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15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky

It’s the perfect destination for those wanting to see the small-town side of the USA, where you’re likely to find friendly locals, beautiful nature reserves, and quirky restaurants and shops at just about any small town that you wander into.

The birthplace of both President Lincoln and Bill Monroe, the bourbon capital of the world, and a perfect place to embark on adventures, Kentucky is one of the most underrated states to visit during your time in the USA.

Aside from small towns, Kentucky is also renowned for having over hundreds of miles of national parks, lakes, rivers, and even caves for adventure travellers to get their outdoor thrill.

Of course, the famous Kentucky Derby horse race is a popular time to visit Kentucky, though its truly a fun place to visit all-year-around. Visit during a public holiday and there’s sure to be some local festivity taking place. Visiting during spring, summer, and autumn will help you get a well-rounded experience of Kentucky where you can pair outdoor activities seamlessly with indoor options.

Each small-town listed has its own personality and offers a one-of-a-kind perspective to Kentucky. From trail towns to hubs for artists to towns that border the Appalachians to those nestling next to Daniel Boone country, these towns might not be great in population are rich in history, hospitality, and culture.

Here are the top fifteen small towns to visit in Kentucky.

1. Somerset

Somerset, Kentucky

What better way to have fun with your friends and family than to rent a houseboat? Residents of Kentucky love houseboating and frequently hop on deck at Lake Cumberland, located in the small town of Somerset. Travellers can rent boats of all sizes and that will suit most budgets for their water-bound vacation.

Even if you don’t use Somerset as a houseboat hub, you can have a great time exploring Lake Cumberland via its shores by fishing, lounging, kayaking, swimming, skiing, and more. Other natural sights include the Big South Fork Rivers and a gargantuan sandstone bridge.

Somerset is also a convenient point to stay and venture to Daniel Boone National Forest, Big South Fork National River, and board a train to see the Big South Fork Scenic Railway that drives through the surrounding areas.

And all that doesn’t even account for all there is to do in town, like going to SomerSplash water park, attending music festivals, drive-in movies, dining, and visiting the museums!

2. Shelbyville

Shelbyville, Kentucky

If you’re an equestrian rider or obsessed with horses, Shelbyville is a must stop destination while in Kentucky. Though Louisville, home to the Kentucky Derby, boasts the largest claim to fame when it comes to equestrian events, there’s fun to be had in Shelbyville, a small town that hosts a yearly horse show. Shelbyville also is known for breeding regal American Saddlebred horses.

Additionally, visitors can pick fruit at the Mulberry Orchard, go wine tasting, browse through antiques at the Ruby Rooster Antique Mall, and Gallrein Farms, a farm that hosts activities for children and adults alike.

No stop to Shelbyville would be complete without a tour of the local distilleries located along the “Bourbon Trail.”

3. Bardstown

Willett Distillery - Bardstown, Kentucky

Bardstown is for bourbon lovers, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Home to three well-known distilleries of Barton 1792, Heaven Hill, and Willett Distillery, it’d be a good idea to find a designated driver to take you around this small town’s tasting rooms.

When sober, read up on bourbon’s history at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History to find out more about this state’s golden export that features exhibits from the pre-Colonial days through the Prohibition to the present.

For additional information on the region, you can also check out the Civil War Museum that hosts relics of one of America’s most influential times in history. There are a few historical and heritage tours that can cover main points of interests and the museums all within a few hours.

Off-beat travellers will love camping at My Old Kentucky Home State Park and searching for the ghosts of Bardstown – allegedly there are many. Come for the bourbon, stay for the local flair.

Birthplace of Bill Monroe

Bluegrass fans from all around the globe pour into Rosine, the small town where Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass, first created his musical magic. Bluegrass pilgrims can visit the home of Bill Monroe, the venues he used to play at, and his grave. Visitors can even view his family photographs out on display.

Additionally, the Rosin Barn Jamboree was once where Bill Monroe fine-tuned his craft and played his last show. Even those who don’t listen to bluegrass can appreciate the atmosphere that the stage still holds today. Next door, fans can go to the Rosine General Store, where locals play music on its front steps.

To complete the bluegrass tour, then head to nearby Owensboro where fans can learn even more about the new music genre at the International Bluegrass Music Museum where an assortment of all types of bluegrass memorabilia are out for everyone to enjoy.

Berea, Kentucky

Berea is one of Kentucky’s art hubs of the state that attracts various types of painters, musicians, textile designers, and sculptors. It hosts a vibrant community that is constantly innovating and supporting one another to put out their best work. This all comes together at the annual Berea Craft Festival and can be seen all year long at the Kentucky Artisan Center and the Square Gallery.

The town itself has many historical sites like Berea College built in 1855 that was the region’s first interracial college and a slew of historic restaurants, buildings, and private homes.

6. Hodgenville

Hodgenville, Kentucky

Birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, Hodgenville has held an important tie to history throughout the decades. Those who want to trace Lincoln’s heritage can do so by exploring the lush forest trails in the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park and the Abraham Lincoln Boyhood Home, where Honest Abe learned the basics of his education. In town is the Lincoln Museum, a tiny building that features Civil War mementos, newspaper clippings, and even wax statues! Of course, you can also take your picture with a bronze statue of President Lincoln in the town square.

Hodgenville is a small town that transports you back in time where you can see the perspective from one of the nation’s most influential leaders that can be seen within one day.

Laurel County Court House, London, Kentucky

London, Kentucky, is a small town that caters to residents and travellers alike who are obsessed with the outdoor lifestyle. London is the perfect home base to explore natural features like the Daniel Boone National Forest, Rockcastle River, Laurel River and Laurel Lake, Levi Jackson State Park, and more.

Hikers can trek through the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail while cyclists can weave through the many London-Laurel County cycling routes. For those who like a little fuel with their fun, there’s the Wildcat Mountain ATV Park.

There is also the historical treasure of the Camp Wildcat Battlefield, a field that has been altered very little since its battlefield days – unlike many of the others nearby, which have drastically changed. For an interesting live view of history, go to watch or participate in a battle re-enactment.

8. Pikeville

Pikeville, Kentucky

If you wanted to see a well-rounded view of all that Kentucky has to offer but could only visit one town, Pikeville would be an incredible contender.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Appalachian Mountains, go horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and even ziplining.

Also, there are constant performing arts shows playing at the Jenny Wiley Theatre and the Artists Collaborative Theatre. Live music – especially of the country variety — can be heard all throughout the town, either as an organize performance or spontaneously on the streets.

History buffs can attend historical Hatfield and McCoy feud site, where two rival families fought strategically over local land and business – developing some of the state’s strongest points of interests along the way.

Glasgow, Kentucky

With the tagline of “A little bit of Scotland in Kentucky,” Glasgow surely is a small town that’s unlike anywhere else in the state. Its nod to Scotland takes place during the annual Scottish Highland Games.

Glasgow is the perfect home base to explore some of Kentucky’s most notable natural landmarks like Mammoth Cave National Park — a spelunker’s paradise, the Brigadoon State Nature Reserve, the Diamond Caverns, and the Barren River Lake. Adventure travellers will love all the hiking, camping, swimming, and other outdoor activities that the town is the perfect portal to.

There is also the Historic Plaza Theatre, Museum of the Barrens, Veterans Wall of Honor, and Fort Williams, where you can put yourself back in time and imagine what life was like during the Civil War.

Murray, Kentucky

Named the “Friendliest Small Town in America” by USA Today, you have to stop by Murray when in Kentucky to see whether the town lives up to its accolade.

What makes Murray so welcoming? Well, its proximity to Kentucky Lake and Land Between Lakes recreation area probably makes its residents feel always at ease. There, you can fish, hike, kayak, watch wildlife, and play golf all around bodies of water that turn pink as soon as its sunset.

Or, maybe the locals partake in a bit of retail therapy and support their small businesses at Murray’s strip of boutique shops. The plethora of live music of course helps residents stay upbeat as well.

The best way to experience Murray is to wander around and ask the locals what their favorite things to do are.

11. Greenville

Greenville, Kentucky

Postcard perfect, Greenville is a manicured small town with stunning heritage buildings, locally owned boutiques, and a vibrant community with regular activities for locals and visitors to join in on. Though you can count your accommodation options on one hand, visitors often come back time and time again just because of Greenville’s hospitality.

Some of its small-town highlights include the 12-acre forest at Brizendine Brothers Nature Park, the six mile Rails to Trails walk, the vast Lake Malone State Park, and a one-of-a-kind gazebo called the Summerhouse perfect for picnics at the city park.

There are also local theatre performances, veteran tributes, and restaurants serving classic Kentucky fare.

12. Lebanon

Lebanon, Kentucky

The heart of the Bourbon Belt Trail, which spans over eighty miles long and links ten bourbon distilleries, is Lebanon. Lebanon hosts the famous bourbon distilleries of Maker’s Mark and Limestone Branch as well as the bourbon barrel making company of Kentucky Cooperage which makes over 600,000 bourbon barrels per year. If wine is your alcoholic vice of choice, there is also the Whitemoon Winery.

Lebanon is a lively small town with civil war sites, a heritage center, Pope’s Creek Ranch, and the Turtleman museum, a museum created after a local folk hero, Ernie Lee Brown Jr., who wrangles turtles and has his own show on Animal Planet.

Bizarre but interesting, Lebanon has quite a bit to see for being such a small town.

13. La Grange

La Grange, Kentucky

La Grange, Kentucky is a small town that takes pride in the fact that there might well be more resident farm animals than humans in its population. There are multiple nearby hands-on farm tours where visitors can learn to care for farm animals, farm sustainably, ride horses, and even create a meal with local farm fare!

For a locomotive spin, La Grange is also the only town in the country where a freight train chugs along the main street – meaning that you’ll hear a loud noise and probably feel a rumble as it passes through while you visit.

Couples will love staying in antique, spacious, and tastefully decorated B&Bs that are away from any semblance of a busy life. Best of all, La Grange is near attractions like the Kentucky Derby Museum, Whiskey Row, and live bluegrass music venues.

14. Maysville

Maysville, Kentucky

Maysville residents love to have fun and it shows. This small town located on the banks of the Ohio River is easily accessible and has many historic sites, dining venues, and outdoor activities that will welcome any type of traveller.

Theatre buffs will love watching live performances at the Washington Opera House, built in 1889 and at the Russell Theatre, currently being restored to feature a star-studded ceiling. For visual artists, there is also the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center featuring a stunning 1/12 miniature collection.

With zip lining, a constant roster of festivals, and a handful of old-timer bars, Maysville residents simply love to have a good time.

Midway, Kentucky

Picturesque with under 2,000 residents, Midway has postcard perfect buildings, antique shops, wildlife sanctuaries, galleries, and restaurants with top notch customer service.

The town of Midway has catered to tourists by offering a cell phone walking tour, where you can hear in depth about the town’s highlights by picking up a map at City Hall and dialling a phone number for a guided experience. A historical city tapping into the technology era? Now that’s innovative.

Aside from the town square, there are museums, orchards, vineyards, and even an adventure center to round out your time at this interesting small town.

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10 Adorable Small Towns To Visit In Kentucky

great small towns to visit in kentucky

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  • United States

Kentucky is famous for thoroughbred horses and horse racing, bourbon, and a castle. You can find the world’s only UNESCO Creative City in Kentucky, sip world-famous bourbon whiskey, and watch second-to-none horse racing, all in the Bluegrass State. If you want to explore Kentucky’s adorable small towns (typically less than 25,000 people), I’ve selected a few of my favorites in no particular order, for your consideration. My choices are based on the town’s food, culture, and scenery. Regardless of which town you go to, be on the lookout for a Hot Brown, the Kentucky state dish, that is as much comfort food as it is a thing of beauty.

Fun Fact: A strong Appalachian movement is bringing the culture of areas like Tennessee and West Virginia, to the eyes of those who aren’t familiar with it. It is particularly thrilling for this native gal.

A mural in Frankfort, Kentucky

1. Frankfort

Kentucky’s capital city should be on every traveler’s radar. Frankfort sits along the Kentucky River and has a quaint downtown area with shops, gorgeous architecture, colorful murals, and street signs denoting famous residents. I loved the colorful buildings running along both sides of the railroad. Poor Richard’s Books, Kentucky Coffeehouse Cafe, and Broadway Clay are a few shops that might interest you. Don’t miss the stunning Kentucky State Capitol building and complex.

An absolute must in Frankfort is touring and sampling Rebecca Ruth Chocolates , making melt-in-your-mouth candies and bourbon balls (it created them!) since 1919. You can also visit one of the stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail while you are there — Buffalo Trace . This over 200-year-old distillery is in a class of its own and offers free tours and tastings. 

Shops in Paducah, Kentucky

If you want to visit a small town in Kentucky that has accomplished something that nowhere else in the world has, that would be Paducah, a historic town with much of it included in the National Register of Historic Places. 

Paducah has been a UNESCO Creative City (Crafts and Folk Art ) for nearly a decade. It is also famous for quilts and often referred to as “Quilt City USA,” housing the National Quilt Museum . This is only one of the art mediums found prevalent in Paducah. You will also find locally owned boutiques, art galleries, and fantastic antique stores. 

Two bridges in Ashland, Kentucky

A Kentucky town on the rise is Ashland, in the eastern part of the state. Ashland’s Paramount Arts Center has musical productions, concerts, and shows. Art Alley is a great place to stroll and admire the creative artwork. Away from downtown and along the Ohio River, are gorgeous steel statues donated to Ashland in dedication to its steel contributions. Central Park is a beautiful place to walk, sit, stroll, or picnic any time of the year. 

You might want to try Jim’s hot dogs while you are in town, or grab a gourmet burger from Fat Patty’s . I swear by the Raspberry Popper Burger with jalapeños, cream cheese, and a raspberry melba sauce. OMG, it is fabulous. The Mill Cafe & Bakery is a popular local eatery gaining much publicity, too, with tacos, waffles, homemade soups, and sweet treats. 

A horse statue at a rest stop near Shelbyville, Kentucky

4. Shelbyville

A world-famous equestrian town is Shelbyville, Kentucky, the American Saddlebred Capital of the World. It is also host to the Shelbyville Horse Show. Two stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail are nearby, Bulleit Distilling and Jeptha Creed Distillery, both offering handcrafted spirits. 

