Gateway Town
Park City
The gate to Mammoth Cave. Minimal services, 8.5 miles from park entrance via Exit 48.
Quick facts
- Town Type
- Supply Depot
- Population
- 614
- Best Known For
- Sole gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park via I-65 Exit 48
- About This Town
- Park City is a small Kentucky town (population 614) that serves as the primary gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park. Exit 48 off I-65 provides the only direct highway access to the park. The town offers basic lodging and a single restaurant to serve visitors headed to the cave system.
Town overview
- Town Type
- Supply Depot
- Population
- 614
- Best Known For
- Sole gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park via I-65 Exit 48
- About This Town
- Park City is a small Kentucky town (population 614) that serves as the primary gateway to Mammoth Cave National Park. Exit 48 off I-65 provides the only direct highway access to the park. The town offers basic lodging and a single restaurant to serve visitors headed to the cave system.
- What Makes It Special
- Only direct I-65 Exit 48 access to Mammoth Cave National Park; essential entry point for park visitors.
Park access
- Distance From Park
- 8.5 miles (13.7 km) southeast
Where to stay & eat
- Hotel Count
- 1
- Bnb Count
- 1
- Lodging Variety
- Basic motel and B&B accommodation, with limited inventory.
- Restaurant Count
- 1
Things to do
- Main Attractions
- Mammoth Cave National Park tours, Diamond Caverns private cave system.
Planning advice
- The Vibe
- Park City is a working gateway, not a tourist town. Practical infrastructure, minimal services. Come here to access the cave; expect no nightlife, limited shopping, one restaurant. Designed for transit, not lingering.
More details
- Nearby Facilities
- Mammoth Cave National Park visitor services and tour facilities. Diamond Caverns private attraction nearby. Gateway access via I-65 Exit 48.
Location
Frequently asked questions
How far is Park City from Mammoth Cave?
8.5 miles southeast via I-65 Exit 48.
Should I book lodging in advance?
Yes—only 1 motel and 1 B&B are reported locally. Book well ahead for peak season.
What's the main reason to stay here?
Direct access to Mammoth Cave National Park. Exit 48 is the only highway entry to the park.
Is there food in Park City?
Yes, 1 restaurant is reported. Verify hours ahead.
What's there to do besides the cave?
Diamond Caverns private cave system nearby. Park City itself is a gateway, not a destination.
Can I visit the cave at night?
The park is open 24 hours, but cave tour services and the visitor center have limited after-hours availability.
More at Mammoth Cave National Park
Bowling Green
Full services 36km out. Rooms half the price of anywhere near the cave. Gas, groceries, real food. Park here.
Brownsville
Trail town 12 km west of Mammoth Cave. One motel, honest food, locals know the spots.
Cave City
The gateway to Mammoth Cave: cheap beds, gas, and greasy spoons. Book ahead in summer.
Recommended gear for Mammoth Cave National Park
Sources
- YourNPGuide Editorial
Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.
Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.