10 Best Short Road Trips from Elizabethtown, Kentucky (Hardin County)

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10 Easy Road Trips from Elizabethtown, KY: Fun Things To Do Just Outside Hardin County

If you live in Elizabethtown, Kentucky (or you’re visiting family there) and you’ve ever thought, “What else is there to do around here?” — this guide is for you. These are 10 short, out-of-county road trips from Elizabethtown that take you into nearby counties like Jefferson, Nelson, Meade, Bullitt, Grayson, Hart, Breckinridge, LaRue, and even across the river into Harrison County, Indiana. All of them are perfect for a relaxed day trip, a date, or a fun family weekend.

1. Louisville’s Waterfront & Downtown Adventures (Jefferson County, KY)

Louisville is only about an hour north of Elizabethtown, and it feels like stepping into a whole different world. Big river views, cool museums, and good food are all packed into one easy road trip. Top things to do:
  • Louisville Waterfront Park – Walk along the Ohio River, let kids run in the open fields, or bring a picnic and relax with a view.
  • Big Four Bridge – This old railroad bridge is now a pedestrian walkway that lights up at night. You can walk from Kentucky to Indiana and back.
  • Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – Look for the giant baseball bat downtown. Inside, you’ll see how MLB bats are made and learn some baseball history.
  • Kentucky Science Center – Hands-on exhibits that are great for kids and honestly pretty fun for adults too.
If you like riverfront sunsets or want to mix walking, eating, and light sightseeing, Louisville’s downtown and waterfront are an easy win.

2. Bourbon & Small-Town Charm in Bardstown (Nelson County, KY)

Bardstown, about a 35–40 minute drive from Elizabethtown, calls itself the Bourbon Capital of the World — and it lives up to the hype. Don’t miss:
  • Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience – Learn how bourbon is made, walk through interactive exhibits, and sample a few pours if you’re of age.
  • Barton 1792 Distillery – Classic distillery vibe with rickhouses, tours, and a real working facility.
  • Historic Downtown Bardstown – Old buildings, small shops, and cozy restaurants give this town a movie-set feel.
Even if you’re not big into bourbon, Bardstown’s history and walkable downtown make it one of the best day trips from Elizabethtown.

3. Abraham Lincoln’s Roots in Hodgenville (LaRue County, KY)

When you want a low-key, meaningful road trip that’s easy on the wallet, head to Hodgenville, just east of Elizabethtown in LaRue County. What to see:
  • Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park – A memorial building on a hill, peaceful grounds, and a look at Lincoln’s early life.
  • Lincoln Boyhood Home at Knob Creek – A scenic farm area where Lincoln lived as a child. It’s quiet, open, and really pretty at sunrise or sunset.
  • Lincoln statues in downtown Hodgenville – Grab a coffee and snap some photos with Honest Abe on the square.
If you’ve got kids, this is an easy way to turn a short drive into a relaxed American history lesson.

4. Mammoth Cave Region & Hidden Gems in Hart County, KY

You’ve probably heard of Mammoth Cave National Park, but the Hart County side of the area has its own flavor and some less-crowded spots. Highlights around Hart County:
  • Green River Ferry area (in and near Hart County) – Scenic drives and pull-offs perfect for short hikes and river views.
  • Local roadside markets and diners – Think fresh produce stands, home-style cooking, and that “small-town Kentucky” feel.
You can combine Hart County roads with a quick visit into the national park for a full day of caves, trails, and slow country driving. If you like nature more than crowds, stay on the quieter back roads.

5. Bernheim Arboretum & Forest (Bullitt County, KY)

If you’re looking for an easy nature escape from Elizabethtown, head north to Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Bullitt County. Why it’s worth the drive:
  • Miles of trails – From short walks to longer hikes, you’ll find a path that fits your day.
  • Art in nature – Outdoor art installations and those famous giant forest sculptures (if they’re still on display) make it fun to explore.
  • Visitor center & café – Clean restrooms, snacks, and info about the trails.
On a nice day, Bernheim is perfect for a half-day trip: leave Elizabethtown late morning, hike, grab a snack, and be back by dinner.

