Suggestions for local travel destinations this summer?

[Old School]

Big South Fork - I need to get there, on trail or on water. The new parklands in Louisville are great. They'll be even nicer in years to come when the greenery has grown in more. I've toured one distillery and enjoyed it. I'll look to do that again with out of town visitors sometime. Jellystone: I'm completely unfamiliar with it. You like it a lot? My daughter camped at Mammoth Cave recently. I've not done it yet. I've also never done the wild cave tour there, though I had heard of it and it sounded terrific. The Corvette Museum is really cool. It exceeded my expectations. Also near Bowling Green is Lost River Cave, which is also unusual and enjoyable. My kids have always liked it. There's a little hiking there, very light for adults, great for smaller kids. I love Kentucky Lake, and Lake Barkley. It's a big of a drive, but nice. I need to get back down there. I like to fish there, but have not in a long time. The Frazier Museum is great, and underappreciated. The Prohibition exhibit that is there now is nice. If you like the weaponry there, you might like the state military museum in Frankfort, and would definitely be impressed by the museum at the War Memorial in Indianapolis. It has exhibits and artifacts, including a lot of weapons, from most or all major American military engagements from pre-Revolutionary times to Iraq and Afghanistan, ranging from rifles and mess kids to artillery, vehicles and helicopters. And the Memorial itself is really something else. Among other things it really is a memorable commemoration of those who fought in World War I, and the reasons and ideals behind U.S. entry in that war. I think sometimes people confuse it with the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in downtown Indianapolis. That, and the War Memorial, and the state capitol can all be visited and toured during the course of a short walk. Shaker Village is outstanding and I need to get back there someday. It is great to visit and see, but the food there also is terrific. I don't think I've heard of the Pamplin National Museum of the Civil War previously. Along those lines, though, I have heard of a national D-Day museum in New Orleans, and the national World War I museum in Kansas City. Has anyone here visited either of them? It sounds like the Gorge and Big South Fork are favorites among those on here who like the outdoors.

[Spiritof96]

I was only in New Orleans once and for conference so... I've seen bubkis. Same for KC.

If you don't mid going 5 or 6 hours, the Asheville NC area has it all. Mountains, lakes, rivers, wine, craft beer, history, etc. In the Pisgah National forest you can climb, hike, paddle, swim, slide, raft, trout, fish.

[Old School]

I've only been in NO and KC briefly. Definitely want to revisit KC, eat a lot, and see that WWI museum.

Asheville is terrific, for all the reasons you named, and more. The Biltmore, IMO, is spectacular.

Also 5-6 hours away is Chicago, which I love to visit. The list of reasons why is long long long.

[Blue Heaven]

Went to Jelleystone for the first time last Halloween and it was a ball. The kids come around and trick or treat at the camp spots. You can tent camp, rent a cabin, or bring your pop-up or RV. Everyone decorates their campsite and they give out prizes. Some people go all out for it and it looks awesome. Book it now or soon though as it fills up fast. Talked to some folks who have been doing it for years. It's a great family atmosphere and well worth your time.

[Blue Heaven]

Regarding Mammoth Cave camping, they have the best campground in the State IMO.

[surveyor]

Also 5-6 hours away is Chicago, which I love to visit. The list of reasons why is long long long.

Even closer if via Southwest and cheap fares. One of our favorite extended weekend getaways. Last visit we hit the Oyster Bar at Shaw's Oyster House. Best oysters I've ever had without being in Key West.

[capcat]

Depending on the timing of your trip and weather conditions, something on my bucket list would be (is) to see the moon bow at Cumberland Falls. We timed it for a full moon, but other conditions weren't right. Hope to go again.