What is the closest Major Airport to Mammoth Cave National Park?
The closest major airport to Mammoth Cave National Park is Louisville International Airport (SDF), which is approximately 89 miles away. Other Nearby Airports are Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) and Blue Grass Airport (LEX).
Distance from Mammoth Cave: Approximately 90 miles (about 1 hour and 40 minutes by car)
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
For most travelers, Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the best option. It’s a major hub with frequent domestic and international flights from all over the U.S. Once you land in Nashville, you can rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive north through rolling hills and small Kentucky towns before arriving at Mammoth Cave.
Airlines operating at BNA include:
- American Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
- United Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- JetBlue Airways
Tip: Nashville’s airport also has plenty of rental car options and convenient access to Interstate 65, which leads directly toward Mammoth Cave.
Nashville International Airport contact details:
- Address: 1 Terminal Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, United States
- Distance to Mammoth Cave National Park: Approximately 95 miles
- Official Website: https://flynashville.com/
- Phone Number: +1 615-275-1675
- Rating: 4.3/5 (14625 votes on Google map)
How to Get to Mammoth Cave National Park from Nashville International Airport
The easiest way to reach Mammoth Cave National Park from Nashville International Airport (BNA) is by car.
Distance: About 90 miles
Drive time: Around 1 hour 40 minutes
Directions:
- From the airport, take I-40 West toward Nashville.
- Merge onto I-65 North toward Louisville.
- Drive about 80 miles, then take Exit 48 for KY-255 North toward Park City/Mammoth Cave.
- Follow park signs to the Mammoth Cave Visitor Center.
You’ll need a rental car, as public transportation isn’t available to the park. Along the way, you can stop in Bowling Green or Cave City for food, gas, or attractions.
Tip: Book cave tours in advance — they often sell out, especially in summer.
🛩️ Other Nearby Airports
1. Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
- Distance: ~95 miles northeast (~1 hour 45 minutes drive)
- Location: Louisville, Kentucky
- Great option if you’re traveling from northern states or prefer Louisville’s smaller crowds compared to Nashville.
2. Blue Grass Airport (LEX)
- Distance: ~130 miles east (~2 hours 15 minutes drive)
- Location: Lexington, Kentucky
Ideal if you’re combining your cave adventure with a visit to Kentucky’s famous bourbon distilleries or horse country.
Travel Tips for Visiting Mammoth Cave
- Book cave tours early: Popular tours like the Historic Tour and the Frozen Niagara Tour often sell out, especially in summer.
- Stay nearby: Towns such as Cave City, Park City, and Brownsville offer cozy cabins, lodges, and campgrounds just minutes from the park entrance.
- Visit year-round: While summer is peak season, the cave maintains a cool temperature (around 54°F / 12°C) all year, making it a great destination even in winter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re wondering which airport to fly into for Mammoth Cave National Park, here’s the quick answer:
- Closest airport overall: Bowling Green–Warren County Regional Airport (BWG)
- Closest major airport: Nashville International Airport (BNA)
With easy highway access, plenty of rental car options, and a scenic drive to one of America’s most fascinating natural wonders, getting to Mammoth Cave is as enjoyable as exploring it.
Map of 3 airports near Mammoth Cave National Park
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