6. Small-Town Waterfront Views in Brandenburg (Meade County, KY)

Head northwest from Elizabethtown and you’ll reach Brandenburg in Meade County, a quiet town sitting right on the Ohio River. What to do:
  • Brandenburg Riverfront Park – Stroll along the river, watch barges go by, and enjoy the open green spaces.
  • Historic sites and markers – You’ll see plaques about Civil War history and early riverside life.
  • Local diners and ice cream spots – Great for a slow weekend drive and a casual meal.
This is a simple, laid-back road trip: gas up, roll down the windows, and enjoy river-country scenery just outside Hardin County.

7. Floating, Fishing, and Lake Life in Grayson County, KY

If you love the water, head southwest from Elizabethtown to Grayson County, home to some popular lakes and outdoor fun. Ideas for your lake day:
  • Nolin River Lake area (Grayson side) – Boat ramps, coves for swimming, and picnic spots.
  • Rough River Lake (near the Grayson/Breckinridge area) – Another good option for fishing, boating, or just hanging out by the water.
Bring:
  • Folding chairs
  • Cooler with drinks and snacks
  • Sunscreen and towels
Lake days from Elizabethtown are an easy way to feel like you’re “on vacation” without leaving Kentucky.

8. Rough River Fun in Breckinridge County, KY

Speaking of lakes, neighboring Breckinridge County also offers plenty of ways to enjoy Rough River Lake and its surrounding countryside. What you might enjoy:
  • Rough River Lake overlooks and marinas – Stop at different pull-offs to get wide-open views of the water.
  • Picnic and birdwatching – Quiet coves and wooded spots are great for a slow afternoon.
If you like to drive scenic back roads, you can loop through both Grayson County and Breckinridge County in a single day and never get bored of the views.

9. Cave Country Tastes & Backroads in Hart County, KY

Yes, Hart County deserves a second mention, because it’s more than just the Mammoth Cave area. The backroads between Hart County and neighboring counties make for one of the best “Sunday drive” loops near Elizabethtown. Make it special by:
  • Stopping at roadside produce stands in season.
  • Trying a local mom-and-pop restaurant you’ve never heard of.
  • Pausing at scenic pull-offs for photos of rolling hills and old barns.
If you’ve ever said, “We should just go for a drive,” this is where you go. No big agenda, just classic Kentucky scenery.

10. Cross the River to Corydon & Harrison County, Indiana

For something a little different, leave Kentucky behind for the day and slip into Harrison County, Indiana, especially the historic town of Corydon. Things to check out:
  • Historic Corydon – Once the state capital of Indiana, it has a charming downtown with old buildings and local shops.
  • Winery visits – The rolling hills around Harrison County are home to several wineries with tasting rooms and views.
  • Scenic Ohio River drives – Combine this with a stop in Brandenburg or Louisville on the way.
Crossing the river gives the day a mini “out-of-state vacation” feel, even though you’re still close enough to be home before dark.

Tips for Planning Your Road Trips from Elizabethtown

To make these short road trips from Elizabethtown even smoother, keep a simple plan:
  • Pick a theme – History (Hodgenville), bourbon (Bardstown), water (Grayson/Breckinridge), or city fun (Louisville).
  • Check hours ahead of time – Distilleries, museums, and some lakeside spots can have seasonal or limited hours.
  • Pack a “road trip bag” – Phone charger, water, light snacks, sunscreen, and a light jacket go a long way.
Before you know it, you’ll have a favorite loop you drive a few times a year.

Share Your Favorite Day Trips from Elizabethtown

These are 10 of the best out-of-county road trips near Elizabethtown, KY, but there are many more little towns, lakes, and backroads to explore in Nelson, LaRue, Meade, Bullitt, Grayson, Hart, Breckinridge, Jefferson, and Harrison (IN) counties. Have you done any of these drives? Did I miss your favorite spot outside Hardin County? Drop a comment with your go-to day trip, hidden gem, or must-stop restaurant. And if you know someone in Elizabethtown who’s always saying there’s “nothing to do,” share this post with them and start planning your next weekend getaway.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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