Looking for Richmond-area fun on a budget? You don’t have to break the bank to have a good time! Whether you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, our area’s rich history, or just laid back fun, Richmond has something for you. Check out our top 9 suggestions below.
Great Outdoors
Spend time out in nature– enjoy the scenic hills of Eastern Kentucky, and maybe even hang out with some wildlife.
Picnic at Irvine-McDowell Park
345 Lancaster Ave.
Richmond, KY 40475
www.richmond.ky.us/irvine-mcdowell-park
Free
Nothing says wholesome fun like a picnic in the park. Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a chill day with friends, or a romantic surprise, Irvine McDowell Park on Lancaster Ave. is a perfect setting. Bring out your inner child on the playground, or catch a local softball game at the adjacent field. Want to save your picnic spot? The park has two shelters available: one large round-top, and one gazebo. Or, go old-fashioned: bring a blanket and a basket! Visit the website to learn more.
Visit the Alpacas at River Hill Ranch
680 River Hill Dr.
Richmond, KY 40475
$
Who wouldn’t love spending time with big, fluffy animals? At River Hill Ranch, you can pay a visit to some sweet alpacas. The cute, quirky, and curious creatures are fun for all ages. Ranch Tours start at only $10 per person. Or, for only $13, you can try Alpaca Vinyasa Yoga – a relaxing yoga session in the countryside surrounded by curious alpacas. At the end of your visit, swing by the gift shop and choose from several soft, warm alpaca wool products (which you can also buy online). Visit the website to learn more or book your experience.
Go Horseback Riding at Deer Run Stables
2001 River Circle Dr
Richmond, KY 40475
$
Slip away from the stress of the modern world and enjoy some horseplay (pun intended), and scenic Daniel Boone country. At Deer Run Stables, you can go for a relaxing one-hour trail ride with an experienced guide. Never saddled up before? That’s okay! Get a group together for a trail ride — for groups of 1-6, rides are $30 per person. For groups of 7 or more, only $25. Pony rides for children ages 2-5 are only $10. Visit the website to learn more, or call Jona at (615) 268-9960 to make your reservation today.
Play Disc Golf at Camp Catalpa
2200 Catalpa Loop Rd
Richmond, KY 40475
www.richmond.ky.us/camp-catalpa-park
Free
Located on the east side of Lake Reba Recreational Complex, Camp Catalpa is an ideal outdoor getaway. Take advantage of the 18-hole PDGA disc golf course that runs across the area. Or, get active on the two-mile loop walking trail with a beautiful view of the lake. Like Irvine McDowell Park, Catalpa also features two picnic shelters and a playground, making it a perfect setting to picnic and play. The grounds’ versatility make it a perfect spot for your next day out.
Do it All at Lake Reba Recreational Complex
299 Lake Reba Dr
Richmond, KY 40475
www.richmond.ky.us/ann-durham-lake-reba
Free
At Lake Reba, there isn’t much you can’t do. The 600-acre tract of land has something for everyone so families, couples, or individuals can laugh and play. Enjoy the lake itself: bring your fishing pole– and even your boat– and see what you can catch, or rent a kayak and paddle all day. You can also enjoy one of several athletics facilities: play basketball, soccer, baseball, football, softball, horseshoes, or shuffleboard. You can also try the hiking and jogging trail, or the playground.
Hike & Fish at White Hall Park
500 White Hall Shrine Rd
Richmond, KY 40475
madisoncountyky.us/index.php/county-parks/white-hall-park
Free
Located right off exit 95 and adjacent to the White Hall Historic Site, White Hall Park is an excellent outdoor escape. Its three miles of walking trails ramble through lush trees and fields and past the stately mansion. It’s a great spot to get some exercise or observe some local wildlife. The park also features a large lake perfect for a day of fishing, as well as a playground and picnic shelter.
Entertainment
Some activities just make you feel like a kid again. Richmond has those activities too! Check out the family-friendly recreation we have to offer.
Go Mini-Golfing at Adventure Falls
250 Lake Reba Dr.
Richmond, KY 40475
www.richmond.ky.us/adventure-falls-miniature-golf-batting-cages
$
Play a round of mini golf right on Lake Reba! At Adventure Falls, you’ll find a fun, innovative 18-hole mini golf course right ready for you and your friends or family to tackle. Visit any day of the week from April to September, or any weekend in October. Mini golf not your speed? That’s okay! You can also try out the 8-cage batting facility or shuffleboard court.
*To maintain social distancing, Adventure Falls asks that you preregister for a tee time and limit your party to no more than 6 players.
Historical Fun
Our area is full of rich history just waiting to be explored by you. See how you can discover our roots and have fun doing it.
Spend a Day at Fort Boonesborough
4375 Boonesborough Road
Richmond, KY 40475
www.fortboonesboroughlivinghistory.org
$
Fort Boonesborough State Park, located off Exit 95, is chock-full of fun activities for the whole family. Local history lovers can visit the replica working fort, staffed with living historians. Fort admission for adults is $8, while admission for children under 12 is $6. Children under 6 get in free. Contact [email protected] to book a tour. Or, visit the Kentucky River Museum to learn about the lives of families who lived on the river and worked the locks and dams in the 1900s. Admission is free, and the museum is open until Labor Day. If you’re more the outdoors-y type, you’ll love Fort Boonesborough too– enjoy the park’s hiking, fishing, boating, and birding opportunities.
*Some attractions are closed due to COVID. Visit the website above for more information.
Relive the Battle of Richmond
101 Battlefield Memorial Hwy
Richmond, KY 40475
madisoncountyky.us/index.php/battle-of-richmond-visitor-center
Free
Battle of Richmond Visitor Center
Did you know that part of the Civil War was fought right here in Kentucky? Relive the state’s second largest civil war battle at the Battle of Richmond Visitor’s Center and Battlefield Park. Located in a historic home, the visitor’s center offers an experience unique among historic sites. A one-of-a-kind laser guided topographical map gives guests a bird’s eye view of the battlefield, showing troops’ movements and important sites. Watch a locally produced documentary, and browse unique battlefield artifacts. Top if off with a visit to the adjacent Battlefield Park. The center is open Monday – Friday from 10:00 to 4:30.
In Richmond, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a great time. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a student at Eastern, or just passing through, we’re glad to have you! Learn more about things to do in Richmond on our Attractions page.
