Caves aren’t the only Mammoth in the region! Just north of Mammoth Cave National Park is Dinosaur World! It’s hard to miss the giant dinosaur statue menacingly overlooking HWY I-65 in Cave City, KY. We couldn’t resist a stop!
What a hidden gem, if you like dinosaurs! The curators have amassed a large collection of replica dinosaurs and placed them through an outdoor exhibit. Similar to a zoo, each species has an informative plaque describing their habitat and behavior. The winding walk through the forest reveals scene after scene of multiple dinosaurs almost with a safari feeling.
In addition, they also identify trees and plants in the exhibits which have prehistoric heritage.
We thoroughly enjoyed our day among the dinosaurs and mammoths and appreciated the attention to detail provided by the park designers.
For us, the most remarkable display was positioned at the end of the trail. At the observation platform, we were greeted with a panoramic view of clusters of dinosaurs as if roaming through the primeval forest. It was a very clever and mesmerizing exhibit.
For the dinosaur lover, Dinosaur World provides a quality experience.
Dueling Grounds Distillery
One of the resources for RV-ers is a group called Harvest Host. This association provides members with unique places to overnight for free in exchange for a minimal purchase from the host’s establishment. Our first experience with Harvest Host was at a Bourbon distillery outside of Franklin, KY — Dueling Grounds Distillery.
Named for the fields around Franklin, KY frequently used for duels in the early 1800’s, Dueling Grounds Distillery is a small, locally owned business.
We were excited to take a tour of the facility. Our knowledgeable tour guide provided us with an explanation of the distilling, aging, and bottling processes.
DGD’s 400th barrel of bourbon. We were invited to sign the barrel as part of the celebration.
After the tour, we selected four different products for tasting from their menu of differently aged bourbon, gin and cocktails.
Later, we ordered one of the house specialties, a maple bourbon old fashion, to sip while watching the sunset. We then walked to our home on wheels in the parking lot and spent the night in the back of the distillery. Life is good!
…What makes Bourbon different from whiskey or other distilled/aged spirits? Among several other requirements, Bourbon can only be aged in a new oak barrel and no coloring or flavor can be added. Whereas, whiskey, gin, or other spirits can reuse a barrel as many times as the distiller desires and flavors can be added (apple pie, fireball…etc).
…Do you know what constitutes Moonshine? Moonshine is alcohol made without a permit or license. Rest assured, the folks at Dueling Grounds Distillery do not make moonshine!
Next up … Tennessee!
Their RV Travels 