Unearth The Voyage
Tucked away in northern Kentucky, Pendleton County offers a refreshing escape from the everyday grind. Rolling hills, quiet rivers, and genuine small-town charm make this spot ideal for anyone craving outdoor adventure mixed with local flavor. Whether you want to paddle a peaceful waterway, catch a live show, or sample stone-baked pizza, this county has you covered for a memorable weekend getaway.
1. Kincaid Lake State Park
Camping under a canopy of hardwoods feels like stepping into a storybook forest. Kincaid Lake stretches across 183 acres, and the 10-horsepower motor limit keeps the water calm and quiet, perfect for casting a line or just floating around. You can pitch a tent, hook up an RV, or even grab a cabin if you prefer four walls.
The marina rents boats and offers everything you need for a day on the water. Families love the pool and mini-golf course, which keeps kids entertained between hikes. With trails, picnic shelters, and playgrounds scattered throughout, this park truly has something for every age and energy level, making it an anchor for your Pendleton County adventure.
2. Spicebush & Ironwood Trails (Kincaid Lake)
Early risers will appreciate these two connected loops that total about 2.25 miles of gentle forest walking. Spicebush blooms in spring with tiny yellow flowers, while ironwood trees show off their muscular, fluted bark year-round. The trails are well-marked and easy enough for younger hikers who are just getting comfortable on dirt paths.
Birds call from the canopy, and you might spot deer tracks in muddy sections after a rain. The whole loop takes less than an hour at a leisurely pace, so it works perfectly before breakfast or as a quick afternoon stretch. Pack a water bottle and your phone for photos of the sunlight filtering through the leaves.
3. Boat & Paddle Rentals, Kincaid Marina
Nothing beats the feeling of gliding across glassy water on a warm afternoon. The marina stocks pedal boats and kayaks seasonally, so you can choose between a laid-back pedal cruise or a more active paddling session. Rentals are affordable, and staff can point you toward quiet coves where fish jump and turtles sun themselves on logs.
Call ahead to confirm availability, especially on holiday weekends when locals flock to the lake. Life jackets come with every rental, and the 10-horsepower limit means you will not be dodging speedboats. It is a safe, relaxing way to explore the shoreline and soak up some vitamin D without leaving Pendleton County.
4. Kincaid Lake Golf Course (9-Hole)
Golfers looking for a quick round before dinner will love this newer layout tucked inside the state park. Tall hardwoods frame every fairway, and elevation changes keep each hole interesting without being punishing. The course plays short enough for beginners but still challenges experienced players who need to thread drives through narrow tree-lined corridors.
Greens are well-maintained, and you will often see deer grazing near the rough in the early morning. Cart rentals are available, though many walkers enjoy the shade and gentle hills. Tee times fill up on weekends, so booking ahead is smart if you want to squeeze in nine holes during your visit.
5. Pendleton Hills Country Club (18-Hole)
Serious golfers will want to tackle the full 18 holes at Pendleton Hills, where rolling terrain and strategically placed water hazards demand thoughtful club selection. The greens run fast and true, rewarding confident putters and humbling those who leave lag putts short. Elevation shifts mean you will use every club in your bag before you finish the back nine.
The clubhouse offers a welcoming spot to grab a drink and compare scorecards after your round. Online tee times make planning easy, and the staff keeps the course in excellent shape throughout the season. Pair your round with lunch at The Hills Restaurant for a complete country-club experience without the stuffiness.
6. Kincaid Regional Theatre (Falmouth)
Small-town theater has a magic all its own, and Kincaid Regional Theatre delivers professional-quality productions in an intimate setting. Musicals, dramas, and comedies rotate through the season, often featuring local talent alongside visiting actors. The close seating means you catch every expression and feel every emotional beat in a way big-city venues cannot match.
Check the official website for the current schedule and buy tickets early, because shows do sell out. Evening performances give you a perfect reason to explore downtown Falmouth beforehand, grabbing dinner and browsing shops. Supporting live arts in a rural county keeps culture thriving and gives you a memorable night you will talk about long after you leave.
