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Quizzes > Geography

Kentucky trivia questions to test your Bluegrass State know-how

Quick, free Kentucky quiz to test what you know. Instant results.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Andria NikolaidouUpdated Aug 26, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Coral background paper art collage showing horse, bourbon barrel, horseshoe, state outline, and cardinal

This quiz helps you tackle Kentucky trivia questions about horses, bourbon, basketball, and landmarks from Mammoth Cave to the Derby. Answer quick questions, see your score right away, and pick up a few facts along the way. Love hoops? Try our Kentucky basketball trivia. Curious about spirits? Explore bourbon trivia.

Easy
What is the capital of Kentucky?
Bowling Green
Frankfort
Lexington
Louisville
Frankfort is the capital city of Kentucky, having been established as the state capital in 1792 when Kentucky became the 15th state. Despite its small size compared to Louisville and Lexington, it has remained the political center. It was named after Stephen Frank, an early settler, and has historical significance in the state's governance. .
What is Kentucky's state nickname?
Corn State
Bluegrass State
Bourbon State
Horse Capital
Kentucky is known as the Bluegrass State due to the bluegrass species that flourishes in the region's soil, particularly in the central and northern parts. This grass gives the landscape a bluish tint when it blooms, contributing to productive pastures. It has been a defining characteristic of the state's identity and equine industry. .
What is the official state bird of Kentucky?
Northern cardinal
American goldfinch
Eastern bluebird
Red-tailed hawk
The northern cardinal was designated the Kentucky state bird in 1926. It is a bright red songbird common throughout the state year-round. The bird symbolizes vitality and is a popular species among birdwatchers for its striking coloration. .
What is the name of the famous horse race held annually in Louisville, Kentucky?
Kentucky Derby
Preakness Stakes
Belmont Stakes
Breeders' Cup
The Kentucky Derby, first run in 1875 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, is the longest continuously held sporting event in the U.S. Dubbed "The Run for the Roses," it is held annually on the first Saturday in May. It is the first leg of the American Triple Crown of horse racing. .
What is the official state flower of Kentucky?
Rose
Daisy
Goldenrod
Bluebonnet
Goldenrod (Solidago) was named the official state flower of Kentucky in 1926. This bright yellow wildflower blooms in late summer and early autumn across the state, often in mass displays. It represents the beauty of Kentucky's natural landscapes. .
Which major river forms the northern border of Kentucky?
Tennessee River
Cumberland River
Ohio River
Mississippi River
The Ohio River forms most of Kentucky's northern border with Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. It is a major tributary of the Mississippi River and has been vital for commerce, transportation, and settlement since the 18th century. Many Kentucky cities like Louisville developed along its banks. .
What animal is designated as Kentucky's official state mammal?
Eastern elk
Thoroughbred horse
White-tailed deer
Gray squirrel
The Thoroughbred horse is recognized as Kentucky's state mammal, reflecting the state's deep connection to horse breeding and racing. Kentucky is home to the world's leading stud farms and hosts the Kentucky Derby, cementing the animal's cultural and economic significance. .
Medium
By federal law, bourbon must be made from at least what percentage of corn?
51%
40%
60%
70%
By federal law, bourbon must be made from a grain mash containing at least 51% corn. The remaining mash may include barley, rye, or wheat. This high corn content contributes to bourbon's characteristic sweet flavor, and Kentucky is its primary production region. .
What is the highest natural point in Kentucky?
Mount Sterling
Black Mountain
Cave Hill
Pine Mountain
Black Mountain, at 4,145 feet, is the highest natural point in Kentucky, located in Harlan County in the Appalachian Mountains. It rises dramatically above the surrounding area and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts. .
Which city is the most populous in Kentucky?
Bowling Green
Louisville
Lexington
Owensboro
Louisville is the most populous city in Kentucky, with a metro population of over 1.2 million. It is known for its cultural heritage, bourbon distilleries, and as the home of the Kentucky Derby. Louisville also anchors the largest metropolitan area in the state. .
What is the official state motto of Kentucky?
United we stand, divided we fall
Out of many, one people
Forward
Das Kind, das nie erwachsen wird
"United we stand, divided we fall" was adopted as Kentucky's official state motto in 1792, reflecting the state's commitment to unity and cooperation. It appears on the state seal and flag. The phrase originally dates back to a 1768 political song by John Dickinson. .
In which year did Kentucky become a state of the United States?
