Welcome to Kentucky's Western Waterland

Kentucky's Western Waterland ... It's a phrase that describes a unique wonderland of natural splendor, manmade lakes, and cultural experiences. Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley combined with our 4 major rivers -- the Ohio, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Cumberland -- are a virtual playground of recreation in the 15 westernmost counties of Ky. Naturally, there are unlimited opportunities for fun on the water including swimming, boating, jet skiing, sailing, fishing, tubing, and riding a ferry. If you don't have a boat or jet ski, rent a boat from one of the many marinas that dot the shores of both lakes.

Outdoors you can enjoy breathtaking scenery, golfing, fishing, hunting, horseback riding, hiking, biking, camping, wildlife viewing, tennis, and horse racing. We offer a multitude of cultural experiences and attractions including an Amish community, the National Quilt Museum, River Discovery Center, Adsmore House & Gardens, water parks, go-carts, miniature and disc golf, historic sites, living history, and museums dedicated to the Civil War, railroads, local authors, and Native Americans. This area is also home to the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Area. Nestled between the beautiful Ky and Barkley Lakes, LBL's 170,000 acres offer unique opportunities for recreation and education. Whether you want to relax on 1 of 2 enchanting lakes, camp with the family on a weekend getaway, hike with friends on one of the scenic trails, plan a group wildlife viewing adventure, or visit the Planetarium, Woodlands Nature Station, or The Homeplace, Land Between The Lakes has something you are sure to enjoy. Follow the link to learn more about the Land Between The Lakes.

Shopping in western Ky is a delight. There are many boutiques, gift shops, antique stores, Ky-crafted, and other interesting places to shop. You will find a gift even for that person who has everything.

Enjoy the varied lodging available at our 4 with cabins state resort parks, numerous resorts with cabins and cottages, quaint bed and breakfast inns, hotels, motels, vacation rental homes, and RV parks. No matter your accommodation needs, we have lodging opportunities for you.

Dining treats range from mile-high meringue pie and 2" pork chops at Patti's 1880's Settlement to some of the best barbecue in the world with several barbecue festivals each year. Catfish, bison, and country ham are included in our menus. Many restaurants overlook the water providing a relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy southern cooking and hospitality all year long.

Festivals and other special events are held throughout the region all year. Our Labor Day Arts & Crafts Festival is one of the longest-running in western Ky and features over 100 vendors with all hand-made items. Our Calendar of Events is always full! The list of places to go and things to do appears endless.  Come visit us soon!

The regional visitor's guide and map we publish are the official regional publications. Follow the links to view our visitor's guide online and to learn how to receive visitor's guides by mail.