Celebrate the holidays with Kentucky Lake’s “12 Days of Christmas” gift ideas! From cozy cabins and sunset cruises to local shopping and dining, discover legendary ways to share the spirit of the season.
A Legendary Gift Guide for the Holidays
The best gifts aren’t wrapped in paper—they’re wrapped in memories. This season, skip the shopping stress and give your loved ones something truly legendary: a Kentucky Lake experience they’ll never forget. From cozy cabins to thrilling adventures, here are twelve ways to make spirits bright around Kentucky Lake.
Day 1: A Cozy Cabin Getaway
Give the gift of lake views and fireside mornings. Book a weekend stay at one of Kentucky Lake’s cozy cabins or resorts like Moors Resort, Kenlake State Resort Park or Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, or The Lakehouse Inn at Sledd Creek or one of our many Short Term Rentals. Add a s’mores kit and a blanket for a thoughtful touch.
Day 2: Guided Fishing Adventure
Surprise the angler in your life with a guided fishing trip on Kentucky Lake, known for its legendary crappie and bass. Many of our local guides offer half and full day charters for all skill levels. Visit our Fishing page for a list of fishing guides and more fishing related content such as a our fishing calendar so you know exactly when to book the trip!
Day 3: Sunset Cruise or Pontoon Rental
Gift a day on the water! Local marinas offer gift certificates for pontoon, kayak, and/or paddle board rentals—perfect for a hot summer day or a romantic sunset cruise. For a complete list of marinas, visit our boating page!
Day 4: Wine Tasting & Girls' Getaway
Plan a girls’ weekend with wine tastings, laughter, and live music at local spots like Ralph’s Harborview Grill, The Dam Brewhaus or nearby wineries, Poca Terra and Buckhorn Creek Vineyard. Add a yoga class, craft class, tee time, or spa treatment for a perfect escape. For help lining up extra activities, give us a call at our office!
Day 5: Golf the Lake
Gift a golf getaway at Kentucky Dam Village State Park Golf Course or Calvert City Country Club. A golf pass or gift certificate is the ultimate treat for your favorite golfer.
Day 6: Outdoor Adventure Pass
For the explorers—grab a Land Between the Lakes annual pass! It opens the door to miles of trails, scenic drives, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Spend time as a family this summer disconnecting from the chaos of life and get back to natural entertainment. Take a drive through the Elk and Bison Prairie and be sure to stop by the Visitors Center to learn about the stars!
Day 7: Dinner with a View
Gift a dining experience at local favorites like Patti’s 1880’s Settlement, The Dinner Bell, the Calvert Drive In, or Harbor Lights Restaurant. Every meal is a chance to create a new memory.
Day 8: Live Music & Local Events
Tickets to a show at the Kentucky Opry or Badgett Playhouse make for a lively night out. Enjoy holiday performances or upcoming concerts filled with local talent.
Day 9: Shop Small, Shop Local
Explore the charming shops in Benton, Calvert City, and Draffenville for one-of-a-kind finds—antiques at Twin Lakes Antique Mall, or art and décor from RGS in Benton, and unique gifts and fine jewelry at Puckett’s on the court square in Benton.
Day 10: Kentucky Lake Festival Fun
Give future fun with tickets or lodging for upcoming events like the Ameribration Celebration on July 4th with a parade, live music, and fireworks! Or consider joining us during HoopfestMC which happens annually in December or Calvert City’s River Folk Fest in October. If enjoy live music, buy tickets for a three day music festival at Kenlake State Resort Park called Pickin’ on a Soldier’s Heart with proceeds going towards assisting Veteran’s. Be sure to check out our event calendar for a complete list of events and festivals.
Day 11: Local Coffee & Treats Basket
Create a “Taste of Kentucky Lake” basket with coffee, sweet treats, and locally made items such as and local honey or jam. Try places such as Dub House Coffee, Parcell’s, Cafe Celebre, or Archer’s in Hardin, KY!
Day 12: A Year of Legendary Memories
End your list with a Kentucky Lake Bucket List—twelve adventures to enjoy all year long. Kayaking, fishing, scenic drives, campfires, drive in movies, sunrises, sunsets, and more await on the Legendary lake that is Kentucky Lake.
Wrap Up Your Holidays at the Lake
This holiday season, trade shopping lines for the shorelines of Kentucky Lake. Whether it’s a weekend stay, a dining experience, or a little local love, every Kentucky Lake gift comes wrapped in warmth, connection, and adventure.
Plan your holiday getaway at VisitKYLake.com.