Corbin Travel Guide

Discover the culturally and naturally rich town of Corbin, Kentucky! Learn about its attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Corbin

Welcome to Corbin, a charming town located in Daniel Boone Country of Kentucky, in the southern region of the United States. Corbin is known for its natural beauty and rich history, making it a great place for a vacation. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking for an adventure or a history buff seeking to explore cultural landmarks, Corbin has it all. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the town’s top attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Corbin

Here’s a list of the top places you must visit during your trip to Corbin:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Colonel Sanders Cafe and Museum: Learn about the man who founded the famous fast-food chain, KFC, and how it all started at this museum, which also serves as a restaurant.
  • Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum: This is the original restaurant where KFC began, and it has been preserved to look like it did in the 1940s.
  • Corbin Railroad Museum: Visit this museum to learn about the history and impact of the railway industry on Corbin.
  • Nibroc Park: Immerse yourself in local culture by attending a festival at Nibroc Park, which is named after the town’s most cherished event, The Nibroc Festival.

Natural Attractions of Corbin: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cumberland Falls State Resort Park: Hike to the falls or take a moonbow tour, a natural phenomenon that only occurs a few nights each month.
  • Laurel Lake: Get your adrenaline pumping with watersports such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
  • Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park: Follow the steps of early American pioneers with a walking tour of this park, which was an important stop on the Wilderness Road leading to Kentucky.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Corbin

Corbin boasts many hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the town’s natural wonders. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail: This trail offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience with stunning views of the Daniel Boone National Forest.
  • Laurel River Trail: This trail is perfect for biking enthusiasts who want an easy ride with scenic views of the Cumberland River.
  • The Pinnacles Trail: For a moderate hike, take this 7.4-mile trail to see rock formations and seasonal wildflowers.

Best Things to Do in Corbin: Activities and Tours

Corbin is not only a town for outdoor enthusiasts but also offers plenty of indoor activities. Here are some of the best things to do in Corbin:

  • Explore Downtown Corbin: Wander around downtown to discover unique shops and local eateries.
  • Watch a movie at The Corbin Arena: Head to The Corbin Arena for dinner and a movie night featuring the latest blockbuster movies.
  • Take a guided tour of Cumberland Falls: Learn about the area’s history with a guided tour of Cumberland Falls, offered by the park.

Week-Long Itinerary for Corbin

Here’s a week-long itinerary that includes some of the top attractions in Corbin:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Colonel Sanders Cafe and Museum
Day 2 Hike Sheltowee Trace Trail
Day 3 Explore the Downtown Corbin shopping district
Day 4 Go fishing at Laurel Lake
Day 5 Take a guided tour of Cumberland Falls
Day 6 Visit Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park
Day 7 Watch a movie at The Corbin Arena

Food and Drink Scene of Corbin

Corbin boasts a unique culinary scene that includes local dishes and renowned restaurant chains. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Chicken: Visit one of the many restaurants that claim to have perfected KFC’s original recipe, including the current KFC chain.
  • Burgoo: A stew that is a staple dish of Kentucky, made with beef, chicken, and vegetables.
  • Spoon Bread: A type of cornbread that is fluffy and souffle-like.

Local Beverages

  • Ale-8-One: A Kentucky-local soft drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Kentucky Bourbon: Kentucky is known for its bourbon, with several distilleries located near Corbin.

Where to Stay in Corbin: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Corbin offers a range of accommodations to fit every budget. Here are some of the best options:

  • Best Western Corbin Inn: This is a great option for budget-conscious travelers who still want comfortable lodging and complimentary breakfast.
  • Hampton Inn Corbin: This hotel features a fitness center, outdoor pool, and hot breakfast.
  • Stayover Lodge: For a unique and affordable lodging option, check out this small motel with individualized rooms and friendly service.

What to Buy in Corbin: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

While in Corbin, make sure to check out these local shops for souvenir shopping:

  • Corbin Antique Mall: Discover unique vintage items and antiques for purchase.
  • The Crimson Door: A gift shop that offers unique souvenirs, perfect for remembering your time in Corbin.

Local Culture and Customs of Corbin

Corbin has a rich cultural heritage, full of traditions and customs that are unique to the town. Here are a few things to know:

  • People in Corbin are friendly and welcoming to visitors. Expect to be greeted with a smile and a friendly hello.
  • Locals take their food seriously, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself in a debate over which restaurant serves the best fried chicken in town.
  • Southern hospitality is alive and well in Corbin, with many people willing to help you with directions or recommendations.

Best Time to Visit Corbin

The best time to visit Corbin is during the fall months, from September to November. During this time, the temperatures are mild, and you get to enjoy the fall foliage as the leaves change to vibrant colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Corbin

Do:

  • Do try the fried chicken, it’s a staple dish!
  • Do respect nature when hiking or biking on the trails.
  • Do make time to explore the local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage natural areas.
  • Don’t be rude to locals or other visitors.
  • Don’t miss out on local cultural landmarks, such as Colonel Sanders Cafe, Harland Sanders Cafe, and Cumberland Falls.

Safety and Health

Safety in Corbin

Corbin is a safe town to visit. However, it is always important to take normal safety precautions when traveling, such as locking your doors and windows in your accommodation, and not leaving valuables visible in your car.

Health in Corbin

Make sure to get your vaccinations before traveling to Corbin, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors. Also, be aware of ticks and mosquitoes and take necessary precautions when hiking or camping.

Getting to Corbin: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Corbin is easy, as it is situated near several major highways and airports. Here are some options for getting to Corbin:

  • Flights: The closest airport is the Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, which is a 75-minute drive.
  • Buses: The Greyhound bus station is located in downtown Corbin, with connections to major cities.
  • Driving: Corbin is accessible via major highways, including I-75 and I-64.

How to Get Around in Corbin

The best way to get around Corbin is by car or bike. There are several car rental agencies located in town, as well as bike rental options.

Where to Go Next from Corbin: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Corbin is located in a beautiful region of Kentucky, making it a great place to venture out and explore. Here are some nearby destinations to visit:

  • Mammoth Cave National Park: A three-hour drive will take you to this stunning national park, where you can explore its caves and underground rivers.
  • Red River Gorge: A two-hour drive will take you to this beautiful area of natural beauty, featuring hiking and rock climbing opportunities.
  • Lexington: A 75-minute drive will take you to the heart of the Bluegrass region, home to horse farms and bourbon distilleries.

Conclusion

Corbin is a hidden gem in South Kentucky, with a rich cultural heritage and natural beauty that is sure to captivate visitors. With an abundance of activities to do, sites to see, and food to try, Corbin is a great destination for a relaxing and adventurous vacation. We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan your trip to Corbin and experience all that it has to offer.

Downtown Corbin Downtown Corbin Harlan Sanders Café Harlan Sanders Café Kentucky Route 90 Kentucky Route 90