In Shelbyville, two unique offerings are the Wakefield-Scearce Galleries, home to room after room of precious collections including linens, silver, English antique furnishings, and Claudia Sanders Dinner House . Claudia, the wife of Colonel Harland Sanders (of KFC fame), and her husband opened this eatery in the late 1960s. The tasty restaurant serves sugar-cured ham, fried green tomatoes, and, of course, fried chicken. If you’d prefer something quick and easy, La Cocina de Mama is a perfect spot for tantalizing Mexican eats. 

Vibe Coffee in Elizabethtown, Kentucky

5. Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown, or E-Town as the locals call it, was a prosperous town in the 1800s when the Louisville and Nashville Railroad was built here. It was also made famous by the movie of the same name starring Kirsten Dunst and Orlando Bloom in 2005. A few of the movie scenes were filmed here.

This charming little Kentucky town has a handful of noteworthy restaurants, a great coffee shop, and Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum , a real treat for those who love vintage automobiles and car attractions. The Brown-Pusey House , circa 1825, with Georgian and Federal architecture, is worth a look. Bowling, skydiving, and nature parks are great ways to get moving in E-Town. Stop in Vibe Coffee for a white mocha latte or Aztec mocha and grab a gourmet cookie for the road. 

Elizabeth Hall at Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky

6. Murray 

Murray, a college town by the Kentucky/Tennessee state line, has been voted the Friendliest Small Town in America, partially thanks to its beautiful scenery and fun attractions minutes from the Land Between the Lakes region. 

Enjoy the enchanting Kentucky Lake’s plethora of outdoor activities or take in the town’s many festivals and celebrations. The Murray State Arboretum is a great place for a stroll and viewing pristine landscape. Hunting, fishing, and golf are other popular options for things to do. 

Barrel room of Woodford Reserve in Versailles, Kentucky

7. Versailles

Doughdaddy’s Doughnuts may not be reason enough to visit Versailles, or is it? It has been a stop on our travels for two dozen years or more. Eclairs, donuts, fritters, and long johns, to name a few, are what’s on the menu. Versailles, pronounced ver-SAYLES, is right off Martha Layne Collins BG Parkway, right beside Lexington. Versailles is horse country at its finest, with beautiful farms and minutes from the internationally renowned Keeneland race track. 

Versailles is another place to check off a bourbon distillery. Woodford Reserve has been in operation since 1812. Or, you could experience a craft winery, Wildside Winery, that uses estate grapes in its production. 

You can’t mention Versailles and not talk about the castle that eluded passersby for years before finally being purchased and turned into a jaw-dropping hotel. The Kentucky Castle is a hotel, restaurant, spa, and event space with two Michelin chefs on the payroll. While I haven’t personally stayed there, I’ve seen pictures from friends’ visits and it is incredible! Definitely a place to keep in mind for a special celebration or milestone. 

Patti's 1880's Settlement in Grand Rivers, Kentucky

8. Grand Rivers

Another town situated near the Land Between the Lakes region is Grand Rivers. This lovely waterfront area houses hundreds of sailboats and the famous and much-talked-about Patti’s 1880’s Settlement . Patti’s has a fantastic restaurant with a country-club-like menu that features homemade pies and desserts, salads, steaks, and the raved about pork chops. Get them one or two inches thick, topped with chutney, fruit salsa, or plain, but they are juicy and cooked to perfection at this popular eatery. 

Also on Patti’s property are several boutique shops, a year-round Christmas store, mini-golf, koi pond, and beautiful gardens. You could easily spend all day in this town alone, just soaking up the scenery and enjoying the relaxing setting. Save room for a slice of coconut cake or sawdust pie that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. 

A bridge in Newport, Kentucky

Newport, Kentucky, is across the river from downtown Cincinnati, making it a metropolitan area with loads of fun, family-friendly attractions. The best known is Newport on the Levee , where you’ll find the incredible Newport Aquarium, with excellent tanks and exhibits holding fish, sharks, rare white gators, and stingrays. Newport Aquarium also has penguins, so be prepared for a cuteness overload. You will also find some adorable shops, a movie theater, and desirable restaurants at Newport on the Levee. Tom & Chee, gourmet grilled cheeses and tomato soup is my top pick. 

My favorite thing to do in Newport or Cincinnati, as well, is to take a premier 90-minute sightseeing and dinner cruise on the BB Riverboat’s Belle of Cincinnati . The boats launch from Covington Landing and sails the scenic Ohio River. Cruises start at $27, and the food is really good. 

Hofbrauhaus Newport is one of my go-to restaurants, an excellent place for Bavarian dishes, including schnitzel and sausages. If you really want to be adventurous, try Hofbrauhaus’ spin on the Kentucky state dish, the Hot Brown, with smoked turkey breast and Black Forest ham served on a potato pancake, then topped with Swiss cheese, homemade Bier cheese, tomatoes, crispy bacon, and parmesan. I could barely type this without drooling. 

Pro Tip: Another way of exploring the area and getting fantastic photos is by walking the Purple People Bridge that connects Newport, Kentucky, to Cincinnati, Ohio. 

Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky

10. Bardstown

Welcome to Bardstown, home of My Old Kentucky Home State Park and The Stephen Foster Story musical (composer of the state song). Bardstown is also home to four distilleries: Barton 1792, Willett Distillery, Heaven Hill, and Preservation Distillery, and known as the Bourbon Capital of the World. Bardstown hosts the annual and highly-anticipated Kentucky Bourbon Festival. 

Looking for food after your bourbon samplings? I loved my lunch at El Jimador downtown Bardstown. The service was attentive and friendly.

Other Kentucky highlights:

  • How To Spend An Incredible Weekend In Beautiful Lexington, Kentucky
  • 9 Fantastic Kentucky Distilleries To Visit
  • How To Spend A Fantastic Long Weekend In Beautiful Frankfort, Kentucky

Image of Melody Pittman

Melody and her daughter Taylor run both Wherever I May Roam and Travel The South travel blogs. She is a digital influencer, freelances for both print and online publications, and hosts an annual travel conference, Southern Travelers Explore. Melody has been traveling her entire adult life and has visited 49 states and 49 countries. She loves cruising, small towns, historical sights, and National Parks.

All-American Atlas

17 Charming Small Towns in Kentucky You Need to Visit (2024)

There’s a lot going on in Kentucky.

Spend some time in the state’s great cities and you can take in everything from the unique sights of the Kentucky Derby to the sweet sounds of bluegrass music to the world’s best bourbon.

If you step outside the cities, there’s even more to be found here!

Between the winding bends of the Ohio River and the foothills of the Appalachians lies a whole world of diverse communities, full of varied attractions that range from the world’s longest cave system to the simple comforts of warm Southern hospitality.

Deep in history and nestled amid the rolling farmland of this great state, the small towns in Kentucky offer something up for everybody.

Here, we’ll give you a guided tour of 17 of the best small towns in Kentucky.

Hey! If you’re looking for more fabulous Kentucky content, head here!

  • 51 Cool Facts about Kentucky
  • 24+ Songs about Kentucky to Make You Feel at Home

1. Henderson : best small towns in Kentucky to visit

Henderson Kentucky

Nestled in a bend of the Ohio River, you’ll find the charming slice of small-town life that is Henderson.

Henderson is a place where rural life moves at the same casual pace as the river that it borders, but mixed into it is an up-and-coming food scene that is bolstered by a thriving arts community.

This charming riverfront town is known for the well-known artist and naturalist John James Audubon, whose family once found a home here, drawn in by the wide-open surrounds and the steady meander of the riverside life.

Visit the Audubon Museum for a deep dive into his life and the early history of the area, or go out and explore the John James Audubon State Park’s miles of hiking trails, discovering the fertile landscapes and rich wildlife that brought him here.

In the middle of all of this is the charming downtown, filled with all the restaurants, local stores, and culture that set Henderson out as one of the best small towns in Kentucky.

Rosine

In Rosine, it’s all about the music.

While the town itself is tiny, the father of Bluegrass music, Bill Monroe, does a brilliant job of keeping that legacy going!

You can visit the great man’s grave or the Bill Monroe museum to learn more about his life and the pivotal role of Bluegrass music in growing the authentic culture of the area.

And, if you want a taste of the real thing, just head over to The Rosine Barn Jamboree on a Saturday for great live music in a barn on the edge of town, complete with all the barbeque and guitar a heart could wish for.

3. Greenville : Kentucky small towns

Greenville Kentucky

Here in the rolling hills of the Western part of the state, you can find all the charm and culture of Greenville.

This used to be coal country, but now is known more for its long history, state parks, and some of the best food and drink you can find in the area.

You can’t leave Greenville without making a quick stop at the J & H Bakery .

J&H Bakery, best donuts in Kentucky

Locals have stated that this bakery has the “best donuts in town.”

See for yourself!

4. La Grange

You can find this charming little town just a little bit outside the reach of Louisville, and this mingling of small-town life and proximity to the state’s cities is one of the main draws of the town.

You can spend your time meandering through the town’s wide open green spaces or head out on the hiking trails that wind through the area’s rich wildlife, in the Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve.

If nature isn’t our thing, you can instead explore the area’s past at the Oldham County Historic Center , or pop into one of the locally owned stores or restaurants.

And then, when the city calls, you’re in driving distance of your pick of the Kentucky cities, making it the perfect base for exploring the state and one of the best small towns in Kentucky to live in.

5. Morehead

Moorehead Kentucky

Morehead is a heady mix of culture and nature, giving visitors a wide array of choices for how to pass their time here.

The nearby Daniel Boone National Forest is full of trails winding between the woodland, offering outdoors enthusiasts the perfect space to venture out for a day hike or spend some time camping under the stars.

Or, head out to Cave Run Lake for some of the region’s best fishing and swimming, passing the day in the still, tree-lined waters.

In town, Morehead State University regularly puts on cultural events of all shapes and sizes, as well as the Rowan County Arts Center and Morehead Theatre, meaning there’s always something available for those looking to mingle small-town living with a varied cultural output.

Berea Pinnacles

Of all the charming, quaint towns in Kentucky, few pack as much in as Berea.

Wandering around the historic downtown, you’ll be spoilt for choice for traditional restaurants, historic, white-pillared buildings, and galleries that reflect the town’s thriving art scene.

Similar to Morehead, it is known for its college, and this one is famed for its liberal arts, helping add to the town’s culture of sustainable creativity that has earned it the title of the Folk Arts & Crafts Capital of Kentucky.

Meander around the artisan village to see local artists creating and selling their work, before stopping off at one of the town’s family-owned restaurants for some true Kentucky fare.

Cadiz

By now, you’ll have seen there are a fair few cute towns in Kentucky, but Cadiz is a gem.

It’s deep in the heart of the Kentucky countryside, near to the wide Cumberland River.

If you’re looking for a town to use as a base for hiking, fishing, or camping, then you’ll find few better.

The town itself is beautiful as well, home to antebellum mansions and a historic downtown area, full of quirky independent stores.

Buried here near the river, in the deep green of the countryside, it’s the perfect place to get away from it all.

8. Danville : charming towns in Kentucky

North Theater

You’ll find Danville deep in the heart of Bluegrass country, filled with all of the small-town atmosphere and warm Southern hospitality that you could ever hope to find.

The lovely downtown area is built around boutique and restaurant-filled historic buildings, the perfect afternoon’s meander as you amble along at the steady pace of life here.

If you’re looking for bourbon (after all, you are in Kentucky) you’re spoilt for choice.

The town feeds into the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail , and if you’re feeling thirsty head over to Wilderness Trail Distillery for some of their fine, fine spirits, made using locally grown grains.

And if it’s something genuinely unique that you’re after, swing by the Great American Dollhouse Museum for an experience you won’t quite find anywhere else.

9. Grand Rivers

Grand Rivers is tiny.

Really tiny.

At the last count, 352 people lived here, making it the perfect place to get an authentic small-town feeling.

Here, it’s all about the water that flanks the town on both sides.

The town is built between Lake Barley and Kentucky Lake and draws in fishing and water sports enthusiasts all year round.

Whenever you’re in town, drop in to Patti’s 1880’s Settlement for some classic Kentucky food.

If it’s your first time, try the 2-inch pork chops.

Bring an appetite!

10. Glasgow : quaint towns in Kentucky

The landscape around Glasgow is rolling, tree-covered hills that span out as far as you can see.

There’s great fishing in the lakes and rivers that flow through here, great hiking in the mile after mile of trails that span around.

There’s even some golf as well.

But it’s below the ground that the area’s real appeal lies.

The town is right on the edge of Kentucky’s famous cave country, a genuinely unique part of America.

It makes the perfect base to explore Mammoth Cave National Park, home to the world’s longest-known cave system.

Take a tour, or explore this hidden underworld by yourself, walking down winding passages of and gaping caverns of night-dark rock.

For the claustrophobes out there, don’t worry, there’s plenty above ground as well.

Try and time your trip to coincide with the Glasgow Highland games, an annual celebration of the area’s Scottish heritage that is a weekend packed full with kilts and fun.

11. Harrodsburg

Harrodsburg

There are a few cute towns in Kentucky, but Harrodsburg lays claim to being the oldest and one of the best.

The town has flourished throughout the years (George Washington even visited here during the Revolutionary War) and you can find examples of this history everywhere, from the historic buildings that make up downtown to the fort that dominates the Old Fort Harrod State Park.

If you even want your accommodation to be historic, book a room at the lovely Beaumont Inn to sleep amid a real feeling of old-world charm and warm Southern hospitality.

12. Lawrenceburg

Joe Blackburn Bridge

Lawrenceburg is the quintessential Kentucky town, a quaint place of easy living, good food, and fantastic bourbon.

It’s surrounded by the rolling hills of the central part of the state, and offers everything you’re looking for in a quiet getaway, but with enough to always keep you entertained.

The main draw of the area is definitely its bourbon.

This is pure bourbon country, and first-timers and aficionados alike will be spoilt for choice.

Head over to either the Wild Turkey or Four Roses distilleries to see how it’s made and, equally as importantly, treat yourself to a few samples.

13. Midway : cute towns in Kentucky

Midway

Deep in the Bluegrass region, Midway is a town of just over 1,500 people enjoying this quiet, calm stretch of the state.

The old-school downtown area is made up of charming streets of different-colored historic buildings housing mom-and-pop stores and restaurants serving up classic southern fare (go check out the steaks at The Brown barrel & Blind Harry’s or grab a seat at their classic polished-wood bar).

But it’s horses that the town is truly famous for.

Specifically, some of the finest thoroughbred horses in the world.

Equestrian life is the life here, and the town is home to multiple ranches and stables breeding world-beating horses, all enjoying the wide open landscape that stretches out around the town.