1792
1776
1812
1787
Kentucky became the 15th state of the United States on June 1, 1792. It was the first state west of the Appalachian Mountains to join the Union, following its separation from Virginia. This admission helped pave the way for further western expansion. .
What is Kentucky's official state tree?
Sugar maple
Eastern red cedar
Tulip poplar
American oak
The tulip poplar, also known as yellow poplar or tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), was designated Kentucky's state tree in 1950. It is one of the tallest eastern hardwoods, reaching heights over 160 feet, and features distinctive tulip-shaped flowers. .
Who was the explorer that first surveyed and named the Cumberland Gap in 1750, aiding early Kentucky settlement?
Daniel Boone
Thomas Walker
Meriwether Lewis
Davy Crockett
Dr. Thomas Walker was a Virginia physician and explorer who in 1750 became one of the first Europeans to explore Kentucky's wilderness. He named the Cumberland Gap and River, providing a route for later settlers. His journals offered valuable early observations of the region. .
Hard
Mammoth Cave in Kentucky is renowned as the world's longest what?
River
Above-ground trail
Cave system
Railroad tunnel
Mammoth Cave in central Kentucky is recognized as the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of surveyed passageways. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular national park. The cave's unique geology and biodiversity draw scientists and tourists alike. .
How many counties are there in Kentucky?
95
100
120
150
Kentucky is divided into 120 counties, making it one of the states with the highest number of counties in the U.S. Each county has its own government and seat, reflecting the state's administrative structure. The number dates back to late 19th-century county formations. .
Which U.S. president was born in Kentucky?
John F. Kennedy
Thomas Jefferson
Abraham Lincoln
George Washington
Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was born on February 12, 1809, in a one-room log cabin near Hodgenville, Kentucky. He spent his early childhood in the state before moving to Indiana and Illinois. His Kentucky roots remain a point of local pride. .
What is the official state reptile of Kentucky?
American alligator
Eastern box turtle
Painted turtle
Black racer snake
The black racer (Coluber constrictor) was designated Kentucky's official state reptile in 1990. This non-venomous snake is common in fields, forests, and suburban areas across the state. It is known for its speed and active daytime hunting behavior. .
Which beverage is designated as the official state beverage of Kentucky?
Bourbon
Milk
Water
Peach tea
In 1980, milk was designated as Kentucky's official state beverage to honor the importance of dairy farming in the state's agricultural economy. Kentucky ranks among the top states in milk production and home to numerous dairy farms. .
Which educational institution is the oldest university in Kentucky, founded in 1780?
Eastern Kentucky University
Transylvania University
University of Kentucky
Centre College
Transylvania University in Lexington, founded in 1780 as Transylvania Seminary, is the oldest higher education institution west of the Allegheny Mountains and in Kentucky. It has a rich history and notable alumni in law, government, and the arts. .
Which Kentucky native is known as the "Father of Bluegrass" music?
Loretta Lynn
Johnny Cash
Bill Monroe
Kenny Rogers
Bill Monroe, born in Rosine, Kentucky, in 1911, is celebrated as the "Father of Bluegrass" for pioneering the musical style known as bluegrass. His band, the Blue Grass Boys, coined the genre's name. Monroe's influence endures in country and folk music. .
Which organization created the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to promote tourism?
Bourbon Brewers Guild
Kentucky Distillers' Association
Kentucky Tourism Board
Kentucky Historical Society
The Kentucky Distillers' Association, founded in 1880, created the Kentucky Bourbon Trail program in 1999 to promote the state's bourbon industry and tourism. The trail highlights distilleries open to public tours and tastings. It has become a major attraction for bourbon enthusiasts. .
Expert
The fertile limestone soils of Kentucky's Bluegrass region predominantly originated during which geological period?
Silurian
Ordovician
Devonian
Carboniferous
The limestone bedrock of Kentucky's famed Bluegrass region formed during the Ordovician period, roughly 485 to 443 million years ago. This sedimentary rock underlies the rolling pastures and contributes to soil fertility. The calcium-rich soil is ideal for grazing thoroughbred horses. .
In what year was the Kentucky Supreme Court established as the highest court in the state?
1895
1975
1800
1930
The Kentucky Supreme Court was established as the state's highest court in 1975 after a constitutional amendment reorganized the judicial system. Prior to this, the Kentucky Court of Appeals was the court of last resort. The reform clarified appellate procedure and court hierarchy. .
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Study Outcomes

  1. Recall Kentucky Historical Facts -

    After taking the kentucky trivia quiz, readers will be able to remember key events and dates in the state's history.

  2. Identify Iconic Landmarks -

    Readers will recognize and locate famous sites like the Kentucky Derby's Churchill Downs and Mammoth Cave as part of kentucky state trivia knowledge.

  3. Describe Bourbon Traditions -

    Participants will explain the origins, production methods, and cultural importance of bourbon in trivia about Kentucky.

  4. Recognize Horse Racing Heritage -

    Users will highlight the significance of the Kentucky Derby and Triple Crown races within the broader context of kentucky trivia questions.

  5. Analyze Cultural Contributions -

    Quiz-takers will discuss Kentucky's influence on music, arts, and local folklore, deepening their understanding of the Bluegrass State's culture.

  6. Apply Trivia Skills -

    Readers will confidently use their new knowledge to challenge friends, host trivia nights, or pursue further learning about Kentucky.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Kentucky Derby Origins -

    The first Kentucky Derby was held in 1875 at Churchill Downs and is famously dubbed the "Run for the Roses" for the 554 red rose wreath placed on the winner (Churchill Downs archives). A mnemonic "18-7-5 → I'll go for a Derby alive" helps lock in 1875 for your kentucky trivia questions. It remains the oldest continuously held major sporting event in the United States.

  2. Bourbon Legal Definition -

    Bourbon is governed by US Code Title 27, making it America's native spirit and requiring at least 51% corn in the mash bill plus aging in new charred oak barrels (TTB.gov). A quick mnemonic "51-C-BN" (51% Corn, Barrel New) keeps the core regulations clear for trivia about kentucky. These strict laws guarantee each bottle delivers that signature caramel and vanilla flavor profile.

  3. Bluegrass Region Geology -

    The famed Bluegrass Region in central Kentucky sits atop limestone-rich soils that leach calcium, feeding pastures and giving the grass its soft blue-green hue (University of Kentucky Geology Department). Remember "Lime = Prime pasture" to recall why horses thrive here for kentucky state trivia. This unique geology underpins Kentucky's equine legacy and bourbon-production terroir.

  4. Mammoth Cave Records -

    With over 420 miles explored, Mammoth Cave holds the Guinness record as the world's longest known cave system (National Park Service). Use "Mammoth > 400" for your kentucky trivia arsenal to remember 420+ miles of underground passage. Its vast limestone labyrinth formed over millions of years and shelters diverse ecosystems.

  5. Frankfort: Small but Significant -

    Frankfort, Kentucky's capital since 1792, is the second-smallest U.S. state capital by population with just over 27,000 residents (Kentucky Secretary of State records). Think "Frank-fortyless" to remember it's under 40,000 people for your kentucky trivia review. Despite its size, Frankfort hosts the historic Capitol building and overlooks the Kentucky River.

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