Named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s “Best Places to Travel in 2023,” a visit to Northern Kentucky is the perfect trip for travelers of all ages. Packed with boutique hotels, local shops, restaurants, breweries, and distilleries, there is truly something for everyone. With year-round events and activities, there is no bad time to experience small-town charm with big fun.
Here’s how to make the most of your trip to Northern Kentucky:
Book a Stay in Covington
Just a bridge walk away from Cincinnati, Ohio, is the middle city of Northern Kentucky. This is the ideal location for staying and accessing your adventures and activities. Covington offers a variety of boutique and chain hotels. Waking up in the heart of the action is the best way to begin a Northern Kentucky experience. Hotel Covington is the perfect choice and is located right in the heart of Covington. This award-winning property was once a department store and has since been renovated and reimagined. It has 114 guestrooms, restaurants, and other public areas to explore. With lavish furniture and amenities like a 24-hour fitness center and locally curated mini-bars in each room, you’ll have to force yourself to leave.
Explore Covington and the Surrounding Area
Northern Kentucky’s community of small businesses, locally owned restaurants, and landmarks are what truly brings it to life. While not particularly compact, exploring the area by car and even by foot is easy. Covington is an authentic city. Don’t be surprised by the warm and welcoming greetings from locals while wandering the streets. Historic neighborhoods Mainstrese Village and Wallace Woods are worth a visit. The Roebling Suspension Bridge is an icon that is impossible to miss. Connecting the city to downtown Cincinnati, a walk or drive across the bridge will give the feeling of being in New York as the bridge is John R. Roebling’s model for the Brooklyn Bridge. Day or nighttime photos and videos on and by the bridge are never a bad idea.
Enjoy Diverse Cuisine
Covington’s food scene is as diverse as its history and people. From funky taco joints like Agave and Rye to farm-to-table dishes at Bouquet Restaurant, you’ll find plenty of delicious options. Agave and Rye claims to have the best tacos in Covington. Judging from the crowds, the variety of menu items, and the decor, it’s easy to see why. Bouquet was one of the first restaurants in the area to embrace local and sustainable farming as a cornerstone of its mission. Libby’s Southern Comfort is located in the heart of the Dueveneck Square area and has mouthwatering southern dishes that will have you questioning whose grandmom is in the kitchen. The fried chicken cannot be missed. Brunch fans can’t go wrong with the offerings at Coppin’s Restaurant and Bar located at Hotel Covington.
Explore Northern Kentucky’s B-Line
One thing’s for sure: there’s no shortage of bourbon when it comes to Northern Kentucky. Bourbon lovers- you’re in for a treat. The B-Line is Northern Kentucky’s self-guided bourbon tour. Comprised of 7 Kentucky distilleries, 10 bars, and 10 bourbon-centric restaurants, this is a must-do. There are 27 stops along the B-Line, with many in and around Covington. Don’t leave without stopping by Revival- the world’s first vintage spirit shop. This tasting bar and bottle shop is a one-of-a-kind experience. The carefully curated selection of rare and vintage bottles, along with the friendly bourbon experts on-site, makes this the destination for the bourbon curious and enthusiasts. New Riff Distilling is located in Newport and provides a premiere distillery visit experience. Tours are available as well as tastings. New Riff is one of the main stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
A visit to Northern Kentucky is a guaranteed good time. Whether you are seeking to explore the history, enjoy local shopping and dining, or drink your way through the B-Line, Northern Kentucky promises a memorable experience for all who visit. Pack your bags and prepare for your trip!
