Hey, y’all! From sunrise to sundown, there’s so much fun to be had in Hart County! From culinary adventure, to outdoor tourism, to retail therapy – there’s something in town for everyone. I’m excited to share my perfect Hart County Kentucky Itinerary with y’all today!
Morning
Have Doughnuts at R&S Salvage Grocery & Bakery
235 Irvin Cemetery Rd., Horse Cave, KY 42749
There’s no better place to start your day than at R&S Salvage Grocery and Bakery. First and foremost, a warning: this place is HUGE! You could spend a good chunk of your morning wandering up and down the aisles — and if you have time, I recommend it. Among the inventory, you’ll see familiar brands and items; however, without hesitation, I can say that you will find many items that you didn’t know you wanted to try, but will be so glad that you did.
While the groceries are great, the highlight is the bakery. Owned and operated by the local Amish community, these sweets are the real deal, y’all. Steps away from the case, one can see the young women working hard to make each treat — and, if I do say so myself, the smell is intoxicating. Both the doughnuts and the fried pies are glorious, all while being extremely inexpensive. My best tip? Come early — they sell out fast!
Exploring
Explore Hidden River Cave
119 W. Main St., Horse Cave, KY 42749
Amazingly located in downtown Horse Cave (I couldn’t believe the location – it’s literally in the middle of town!), Hidden River Cave is a gem of our state. This was my first time visiting and I left in disbelief that I hadn’t been sooner. From the American Cave Museum, to an amazing zipline, to rappelling — adventure awaits at Hidden River Cave!
Shop Locally
Downtown Horse Cave, KY 42749
After exploring Hidden River Cave, don’t miss out on the plethora of shops that downtown Horse Cave has to offer. From A Walk Through Time, to Geega’s, to Nana’s, to Caveland Antiques, to All Things By Mel, to Sims Studio and Art Shop — you’re sure to leave with a shopping bag or three.
Lunch
5 Broke Girls
904 E. Main St., Horse Cave, KY 42749
5 Broke Girls is self-described as homestyle cookin’ with a Texas twist — and with one bite, you might just be yee-hawin’! From the southern hospitality, to the mason jars, to the chive biscuits, you’re in for a treat at 5 Broke Girls. But, don’t take your eyes off of the prize — the food. Chicken fried chicken, chicken fried steak, ham, fried okra… need I say more?
Oh, and don’t forget about dessert!
WigWam General Store
7015 S Jackson Hwy., Horse Cave, KY 42749
Upon opening the door to the WigWam General Store, I knew that I was in the right place. A place reminiscent of my childhood. Sweet tea out of a plastic pitcher. Seats at the counter, much like those at my favorite Main St. eatery growing up. Having lunch at the WigWam General Store should be on your Kentucky Bucket List — trust me, y’all.
Afternoon Exploration
Visit Dennison’s Roadside Market
5824 S. Jackson Hwy (US 31E), Horse Cave, KY 42749
Sweet strawberries, fresh produce, Kentucky Proud goods, a family-owned farm — need I say more?
Pet a Kangaroo at Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo
3700 L&N Turnpike Rd., Horse Cave, KY 42749
Yes, we have kangaroos in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. And sloths, lorries, camels, along with a plethora of other beautiful, extremely fascinating creatures — all of which can be found at the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo.
Dinner + Evening
Enjoy Dinner At Turtlelini’s Pizza and Pasta
103 S Dixie St., Horse Cave, KY 42749
Turtlelini’s is a local favorite. The staff is friendly, the restaurant is homey, and dinner crowd was well-attended. While I don’t know this to be certain, I’d be willing to bet that the people that I saw inside were regulars. Always go where the locals go. Pizza at Turtlelini’s is comprised of fresh, house-made dough + a seasoned sauce that is blended in the kitchen.