Things To Do Near Mammoth Cave

Things To Do Near the Mammoth Cave area

You came for the cave — but Kentucky's cave country has way more going on than one underground tour. Here's the locals' list of fun things to do in Cave City, KY and around the Mammoth Cave area, ranked roughly by what people end up loving most.

1. Take a Helicopter Tour Near Mammoth Cave

The only way to actually see the 53,000-acre forest. Helicopter rides start at $49 and lift off minutes from the Mammoth Cave area. Our Green River tour ($99) is the sweet spot — long enough to take in the river and the edge of the area, short enough that even nervous flyers love it.

2. Jesse James Horseback Riding

Saddle up and ride the same wooded trails Jesse James and his gang once used to hide out in Kentucky cave country. Jesse James Riding Stables in Cave City runs guided horseback rides for all experience levels — a local classic and one of the most fun things to do near Mammoth Cave with kids or a date.

3. Mammoth Cave Tours (Underground)

The classic. Book ranger-led tours directly through park rangers — they sell out, so book early.

4. Canoe or Kayak the Green River

The same emerald river you'll see from the helicopter. Outfitters in Cave City and Munfordville rent kayaks and shuttle you.

5. Diamond Caverns

A privately-run cave just outside the Mammoth Cave area — gorgeous formations, shorter walk, great for younger kids.

6. Lost River Cave (Bowling Green)

Underground boat tour — 25 minutes south.

7. Dinosaur World, Cave City

Outdoor walking trail with life-size dinosaurs. Hit-or-miss for adults, kids 4–10 love it.

8. Big Mike's Mystery House

Classic roadside Kentucky weirdness on Mammoth Cave Road.

9. Barren River Lake

Swimming, boating, and one of the best lakes in the state — also a highlight of our $189 Grand Tour helicopter ride.

10. Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo

Hand-feed kangaroos in Horse Cave, KY. Genuinely fun.

11. The American Cave Museum (Horse Cave)

Small but excellent museum about karst geology — pairs well with a helicopter tour where you can see the karst features.

12. Hidden River Cave

In the middle of downtown Horse Cave — yes, really.

13. Horse-drawn Cave Tours at Mammoth Onyx Cave

A throwback experience kids remember.

14. Dutch Country Safari Park

Drive-through safari park where you can hand-feed zebras, camels, water buffalo, and dozens of other exotic animals right from your car window. A huge hit with families.

15. Beech Bend Park (Bowling Green)

Amusement park + waterpark, 30 minutes south.

16. National Corvette Museum (Bowling Green)

Even non-car people enjoy it. The sinkhole exhibit is unexpectedly great.

Plan Your Visit

Most visitors base in Cave City — close to the Mammoth Cave area, lots of hotels and food. Read our guides to Cave City helicopter rides, family attractions in Cave City, and the best view of the Mammoth Cave area.