14.  Mt. Sterling

Mt. Sterling

Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachians, Mt. Sterling is one of the best little towns in Kentucky.

Like Midway, the town is known for its equestrian culture, but this is woven into a thriving arts scene and a feeling of real history to the place.

A lot of effort has been put into revitalizing the downtown area over recent years, and the results are plain to see in its mingling of charming stores, artsy pop-ups, and restaurants serving some of the best food in the region.

If you want to get the inside track on the town’s history and how all of this came to be, pop over to the Montgomery County History Museum.

And all of this against the beautiful backdrop of the surrounding landscape.

After you’ve meandered around town, take a trip out to some of the surrounding parks and enjoy the open space with the Appalachians gradually growing up to the sky behind you.

15.  London

London mixes natural charm with a surprising amount of cultural output.

The town is home to a range of galleries and the London Community Center , which is known for regular events that it hosts throughout the town.

It’s most famous as the cycling capital of Kentucky because of the trails and routes that have been put in place around the town and spreading out into the rolling countryside around.

It’s a great way to explore the many sides of this charming corner of Kentucky.

16.  Paris

Paris Kentucky

It might not have the built-up glamor of its namesake, but Paris has its own kind of charm.

It’s a real community town, built around a feeling of genuine hospitality and small-town warmth.

You can find locally made bourbon, antique stores, mom-and-pop restaurants, it’s downtown area is a warren of different, quirky delights.

The big draw is the Bourbon County fair, an annual weekend-long event that brings people together to celebrate the area, its thriving agricultural heritage, and, of course, bourbon.

(And there’s even an Eiffel Tower, it’s just a little smaller!)

17. Hodgenville : small towns or cities in Kentucky

Central Town of Hodgenville

Last but not least, one of our favorite small towns in Kentucky, Hodgenville.

Whether you’re looking for history, hiking, or just a little bit of peace and quiet, Hodgenville has you covered!

The town is most famous for being the birthplace of President Abraham Lincoln and you can explore the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park to find out more about the great man and the world he left behind, climbing the pale stone steps with the dense green of the woodlands either side of you towards the classical, pillared building itself.

Beyond Lincoln, the town is nestled in some of the state’s best countryside, offering great hiking and fishing.

All in all, if you’re looking for a classic Kentucky town with some classic quiet rural life, come along to Hodgenville.

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17 Top-Rated Small Towns in Kentucky

Written by Bryan Dearsley Dec 21, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited many of Kentucky's small towns in the fall of 2022.

Known affectionately to visitors and locals alike as the "Bluegrass State," a reference to the iconic folk music that permeates its culture, Kentucky is well known for its hospitality. Nowhere is Kentucky's Southern hospitality more evident than in its many charming small towns.

Basilica of Saint Joseph Proto-Cathedral in Bardstown

Dotted across this mid-sized state are some of the most attractive small towns in the USA. Many of the prettiest feature well-preserved and vibrant historical downtown areas usually dominated by the local county courthouse. Even those that don't have a courthouse will have many impressive old homes in their leafy neighborhoods and on their main streets.

To get the most out of your trip, be sure to include at least some of these top small towns in Kentucky on your Bluegrass State travel itinerary.

1. Bardstown

2. elizabethtown, 4. danville, 5. burlington, 6. harrodsburg, 7. hodgenville, 8. owensboro, 9. frankfort, 10. la grange, 11. new haven, 12. new castle, 13. richmond, 16. shelbyville, 17. campbellsville, map of small towns in kentucky.

Wickland, Bardstown

Kentucky's second oldest town , Bardstown has plenty of things to do for curious travelers. Founded in 1780 and considered one of the most beautiful small towns in the entire USA, Bardstown features no less than 200 homes and buildings that are included on the country's National Register of Historic Places.

Many of the best of these can be seen on a fun walking tour of the town's historic downtown area. Highlights include the attractive late-19th-century redbrick Old Courthouse on Court Square; the Old Talbott Tavern, once a stagecoach stop built in 1779; and the Basilica of Saint Joseph Proto-Cathedral, an attractive Catholic church built in 1819.

Hardin County Courthouse on Public Square in Elizabethtown

An easy 45-minute drive south of Louisville , Elizabethtown dates back to 1779 and boasts another very walkable historic downtown core.

Along the way, you'll pass historic Hardin County Courthouse on Public Square; an attractive former mansion now known as Brown-Pusey House that once famously housed General Custer; as well as one of Elizabethtown's most curious attractions , its Civil War Cannonball. Fired by besieging Confederate troops positioned on a hillside in Elizabethtown Cemetery, it has been embedded in the same spot almost continually since the war.

Elizabethtown also makes a great jumping-off point to explore other points of interest in Kentucky , such as Fort Knox and Abraham Lincoln's boyhood home and birthplace in nearby Hodgenville.

Berea

A quick 20-minute drive down the I75 from Richmond, and you'll find yourself in the attractive town of Berea. Although a bit of a latecomer compared to many other Kentucky small towns, as it was only incorporated in 1890, Berea is certainly attractive.

Surrounded by lush green spaces and parks, this college town lays claim to being Kentucky's arts and crafts capital . Galleries and boutique shops feature the work of local artists and artisans. Many of the best are located in the old town area around the attractive colonial styled Boone Tavern Hotel .

Berea is also a popular stop for hikers. Some of Kentucky's best hiking trails are located here in the Pinnacles, an area of over 9,000 heavily treed acres just waiting to be explored. The Daniel Boone National Forest is another nearby trail network that's popular with hikers.

Danville

It's for good reason Danville ranks highly on so many lists of the best places to visit in Kentucky .

This picturesque small town between Richmond and Bardstown was established in 1792 and makes for a great driving destination. Highlights of a visit include a picturesque main street chock-full of great shopping and dining experiences, as well as a number of other fun places to visit.

If traveling with children, be sure to include the Great American Dollhouse Museum on your list of places to visit. This famous attraction contains around 200 dollhouses, including miniature versions of historic shops and businesses.

Old building in Burlington, KY

Just a few minutes west of the city of Florence, Kentucky, and considered a part of the greater Cincinnati area 16 miles to the northeast, the small picturesque town of Burlington makes for a fun and easy day trip from its larger neighbors.

Burlington was established in 1816, and a number of historic old buildings survive from the town's early days, including the original township offices. Other highlights include the original Boone County Courthouse, and the recently built park and green space known as Burlington Commons.

Harrodsburg

Less than an hour's drive southwest of the city of Lexington , Harrodsburg is well worth including in your Kentucky travel itinerary. Founded in 1774 and named after adventurer James Harrod, Harrodsburg has the distinction of not only being Kentucky's oldest town , but also boasts the distinction of being the oldest permanent American settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains.

You can learn more about these early years and the town's strategic importance at Fort Harrod State Park , a must-visit attraction located close to the downtown area. Set on 15 acres of land, it features a number of replica buildings from the 1700s and offers fun interpretive tours.

Lincoln Square, Hodgenville

Although it only has a population of around 3,000 residents, Hodgenville bears the distinction of having played a major role in US history. It was near here that the country's most revered President, Abraham Lincoln, was born in 1809 and where he spent some of his childhood years.

Hodgenville's deep connections with the 16th president are celebrated at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park and Abraham Lincoln's Boyhood Home at Knob Creek.

Be sure to also visit the town center and cross carefully over to Lincoln Square, where you'll find statues of the man as president and as a young boy.

Owensboro

Though strictly speaking not a small town as it's home to over 60,000 residents, Owensboro's historic downtown district certainly has a small-town vibe. From the warm hospitality of its store owners and restaurateurs (check out the historic Miller House Restaurant ) to its charming boutique storefronts, you can easily be mistaken for thinking you've landed in a much smaller Kentucky community.

Highlights of a visit to Owensboro include Smothers Park on the banks of the Ohio river, the excellent Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame , and the world-class Owensboro Museum of Fine Art . Plus, of course, a sweet treat and coffee from Gramps Coffee & Donuts .

Franklin County Courthouse, Frankfort

While officially a city, Kentucky's capital of Frankfort manages to boast a charming small-town feel . And with a population of only around 28,000 souls, it's certainly not big.

Frankfort was founded in 1786, and references to the city's importance on Kentucky's political stage are everywhere.

Park close to the downtown core on St. Clair Street and enjoy a stroll to the Old State Capitol Building and, thanks to a near absence of through traffic, you'll feel you're anywhere but the state's capital. Numerous old heritage homes in the surrounding neighborhoods exude a cozy small-town feel, too.

Read More: Things to Do in Frankfort, Kentucky

La Grange

La Grange is one of those smaller, older Kentucky towns that wouldn't look out of place on a postcard. Home to just 8,000 residents, it also has the unique distinction of being home to one of the state's top train attractions with a historic rail line that travels right down its main street.

La Grange is billed as the " Kindness Capital of Kentucky " for its hospitality, and the town's railroad history is celebrated at the La Grange Railroad Museum & Learning Center.

Kentucky Railway Museum, New Haven, KY

The tiny town of New Haven south of Bardstown, population just 855 people, is another community boasting a strong connection to the state's railroading history. At the Kentucky Railway Museum , visitors can even enjoy a fun train ride through some of the prettiest countryside in Central Kentucky.

Be sure to explore the museum, too. Highlights include displays of artifacts relating to the town's role in the rise of the railways in this part of the world, along with a number of original rolling stock.

Henry County Courthouse

New Castle is located midway between Louisville and the state capital of Frankfort. New Castle's population of just 900 people are justifiably proud of their pretty little Kentucky town. Although only incorporated in 1817, it was first settled in the early 1790s and as such is another of the state's oldest towns.

Highlights of a visit include the attractive redbrick Henry County Courthouse and a number of attractive heritage homes built in the early 1800s. Other fun things to do in New Castle include visiting during one of its seasonal celebrations, including the popular Spring Fling.

Battle of Richmond Visitor Center

While not as small as some of the other towns included on this list, Richmond has done a great job of maintaining its small-town feel. This is most apparent along its broad Main Street, which is home to a number of attractive heritage homes and buildings .

The best of these, including the Old federal Building, Madison County Courthouse, and the attractive Battle of Richmond Visitor Center, along with some 70 other historically significant buildings, can be enjoyed as part of a fun self-guided walking tour.

Start your walking tour at the visitor center, where you can pick up a map of Richmond's top sites and plan your route.

Van Hook Falls, Daniel Boone National Forest, KY

Although the fourth largest city to bear the "London" name outside of its namesake in the UK, London, Kentucky, is only a fraction of the size. In fact, its population of under 8,000 people makes it a clear contender for our list of the top small towns in Kentucky.

London, Kentucky was founded in 1826, and its leafy main street is a delight to explore on foot, with many great shopping and dining experiences.

London has also earned a reputation as the cycling capital of Kentucky , boasting an extensive trail network that attracts mountain bikers from across the USA. Many of these same trails double as hiking routes, too, with some of the best centered around Van Hook Falls , a short drive west of the downtown core in the Daniel Boone National Forest area .

Weisenberger Mill

Located "midway" between Lexington and Frankfort, Midway has a deep connection to Kentucky's famous thoroughbred horse industry . A number of the state's best-known breeding farms are located here, including Airdrie Stud and Lane's End Farm. Little surprise, then, that the town is the birthplace of numerous Kentucky Derby winners.

Midway was settled in the early 1800s, and a number of attractive old buildings line the town's well-preserved Main Street. Dissected in two by a still active railway line, the downtown offers many great photo and selfie opportunities, especially when a train passes through.

Try to include a visit to the historic Weisenberger Mill , a short drive to the east of the town center. Established in 1865 and still going strong, this old mill is famous for its pancake and bread mixes.

Shelbyville

An easy 40-minute drive due east of Louisville on the main road to Frankfort, Shelbyville is another small Kentucky town with a strong connection to the equestrian world . No less than 80 farms are located in and around Shelbyville that specialize in American Saddlebred horses, some of them offering tours and other experiences based around this popular breed.

The old town center is also worth exploring, with many of the older storefronts now renovated and housing a wide variety of retail experiences and eateries. Enjoy a walking tour, and you'll see other historic buildings from the town's early years, including the original Shelby County Courthouse.

Campbellsville

Although one of the larger communities in the sparsely populated south central section of Kentucky, Campbellsville is every inch a "small" town. With a population of only around 11,500, its downtown area is a vibrant shopping destination . It's also where you'll find many great dining experiences offering an eclectic mix of food styles.

The area is also immensely popular with outdoor enthusiasts . Popular destinations for hikers and bikers alike include Green River Lake State Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty just an easy 10-minute drive south of Campbellsville.

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great small towns to visit in kentucky

12 Best Small Towns In Kentucky You Must Visit

August 1, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you ready to visit some of the best small towns in Kentucky? These Kentucky towns are full of history, good food, beautiful landscapes, and small-town charm. The Bluegrass State has more to offer visitors than many may believe. From country cooking and Bluegrass music to historic buildings and breathtaking scenery, you can find a little bit of everything in Kentucky. Most travelers seeking the small town experience look for ma and pop shops, off-the-beaten-path attractions, and hole-in-the-wall restaurants. If you find yourself in a similar position, you are in luck. These small towns have all of that and more! You can find small towns in every corner of Kentucky. Visit with buffalos, see Kentucky thoroughbreds run, get educated at the National Underground Railroad Museum, and of course, eat delicious country cooking until your heart’s content. Which of these small towns will you visit first?

waterfall with building in background surrounded by trees

If you are hoping to visit some cute towns in Kentucky, make sure you don’t overlook Bardstown! You can find this lovely little town in central Kentucky, just forty-five minutes south of Louisville. For a small town, Bardstown has a lot for visitors to do, see, eat, and enjoy. You can start your visit to Bardstown by visiting some of the amazing museums that call the town home. The My Old Kentucky Home Museum, Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History Museum, and the Women’s Civil War Museum are all great museums that offer a glimpse into the history and founding of not only Bardstown by the state of Kentucky. Bardstown is the second oldest town in Kentucky and is well known for its stunning downtown and for being on the Bourbon Trail. If you are a fan of Bourbon or would just like to follow along the world-famous Bourbon Trail, consider stopping by Bardstown Bourbon Co. With a sleek yet industrial design, this is a unique distillery with a full-service restaurant and bar.

