There are many ways to experience the natural beauty and history of Kentucky, and one of the best to do it is from the water. Whether kayaking down a hidden creek or riding on a top-notch riverboat, there are several options in the Bluegrass State to see and learn from a boat. There is one excursion that is based in Frankfort and is run through Kentucky State University that is not only informative and scenic, but also free. The Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise is the perfect way to spend a day in The Bluegrass State, and we have all the details you need to plan your own adventure.
There are many ways to get out on the water in Kentucky, but if you’re looking for a free opportunity that focuses on education, then check out the Kentucky River Thorobred.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. The tours aboard this 52-foot Coast Guard certified vessel are run through Kentucky State University and are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That means this free, educational opportunity is open to the public.
The Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise has both indoor and outdoor space, and fits dozens of passengers.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. It is essentially a floating classroom, so while you will enjoy the beautiful scenery on this trip, you can also expect to learn quite a bit about what happens along the Kentucky River.
The trips depart from River View Park in Frankfort between late spring through early fall.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. To check the upcoming schedule for public tour dates and to reserve your tickets, visit their Facebook Events Page here. The tours are free, but you do have to reserve a spot by calling or emailing ahead of time.
The 90-minute cruise heads down the Kentucky River for a relaxing and educational trip.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. There are some weekend and longer trips available as well. Follow along on Facebook (linked below) for up-to-date event information and offerings.
You may get to experience a trip to the dam as a part of your tour, which is as interesting as it is eye-catching.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. During a tour, you can also expect to learn about water quality, watershed, the history of the Kentucky River, environmental facts, and more.
Sit back and take in the views while you listen to the experts.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. The large boat takes you on a relaxing trip along the river, and it doesn’t get much better than this free experience on a beautiful Kentucky day.
Tours are available throughout the summer and into fall, so be sure to plan your visit now.
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat. If you’re looking for a fancy riverboat cruise with a meal, this isn’t the experience for you; however, if you are interested in learning about this area of the Bluegrass State, this free nature cruise in Kentucky is perfect for a summer outing.
A ride on the Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise is a wonderful way to spend a day here in the Bluegrass State. Take this free cruise to experience nature, learn about the landscape of our state, and embark on a unique adventure that shows off the beauty and history of Kentucky. Have you heard of this little-known free cruise? Have you enjoyed a ride on the Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise? Let us know in the comments!
Facebook/Kentucky State University Kentucky River Thorobred Boat.
The tours aboard this 52-foot Coast Guard certified vessel are run through Kentucky State University and are funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That means this free, educational opportunity is open to the public.
It is essentially a floating classroom, so while you will enjoy the beautiful scenery on this trip, you can also expect to learn quite a bit about what happens along the Kentucky River.
To check the upcoming schedule for public tour dates and to reserve your tickets, visit their Facebook Events Page here. The tours are free, but you do have to reserve a spot by calling or emailing ahead of time.
There are some weekend and longer trips available as well. Follow along on Facebook (linked below) for up-to-date event information and offerings.
During a tour, you can also expect to learn about water quality, watershed, the history of the Kentucky River, environmental facts, and more.
The large boat takes you on a relaxing trip along the river, and it doesn’t get much better than this free experience on a beautiful Kentucky day.
If you’re looking for a fancy riverboat cruise with a meal, this isn’t the experience for you; however, if you are interested in learning about this area of the Bluegrass State, this free nature cruise in Kentucky is perfect for a summer outing.
And for more information on the cruise, visit this website here and follow along on Facebook here. If you have any questions about the cruise, email kysuboat@gmail.com.
