of rock climbing or ziplining. At the same time, those seeking more tranquil activities can take their time playing golf or hiking up the trailheads.
Secluded Cabin for Perfect Romantic Getaways in Kentucky
Get ready to move in because this is one of off-the-grid romantic cabins in Kentucky that has everything you need to enjoy the outdoors together, from a mini-kitchen and loft to an outdoor fire pit and deck. Plus, you’re welcome to bring your furry children, who will love bounding around the spacious lawn. Just a 20-minute drive from the Red River Gorge Park, you’ll enjoy the seclusion of this off-the-grid cabin with easy access to the best natural destinations in the park. So bring some smores supplies, hiking boots, and country spirit; this cabin awaits you!
Red Gorge Park Resort: Convenient Place to Stay in Kentucky’s Nature
Staying at the park resort brings you to the heart of it all. With complimentary breakfast and simple rooms with views of nature, the park resort is the spot to rest after a day of adventurous outdoor endeavors. Plus, if you want to do your own cooking, suites are available with kitchens, so you don’t have to go far to enjoy a meal. Of course, there’s still an onsite restaurant for those without a kitchen — and a seasonal pool for further the onsite entertainment.
Romantic Getaways in Kentucky in Bardstown
Known as the Bourbon Capital of the world, Bardstown, located about a 45-minute drive from Louisville. This historic Kentucky town offers museums, historic sites, and distillery experiences.
No visit to Bardstown would be complete without visiting their distilleries, and this is one of the fantastic tours you can rely on to not only take you to taste the best but also give you an insight into the history and culture behind Kentuck and its famous bourbon.
Now, while we recommend bourbon tasting, there’s still lots to do on romantic getaways in Bardstown, such as visiting their unique historical experiences, including taking a ride and dining on the My Kentucky Dinner Train, or browsing the museums along Museum Row.
Bourbon Manor: Romantic Getaway in Bardstown With Spa
The Bourban Manor brings the best of relaxation to you in Bardstown, including cozy rooms and suites, a bourbon tasting room, and a spa offering couples massages. If you and your partner are looking for all-around relaxation in Bardstown, this might be the place.
The inn’s rooms are spacious, colorful, and boast historic interiors that exude Kentucky charm. Make the retreat special and book the special bourbon-tasting package, including one night in a deluxe room, a box of bourbon chocolates, distillery tour tickets, and more.
Jailhouse Inn: Former Jail Turned Historic Gem & Place to Stay
The Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast offers a distinctive blend of history and charm, making it the perfect place for history-buff couples seeking a romantic getaway in Kentucky. Constructed in 1819, it functioned as a jail up until 1987.
Now, guests can immerse themselves in rooms adorned with period designs and modern amenities like private bathrooms, some featuring soaking or jacuzzi tubs. For couples, we definitely recommend a room with a jacuzzi! Each stay includes a historical tour of the property and a complimentary breakfast in the garden during the summer months.
