Henderson Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food scene, where to stay, local culture, and transportation options of Henderson, Kentucky, in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Henderson

Henderson is a beautiful city located in the western part of Kentucky. It is known for its rich history and abundant natural beauty. With its numerous cultural attractions, stunning parks, and highly-rated restaurants, this city offers a range of experiences for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Henderson

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • John James Audubon State Park Museum - This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous naturalist, artist, and writer, John James Audubon. Visitors can see a collection of his original artwork, personal belongings, and learn about his contributions to the field of ornithology.

  • Riverview Cemetery - This beautiful historic cemetery dates back to the mid-1800s and is known for its stunning architecture, lush gardens, and statues. It also offers an excellent view of the Ohio River.

  • Historic Main Street Properties - This street is the heart of downtown Henderson and is lined with stunning architecture from the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Natural Attractions of Henderson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Audubon Wetlands Preserve - This 649-acre preserve provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the diverse natural habitats of western Kentucky. It features hiking trails, observation decks, and an abundance of wildlife.

  • John James Audubon State Park - This park sits on 700 acres of land and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping in the park.

  • Henderson Riverwalk - This beautiful trail offers stunning views of the Ohio River and is perfect for a relaxing stroll or bike ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Henderson

  • Audubon State Park Trails - This park offers six different trails, each one with varying levels of difficulty and distance. They range from the half-mile Woodland Trail to the 5.8-mile Eagle Glenn Trail.

  • Atkinson Park Trail - This trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride and provides a peaceful break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

  • Henderson Riverwalk Trail - This beautiful trail follows the Ohio River and comprises several sections that connect seamlessly to create a 12-mile network of trails.

Best Things to Do in Henderson: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Farmer’s Market - Henderson’s farmer’s market is open all year round and offers a wide variety of locally produced fruits, vegetables, and homemade products.

  • Take a Bourbon Tour - Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and Henderson offers the opportunity to tour several local distilleries, including Angel’s Envy and Four Roses.

  • Explore the Art Scene - Henderson has a thriving art scene, and visitors can explore local galleries, attend shows, and participate in classes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Henderson

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the John James Audubon State Park Museum, Audubon Wetlands Preserve, and John James Audubon State Park
Day 2 Explore the Historic Main Street Properties and Red Wolf Sanctuary
Day 3 Go for a hike on one of the many trails and take a bike ride on the Henderson Riverwalk Trail
Day 4 Visit the Waverly Hills Sanatorium and take a tour of a local distillery
Day 5 Spend a day shopping and trying out new local restaurants
Day 6 Take a day trip to Mammoth Cave National Park
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the city’s beautiful parks and gardens

Food and Drink Scene of Henderson

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgoo - This hearty stew is a local specialty and typically consists of several types of meat, vegetables, and spices cooked together in a single pot.

  • Hot Brown - This Kentucky staple is made from turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, served atop a slice of bread and topped with more sauce and cheese.

  • Bourbon Balls - These chocolate truffles are infused with a generous amount of bourbon, making them a delightful treat for any bourbon lover.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon - Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and visitors can enjoy tours of local distilleries and tastings of this famous beverage.

  • Ale-8-One - This refreshing soft drink was created in Kentucky in 1926 and is still enjoyed by locals today.

  • Wine - Kentucky has a thriving wine industry, and visitors can experience local wineries and vineyards.

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

  • Comfort Inn Henderson - This modern hotel features comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.

  • Sleep Inn Henderson - This hotel offers guests a complimentary breakfast and is conveniently located near downtown Henderson.

  • Holiday Inn Express Henderson - This hotel provides guests with amenities such as a fitness center and complimentary Wi-Fi.

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

  • Bourbon - Kentucky’s famous bourbon is a perfect souvenir to bring back home.

  • Handmade Crafts - Henderson’s artist community creates a range of handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

  • Barbecue Sauce - The local barbecue sauce is a Kentucky classic and a great addition to any kitchen.

Local Culture and Customs of Henderson

Henderson’s culture is a blend of its southern heritage and the local artist community. Locals are friendly and welcoming and place great importance on hospitality.

Best Time to Visit Henderson

The best time to visit Henderson is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the parks and outdoor attractions are at their most beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Henderson

Do:

  • Visit the local distilleries and enjoy a tasting of Kentucky’s famous bourbon.

  • Explore Henderson’s art scene and discover the local talent.

  • Visit during the annual W.C. Handy Blues and Barbecue Festival.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to carry mosquito repellant for outdoor adventures.

  • Don’t litter or leave garbage on trails or in parks.

  • Don’t forget to respect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Henderson

Henderson is a relatively safe city, with a low crime rate. Tourists should avoid leaving their valuables unattended in public places.

Health in Henderson

Visitors to Henderson should carry essential medications and check the weather forecast to ensure they are appropriately dressed for the weather.

Getting to Henderson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Henderson

  • Evansville Regional Airport - This airport is located 15 miles from Henderson and offers daily flights to several destinations.

  • Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport - This airport is located 35 miles from Henderson and offers flights to several destinations.

Bus Stations Near Henderson

  • Greyhound Bus Station - This station is located in downtown Evansville, 15 miles from Henderson.

  • Bus Station - This station is located in Owensboro, 35 miles from Henderson.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from nearby airports or bus stations to get to Henderson.

How to Get Around in Henderson

Public transportation options in Henderson are limited, and visitors are recommended to rent a car or bike to commute.

Where to Go Next from Henderson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mammoth Cave National Park - This park is located 80 miles from Henderson and is known for its stunning underground limestone caves.

  • Louisville, Kentucky - Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky and is famous for the Kentucky Derby, the Muhammad Ali Center, and its thriving arts scene. It is located 130 miles from Henderson.

Conclusion

Henderson, Kentucky, is a beautiful city located in the western part of Kentucky, offering visitors a range of experiences. From its rich historical and cultural offerings to its natural beauty, Henderson is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful yet exciting vacation.