7. Kentucky Wool Festival (Early October)
Mark your calendar for the first weekend in October, when fiber artists, farmers, and music lovers gather beside Kincaid Lake for three days of heritage celebration. Sheep-shearing demos show the entire process from fleece to yarn, and you can watch spinners turn raw wool into thread on antique wheels. Bluegrass bands play throughout the day, filling the air with banjo rolls and fiddle tunes.
Food vendors serve everything from barbecue to funnel cakes, and craft booths overflow with handmade scarves, sweaters, and felted goods. Kids love petting the sheep and trying their hand at drop-spindle spinning. The festival draws crowds from across the region, so plan to arrive early and spend the whole day soaking up Appalachian tradition.
8. Thaxton’s Canoe Trails (Butler)
Floating the Licking River ranks among the most peaceful ways to spend a summer afternoon in Pendleton County. Thaxton’s rents canoes and kayaks seasonally, offering routes that range from a quick six-mile paddle to a full-day 18-mile adventure. The river meanders through forested corridors, past limestone bluffs, and under old iron bridges that echo with birdsong.
Current stays gentle, making it friendly for families and first-time paddlers who want scenery without whitewater thrills. Thaxton’s also maintains cabins if you want to turn your float trip into an overnight stay. Pack sunscreen, snacks, and a waterproof bag for your phone, then let the current carry you through some of Kentucky’s prettiest backcountry.
9. Where the Rivers Meet: Downtown Falmouth
Geography shaped Falmouth’s story, and you can see it clearly where the Main and South Licking Rivers join forces. The downtown core sits right at this confluence, with old brick buildings facing the water and a walkable riverside area perfect for a sunset stroll. Locals have fished these banks for generations, and you will often see anglers casting for bass and catfish.
Historic architecture lines the streets, and plaques tell stories of steamboat days when Falmouth served as a river hub. Bring a camera, because the view of two rivers merging is especially striking at golden hour. Pair your riverside wander with a stop at one of the downtown eateries for a true taste of small-town Kentucky hospitality.
10. Pendleton County Historical & Genealogical Society & the Fryer House
History buffs will want to visit the museum and library run by the Historical and Genealogical Society, open Tuesdays or by appointment. The collection includes photographs, documents, and artifacts that trace Pendleton County’s evolution from frontier settlement to modern community. Volunteers are passionate and knowledgeable, happy to answer questions or help with family-tree research.
The Society also stewards the Fryer House, an early-1800s stone structure that stands as one of the county’s oldest buildings. Walking through its thick-walled rooms gives you a tangible sense of pioneer life in Kentucky. If you have roots in the region, the genealogical resources might uncover surprising connections to your own past.
11. Pendleton County Farmers Market (Falmouth)
Saturday mornings come alive when local growers and makers set up their stalls in downtown Falmouth. Fresh vegetables, pasture-raised meats, honey, jams, and baked goods fill the tables, all grown or produced within a few miles of the market. Artisans offer handmade soaps, woodwork, and jewelry, giving you a chance to take home something truly unique.
Vendors love chatting about their farms and crafts, and you will learn tips for cooking seasonal produce or caring for handmade goods. Kids enjoy sampling treats and petting therapy dogs that sometimes accompany vendors. Check the official site for special event dates, because the market hosts live music and themed weekends throughout the season.
12. Pendleton County Athletic Park (Falmouth)
Road-trippers on US-27 will appreciate this 22-acre complex as a perfect leg-stretcher between longer drives. Walking routes loop through the park, offering flat, paved paths ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, or anyone who just needs to move after sitting in a car. Sports fields host local leagues, and playgrounds keep younger kids busy while parents unwind on benches.
The park is clean, safe, and well-maintained, with restrooms and plenty of parking. It is not a destination in itself, but it serves as a valuable resource for families traveling through Pendleton County. Pack a picnic lunch, let the kids burn energy, and enjoy a shaded break before continuing your weekend exploration.
