10 Unforgettable Things To Do Near Elizabethtown, Kentucky (Hardin County)

on

10 Fun Things To Do In and Around Elizabethtown, Kentucky (Hardin County)

If you’re planning a trip through central Kentucky, Elizabethtown (locals call it “E‑Town”) is a friendly stop that often surprises people. It’s right off I‑65, about an hour south of Louisville, and it makes a great base for exploring Hardin County and the surrounding area. Whether you’re on a family road trip, a couples’ weekend, or just passing through, here are 10 things to do near Elizabethtown, KY that are worth your time.

1. Stroll and Reflect at the Elizabethtown Nature Park & Veterans Tribute

The Elizabethtown Nature Park is one of those spots that’s peaceful, pretty, and meaningful all at once. You’ll find:
  • A paved walking trail that’s easy for strollers and wheelchairs
  • Open green space, trees, and gentle hills
  • The powerful Veterans Tribute honoring all branches of the military
It’s a calm place to stretch your legs, walk the dog, or just sit on a bench for a bit of quiet. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s a good way to let them run off some energy without dealing with big crowds. Tip: Try to visit near sunset. The light on the memorials and park makes for beautiful photos.

2. Cool Off at the Elizabethtown Water Park (American Legion Park)

If you’re visiting in the summer, the Elizabethtown Water Park at American Legion Park is a lifesaver on a hot Kentucky day. You can expect:
  • Water slides and play structures for kids
  • A lazy-river style area where you can just float along
  • Plenty of chairs and shaded spots for parents and grandparents
It’s not a massive theme-park-style water park, but that’s kind of the charm. It feels local, relaxed, and affordable, which is what many families want on a road trip. Pro tip: Go earlier in the day to avoid afternoon crowds and get the best choice of seats.

3. Dive Into Local History at the Hardin County History Museum

If you’re curious about the stories behind a place, the Hardin County History Museum in downtown Elizabethtown is worth an hour or two. Inside, you’ll see:
  • Exhibits on early settlers and pioneer life
  • Artifacts from the Civil War era
  • Displays related to Abraham Lincoln’s early years in this region
It’s not a giant museum, but it’s packed with interesting details. The volunteers are usually happy to answer questions and share local stories that don’t show up in guidebooks. Good to know: This is a nice rainy-day option or a great break from driving if you’re traveling along I‑65.

4. Shop, Sip, and Snack in Historic Downtown Elizabethtown

You don’t have to love big cities to enjoy a walkable downtown. Elizabethtown’s historic core has that small-town Kentucky charm with just enough modern touches. As you wander the downtown blocks, you’ll find:
  • Local boutiques with clothes, gifts, and home decor
  • Coffee shops where you can sit and people-watch
  • Restaurants ranging from casual burgers to nicer sit-down meals
If you like photos, look for the murals and old brick buildings. And if you’re into local travel, this is one of the best places to feel the “real” Elizabethtown, away from the highway exits. Tip: Ask a local where they’d go for lunch downtown. You’ll usually get an honest answer and maybe a story or two.

5. Explore the Freeman Lake Park Trails and Water

If you love the outdoors, Freeman Lake Park is a must-visit spot in Elizabethtown. It’s a big, pretty park centered around a 170‑acre lake. Here you can:
  • Walk or jog the lakeside trails
  • Rent a paddleboat or kayak in season
  • Fish from the bank or by boat (with a valid license)
  • Enjoy picnic shelters and playgrounds
There are also a few historic buildings on-site, including the Sara Bush Johnston Lincoln Memorial Cabin, connected to Abraham Lincoln’s stepmother. Personal note: This is the kind of place where you plan to stay “just 30 minutes” and end up staying a couple of hours. Bring a blanket and a book—you might stay longer than you think.