With all of the fantastic things to do in Bardstown, it is easy to see how it is one of the best small towns in Kentucky. Don’t forget to check out our post about Visting The Kentucky Bourbon Trail as well as the Best Bourbon Distilleries in Kentucky!

old building on street corner. street in foreground, trees behind the building

Harrodsburg

Easily one of the best small towns to live in Kentucky, Harrodsburg has one of the most intriguing attractions in all of the Bluegrass State, Old Fort Harrod State Park. This attraction is a full-scale replica of the 1774 fort that was built by James Harrod. This park spans fifteen acres and wonderfully depicts the first permanent American settlement in Kentucky. If you are traveling with kids, you will be happy to know that there is a wonderful community park. It has playgrounds, a pool, a skate park, and a kiddie pool area. This is perfect for those traveling in the summer months with kids. Traveling by yourself is a lot of fun, but you can also take a tour of Harrodsburg and get loads of information about the area with Central Kentucky Tours.

historic building at sunset. Harrodsburg, one of the best small towns in kentucky

Have you ever heard about railroads founding cities in the U.S.? idway was the first town in Kentucky to be found by a railroad, but the history of Midway was established long before. hen it comes to quaint towns in Kentucky , Midway is a must-see! here is a lovely vineyard in town where you can go wine tasting and enjoy the scenery. If you get the opportunity, you’ll want to drive the beautiful National Scenic Byway, Old Frankfort Pike. his road was built sometime between 1775 and 1780. t was built by adventurous Americans looking for a way to travel between Maysville and Louisville during the Revolutionary War. eep in mind that this road was built before Kentucky even became a state, making it not only beautiful but historically significant. If you have time, take Old Frankfort Pike from Midway to Lexington. he short fifteen-minute drive will take you to the famous Kentucky Horse Park and other similar attractions. The historical significance of Midway and its surrounding areas make it one of the best small towns in Kentucky. This is also one of the best places to see Fall Foliage In Kentucky!

two old building with trees around them on the edge of the water, waterfall in river

La Grange is one of the best Kentucky towns. why? well, you can start with scuba diving. The LaGrange Quarry is a unique Bluegrass oasis in the hills of Oldham County. the pristine spring-fed body of water is the perfect place to snorkel, scuba, swim, paddleboard, kayak, swim, or canoe. ou can just chill along the water’s edge, or you can rent paddleboards or paddleboats on site. There is also a sand volleyball court at the quarry, along with changing rooms and restrooms. one thing about this attraction is that it is for adults only. you must be at least eighteen years old, and there is a zero-tolerance policy for drugs and alcohol. They take this policy very seriously, and vehicles are subject to searches for these prohibited items. As if a perfect blue spring where you can relax sans kids wasn’t enough to make you see why La Grange is one of the most amazing small towns in Kentucky, there’s much more for you to get into during your visit! his includes the Oldham County Historical Society Museum, the La Grange Railroad Museum, the Train Observation Tower, the Yew Dell Botanical Gardens, and more!

small towns in kentucky, old building on narrow street

When looking for cool towns in northern Kentucky, be sure to check out Maysville! ne of the coolest things about Maysville and what makes it stand out at the top of the list of small towns in Kentucky is that it has some of the best museums in the entire Bluegrass State, the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center and the National Underground Railroad Museum. First up is the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center. his museum focuses on local and regional artifacts and history. ou will also find the Genealogical and Historical Research Library, which shines a light on the people and events of the surrounding area through a vast collection of manuscripts, documents, and books from the past three hundred years. Then, you should check out the National Underground Railroad Museum. This local history museum was founded in 1994 and houses amazing and informative exhibits and artifacts about the Underground Railroad. What is most amazing is that all of these exhibits are houses in a former Underground Railroad safe house.

old church and building on a pretty day

Shelbyville

What makes Shelbyville one of the greatest small towns in Kentucky? he answer to that question would be music, bBourbon food, and events. he best place to listen to live music in Shelbyville is at the Stargazer Plaza. Events are held throughout the year in different genres so there is sure to be something for everyone. When it comes to bourbon and good food, you have a few options. The Barrel Room is a great place to be as they have a wide selection of bourbons. Then, the Bell House Restaurant should also be mentioned. Traditional American cuisine is served in a charming house that was built in 1902. If you aren’t looking for a heavy meal, you can opt for the afternoon tea instead. Another popular event in Shelbyville is the Shelbyville Horse Show. The show is held at the Shelby County Fairgrounds and people come from all over the state to watch the horses. They have everything from juniors categories and amateur roadster pony competitions to pleasure driving and gaited competitions. If you are in town during the show, be sure to check it out!

old courthouse next to a brick building, one of the greatest small towns in kentucky

If you are looking for towns in western Kentucky , Murray is a great option for keen travelers. Just ten minutes from downtown Murray, you will reach Kentucky Lake. This is the largest man made lake east of the Mississippi. With more than 2,000 miles of shoreline, there are plenty of spots to lay out in the sun, wade into the water, fish, or swim. What makes Murray one of the best small towns in Kentucky is that it is close to so many amazing locations. Another one of the spots that you will want to check out is Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Just fifteen minutes from Murray, this area is between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake. Here you can camp, fish, boat, swim, picnic, hike, and enjoy the wildlife. There are bison, elk, beavers, birds, and more. If staying in town is more your speed, you should visit the Wrather West KY Museum. This museum is open during the week and is full of local history information. The building that the museum is in has been used for many things over the years. Including a college classes, laboratories, a post office, and more. Today, you can tour the museum and leard about local government, western Kentucky history, and culture.

a bison laying in the grass near murray kentucky, one of the best small towns in kentucky

Bloomfield is one of the prettiest towns in Kentucky. The brick buildings and small town atmosphere is something that travelers love to experience. Easily, the best thing to do in Bloomfield is to visit the Olde Bloomfield Meeting Hall. In a historic brick building that was once many things like a commercial building, the state’s largest clothier, a barber shop, a church, and more, you can now visit the Olde Bloomfield Meeting Hall. Purchased by the Bruckheimers in 1998, this building has been restored and decorated in the original historic style. Today, there’s historic memorabilia, a Double Dip Sode Fountain, video games, pool tables, pinball, bowling lanes, video games, an more. When you visit this Bloomfield attraction, you are stepping back in time. This brick building filled with wood walls, black and white checkered floors, and original furniture is something that you will want to see for yourself. If you feel like taking a day trip from Bloomfield, check out the Louisville Mega Cavern. A fifty minute drive from Bloomfield, the mega cavern is the number one attraction in Louisville. In the cavern, you can take a walking tour, a bike tour, or a tour on the mega tram. You can also try the ropes course called Mega Quest or go ziplining through the cavern.

brick buildings along street. cars parked in front of them and a tree to the side

What makes Augusta one of the prettiest small towns in Kentucky? Located in Bracken County, this small town has just over a thousand inhabitants. One of the coolest things to do in Augusta is to ride the Augusta Ferry. The ferries take you across the Ohio River and you get to see the natural beauty of northern Kentucky while you are riding across the river. Something else that you won’t want to miss when you are in Augusta is the Rosemary Clooney House. This house is dedicated to the life and talent of this American singer and actress from Augusta. She was famous for her rendition of Mambo Italiano and Come-On-a My House. Most people will probably recognize her from the iconic Christmas movie White Christmas. For those who love historical locales, swing by the 1811 Historic Jail. It is fee to visit (and supposedly, haunted!) The original foundation is intact to this day and you can see where it held prisoners from 1811 to 1978. The original cells and artifacts from that time period are on display as well.

a car on a car ferry in the water, rolling hills in background

Berea is among the best mountain towns in Kentucky ! The most popular things to do there are nature and craft related. For those who love to hike, you will fall in love with Berea. The Pinnacles and Indian Fort Mountain are the best places to hike in Berea and they will not disappoint. The views over the town and the surrounding Appalachian mountains are amazing. Also nearby is Anglin Falls. This beautiful waterfall can be reached via a one mile mountain hike. If you like to fish, there’s also a paylake near Berea as well. For true nature-lovers, you may want to spend your nights under the stars. You can do just that at the Oh Kentucky Campground and RV Park. Berea is known for its artisans and craftmanship. You can see some of the artwork that the town produces at the various art festivals that are held there throughout the year or at the Kentucky Artisan Center in Berea. After a day exploring the town, you can grab a bite to eat at Apollo Pizza Old Town Tap Room or the Historic Boone Tavern.

view over the appalachian foot hills in berea kentucky, one of the best small towns in kentucky

Hodgenville

Hodgenville is among the best small towns in Kentucky for one main reason, history. Most of that history revolves around Abraham Lincoln. You can find a statue of Lincoln in the Commercial HIstoric District’s public square. The statue was sculpted by Adolph Alexander Weinman, the same man who did the statue of Lincoln in the Capitol Rotunda in Frankfort. Another Lincoln history-themed site in Hodgenville is the Lincoln Museum. You will know you have arrived by the large statue of Lincoln sitting outside the museum. Inside you can see interesting historical pieces and great information about Abraham Lincoln, his life, and actions. Then, you can visit the Nancy Lincoln Inn. This is a historic building that is names after Lincoln’s mother. The Inn held many visitors who wanted to visit the birthplace of Lincoln. Thanks to newly paved roads in the 1920s, many travelers made the journey to his birthplace and the Nancy Lincoln Inn gave them a place to stay. Lastly, you will want to see the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National HIstoric Park. This site is a memorial to the former president. The park preserves two farm sites in LaRue County where Lincoln was born and lived his early childhood. You can see the location he was born and enjoy the memorial during your visit to Hodgenville.

large staircase leading to old stone building with grass and trees on both sides

When it comes to Eastern Kentucky towns, Stanton is one of the best. The best thing to do around Stanton is to visit the Red River Gorge. This natural geological area and resort park has grown in popularity over the past decade thinks to travel becoming more and more desirable for Americans. The best trails in at Red River Gorge are the Auxier Ridge Loop. Rough Trail and Gray’s Arch, and the Original Natural Birdge Trail. Walking across the Natural Bridge is the most popular activity in the park and it can be reached in two ways. You can ride the skylift to the top of the bridge or you can hike there. The Original Trail was built by the Lexington and Eastern Railroad in the 1890s and today is the most popular hiking trail at Natural Bridge. The hike will probably take you around forty-five minutes to complete. Although you will only be hiking for a little over a mile, there are steep portions which most hikers take their time when hiking.

mountains in the fall, trees covering the mountains in stanton, one of the prettiest towns in kentucky

Now that you have learned about some amazing towns to visit in Kentucky, which one do you think you will visit first? You have a lot to choose from and no matter whether you are looking for an in-town experience or an outdoor adventure, you are sure to have a great time in these small towns in Kentucky!

The neon sign of Robert's Western World and Jacks Bar-b-Que lit up as the sky starts to get dark. It's a must-see honky-tonk bar during a weekend in Nashville.

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Kentucky's Most Charming Small Towns You Simply Have To Visit

Posted: December 21, 2023 | Last updated: December 25, 2023

<p>Famous for folk music, smooth liquor, and handsome horses, the small towns of the Bluegrass State are blessed with immense Southern charm, golden bourbon, and green vistas. Miles of trails crisscross Kentucky, stringing together plenty of picturesque little towns and attractions that can be visited in one trip.</p>  <p>Designated 'trail towns' are dotted along historic or cultural routes where you’re sure to find guides, lodgings, and a hearty meal along the way.</p>  <p><strong>Read on for our pick of the best charming small towns in Kentucky...</strong></p>

Southern charmers

Famous for folk music, smooth liquor, and handsome horses, the small towns of the Bluegrass State are blessed with immense Southern charm, golden bourbon, and green vistas. Miles of trails crisscross Kentucky, stringing together plenty of picturesque little towns and attractions that can be visited in one trip.

Designated 'trail towns' are dotted along historic or cultural routes where you’re sure to find guides, lodgings, and a hearty meal along the way.

Read on for our pick of the best charming small towns in Kentucky...

<p>Full of quaint old town charm, Paducah is sited at West Kentucky’s Four Rivers Basin making it a great place to board a traditional steamboat cruise or follow the marked River Walk trail. It’s also an epicenter for folk arts and crafts with vintage stores, pretty cottage stores, and such a strong quilting tradition that there’s a space – the National Quilt Museum – devoted to it.</p>  <p>Paducah’s farmers' market is the perfect place to browse the region’s finest produce and immerse yourself in the local community.</p>

Paducah, McCracken County

Full of quaint old town charm, Paducah is sited at West Kentucky’s Four Rivers Basin making it a great place to board a traditional steamboat cruise or follow the marked River Walk trail. It’s also an epicenter for folk arts and crafts with vintage stores, pretty cottage stores, and such a strong quilting tradition that there’s a space – the National Quilt Museum – devoted to it.

Paducah’s farmers' market is the perfect place to browse the region’s finest produce and immerse yourself in the local community.

<p>For a taste of eastern Kentucky’s Appalachian mountains, the hip town of Whitesburg on the edge of the coalfields is ideal. Here you’ll find the Appalshop arts center hosting live theatre, folk music, and movie nights, alongside vintage record stores, eateries, and bars serving up freshly cooked meals and distilleries such as Kentucky Mist Moonshine offering whiskey-tasting and tours.</p>  <p>Head to Falcon Overlook for a stunning overview of the surrounding scenery.</p>

Whitesburg, Letcher County

For a taste of eastern Kentucky’s Appalachian mountains, the hip town of Whitesburg on the edge of the coalfields is ideal. Here you’ll find the Appalshop arts center hosting live theatre, folk music, and movie nights, alongside vintage record stores, eateries, and bars serving up freshly cooked meals and distilleries such as Kentucky Mist Moonshine offering whiskey-tasting and tours.

Head to Falcon Overlook for a stunning overview of the surrounding scenery.

<p>A quintessential Kentucky town at the heart of the state, Georgetown has bluegrass, bourbon, and horses in spades. Not only does it lay claim to being the birthplace of bourbon but it’s also near the center of horse country, where you can visit Kentucky Horse Park and meet racing stars at Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm.</p>  <p>The town is a hub for fairs and festivals including antiques markets and the International Kite and Culture festival, where you’re sure to catch a local bluegrass band.</p>

Georgetown, Scott County

A quintessential Kentucky town at the heart of the state, Georgetown has bluegrass, bourbon, and horses in spades. Not only does it lay claim to being the birthplace of bourbon but it’s also near the center of horse country, where you can visit Kentucky Horse Park and meet racing stars at Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm.

The town is a hub for fairs and festivals including antiques markets and the International Kite and Culture festival, where you’re sure to catch a local bluegrass band.

<p>Visitors curious about the Appalachians and keen on outdoor adventure will love this gem of a trail town in eastern Kentucky. It's long been established as the gateway to the Breaks Interstate Park.</p>  <p>Frontiersman Daniel Boone is said to have taken his first steps into modern Kentucky here, on a hunting expedition in 1767. Perched on the edge of the Big Sandy River and the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail, the small arty settlement is the perfect base for wild hiking and white water rafting.</p>

Elkhorn City, Pike County

Visitors curious about the Appalachians and keen on outdoor adventure will love this gem of a trail town in eastern Kentucky. It's long been established as the gateway to the Breaks Interstate Park.

Frontiersman Daniel Boone is said to have taken his first steps into modern Kentucky here, on a hunting expedition in 1767. Perched on the edge of the Big Sandy River and the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail, the small arty settlement is the perfect base for wild hiking and white water rafting.

<p>The aptly-named Kentucky town of Midway sits in the center of the state, and is right in the middle of horse country, making it the ideal spot to experience Kentucky’s rich thoroughbred history. Gorgeous stud farms dot the area including the nationally renowned Airdrie Stud, Three Chimneys, and Lane's End Farm.</p>  <p>The pretty town is also a hub for boutique stores and restaurants with some of the finest dining in central Kentucky.</p>

Midway, Woodford County

The aptly-named Kentucky town of Midway sits in the center of the state, and is right in the middle of horse country, making it the ideal spot to experience Kentucky’s rich thoroughbred history. Gorgeous stud farms dot the area including the nationally renowned Airdrie Stud, Three Chimneys, and Lane's End Farm.

The pretty town is also a hub for boutique stores and restaurants with some of the finest dining in central Kentucky.

<p>The folk arts and crafts capital of Kentucky, the pretty trail town of Berea is full of homegrown charm. Browse the historic artisan village and watch out for ‘Studio Artists at Berea’ signs to see artists working at crafts from jewelry to instrument-making.</p>  <p>Kentucky Artisan Center houses locally-produced collections, while fascinating workshops such as Weston Glass Studio are open to visitors. Boone Tavern Hotel, which dates back to 1909, is perfect for an overnight stop.</p>

Berea, Madison County

The folk arts and crafts capital of Kentucky, the pretty trail town of Berea is full of homegrown charm. Browse the historic artisan village and watch out for ‘Studio Artists at Berea’ signs to see artists working at crafts from jewelry to instrument-making.

Kentucky Artisan Center houses locally-produced collections, while fascinating workshops such as Weston Glass Studio are open to visitors. Boone Tavern Hotel, which dates back to 1909, is perfect for an overnight stop.

<p>Kentucky’s first self-styled urban trail town, Elizabethtown sits to the south of Louisville and offers plenty of attractions including the Hardin County History Museum, Historic State Theater, a vintage car museum, and retro shopping arcades in downtown. Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail is also known for its craft beer, and visitors can sample a Trail Town Ale at Flywheel Brewing.</p>  <p>It's also an ideal base for hiking, biking, and paddling adventures in the local lakes and parks.</p>

Elizabethtown, Hardin County

Kentucky’s first self-styled urban trail town, Elizabethtown sits to the south of Louisville and offers plenty of attractions including the Hardin County History Museum, Historic State Theater, a vintage car museum, and retro shopping arcades in downtown. Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail is also known for its craft beer, and visitors can sample a Trail Town Ale at Flywheel Brewing.

It's also an ideal base for hiking, biking, and paddling adventures in the local lakes and parks.

<p>Danville embodies original Kentucky – it was the first state capital and also where its constitution was signed in 1792. Visitors can still tour the historic buildings at Constitution Square (pictured) to learn about its history.</p>  <p>At Kentucky's geographical and historic center, the state’s first courthouse, college, and law school were all established here. The arts have a strong presence too, and the former federal building in downtown has recently been transformed into the GLASS National Art Museum.</p>

Danville, Boyle County

Danville embodies original Kentucky – it was the first state capital and also where its constitution was signed in 1792. Visitors can still tour the historic buildings at Constitution Square (pictured) to learn about its history.

At Kentucky's geographical and historic center, the state’s first courthouse, college, and law school were all established here. The arts have a strong presence too, and the former federal building in downtown has recently been transformed into the GLASS National Art Museum.

<p>As Kentucky’s second oldest city dating back to 1780, Bardstown is brimful of historic charm and is a must-visit on any trip to the state. It boasts 200 buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places including the quaint Old Talbott Tavern (pictured).</p>  <p>As the self-styled Bourbon Capital of the World, it sits at the beginning of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail so it’s a great place to sample the famous amber nectar, with 11 craft distilleries dotted within 16 miles of downtown.</p>

Bardstown, Nelson County

As Kentucky’s second oldest city dating back to 1780, Bardstown is brimful of historic charm and is a must-visit on any trip to the state. It boasts 200 buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places including the quaint Old Talbott Tavern (pictured).

As the self-styled Bourbon Capital of the World, it sits at the beginning of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail so it’s a great place to sample the famous amber nectar, with 11 craft distilleries dotted within 16 miles of downtown.

<p>The historic hamlet of Rabbit Hash on the Ohio River is a small but perfectly formed microcosm of Americana, named on the US National Register of Historic Places for its old tumbledown wooden buildings dating back more than 200 years. One of the most atmospheric is the Rabbit Hash General Store (pictured), generally considered the oldest example of its kind in the state, with a large front porch that still serves as a local focal point.</p>  <p>Noted for its humor, a dog is the town's ceremonial mayor.</p>

Rabbit Hash, Boone County

The historic hamlet of Rabbit Hash on the Ohio River is a small but perfectly formed microcosm of Americana, named on the US National Register of Historic Places for its old tumbledown wooden buildings dating back more than 200 years. One of the most atmospheric is the Rabbit Hash General Store (pictured), generally considered the oldest example of its kind in the state, with a large front porch that still serves as a local focal point.

Noted for its humor, a dog is the town's ceremonial mayor.

<p>The state’s first certified trail town, Dawson Springs sits at the edge of Pennyrile State Park in western Kentucky and has long been a gateway to the great outdoors. Its beautiful lake, the 13-mile scenic Pennyrile nature walk and horse trails draw adventurous visitors, while its photogenic Main Street is part of a historic district with a museum and arts center, plus places to eat, stay, and stock up on a trip through the region.</p>

Dawson Springs, Hopkins County

The state’s first certified trail town, Dawson Springs sits at the edge of Pennyrile State Park in western Kentucky and has long been a gateway to the great outdoors. Its beautiful lake, the 13-mile scenic Pennyrile nature walk and horse trails draw adventurous visitors, while its photogenic Main Street is part of a historic district with a museum and arts center, plus places to eat, stay, and stock up on a trip through the region.

<p>The streets of Munfordville are lined with heritage buildings and characterful places, not least the Old Munford Inn (pictured) which dates back to 1810. Kentucky’s very own Stonehenge, a replica of the UK site by late artist Chester Fryer, sits just outside the town.</p>  <p>Munfordville is another great entry point for Mammoth Cave National Park too, where you can discover prehistoric treasures.</p>

Munfordville, Hart County

The streets of Munfordville are lined with heritage buildings and characterful places, not least the Old Munford Inn (pictured) which dates back to 1810. Kentucky’s very own Stonehenge, a replica of the UK site by late artist Chester Fryer, sits just outside the town.

Munfordville is another great entry point for Mammoth Cave National Park too, where you can discover prehistoric treasures.

<p>A hidden gem overflowing with Americana, the little town of Hazel in western Kentucky was named by Fodor’s Travel as one of the top 10 antiquing towns in the US, and it’s easy to see why. Its Main Street is lined with curiosity stores and boutiques stuffed with unique items such as old signage and hand-spun glassware.</p>  <p>Collectors spend hours browsing the old emporiums and vintage lovers will certainly not go away empty-handed. Stop by the Blue and White Grill for a delicious piece of coconut cream pie.</p>

Hazel, Calloway County

A hidden gem overflowing with Americana, the little town of Hazel in western Kentucky was named by Fodor’s Travel as one of the top 10 antiquing towns in the US, and it’s easy to see why. Its Main Street is lined with curiosity stores and boutiques stuffed with unique items such as old signage and hand-spun glassware.

Collectors spend hours browsing the old emporiums and vintage lovers will certainly not go away empty-handed. Stop by the Blue and White Grill for a delicious piece of coconut cream pie.

<p>Hungry travelers can trace the origins of KFC all the way to the little town of Corbin in southeastern Kentucky at the Sanders Cafe and Museum – the official birthplace of the original crispy fried chicken created by Colonel Sanders. The town is a convenient place to stay overnight if you’re hoping to catch sight of the famous moonbow at nearby Cumberland Falls too, known as Little Niagara for its impressive cascades that are the largest in the southern States.</p>

Corbin, Whitley County

Hungry travelers can trace the origins of KFC all the way to the little town of Corbin in southeastern Kentucky at the Sanders Cafe and Museum – the official birthplace of the original crispy fried chicken created by Colonel Sanders. The town is a convenient place to stay overnight if you’re hoping to catch sight of the famous moonbow at nearby Cumberland Falls too, known as Little Niagara for its impressive cascades that are the largest in the southern States.

<p>This historic little town of Maysville on the banks of the Ohio River was established on the site of an 18th-century tavern run by frontiersman Daniel Boone. Many of its old buildings are preserved, making it a great place to experience old Kentucky.</p>  <p>Among its quirkier buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places, the Russell Theater in downtown is an atmospheric spot for a weekend movie, while the EAT Gallery and its retro sign show off the town’s timeless heritage.</p>

Maysville, Mason County

This historic little town of Maysville on the banks of the Ohio River was established on the site of an 18th-century tavern run by frontiersman Daniel Boone. Many of its old buildings are preserved, making it a great place to experience old Kentucky.

Among its quirkier buildings on the US National Register of Historic Places, the Russell Theater in downtown is an atmospheric spot for a weekend movie, while the EAT Gallery and its retro sign show off the town’s timeless heritage.

<p>The attractive town of Versailles is bountiful in the Kentucky hallmarks of bluegrass, horses, and bourbon. WinStar Farm is one of the best places to get up close to the State’s famous thoroughbred stallions and Kentucky Derby champions, with stable tours and shuttle rides around the property.</p>  <p>At 200-year-old Woodford Reserve – a National Historic Landmark – bourbon blends with history, while nearby Kentucky Castle is the area’s very own Palace of Versailles with guest rooms where you can stay the night.</p>

Versailles, Woodford County

The attractive town of Versailles is bountiful in the Kentucky hallmarks of bluegrass, horses, and bourbon. WinStar Farm is one of the best places to get up close to the State’s famous thoroughbred stallions and Kentucky Derby champions, with stable tours and shuttle rides around the property.

At 200-year-old Woodford Reserve – a National Historic Landmark – bourbon blends with history, while nearby Kentucky Castle is the area’s very own Palace of Versailles with guest rooms where you can stay the night.

<p>Another town drenched in historic charm, Harrodsburg is Kentucky’s oldest settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains. Old Fort Harrod State Park features a reconstruction of the original settlement and those following the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway should visit the Lincoln Marriage Temple, where the former president’s parents wed in 1806.</p>  <p>A highlight of Harrodsburg is pretty Pleasant Hill (pictured) with 34 original structures once home to the USA's third largest Shaker community.</p>

Harrodsburg, Mercer County

Another town drenched in historic charm, Harrodsburg is Kentucky’s oldest settlement west of the Appalachian Mountains. Old Fort Harrod State Park features a reconstruction of the original settlement and those following the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway should visit the Lincoln Marriage Temple, where the former president’s parents wed in 1806.

A highlight of Harrodsburg is pretty Pleasant Hill (pictured) with 34 original structures once home to the USA's third largest Shaker community.

<p>The little city of Owensboro may be the fourth most populated area in the state but it’s brimming with country charm. Capital of Bluegrass, it’s one of the best places in the state to experience its famed live music scene and as Kentucky’s festival city, it hosts more than 20 annual events.</p>  <p>Positioned along the Country Music Highway, it’s home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum (pictured) and also sits on the iconic Route 66, making it an ideal stop on a classic American road trip.</p>

Owensboro, Daviess County

The little city of Owensboro may be the fourth most populated area in the state but it’s brimming with country charm. Capital of Bluegrass, it’s one of the best places in the state to experience its famed live music scene and as Kentucky’s festival city, it hosts more than 20 annual events.

Positioned along the Country Music Highway, it’s home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum (pictured) and also sits on the iconic Route 66, making it an ideal stop on a classic American road trip.

<p>As well as being blessed with a picture-perfect downtown centered on 19th-century Fountain Square Park, Bowling Green is bursting with vintage attractions including the Historic Railpark and Train Museum and the National Corvette Museum dedicated to the classic cars built exclusively in the town. Steeped in history, Bowling Green is a key stop on the Civil War Discovery Trail with signs of the past at every turn, while Lost River Cave is nearby, offering subterranean cave boat tours.</p>

Bowling Green, Warren County

As well as being blessed with a picture-perfect downtown centered on 19th-century Fountain Square Park, Bowling Green is bursting with vintage attractions including the Historic Railpark and Train Museum and the National Corvette Museum dedicated to the classic cars built exclusively in the town. Steeped in history, Bowling Green is a key stop on the Civil War Discovery Trail with signs of the past at every turn, while Lost River Cave is nearby, offering subterranean cave boat tours.

<p>The gateway to Kentucky’s cave region and the famous Mammoth Cave National Park, which contains the world’s longest cave system, Cave City is a great base to explore the area’s 84 miles of trails and countless natural attractions. Alongside Mammoth Cave, explorers can also visit Hidden River Cave, Diamond Caverns, and Cub Run Cave, and local outfitters can arrange horse riding and canoeing tours.</p>  <p>The town has plenty of places to stay and eat, including tasty grill house Bucky Bee’s BBQ.</p>

Cave City, Barren County

The gateway to Kentucky’s cave region and the famous Mammoth Cave National Park, which contains the world’s longest cave system, Cave City is a great base to explore the area’s 84 miles of trails and countless natural attractions. Alongside Mammoth Cave, explorers can also visit Hidden River Cave, Diamond Caverns, and Cub Run Cave, and local outfitters can arrange horse riding and canoeing tours.

The town has plenty of places to stay and eat, including tasty grill house Bucky Bee’s BBQ.

<p>Sleepy Bloomfield in central Kentucky’s Bluegrass region is older than the state itself. The first settlers arrived in the 1700s, and its agricultural industry took off quickly. This included the establishment of a flour mill and tobacco auction house in the 19th century.</p>  <p>Traces of its history can still be seen in the town’s architecture. Built in 1835, the Newell B. McClaskey House and plantation is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.</p>

Bloomfield, Nelson County

Sleepy Bloomfield in central Kentucky’s Bluegrass region is older than the state itself. The first settlers arrived in the 1700s, and its agricultural industry took off quickly. This included the establishment of a flour mill and tobacco auction house in the 19th century.

Traces of its history can still be seen in the town’s architecture. Built in 1835, the Newell B. McClaskey House and plantation is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

<p>In far western Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes – amid Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley – is a great place to get back to nature with more than 170,000 acres of forest, plus many miles of trails and scenic roads. The charming town of Hardin has its own marina with views over the lake – consider stopping for lunch at Cindy’s on the Barge, renowned for good food at affordable prices.</p>

Hardin, Marshall County

In far western Kentucky, the Land Between the Lakes – amid Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley – is a great place to get back to nature with more than 170,000 acres of forest, plus many miles of trails and scenic roads. The charming town of Hardin has its own marina with views over the lake – consider stopping for lunch at Cindy’s on the Barge, renowned for good food at affordable prices.

<p>On the scenic Kentucky River, Winchester oozes old-time Southern charm, and its downtown Victorian-era architecture is meticulously preserved. Authentic Kentucky beer cheese is said to have been invented here, and the town is home to the Beer Cheese Trail with a string of eight local restaurants and eateries – some in great riverside spots – serving up variations on the original recipe.</p>  <p>The annual Beer Cheese Festival is hosted every June.</p>

Winchester, Clark County

On the scenic Kentucky River, Winchester oozes old-time Southern charm, and its downtown Victorian-era architecture is meticulously preserved. Authentic Kentucky beer cheese is said to have been invented here, and the town is home to the Beer Cheese Trail with a string of eight local restaurants and eateries – some in great riverside spots – serving up variations on the original recipe.

The annual Beer Cheese Festival is hosted every June.

<p>On Kentucky’s Civil War Heritage Trail and the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway, Hodgenville is steeped in history. As the birthplace of legendary US president Abraham Lincoln, the area includes a national historical park with an impressive memorial building dedicated to Lincoln, as well as a dedicated statue and museum within the town center, plus a reconstruction of his boyhood home at nearby Knob Creek Farm.</p>

Hodgenville, LaRue County

On Kentucky’s Civil War Heritage Trail and the Lincoln Heritage Scenic Highway, Hodgenville is steeped in history. As the birthplace of legendary US president Abraham Lincoln, the area includes a national historical park with an impressive memorial building dedicated to Lincoln, as well as a dedicated statue and museum within the town center, plus a reconstruction of his boyhood home at nearby Knob Creek Farm.

<p>Kentucky’s state capital is actually a small historic town full of rural Kentucky charm, surrounded by verdant horse farms and artisanal distilleries including the Buffalo Trace Distillery. As the resting place of celebrated frontiersman Daniel Boone, and a key stop on the Civil War Heritage Trail, Frankfort has a deep history that can be glimpsed in the old buildings of downtown, as well as at several history and art museums and the beautiful State Capitol building.</p>  <p><a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/76327/the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-the-world-travel-news?page=1"><strong>Now take a look at the world's most beautiful small towns...</strong></a></p>

Frankfort, Franklin County

Kentucky’s state capital is actually a small historic town full of rural Kentucky charm, surrounded by verdant horse farms and artisanal distilleries including the Buffalo Trace Distillery. As the resting place of celebrated frontiersman Daniel Boone, and a key stop on the Civil War Heritage Trail, Frankfort has a deep history that can be glimpsed in the old buildings of downtown, as well as at several history and art museums and the beautiful State Capitol building.

Now take a look at the world's most beautiful small towns...

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The 10 Most Beautiful Towns In Kentucky

Kentucky

Scenic, full of Southern charm and rich in history, Kentucky , or the ‘Bluegrass State,’ is home to some of the most beautiful small towns in America. From whats known as the ‘Bourbon capital of the world’ Bardstown, to arty communities like Paducah and Berea, we round up 10 of the state’s most charming towns.

Bardstown, KY

Named one of the ‘most beautiful small towns in America’ by The Rand McNally , picturesque Bardstown is located in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region. Known as the ‘Bourbon capital of the world’, Bardstown has the art of distilling the tipple down to a fine art. Some local distilleries date back as far as 1776 and this history is celebrated each September with the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Bardstown is home of My Old Kentucky State Park, which hosts The Stephen Foster Story, a Broadway-style musical about the ‘American father of music’ and composer of Kentucky’s state anthem. The downtown area is a mix of historic buildings, eclectic boutiques and great restaurants.

Bardstown, KY, USA

Berea is located a few miles south of Lexington and is home to a vibrant community of painters, musicians, weavers and other such artisans alongside a number of artsy events including Berea Craft Festival and Berea Celtic Festival. Beautiful downtown Berea is home to several historically significant sites such as Berea College, which is a liberal arts college founded in 1855 and the South’s first interracial and coeducational institute. Another site, Boone Tavern, is a hotel opened in 1909 and listed on the National Register of Historical Places and named after American pioneer and explorer Daniel Boone.

Berea, KY, USA

Mercer County Courthouse, Harrodsburg | &#xA9; W. Marsh/Flickr

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2. Harrodsburg

Harrodsburg.

Dating back to 1774, Harrodsburg is the state’s oldest city and home to a smorgasbord of interesting sites relating to its rich history. This includes the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill , America’s biggest restored Shaker settlement, and Dedman Drugstore which first opened in 1865 and today is home to its original soda fountain, as well as The Kentucky Fudge Company. Take a trip aboard the authentic Dixie Belle paddle steamer and see the scenic Kentucky River Palisades from a unique angle or explore downtown Harrodsburg for its charming and colorful storefronts, unique local crafts and antiques and restaurants serving up good old Southern cuisine.

Harrodsburg, KY, USA

Whitehaven, Paducah | &#xA9; Smallbones/WikiCommons

Designated a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art in 2013, Paducah , also known as Quilt City USA, is a hot spot for quilt and fiber-based artists. It is also home to The National Quilt Museum and the annual QuiltWeek festival. Located on the banks of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers on the border with Illinois , Paducah is rich in history with 20 blocks of its picturesque downtown district listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here, you can find stunning examples of 19th century architecture and Lower Town, an arty district and Paducah’s oldest neighborhood, alongside boutiques, antique stores and local indie art galleries.

Paducah, KY, USA

Danville&#x2019;s Constitution Square | &#xA9; Chris Floyd

4. Danville

A certified Kentucky Cultural District, Danville is home to landmarks rich in history and a plethora of art galleries, museums and first rate restaurants. The site of many firsts, Danville’s Constitution Square is the location of the first post office built west of the Alleghany Mountains. The town was also home to pioneering American surgeon Ephraim McDowell, the first physician to perform a successful abdominal surgery. Danville’s beautiful Main Street was bestowed with a Great American Main Street award in 2001 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and is host to locally owned pubs and stores and the annual Great American Brass Band Festival .

Danville, KY, USA

Downtown Greenville | Courtesy Tour Greenville

5. Greenville

Founded in 1799, Greenville is an idyllic small American town located amidst western Kentucky’s beautiful forests and rolling hills and is renowned for its warm Southern hospitality. Greenville’s picturesque and historic town square is the location of a beautiful Beaux-Arts style courthouse built in 1907 which features the state’s second largest bell tower dome and the biggest pre-fabricated cupola in the whole country. Greenville’s quaint downtown is fast becoming known for its festivals which include Saturdays on the Square, a series of summertime events, and the outdoor art festival Squash & Gobble Arts Bazaar and Fall Festival.

Greenville, KY, USA

Augusta from the Ohio River | &#xA9; Augustaky/WikiCommons

August was listed by noted historian Thomas D. Clark as one of 11 Kentucky treasures that have helped shape the history and culture of the state. The Ohio River town located in northeastern Kentucky was founded in 1797 though as the town grew excavations revealing skeletal remains point to it as an earlier Native American settlement. Today home to just over 1000 people, Augusta is tiny but full of small town charm and its crowning glory is undoubtedly Riverside Drive, which is a scenic spot with picturesque views of the river valley and beautiful 18th and 19th century architecture. It is also home to Augusta’s annual Art in the Garden festival.

Augusta, KY, USA

Saint Helen Catholic Church, Glasgow | &#xA9; Nheyob/WikiCommons

Library, Park, University

Ranked among the 15 Best Places to Live in Kentucky by real estate gurus Movoto, the south central Kentucky town of Glasgow was founded in 1799 and named after the Scottish birthplace of one of its early settlers. The town is home of the Glasgow Highland Games , an annual celebration of Scottish heritage taking place in town for the past 30 years. Glasgow’s location in the Caves, Lakes and Corvettes region close to Mammoth Cave National Park also makes the town a perfect starting point for exploring the state’s natural wonders.

Glasgow, KY, USA

Pogue Library, Murray State University | &#xA9; Hunter00047/WikiCommons

Art Gallery, Park, Theater, University

Voted the Friendliest Small Town in America by Rand McNally-USA Today Best of the Road series, Murray is a charming Southern town. Its idyllic location is just a short drive from the stunning Kentucky Lake and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, which makes it a popular stop off for exploring nature lovers. Murray’s picture-perfect town center is home to several cultural institutions including the Clara M. Eagle Art Gallery at Murray State University and Playhouse in the Park, a community theater housed in a former train depot, and the town’s annual Independence Day celebration Freedom Festival.

Murray, KY, USA

Morehead | &#xA9; Douglas Haase/Flickr

9. Morehead

Forest, University, Winery

Located in the northern reaches of the beautiful Daniel Boone National Forest in northeastern Kentucky, Morehead is a laid back town nestled against the backdrop of the scenic Appalachian Mountain foothills. It has plenty of small town charm and a number of attractions from the historical (including the beautiful Morehead State University established in 1887) to the cosmopolitan (with antique stores and the nearby CCC Trail Vineyard and Winery), and the cultural (with the town’s annual Poppy Mountain Bluegrass Festival). Morehead’s proximity to the breathtakingly beautiful Cave Run Lakes makes it an ideal base for lovers of nature.

Morehead, KY, USA

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Best Small Towns in KY Wildlands and Beyond

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Kim Orlando

small towns kentucky

Kentucky is a collection of charming small towns each with its own quirky sites, history, natural wonders, amazing food and, of course, bourbon. Here, SheBuysTravel Publisher and Kentucky native Kim Orlando, along with some of her friends, share where to go and what to do on a small town getaway for a weekend or family vacation. Tiny house houseboat rentals, broom-making and bourbon tastings are just a sampling of what you can expect from exploring Kentucky Wildlands and Kentucky small towns.

Just about every destination in Kentucky is a short road trip away. It takes only 3.5 hours to drive from Newport, the northernmost point along the Ohio River, to Scottsville in the south, along the Tennessee state line. Kentucky road trips always take me longer, though, because I love to stop at the charming small towns and quirky oddities along the way.

For families looking for a weekend getaway or a history lesson, the Bluegrass State offers rich Civil War history and natural wonders in just about every small town. Even better for families, Kentucky is a super affordable vacation destination with lots of  free things to do in Kentucky with kids  all across the state.

Small Towns in Kentucky Wildlands

Kentucky Wildlands , a 14,000-square-mile region that is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, also is home to some of the state’s cutest small towns, each with its own unique gem worth visiting.

Kentucky Wildlands visit was hosted.

Small towns in KY - Austin City Saloon in Corbin

Probably best known for the Harland Café, where Colonel Harland Sanders created the recipe for Kentucky Fried Chicken. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it is now a museum with photos and information about the original KFC and its founder.

My cousin did her medical school residency in Corbin, KY and she recommended we stop at one of her favorites, The Root Beer Stand. It’s an old school drive up (not drive thru) where waitresses come to your car to take your order. A large root beer float tastes amazing and will set you back $3.

Small towns in KY - Austin City Saloon Fries in Low Places

Austin City Saloon , downtown, offers atmosphere, live music on weekends, a rooftop patio and good food. The burger menu is solid and the bourbon menu was interesting but it was the Fries in Low Places that caught my attention. A must try!

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

small towns in kentucky - Cumberland Falls

OK, this isn’t technically a small town in Kentucky. But it is a must-visit spot. Woods surround the resort at Cumberland Falls and the hike to the falls easy access. Sheltowee Trace Resort is just 5 miles from the Falls and has all kinds of fun kid activities from zip lining to glamping in a covered wagon.

My husband prefers indoor plumbing so we stayed in one of the cabins in a more secluded part of the property. The cabin was new, cozy and the first ric of firewood is free. Adventurous activities like kayaking, tubing and a river boat cruise can all be organized by Sheltowee Trace.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  You will NOT see the waterfall on the riverboat cruise; it is a one hour tour of the river. If you book a nighttime moonbow cruise, you can see the rainbow colors from the waterfall spray illuminated by the moon. (Be sure to check dates and weather ahead of time to ensure the moon will be shining the night you want to visit!) Also, skip the snack bar, (limited options and pricey) but do load up on s’mores bling in the cute shop.

Lake Cumberland and Lake Cumberland State Park

small towns in kentucky - houseboats on Cumberland Lake

Expansive, deep and beautiful, Lake Cumberland  is surrounded by 1,200+ miles of shoreline (more than Florida!) including a few state parks, boasts 101 miles of water and several marinas for boat rentals.

Lake Cumberland State Park is one of several state parks on the lake and offers several lodging options: Lure Lodge, 3 types of cabin rentals, and campsites, including accessible sites.

Small Towns in KY - Lure Lodge pool

The rooms at Lure Lodge are comfortable and many have balconies, with beautiful views of the woods. It is family-friendly with an indoor pool, game room and nearby restaurant overlooking the lake. For more space, there are several cabin options near the lodge. Camping is popular at the state park and 6 handicap-accessible sites were added in 2021.

small towns in kentucky - example of a cabin at Lake Cumberland resort.

Although Lake Cumberland State Dock is in the state park, it is privately owned. The State Dock is the largest marina on the lake and has more houseboats available to rent in one location than any other marina in the US. Boat rentals range from fishing boats to 10 cabin houseboats that sleep 22 guests. Skip the massive Airbnb rentals for the next family reunion! Pile everyone into a houseboat and hang out on the lake.

Nervous about docking a houseboat? Don’t be. Lake Cumberland State Dock removes the biggest barrier to renting: lack of houseboating experience. Someone from the friendly staff will drive the houseboat out to the lake and/or pull it in for you. I love that this service is a standard offer, not a special request. There is even pizza delivery available to the boat.

Small towns in KY - The Boat Yard Bar & Grill

There are plenty of good reasons to hang out at the dock – a fun atmosphere with a store packed with Huk fishing gear and Lake Cumberland souvenirs, delicious fried catfish and lake-friendly cocktails at the Boat Yard Bar & Grill. I recommend the catfish and giving the peanut butter pie a try.

small towns in kentucky - apple picking in Nancy.

Head here in the fall to pick from 25 varieties of apples and other fruits at Haney’s Appledale Farm. To me, the highlight is eating one (or maybe more) of the famous one-of-a-kind family-recipe fried apple pies. They taste just like the ones my Mema made.

small towns in kentucky - Lee's Ford Marina

Lee’s Ford Marina , a privately owned full service marina on Lake Cumberland, is 4 miles outside of Somerset in Nancy, KY. The marina offers music, boat rentals, food and even Sunday church service. The owner, JD Hamilton, is especially proud of his creation: the tinyhouse houseboat – he has at least 8. He built a tiny house on a pontoon platform, which makes it more affordable without giving up any creature comforts on the lake. I toured the tiny-house houseboat and was impressed by the size of the rooms and the slide off the back of the boat. Next time I hope to take one out on the water. I was assured that if I needed help docking, all I had to do was ask.

Learn about the Union victory at Mill Springs (aka Nancy) at the  Mill Springs Battlefield Museum and Visitors Center.

Small towns in KY - Lemon Drop at The Mole Hole

Somerset is on the northeastern side of Lake Cumberland, near Daniel Boone National Forest , with miles of trails, an abundant outdoor life, growing downtown and bourbon scene.

More things to do in Somerset:

  • Creep around the International Paranormal Museum and Research Center.
  • Stop in at The Mole Hole downtown, a unique gift shop and bar, for some secret recipe chicken salad and Tammy’s crazy good lemon drop.
  • Plan a weekend in July around the Master Musicians Festival , which caters to the whole family.
  • The patriotic story of Horse Soldier, the new bourbon coming to town begins here. It was started by a team of veteran Green Berets as a true recovery mission.

Small towns in KY - Stearns

The coal mine in Stearns closed in 1942, but you can still ride the train and visit the mine with one of the miners’ descendants. Rob grew up there and provides a vivid image of coal mining life on his tour of the replica of the original town where his grandfather worked.

Authenticity is important and it is evident in the care taken with the details. Reproductions of the barber shop, doctor’s office and one-room school house/church give visitors a glimpse of what life was like for the miners and their families.

Upgrade the authenticity with a stay on property in a tract house overlooking the train and school house.

Whitley City

Small towns in KY - Whitley City Dairy Bar

Just a few miles north of the Tennessee border, and 5 minutes from the Big South Fork Railway in Stearns, KY, this town of 1,100 people is worth the 30 minute detour off 75 for a visit to The Dairy Bar. It’s 1950’s style theme includes the option of dining in or in your car. This is where my Italian husband tried a fried bologna sandwich for the first time, made by professionals. I also had a couple of firsts – my first corn nugget (tasty but no need to eat that again), and pie in a cup- the ice cream version of coconut pie. Friendly staff, very affordable and absolutely delicious.

Small towns in KY - trying a fried bologna sandwich in Whitley City.

Other Kentucky Small Towns

My list below is a combination of my personal experience and the tips from my trusted friends who live there. It’s arranged in alphabetical order because it’s hard to say one Kentucky town is better than the next.

great small towns to visit in kentucky

I would name Bardstown the most beautiful small town in Kentucky. Quaint and only 45 minutes south of Louisville, it is the bourbon capital of the world with shops and restaurants surrounding the town square.

My favorite things to do in Bardstown:

  • Catch  The Stephen Foster Story  at My Old Kentucky Home State Park. The show, which has been running since 1959, features more than 50 Foster compositions, including “Oh! Susanna,” “Camptown Races” and, of course, Kentucky’s state song “My Old Kentucky Home.”
  • Have a chocolate soda and a Johnny Boy (a chicken salad/BLT sandwich) at  Hurst Discount Drug Store  on Main Street. Ordering and eating at the old fashioned soda fountain counter is part of the fun.
  • Visit Dave at  The Blind Pig  to learn about which bourbon distilleries to visit in the area.
  • Head to  Mammy’s Kitchen , where “country cookin’ makes you good lookin’” for homestyle country cooking and the best pie everrrr.

Stimulate your crafty side and overall creativity in one of the best small towns in Kentucky for art, crafts and art galleries. Berea’s LearnShops offers a range of classes aimed at both budding and experienced artists, from watercolors to fairy house construction.

Visit  Berea College , the first integrated, co-ed college in the South. It has not charged students tuition since 1892. Instead, the liberal arts school operates a “work study program on steroids.” You can see the no-tuition promise at work. Literally. Berea College staff and students oversee 9,000 acres of land and reservoirs that provide Berea’s drinking water.

Don’t miss a chance to dine on organic farm to table foods at The Berea College Farm Store.

Bowling Green

Lost River Cave trails, a free attraction in Bowling Green KY

One of the fastest growing towns in Kentucky, Bowling Green is the biggest town close to  Mammoth Cave . But hiking the underground caves at the national park is just one of the fun things to do in Bowling Green. Other favorites include:

  • The Corvette Museum, which is just down the road from the manufacturing plant where “America’s sportscar” is made. There is a KidsZone with interactive activities where kids can design their own cars.

National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green KY

  • Hiking at Lost River Cave. Or, if you prefer to ride, take the Lost River Cave boat tour.
  • Touring the Historic Railpark & Train Museum. It features five fully restored historic railcars – a post office car, Duncan Hines dining car, high-class and low-class sleeping cars and the railroad president’s private car.
  • Visiting Chaney’s Dairy Barn to see the Laley Astronaut Robotic Milker milk a cow.
  • Hot Rods minor league baseball team  and football and basketball at Western Kentucky University are big deals here.
  • During the winter months, there’s ice skating downtown and every November, Gypsy Moon Marketplace  transforms a horse stable into a bazaar for handmade and vintage goods.

Foodie Finds in Bowling Green

Georgia D., a student at Western Kentucky University, recommends these restaurants in Bowling Green:

  • Spencers. This is my go-to place with my parents when they’re in town. I love the iced mocha and chicken salad sandwich. I take my mom there every time she visits.
  • Griffs is an amazing local deli. Order the incredible giant baked potatoes. These spuds are piled with just about anything you can think of, although I’m a simple gal, so I usually just go with some cheese, bacon, sour cream and butter.
  • Mariah’s is an upscale restaurant that my parents take me to when they visit. My go to on the menu is the Kentucky hot brown — an open-faced sandwich of turkey, ham and bacon, covered in creamy Mornay sauce and baked or broiled until the bread is crisp and the sauce begins to brown (all visitors must try this!). Plus, the dinner rolls at Mariah’s are the best in town!
  • Food truck festivals  are a “thing” in Bowling Green. Hundreds of people show up every time. The weirdest food truck for me is the Groovy Gus Donut Bus — expect some really good mini donuts with crazy toppings like fruity pebbles.

Campbellsville / Green River

Downtown Campbellsville KY

My family is from  Campbellsville  so I return often. One of the best memories I have of living in Kentucky is lake life. Camping, pontoon rentals and hiking are available at Green River State Park and Green River Lake Marina just outside Campbellsville.

Campbellsville is located in the center of the state, about a 2-hour drive to the Kentucky border in any direction.

The things I love to do in Campbellsville are:

Small towns in KY - Tebb's Bend Bridge

  • Follow the self-guided Tebbs Bend Civil War Battle tour (listed in the National Register of Historic Places). The 3 mile self-drive tour off Hwy 55 commemorates a bloody and important battle that Confederate General John Hunt Morgan was confident he would win against an untried and much smaller group of Union soldiers from Michigan. Even though Morgan’s regiment outnumbered the Union soldiers 10 to 1, he lost the battle after a very intense four hours.
  • Walk the path at  Trace Pittman Greenway,  a lovely paved 3-mile loop along Trace Creek, just outside of downtown.
  • Order a green smoothie at  Sonshine Natural Foods

One of the most beautiful small towns in Kentucky, Danville is the place to experience Civil War history, Kentucky-style. My friend Bruce, a Harrodsburg native, says this about Danville:

Experience the authenticity of one of the most unaltered battlefields of the Civil War at the Perryville Battlefield State Park.  Watch reenactors  recreate the intensity of a Civil War battle at the 160th anniversary celebration in 2022.

There is a lot of bourbon to taste in Kentucky. Locally owned Wilderness Trail Distillery is at the top of my list. Relatively young, it is already the 17th largest distillery in the US, distilling bourbon whiskey, rye whiskey and Blue Heron vodka. It is special because the guides demonstrate all phases of distilling and have great technical knowledge of bourbon. Plus, the Rye whiskey is outstanding.

Fun things to do in  Danville,  one of the most beautiful Kentucky towns, include:

  • Follow Danville’s Centre College self-driving tour to see the African-American Forgotten Landmarks.
  • Eat at Copper and Oak (everything on the menu is great).
  • Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grandmother’s cabin.
  • Bring your doll to the Great American Dollhouse Museum.
  • Drive the Hemp Highway.

Sisters Amy and Mary, both Glasgow residents, recommend visitors take in a show at The Historic Plaza Theater. It has hosted big names like The Kentucky Headhunters, Black Stone Cherry and Marty Stuart. It’s also home to a local theatre group, the Far Off Broadway Players, that does a great job with kid-friendly shows as well as “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” “Arsenic and Old Lace,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “To Kill a Mockingbird.”

Check  this website  for events like the guided cemetery tour, quilt show and local artists’ showcases, offered throughout the year.

Glasgow is another foodie spot, starting with the wonderful homemade cheese at  Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese , located out in the county. The cheese is known all over Kentucky and beyond.

Other foodie stops the sisters recommend are:

Little Taste of Texas.  Best salad dressings EVER – all homemade. It’s also known for high quality meat.

The Fine Arts Bistro  for Saturday brunch. Don’t leave without a biscuit – these are top-rated in our family. Then head over to The South Central Kentucky Cultural Center where you can take a walk through time to see the country store display with original items and furnishings.

The Farmer’s Market , open every Saturday morning on the square in Glasgow. Shop local handmade soaps, wines, crafts, jams and homegrown fruits and vegetables. Grab a coffee at King’s Cafe and visit a few stores like Carsen & Shae for some cool & funky vintage items.

Harrodsburg

Small towns in KY - Shaker Village near Harrodsburg

Harrodsburg resident Bruce says the following about his hometown:

Shaker Village is a restored Shaker Community dating back to the early 1800s. Situated on more than 3,000 acres of natural beauty and 40+ miles of trails, there are plenty of  unplugged activities to explore . Expect to see live demonstrations of broom making, rug hooking and spinning at The Historic Centre, The Farm and The Preserve. Cruise the Kentucky River. Try horseback riding. Stay at The INN and eat true farm-to-table food (that you or your kids may have picked!) at The Trustee’s Table in the main building.

Fort Harrod State Park is the oldest permanent settlement east of the Allegheny Mountains. It is a full-size replica of the fort that was originally constructed in 1774, replete with handmade utensils and tools pioneers used in everyday life. Visit Pioneer Cemetery, the oldest cemetery in Kentucky and the Lincoln marriage temple – the cabin where Abe Lincoln’s parents were married in the State Park.

A popular place to kick off a tour of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, the  Beaumont Inn is a historic Bed and Breakfast, that has been in business since 1919. The restaurant, serving family heirloom recipes, won a prestigious James Beard Award in 2015. Try an Old Fashioned at the Old Owl Tavern, one of the Top 10 bourbon bars in Kentucky.

Small towns in KY - Limestone Branch in Lebanon

In Kentucky, we pronounce this town name “Lebnin.” Its trails lead to quilts and bourbon as well as trees and streams. The Marion County Trail features Limestone Branch (a favorite distilling tour of mine) where Steve Beam, artistic horticulturalist and descendant of Jim Beam, distills a fantastic botanical gin and a large selection of bourbons and whiskeys. His gardens are spectacular.

Small towns in KY - Steve Beams signing bottles at Limestone Branch in Lebanon

Gigantic murals of quilts decorate the sides of barns along the Quilt Trail which covers three states. You can hike the Fagan Branch Trail and fishing  is available at Fagan Branch Lake, Marion County Lake and Rolling Fork River.

At  Kentucky Cooperage , white oak barrels are constructed, charred and shipped around the world. Various levels of char are available and the demonstrations are fascinating.

Tour the Loretto Motherhouse where the Sisters of Loretto maintain a 200-year Heritage Center chronicling peace and justice activism. A little further down the road in Loretto, visit Maker’s Mark, a world renowned bourbon distillery that has been operating since 1953.

Small towns in KY - Wallace Station Deli in Midway

While I’ve visited Midway (my “sammich” recommendation is below), my friend Bob lives there. Here’s what he has to say about it:

My hometown of Midway has more than one hat. Its population and year of incorporation are about the same number—1830—yet Midway’s birth is unique: It’s the only town in Kentucky founded by a railroad company. Situated midway on a line between the city of Lexington and the state capital, Frankfort, Midway still has a railroad running through the middle of its downtown.

Alas, you cannot ride the rails yourself; passenger service ended in the 1960s. Still, it’s quite an event when a freight train rumbles through town. Every visitor stops what they’re doing—kids and adults alike—to watch the train. And on a magical morning every December, when the train stops and Santa Claus emerges from the caboose, he’s greeted by hundreds of holiday-happy folks.

This small town in Kentucky is a great foodie stop. Locally-owned shops and restaurants line both sides of the train tracks. People drive from all directions to feast on everything from fine dining and upscale Mexican fare to pizza and pub grub. Here are some personal favorites for families:

The Goose & Gander : With a menu that varies from salads to gourmet burgers, pizza and fried chicken dinner, “The Goose”  also offers excellent trackside seating options: Dine inside close to the fireplace when it’s cold, but when weather allows, the shaded patio is the best in town.

Don Jockey:  The  newest restaurant on Railroad Street , Don Jockey serves up authentic Mexican cuisine. Favorite dish: Quesadillas Jalisco.

Wallace Station Deli : Situated amid horse farms in a former country store four minutes from Railroad Street,  this superior sandwich shop  was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, Guy Fieri’s Food Network Show. Bob’s favorite sammich: thin-sliced country ham and pimiento cheese on house-made bread. My favorite: the Cubano – pulled pork, swiss, pickles on rye; My kids say the burger is the best they’ve tasted.

