After a long day of climbing, relax and refuel at some of the best dining spots in the Red River Gorge. From local favorites to unique eateries, we’ve got you covered. Discover a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal or a quick snack, our guide to local dining ensures you find the perfect spot to recharge. We also cover activities for your rest days, giving your body a break while you enjoy the local culture and nature.
Restaurants & Cafes
The Red River Gorge area offers a range of dining options to satisfy your hunger after a day of climbing. Miguel’s Pizza is a legendary spot among climbers, known for its delicious pizza and vibrant community atmosphere. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Red River Rockhouse, which offers a diverse menu featuring locally sourced ingredients. Places like Sky Bridge Station and Hop’s are popular with both locals and climbers, providing meals and refreshing drinks — these establishments often feature live music and events such as Tuesday Trivia at Sky Bridge Station, making them a great place to unwind and socialize. There are also cafes and diners where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or a coffee break.
| Restaurant | Details | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Miguel’s Pizza | 1890 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376 | (606) 663-1975 — miguelspizza.com |
| RedPoint Barbeque | 356 Smith Rd, Campton, KY 41301 | (606) 668-7000 — redpointbbq.com |
| Red River Rockhouse | Burgers, burritos, tacos, draft beer | (606) 668-6656 — redriverrockhouse.com |
| La Cabana Mexican | 1289 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376 | (606) 663-0330 — lacabanaofslade.com |
| Sky Bridge Station | Hot dogs, bratwurst, draft beer — Sky Bridge Rd, Pine Ridge, KY 41360 | (606) 668-9927 — Facebook |
| Hop’s at RRG | 2613 Kentucky 11, Campton, KY 41301 | (606) 668-7302 — hopsatrrg.weebly.com |
| Daniel Boone Coffee Shop | 769 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376 | (606) 663-2549 — danielboonecoffeeshop.com |
| The Brick | Ice cream, coffee, local art | |
| Thatcher Barbecue Company | 918 Natural Bridge Rd, Slade, KY 40376 | (606) 947-8040 — thatbbqco.com |
| Sandstone Arches Restaurant | Located in Hemlock Lodge, Natural Bridge State Park | (606) 663-2214 — parks.ky.gov |
| Toad’s BARn and Grill | 9943 Campton Rd, Stanton, KY 40380 | (606) 481-3828 — toadsbarnandgrill.com |
| 145 Steakout | 148 Main St, Campton, KY 41301 | (606) 668-7500 — Facebook |
Food Market / Grocery Stores
The local go-to option is Kroger in Stanton, KY. There are a few other grocery stores, such as Save-A-Lot in Campton, KY or IGA in Beattyville, KY, but most folks prefer the Kroger, especially if you don’t want to drive all the way to larger cities like Lexington. Many local fuel stations or Dollar General stores also carry basic necessities.
Kroger in Stanton, KY — 179 W College Ave, Stanton, KY 40380 — (606) 663-2873 — Store details
Pharmacy
The Kroger in Stanton, KY has a pharmacy, but you can also find an actual Walgreens in Beattyville and Stanton.
Walgreens — 31 Big Hill Dr, Beattyville, KY 41311 — (606) 464-2581 — Store details
Rest Day Activities
Taking a rest day is an important part of recovery, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit still. The Red River Gorge offers plenty of ways to recharge while still enjoying everything the area has to offer.
If you’re looking to truly unwind, the Gorge has plenty of low-key options. Visit a local reptile zoo, wander through a pottery gallery, enjoy some quiet time at the library, or reset with a massage or yoga class.
If you’re feeling up for something a bit more active, there are also great “active rest day” options. Experiences like the Via Ferrata, ziplining, exploring scenic hiking trails, and paddling the Red River or the underground mines allow you to stay moving and try something new while still being approachable for a wide range of abilities. These options let you soak in the beauty of the Gorge without the physical demands of climbing.
| Activity | Details | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Mountain Guides Via Ferrata | The first cable climbing system of its kind in the United States — 1617 KY-11, Campton, KY 41301 | 606-668-6613 — southeastmountainguides.com |
| Gorge Underground Guided Kayaking | Kayak through an abandoned limestone quarry — 2478 Glencairn Rd, Rogers, KY | (844) 254-6244 — gorgeunderground.com |
| Red River Gorge Ziplines | In Cliffview Resort | (606) 668-6222 — redrivergorgezipline.com |
| Red River Gorge Hiking Information | Trail guides and maps | toredrivergorge.com |
| Natural Bridge State Park | Hiking trails, Skylift | (606) 663-2214 — parks.ky.gov |
| Leave No Trace Adventures | Guided trail hiking | (606) 362-7425 — leavenotraceadventures.com |
| Red River Adventure | Canoeing and kayaking the Red River | (606) 663-1012 — redriveradventure.net |
| Reptile Zoo | Local reptile zoo | 606-663-9160 — kyreptilezoo.org |
| Whisper Valley Trails | Guided horseback riding — 5819 KY-52, Beattyville, KY | (859) 302-6809 — Facebook |
| Thrillsville Adventure Golf | 18-hole mini golf — 693 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY 40376 | (606) 668-5213 — Details |
Local Culture
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby towns and attractions. The Red River Gorge area is rich in history and offers various cultural experiences, from local craft shops and art galleries to community events and festivals. Engage with the local community and learn more about the heritage and traditions that make this area unique.
- Turtle Farm Pottery — 5412 KY-15N, Pine Ridge, KY 41360 — turtlefarmpottery.com
- Gladie Visitor Center — Daniel Boone National Forest — (606) 663-8100 — fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf
- Powell County Tourism Department — gopoco.org
Wellness & Relaxation
For those looking to relax and rejuvenate, consider visiting a local spa or wellness center. Services such as massages, yoga classes, and wellness workshops can help soothe sore muscles and prepare you for your next climbing session.
- Yoga on Main — 296 Main St, Campton, KY 41301 — (606) 362-5621 — Facebook
- The Art of Massage — 31 North Washington Street, Campton, KY 41301 — (606) 362-4801 — artofmassageky.com