6. Visit the Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum

Car lovers, this one is for you. Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum is a surprisingly impressive collection of classic and vintage cars, many lovingly restored. You’ll see:
  • Shiny classic cars from the 1920s through the 1960s and beyond
  • Muscle cars and unique models you don’t see on the road anymore
  • Displays that feel more personal than corporate
Even if you’re not a big “car person,” it’s fun to see how designs have changed over the years. It’s also an easy stop if you’re already near the main shopping and hotel areas. Tip: Check current hours before you go, as they can vary.

7. Walk Through History at the Civil War Sites Around Town

Elizabethtown and Hardin County played a role in Civil War history, and you can still see some of that today. Look for:
  • Elizabethtown City Cemetery – with historic graves and markers
  • Historical markers around downtown detailing Civil War events
  • Sites related to the Battle of Elizabethtown, where Confederate forces shelled the town
If you enjoy history, doing a little self-guided walking tour around these spots can be very rewarding. Many markers are easy to find along main streets and near the downtown area. Idea: Pair a walk through the historical area with lunch or coffee downtown to make a half-day outing.

8. Take a Short Drive to Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

While it’s technically outside Hardin County, the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Hodgenville is close enough (about a 20–25 minute drive) that most Elizabethtown visitors add it to their plans. At the park you’ll find:
  • A memorial building that holds a symbolic log cabin
  • Peaceful walking paths through the woods
  • Educational exhibits on Lincoln’s early life in Kentucky
It’s a great stop for history buffs, families, or anyone who wants to better understand where one of America’s most famous presidents started his life. Tip: Combine this with a stop in downtown Hodgenville, which also has Lincoln statues and small-town charm.

9. Enjoy Events and Sports at the Elizabethtown Sports Park

If you’ve heard of Elizabethtown from youth sports tournaments, this is probably why. The Elizabethtown Sports Park is a massive complex and a big draw for regional and national events. Depending on when you visit, you might see:
  • Baseball, softball, and soccer tournaments
  • Special events, festivals, and gatherings
  • Open times when the walking paths and areas are available to the public
Even if you’re not traveling for a tournament, it’s interesting to drive through and see the scale of the facilities. Seasonal events can also be fun if your timing lines up. Hint: Check the city or park website for event calendars—there may be something going on while you’re in town.

10. Take a Scenic Drive to Local Distilleries and Kentucky Backroads

One big perk of staying in Elizabethtown is how close you are to central Kentucky’s distillery country and rolling farm land. While Elizabethtown itself isn’t the core of the Bourbon Trail, you’re within comfortable driving distance of several distilleries and classic Kentucky scenery. Many visitors:
  • Use E‑Town as a base and take day trips to nearby distilleries
  • Drive the backroads to enjoy views of farms, horse pastures, and old barns
  • Stop in small towns along the way for local diners and country stores
Always remember: if you’re doing bourbon tastings, plan ahead. Have a designated driver or arrange transportation so you can enjoy it safely. Personal tip: Even without tastings, those country drives around Hardin County and neighboring areas can be some of the most relaxing parts of a Kentucky trip.

Planning Your Visit to Elizabethtown, KY

Here are a few quick planning notes to make your Elizabethtown trip smoother:
  • Best time to visit: Spring and fall for comfortable temps; summer for water park fun and long evenings.
  • Getting around: A car is almost essential. Most attractions are spread out.
  • Where to stay: You’ll find plenty of hotels near the I‑65 exits, plus some short‑term rentals and smaller options closer to downtown.
  • What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for cooler nights, and sunscreen for summer visits.

Share Your Elizabethtown Experience

Have you been to Elizabethtown, Kentucky or Hardin County before? Which of these things to do near Elizabethtown would you try first—the lake, the water park, the museums, or the scenic drives? I’d love to hear about your favorite spots, hidden gems, and local food recommendations in and around E‑Town. Drop your thoughts, questions, or travel tips in the comments, and if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip through Kentucky. Your shares and comments help other travelers discover just how much there is to do in Elizabethtown!
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment