Helicopter tours, a restaurant and bar. Check out what’s new at KY’s Red River Gorge

The Red River Gorge is known for its high sandstone cliffs, rock overhangs, waterfalls and natural stone arches, all of which make it a major draw for hikers and rock climbers from across Kentucky and beyond.

But from time to time, it’s worth giving this geological wonder a fresh look, especially in the fall when its beauty and autumnal foliage are on full display.

To help you plan fresh experiences with your friends and family , we’ve compiled a short list of new events and attractions in the gorge to enjoy this fall. Here’s what to know, including what you shouldn’t miss and how to get there.

Take a tour of the Red River Gorge by air

It’s hard to beat an aerial view of the Red River Gorge, particularly this time of year when fiery fall colors should be popping up around the majestic Natural Bridge .

Red River Gorge Air Tours opened in July, and the attraction offers birds-eye-views of the awe-inspiring sandstone arch, in addition to the gorge’s other iconic rock formations.

The helicopter tours start at $99 per person, and there are other price points for private or more extensive aerial tours. Customizable tours are also available.

If you go: Keep an eye on flight availability given weather may change plans.

Address: 102 Plum St., Stanton, KY 40380

Stop in at Toad’s BARn & Grill

A new dining spot opened recently in Stanton. For reference, it’s just down the road from Miguel’s Pizza and a less than five-minute drive from the Natural Bridge State Resort Park. You can find Toad’s near the Four Guys RV Park and Campground.

After a day of hiking or climbing, Toad’s is a nice spot to unwind. There’s spacious outdoor seating where you can watch the sun set, and on weekends, listen to live music.

Reviewers like the smash burgers, gouda mac and cheese bites and “spicy Mexican cigars,” which are spicy cream cheese spring rolls served with sriracha hot honey. Wings, pizzas and salads are also on the menu. Toad’s offers a full service bar with beer on tap, margaritas, wine slushies and colorful cocktails, like the Tipsy Toad.

If you go: Business hours are from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day.

Address: 9943 Campton Road, Stanton, KY 40380

October events near the Red River Gorge

If you’re looking for other things to do in the area, the Red River Gorge might be a great place to take in fall events.

While not a “planned” event, the Orionid meteor shower is expected to peak the early morning of Monday, Oct. 21, and the meteors will likely be more visible away from the bright lights of a city.

At its peak, you could see up to 40 meteors per hour. Just make sure to give your eyes about 15 minutes to adjust to the dark to catch the fainter falling stars.

The Live at Lunch music series at the town square in Beattyville runs throughout October until the start of the Woolly Worm Festival Friday, Oct. 25 to Sunday, Oct. 27. You can catch live music every Thursday between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The address is 28 Railroad St. in Beattyville. That’s about a 20-minute drive south of Stanton.

Do you have a question about things to do in Kentucky for our service journalism team? We’d like to hear from you. Fill out our Know Your Kentucky form or email ask@herald-leader.com.