I’d driven up and down I-65 countless times over the years, making my way back and forth between family in Nashville to home in Louisville, with hardly a thought given to making a stop at exit 58. In fact, the exits I paid most attention to were those with the best gas prices! But then, thanks in large part to conversations with a good friend from the area, I realized what a treasure we have in the small town of Horse Cave, Kentucky, located in Hart County. Only 75 miles south of Louisville, this charming town is full of unique history and natural wonder.
Whether you enjoy antiquing and lunching with friends, seeking adventure on a guided cave tour, or trying fun activities with your grandchildren, Horse Cave holds something for you. (You might even be pleasantly surprised by the gas prices!) As you plan your day, be sure to check out the Hart County Tourism Department. The staffed tourist information center is conveniently located at the rest stop at mile marker 60 on Interstate 65. You’ll also find a wealth of information on the Hart County Tourism website, kygetaway.com. Please note, Horse Cave is in the Central Time Zone.
Downtown Horse Cave is full of history, arts and culture, with more than 50 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. The downtown area is centered over Hidden River Cave, which features the American Cave Museum and is open for guided cave tours, ziplining, rappelling, and even extreme off-trail cave adventure tours. We opted for the one-hour guided tour, which leads you half a mile into the cave, across the world’s longest (100 feet) underground suspension bridge, and across a subterranean river. The tour ends at the spectacular Sunset Dome, one of the largest cave rooms in the nation. The entrance to the cave, located on Main Street, is the largest natural opening in the entire cave area. To quote naturalist John Muir, “The entrance seems like a noble gateway to the birthplace of springs and fountains and the dark treasuries of the mineral kingdom.” https://kygetaway.com/attractions/hidden-river-cave/
As you stroll downtown (above ground), you will notice the aggregate trails throughout the sidewalks. These mark the pathways of the cave that are literally under your feet. You will also find signage to guide you along the Horse Cave Stories Cell Phone Tour, a 20-stop self-paced walking tour showcasing the town’s history and culture. The tour takes about 30 minutes. By scanning a QR code at each stop, you will hear stories shared by local citizens on Horse Cave’s connection to the Harlem Globetrotters, the early Kentucky cave wars, tobacco farming, the Kentucky Repertory Theater and much more. https://kygetaway.com/attractions/horse-cave-stories-cell-phone-tour/
The historic Thomas House on Main Street is a beautiful Victorian home built in 1860. It is now owned by the community and is utilized as an event space for a wide variety of activities, including Jammin’ on the Porch, the free bluegrass jam sessions held from 6pm – 9pm every Thursday. Just bring yourself, your acoustic instrument, and your enjoyment of music! The public is invited to attend. https://kygetaway.com/attractions/jammin-on-the-porch/
The Horse Cave downtown mural was designed and painted by local artist and muralist Jesse Sims, owner of Sims Studio and Art Shop. The mural, a focal point of downtown at the corner of Main and Water Streets, was designed to capture the spirit of historic Horse Cave on a backdrop resembling a colorful postcard, creating a truly Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. Sims was assisted with the project by his wife/artist/ business partner, Jennifer Sims, and their son, Draven. https://kygetaway.com/2022/09/21/horse-caves-new-mural-highlights-the-towns-history-and-every-letter-has-a-story/
What’s a small-town downtown without shopping? Horse Cave has some great locally owned businesses featuring home decor, locally sourced wood carvings, paintings, jewelry, food products, boutique clothing, antiques and more. Stop in to see Gina at Geega’s Home Decor. You’re sure to find something you “need!” https://kygetaway.com/attraction_category/shop/
Nothing says Southern hospitality like a delicious meal and a good cup of coffee. Whether you’re in the mood for bakery treats, a savory breakfast, or looking for lunch and dinner options, you’ll find a restaurant to satisfy your palate. With many locally sourced ingredients and farm-to-table options, you’ll have the chance to taste the freshest and most delicious flavors the region has to offer. Downtown you’ll find Sugar Land Bakery and Cafe and Boutique, serving both breakfast and lunch. Another local favorite is Two Birds Cafe and Sawdust Splinters Woodworking. https://kygetaway.com/attraction_category/eat/
Story and photos by Patti Hartog
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