This is a beautiful time of year in Central and Eastern Kentucky. The Fall folliage is just beginning to show color. One of my favorite places in the world is Red River Gorge, approximately one hour east of Lexington (you know you're from Kentucky if you measure distances in minutes and hours instead of miles). This is probably too far north and east for your trek, and you would almost have to count on spending the day there. If you are in Lexinton the Horse Park is a must. (it's on the north side) But you can just drive through the Horse Farm areas either north of town or south of town. Another beautiful drive is along the Kentucky River to Shakertown.

If I were in SC again, I'd go to Charleston, but that's on the coast.