Old Kentucky Turnpike

Step back in time along the Old Kentucky Turnpike, a 28-mile state scenic byway that traces one of the commonwealth’s earliest overland routes. This historic corridor winds through the rolling hills and pastoral countryside of central Kentucky, where stone fences line the road and thoroughbred horses graze in emerald pastures.

Along the way, travelers pass through quiet towns that still carry the charm of 19th-century Kentucky. Expect views of gentle farmland, weathered tobacco barns, and creek-carved valleys shaded by old-growth hardwoods. Historic markers and remnants of the original turnpike era dot the route, offering glimpses into the road’s role as a vital artery for commerce and westward migration.

Small churches, antebellum homes, and family cemeteries appear around each bend, giving the drive an unhurried, deeply rooted feel. Spring brings wildflowers and dogwood blooms, while autumn transforms the landscape into a patchwork of gold and crimson — both ideal seasons for the drive.

Allow about an hour for the full route without stops, or a leisurely half-day if you pull over to explore historic sites and roadside views. The Old Kentucky Turnpike rewards those who slow down and let the scenery unfold.

Explore Nearby

• Waveland State Historic Site — State Park in Kentucky
• Switzer Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky
• Fort Boonesborough State Park — State Park in Kentucky
• Colville Covered Bridge — Covered Bridge in Kentucky
• Daniel Boone National Forest — National Forest in Kentucky