13. Main-Street Browsing in Falmouth
Courthouse squares define small-town America, and Falmouth’s version invites unhurried exploration. Independent shops occupy old storefronts, selling everything from antiques to clothing to locally made gifts. Window displays change with the seasons, and you never know when you will stumble upon a vintage treasure or a handcrafted item that catches your eye.
Shop owners often know every customer by name, and they will greet visitors with the same warmth. Take your time wandering the sidewalks, popping into stores that spark curiosity. The slower pace encourages conversation and connection, reminding you why supporting local businesses matters. Finish your browsing with a treat from a bakery or coffee shop to complete the experience.
14. El Paso Mexican Restaurant (Falmouth)
Craving sizzling fajitas or a cold margarita after a day of hiking? El Paso delivers exactly what you want in a Mexican restaurant: generous portions, bold flavors, and a friendly vibe. Combo plates let you sample multiple items, and the kitchen does not skimp on cheese, guacamole, or salsa. Chips arrive hot and crispy, perfect for scooping up their house-made dips.
The restaurant has earned a loyal local following, which always signals consistent quality. Vegetarian options are available, and kids menus keep younger diners happy. El Paso even maintains its own website with full menu details, making it easy to plan your meal before you arrive. It is the kind of place you will want to visit again before your weekend ends.
15. Two Rivers Stone Baked Pizza (Falmouth)
Stone-baked pizza changes everything, creating a crust that is crispy outside and chewy inside in a way regular ovens cannot match. Two Rivers offers a full menu of pies, from classic pepperoni to creative specialty combos loaded with fresh vegetables and quality meats. Pastas and sandwiches round out the offerings, so non-pizza fans will find plenty to love.
The restaurant publishes its menu on its own website, which shows a level of professionalism rare in small-town eateries. Portions are hearty, and the casual atmosphere welcomes families, couples, and groups of friends. Order a large pizza to share, add a salad, and settle in for a satisfying meal that fuels your next Pendleton County adventure.
16. The Hills Restaurant at Pendleton Hills (Butler)
Golfers and non-golfers alike appreciate the casual menu at The Hills, where burgers, hot dogs, wraps, and appetizers hit the spot after a round or a day of sightseeing. The clubhouse setting offers views of the course, and the laid-back atmosphere means you can show up in jeans and a T-shirt without feeling underdressed. Online ordering through the club’s website makes pickup convenient.
The kitchen keeps things simple but does them well, focusing on comfort food that satisfies without fuss. Cold drinks, friendly service, and a relaxed pace make it easy to linger over lunch or an early dinner. If you are playing the course, it is the natural spot to celebrate a good round or commiserate over a tough one.
17. The Kentucky Millstone (Butler)
This homey cafe operates on a unique schedule, opening Friday evenings for dinner and offering cooking classes and catering throughout the week. The Millstone specializes in comfort food with a country twist, serving dishes that feel like a meal at a friend’s farmhouse. Portions are generous, and ingredients lean local whenever possible.
Check the official website for current hours before you make the drive, because the schedule can shift with the seasons. Classes teach skills like canning, baking, and traditional Appalachian cooking, adding an interactive element if you want to learn while you visit. The cafe embodies the hospitality and resourcefulness that define rural Kentucky, making every meal feel special and intentional.
18. Rose Hill Farm Winery (Butler/Falmouth)
Family-run wineries bring a personal touch to every bottle, and Rose Hill Farm grows its own grapes right on the estate. Tastings let you sample multiple varieties, from crisp whites to robust reds, all produced in small batches with care. The family often works the tasting room themselves, sharing stories about the vineyard’s history and the challenges of Kentucky winemaking.
You will frequently find Rose Hill wines at the Pendleton County Farmers Market, where they pour samples and sell bottles. Visiting the farm itself offers a deeper experience, with views of the vines and a chance to ask questions directly. Bring home a bottle or two as a delicious souvenir that captures the flavor of your Pendleton County weekend.