For another river cruise in Kentucky that’s worth a try, check out our previous article here. And if you’re looking for a romantic river cruise that’s date-night worthy, this Sunset Wine Cruise is for you!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Kentucky River, Kentucky, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise March 11, 2021 Sarah What are some other river cruises in Kentucky? In addition to the Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise, you’ll find lots of opportunities to explore The Bluegrass State by water. Within the popular destination of Shaker Village in Harrodsburg, the Dixie Belle has come back to life and it’s carrying passengers down the Kentucky River. They offer a cruise aboard their 115-passenger riverboat, the Dixie Belle. It’s a unique way to learn more about this treasured area of Kentucky. It’s the very best way to view the scenic Kentucky River Palisades, high limestone cliffs, and untouched natural beauty along the banks of the river. You can relax in a seat and enjoy the sublime river views. What are some free things to do in Kentucky? You can definitely explore The Bluegrass State on a budget, as there are plenty of fun things you can do for free! In fact, some of the very best parks and natural attractions in Kentucky can be explored for free. One of the most breathtaking sites in all of Kentucky is from the top of Natural Bridge in Slade, KY – and admission to this park won’t cost you a dime. Once you enter Natural Bridge State Resort Park, hike the Original Trail, which is less than a mile, up to the top of Natural Bridge to soak up the beauty of Red River Gorge. Enjoy million-dollar views, for free! Another stunner is Cumberland Falls, where you can see one of the most glorious natural phenomenon in the world, a moonbow (that’s a moon-lit rainbow!). The only other place in the world where a moonbow happens on a consistent basis is Victoria Falls in Africa, so it’s pretty cool that you can see one at Cumberland Falls in Kentucky. The moonbow happens around and during full moons on clear nights. Does Kentucky have a lot of rivers? The Bluegrass State could easily be called “The River State,” as Kentucky boasts 2,982 miles of rivers! There are some truly resplendent rivers here, too: Cumberland River, Kentucky River, Mississippi River, and Green River are some of the most glorious. And of course, there’s the Ohio River. The Ohio River borders Kentucky from Indiana, Ohio, and part of Illinois. It has some amazing riverfront parks and is a popular waterway for boating, including the famed Belle of Louisville.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise
March 11, 2021
Sarah
What are some other river cruises in Kentucky? In addition to the Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise, you’ll find lots of opportunities to explore The Bluegrass State by water. Within the popular destination of Shaker Village in Harrodsburg, the Dixie Belle has come back to life and it’s carrying passengers down the Kentucky River. They offer a cruise aboard their 115-passenger riverboat, the Dixie Belle. It’s a unique way to learn more about this treasured area of Kentucky. It’s the very best way to view the scenic Kentucky River Palisades, high limestone cliffs, and untouched natural beauty along the banks of the river. You can relax in a seat and enjoy the sublime river views. What are some free things to do in Kentucky? You can definitely explore The Bluegrass State on a budget, as there are plenty of fun things you can do for free! In fact, some of the very best parks and natural attractions in Kentucky can be explored for free. One of the most breathtaking sites in all of Kentucky is from the top of Natural Bridge in Slade, KY – and admission to this park won’t cost you a dime. Once you enter Natural Bridge State Resort Park, hike the Original Trail, which is less than a mile, up to the top of Natural Bridge to soak up the beauty of Red River Gorge. Enjoy million-dollar views, for free! Another stunner is Cumberland Falls, where you can see one of the most glorious natural phenomenon in the world, a moonbow (that’s a moon-lit rainbow!). The only other place in the world where a moonbow happens on a consistent basis is Victoria Falls in Africa, so it’s pretty cool that you can see one at Cumberland Falls in Kentucky. The moonbow happens around and during full moons on clear nights. Does Kentucky have a lot of rivers? The Bluegrass State could easily be called “The River State,” as Kentucky boasts 2,982 miles of rivers! There are some truly resplendent rivers here, too: Cumberland River, Kentucky River, Mississippi River, and Green River are some of the most glorious. And of course, there’s the Ohio River. The Ohio River borders Kentucky from Indiana, Ohio, and part of Illinois. It has some amazing riverfront parks and is a popular waterway for boating, including the famed Belle of Louisville.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
In addition to the Kentucky River Thorobred Cruise, you’ll find lots of opportunities to explore The Bluegrass State by water. Within the popular destination of Shaker Village in Harrodsburg, the Dixie Belle has come back to life and it’s carrying passengers down the Kentucky River. They offer a cruise aboard their 115-passenger riverboat, the Dixie Belle. It’s a unique way to learn more about this treasured area of Kentucky. It’s the very best way to view the scenic Kentucky River Palisades, high limestone cliffs, and untouched natural beauty along the banks of the river. You can relax in a seat and enjoy the sublime river views.
What are some free things to do in Kentucky?
You can definitely explore The Bluegrass State on a budget, as there are plenty of fun things you can do for free! In fact, some of the very best parks and natural attractions in Kentucky can be explored for free. One of the most breathtaking sites in all of Kentucky is from the top of Natural Bridge in Slade, KY – and admission to this park won’t cost you a dime. Once you enter Natural Bridge State Resort Park, hike the Original Trail, which is less than a mile, up to the top of Natural Bridge to soak up the beauty of Red River Gorge. Enjoy million-dollar views, for free! Another stunner is Cumberland Falls, where you can see one of the most glorious natural phenomenon in the world, a moonbow (that’s a moon-lit rainbow!). The only other place in the world where a moonbow happens on a consistent basis is Victoria Falls in Africa, so it’s pretty cool that you can see one at Cumberland Falls in Kentucky. The moonbow happens around and during full moons on clear nights.
Does Kentucky have a lot of rivers?
The Bluegrass State could easily be called “The River State,” as Kentucky boasts 2,982 miles of rivers! There are some truly resplendent rivers here, too: Cumberland River, Kentucky River, Mississippi River, and Green River are some of the most glorious. And of course, there’s the Ohio River. The Ohio River borders Kentucky from Indiana, Ohio, and part of Illinois. It has some amazing riverfront parks and is a popular waterway for boating, including the famed Belle of Louisville.
