Erlanger KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Erlanger, Kentucky.
1. CVG Aircraft Viewing Area
AIRPLANE SPOTTING PARADISE
The CVG Aircraft Viewing Area offers visitors a prime spot to watch planes take off and land at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. This popular attraction provides aviation enthusiasts with unobstructed views of aircraft operations and has become a favorite sunset viewing location for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can experience the thrill of commercial jets flying overhead while enjoying this free, family-friendly venue.
2. Kenton County Public Library
KNOWLEDGE AND COMMUNITY HUB
The Kenton County Public Library stands as the highest circulating library in Kentucky with an outstanding collection of materials for all ages. Visitors can access computers with valid identification, browse extensive resources, and participate in numerous educational and entertaining programs throughout the year. This free-admission community cornerstone serves as both a traveler resource and a vibrant gathering place for locals.
3. Collection 21
UNIQUE SPECIALTY MUSEUM
Collection 21 offers visitors a fascinating specialty museum experience in Erlanger. The attraction showcases a carefully curated collection that draws both locals and tourists seeking cultural enrichment. Visitors can explore the unique exhibits while gaining insight into the specialized themes presented at this intriguing Erlanger destination.
4. Flagship Park
FAMILY RECREATION DESTINATION
Flagship Park provides Erlanger residents and visitors with a welcoming outdoor recreation area perfect for families. The park features playground equipment, open green spaces, and amenities designed for community enjoyment throughout the year. Visitors can relax in the peaceful surroundings while children burn energy at this well-maintained public space.
5. Spring Valley Park
NATURAL URBAN OASIS
Spring Valley Park offers a refreshing escape from urban life with its beautiful natural setting in Erlanger. The park features walking paths, recreational facilities, and green spaces that attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the seasons. Visitors can enjoy peaceful moments surrounded by trees and landscaping while taking advantage of the park's amenities.
6. Silver Lake Park
WATERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Silver Lake Park features a picturesque lake setting that serves as a focal point for outdoor recreation in Erlanger. The park offers visitors opportunities for fishing, walking trails, and picnic areas in a serene natural environment. Theater enthusiasts and sports fans will appreciate this vibrant area that combines natural beauty with proximity to cultural and athletic events.
7. Rainbow Park
COLORFUL COMMUNITY PLAYGROUND
Rainbow Park delights visitors with its colorful playground equipment and recreational facilities designed for family enjoyment. The park provides Erlanger residents and visitors with a cheerful outdoor space where children can play safely while adults supervise from comfortable seating areas. Visitors can make use of the well-maintained grounds for picnics, birthday celebrations, or simply enjoying a pleasant day outdoors.
8. Putt-Putt Fun Center
MINIATURE GOLF ADVENTURE
Putt-Putt Fun Center offers a delightful miniature golf experience with reasonably priced games perfect for families and date nights in Erlanger. The attraction features well-designed courses that provide just the right level of challenge for players of all ages and skill levels. Visitors can enjoy this entertaining activity when looking to fill time before another event or as a destination in itself.
9. Railroad Depot Park
HISTORIC RAILWAY SHOWCASE
Railroad Depot Park surrounds the historic Erlanger Depot with a charming railroad-themed outdoor space perfect for train enthusiasts of all ages. The park features a preserved Southern Railway caboose (X433) from 1943, a large picnic shelter, and a delightful playground with a wooden train structure for children to explore. Visitors may be treated to the exciting sight of freight trains from the Norfolk Southern Railway passing right by the park during their visit.
10. Erlanger Depot Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Erlanger Depot Museum preserves and showcases the rich railway history that helped shape this Kentucky community. Housed in a historic train depot building, the museum features artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Erlanger's development alongside the railroad industry. Visitors can step back in time while exploring this locally significant cultural institution that connects present-day residents and tourists with the area's transportation heritage.
11. Doe Run Lake
PEACEFUL WATER RETREAT
Doe Run Lake offers a tranquil natural setting in the southern part of Erlanger where residential areas blend with parks and open spaces. The lake provides visitors with opportunities for fishing, wildlife observation, and quiet contemplation away from urban hustle. Nature lovers can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while exploring the surrounding trails and green spaces that make this spot a hidden gem in Kenton County.
12. Healthy Moves Lifestyle And Movement
WELLNESS AND FITNESS CENTER
Healthy Moves Lifestyle And Movement promotes holistic wellness through fitness programs and health-focused activities in a supportive, body-positive environment. The center offers yoga, pilates, and various exercise options while emphasizing freedom from body shaming, toxins, stress, and anxiety. Visitors can participate in classes or learn about the venue's additional uses for essential oil workshops, special celebrations, and church gatherings.
13. Turfway Park Racing & Gaming
THOROUGHBRED RACING EXCITEMENT
Turfway Park Racing & Gaming offers visitors the thrill of thoroughbred horse racing just minutes from Erlanger in neighboring Florence. The venue combines the excitement of live racing with gaming options, creating an entertainment destination for adults looking to try their luck or experience Kentucky's famous horse culture. Visitors can enjoy the top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area while experiencing the energy of race day.
14. Vent Haven Museum
WORLD'S VENTRILOQUISM SHOWCASE
Vent Haven Museum stands as the world's only museum dedicated to ventriloquism, located in nearby Fort Mitchell just minutes from Erlanger. The fascinating collection houses hundreds of ventriloquist dummies, memorabilia, and artifacts that chronicle the history of this unique performance art. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about famous ventriloquists and their companions while experiencing one of Northern Kentucky's most distinctive cultural attractions.
15. Newport Aquarium
UNDERWATER MARINE ADVENTURE
Newport Aquarium invites visitors to stroll under the sea through immersive exhibits featuring thousands of aquatic creatures from around the world. Located in Newport, just a short drive from Erlanger, this premier attraction offers memorable experiences like touching sharks, watching playful penguins, and walking across a rope bridge suspended over shark-filled waters. Families can spend hours exploring the fascinating underwater tunnels while learning about marine conservation and diverse ecosystems.