Shelbyville

Once a small town, Shelbyville Kentucky has grown into a bustling city. Only 15 miles from downtown Louisville, Shelbyville is especially enjoyable in the fall and winter, says my friend Melissa, a Shelbyville resident. She recommends visiting:

Gallerin Farms . Gallerin Farms is open seasonally and offers a variety of family fun activities. A greenhouse full of brightly colored perennials and annuals will greet you in the spring and summer (along with strawberry picking). The farm really shines in the autumn months when it offers U-pick pumpkins, hayrides and loads of fun fall festivities. Gallerin Farms is open from April 1-October 31 each year.

Wakefield-Scearce Galleries . Once an all-girls boarding school, Wakefield-Scearce offers some of the best antique shopping in Kentucky. It sells furniture, silver (yes, even Julep cups!) and home accessories. Each holiday season, the galleries are decked out with gorgeous Christmas trees and decorations. Stop by the restaurant, the Science Hill Inn for my favorite, shrimp and grits, made with grits from Weisenberger Mill in Midway. My kids even took a package of the grits with them when they left for college.

A Distillery.   Shelbyville features two distilleries that are worth a stop: Jeptha Creed Distillery offers tastings, tours and the Creed Cafe, which is a great place to grab lunch or a quick bite. Also in Shelbyville is the Bulleit Distilling Co. Visitor Experience, which includes distillery tours, tastings and special events throughout the year.

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great small towns to visit in kentucky

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The Best Small Town In Every Southern State 2024

great small towns to visit in kentucky

For the South's Best Awards this year, our readers once again voted on their all-time favorite small towns in the South. And wow, did they deliver. These towns may be small in size, but they’re big on charm. Whether it’s a beautiful and walkable downtown, a thriving arts scene, a unique historic district, or a bounty of adventurous outdoor offerings, each of these communities has something truly special to recommend it. From Alabama’s favorite beach town to Kentucky’s bourbon capital , Maryland's Eastern Shore hideaway to North Carolina’s mountain escape, there’s a town here for every personality.

These small towns are home to special and welcoming communities, and they have a host of unique offerings: ancient thermal waters, the Gulf Coast’s favorite frozen beverage, and the Hill Country’s most legendary Oktoberfest, to name just a few. The one thing they have in common? They’re all worth a trip, so put them on your bucket list and plan a road trip this year. Who knows? The next small town you visit might just become your new favorite vacation destination—or the place you’ll dream of retiring to someday. Every Southerner has a favorite small town—did yours make the list?

South's Best Voting Process

An online survey was conducted by third-party agency Proof Insights among Southern Living consumers, asking them to rate their favorite places across the South for the South's Best Awards 2024 . The survey was fielded from July 12 to August 23, 2023, and had over 20,000 respondents.

Alabama: Orange Beach/Gulf Shores

This beach-town duo comes by its popularity honestly—it has long been Alabamians’ favorite coastal destination. From the famous bushwhacker at the Flora-Bama to the abundance of fresh seafood you can find at area restaurants like Doc’s Seafood Shack , Orange Beach and Gulf Shores are the epitome of beach-side relaxation.

Arkansas: Eureka Springs

Folks have been flocking to this resort town in the Ozark Mountains since the 19th century thanks to its namesake natural springs. The stunningly preserved Victorian architecture makes downtown a destination unto itself, and quirky shops selling everything from kaleidoscopes to quilts can entertain you for hours.

Florida: St. Augustine

ROBBIE CAPONETTO

St. Augustine has a long and storied history that can be seen in the city’s architecture. Sites like the Castillo de San Marcos , Fort Mose Historic State Park, Colonial Quarter, and Ponce De Leon’s Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park explore that history and invite visitors to learn more about the Ancient City’s rich past.

Georgia: Tybee Island

Courtesy of Visit Savannah.

The Georgia coast is an oft-unsung treasure of the state, and Tybee Island is a fantastic spot to take in the sun and the sand. A stone’s throw from Savannah, it has a coastline of great beaches, a historic lighthouse (that is Georgia’s tallest and oldest), and a charming downtown with stops like The Sugar Shack , The Crab Shack , and Sting Ray’s Seafood .

Kentucky: Bardstown

Bardstown is a standout in the Bluegrass State. Long considered the heart of Bourbon Country, this small town has a concentration of stellar breweries including Bardstown Brewing Company and Scout & Scholar Brewing Co ., as well as a rich history— The Old Talbott Tavern , which is located downtown, was once a stagecoach stop. 

Louisiana: Covington

Towns don’t get much more charming than Covington . It’s surrounded by water—Lake Pontchartrain as well as the Bogue Falaya, Tchefuncte, and Abita rivers are nearby—and its downtown has a concentration of excellent local shops and restaurants. Abita Brewing Company (everyone’s favorite spot for a local brew) and Tammany Trace (a walking and biking path) are must-visits around town. 

Maryland: St Michaels

The Eastern Shore of Maryland has many charms, and St Michaels is one of its brightest gems. Located on the Chesapeake Bay, it’s a destination for tasting Maryland crabs (don’t miss an opportunity to have a meal at The Crab Claw ), meandering downtown, and sailing the bay. Excellent local inns and boutique hotels like The Wildset Hotel invite you to make a weekend of it. 

Mississippi: Ocean Springs

City of Ocean Springs

One of Mississippi’s artsiest towns, Ocean Springs has long been a favorite stop along the Gulf Coast. Its walkable downtown is resplendent with local shops, restaurants, and art galleries, which always make for a fun browse about town. Don’t miss the Walter Anderson Museum of Art , Mary C. O’Keefe Cultural Arts Center , and Shearwater Pottery , a business that's nearly a hundred years old.

North Carolina: Blowing Rock

Western North Carolina is full of great mountain towns, and this year Blowing Rock was voted the best of the best. Follow the Blue Ridge Parkway for beautiful mountain panoramas, or stay in town for ice cream from Kilwin’s and your choice of laid-back dinner spots. Legend has it that author Jan Karon based her Mitford series on Blowing Rock—visit, and experience the charm for yourself.

Oklahoma: Broken Bow

Courtesy of McCurtain County Tourism Authority

Outdoor adventures abound in Broken Bow, a town in the foothills of the Kiamichi Mountains of southeastern Oklahoma. From winery tastings (at Fish Tales Winery & Bistro or Knotted Rope ) and local brews (at Mountain Fork Brewery ) to hiking and fishing (at the 3,400-acre Beavers Bend State Park ), there’s always something to enjoy in this corner of the Sooner State.

South Carolina: Beaufort

The Palmetto State has a number of wonderful small towns, but Beaufort is regularly voted the best. That’s because of the abundance of moss-draped oaks, historic homes, proximity to quiet beaches, and winding nature trails found at Hunting Island State Park . Bay Street’s stretch of restaurants, cafes (like Lowcountry Produce Kitchen , pictured above), and boutiques doesn’t hurt its charm, either.

Tennessee: Gatlinburg

Everyone seems to have a story about Gatlinburg. It’s a place where you can plan your own adventure, from walking the Gatlinburg SkyBridge to settling in at bustling restaurants and distilleries for local fare. And for more adventure in the mountains, there's always Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa (pictured). This town is a Smoky Mountain village teeming with fun (and plenty of tourists), and it has Appalachian charm to spare.

Texas: Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg’s German history runs deep. This Hill Country town is filled with German landmarks, biergartens, and local shops and restaurants. It’s also surrounded by wineries–there are more than 60 in Gillespie County alone. In addition to the historic downtown area, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is another nearby spot that’s well worth a visit.

Virginia: Chincoteague

This fishing village may be best known for the population of wild horses that calls the beaches of next-door Assateague Island home (and their annual pony swim through the channel), but it’s also a coastal destination boasting excellent seafood, a bustling shopping district, and plenty of family fun. Hop a 50-cent trolley ride to explore the island and see the sights.

West Virginia: Harpers Ferry

Appalachian charm abounds in Harpers Ferry, a place with history as well as a strong sense of place. The natural beauty of the area is remarkable, with scenic spots like Thomas Jefferson’s Rock, a section of the Appalachian Trail, and trails winding through the National Historical Park drawing outdoor enthusiasts. In town, eateries like Bolivar Bread Bakery , Country Cafe , and Kelley Farm Kitchen offer sustenance for the day’s adventures.

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29 Top Things to Do in Kentucky

Kentucky is synonymous with bourbon, country music and horse racing, but visitors to the Bluegrass State might not expect its quirky museums or impressive natural wonders.

Top things to do in kentucky

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From wandering museums in the city to exploring unique attractions in the countryside, Kentucky offers something for everyone.

Kentucky is generally associated with derbies, whiskey and fried chicken, but there is much more to the Bluegrass State. A sprawling underground cave system, a plunging river gorge, and a stunning waterfall all call the state home, as do Corvettes, an unlikely castle and a museum dedicated to creationism. And while there is certainly a quirky roadside attraction for every taste, many museums and attractions close down for the winter, so travelers should plan their itineraries accordingly.

There is plenty to occupy families and road trippers within Kentucky's state lines, but it's also helpful to know that Cincinnati is just a John A. Roebling suspension bridge away — 83 miles from Lexington, Kentucky, or 100 miles from Louisville, Kentucky .

Whether you're on the hunt for the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail or ready to forge your own path, read on for 29 of the best things to do in Kentucky.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

The prolific Louisville slugger baseball bat began production in Louisville in 1884, and it's still being produced at the site's active factory today. Baseball fans from across the country pilgrimage to this factory tour and museum dedicated to the love of the game. Galleries of memorabilia — including a Babe Ruth bat — await, as well as rotating exhibits, like "The Best Black Baseball Team You've Never Heard Of," to keep things fresh.

General admission is less than $20 (and kids under 5 are free) and includes a factory tour and a mini bat keepsake. Meanwhile, $299 will buy you an exclusive All-Star Experience pass to restricted areas of the factory floor, the bat vault, the archive room with the museum's most prized artifacts and a personalized bat. Take a picture with it outside next to Louisville's iconic Big Bat — at 120 feet tall, it's the world's largest.

Address: 800 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park

Top things to do in kentucky

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, located in Corbin, Kentucky, is one of the state's most picturesque natural preserves. The park's highlight is Cumberland Falls. On clear nights around a full moon (about five days each month), Cumberland Falls creates a moonbow: a natural phenomenon that refracts light in its water droplets. Roughly 17 miles of hiking trails wind through the park, with many connecting to Daniel Boone National Forest. Both parks are of particular interest to birders, who come seeking species like the Carolina wren or tufted titmouse. Horseback riding is offered daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and on select weekends in September and October. Families will also enjoy organized gem mining, located just past the gift shop. The park permits fishing with a license and welcomes campers from mid-March through October.

Address: 7351 Highway 90, Corbin, KY 40701

Channel history on an Old Louisville Ghost Tour

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Louisville Historic Tours

Kentucky was established as the 15th U.S. state in 1792, and it has developed a lot of history during the last 230-plus years. Louisville was the center of Kentucky society during the 1800s, and sordid reminders of booze and tobacco industries pockmark the city and lend the Gothic architecture its spooky stories. Local author David Domine specializes in true crime and the paranormal, and he crafted a 100-minute ghost tour of "America's most haunted neighborhood " to share its fascinating narratives. Recommended by the New York Times, David's ghost stories inform and entertain with the added benefit of getting your steps in. Tours run from March through November.

Address: 1300 S. Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40208

Churchill Downs

Top things to do in kentucky

If you're in Kentucky on the first Saturday in May — even if you're nowhere near Louisville — there will be no avoiding the frenzy that surrounds the Kentucky Derby. Mint juleps, extravagant hats and seersucker suits characterize the iconic horse race, but Churchill Downs is also worth visiting year-round. Where the derby is held, Churchill Downs racetrack provides unparalleled insight into the world of horse racing. Kentucky Derby Museum offers two floors of related exhibits and various tours of the grounds, including experiences that range from meeting jockeys and working with the horses to tasting bourbon.

Tickets to the museum cost less than $20, and children younger than 5 are free; all tour rates include access to the museum. Race day tours make a full-day experience of the nation's most famous horse racetrack. Also, consider a visit to Keeneland, another of Kentucky's finest thoroughbred racecourses and one of the best attractions in Lexington .

Address: 704 Central Ave., Louisville, KY 40208

The Galt House Hotel

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of The Galt House Hotel

Even if you're not booking a stay, it's worth visiting Kentucky's largest hotel, which traces its roots back to the early 19th century. The Galt House , a Trademark Collection Hotel, located in downtown Louisville, was originally a private home owned by Dr. W.C. Galt. The Galt House Hotel opened in 1835, and the original home was absorbed as the hotel's East Tower in 1984. The Galt House Hotel's primary draw is its central location, near Museum Row, the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, the Muhammad Ali Center and more. There are two bourbon bars on-site, plus a spa with bourbon-infused treatments.

Anyone looking for an offbeat and free thing to do can find a hidden installation on the hotel's grounds; near the main entrance, Gallop to Glory is the "Walk of Fame" of jockeys, featuring the handprints and signatures of the winning riders of the Kentucky Derby.

Address: 140 N. Fourth St., Louisville, KY 40202

Tour a modern castle

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of The Kentucky Castle

Appropriately located in the town of Versailles (not to be confused with the French palace ), The Kentucky Castle is a stunning boutique hotel just 10 miles outside Lexington. As you might expect, the castle's origins are a bit strange. The castle began construction in 1969 by a wealthy couple but was not completed due to the couple's divorce six years into the castle's construction. The castle was eventually purchased, though a fire in 2004 delayed renovations. The Kentucky Castle finally opened to the public in 2008 as a bed-and-breakfast called the Castle Post, just shy of 40 years in the making.

Today, curious tourists not staying at the B&B can book a 45-minute tour of the grounds for $25. Events, like murder mystery dinners, are also occasionally held here.

Address: 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

National Corvette Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of National Corvette Museum

Head to Bowling Green, Kentucky, the self-proclaimed " Home of America's Sports Car ," to drool over all things Corvette. There will be more cars than you can manage between the exhibits of 'Vettes old and new, which span Chevrolet's automotive achievement since they introduced the Corvette in 1953. A more unexpected installation features heavily damaged Corvettes; in 2014, a massive sinkhole took eight cars about 30 feet down. They say to make lemonade from lemons, and the museum made a permanent exhibit of the cave-in called the Skydome Sinkhole Experience to document the event. An interactive driving game and a massive gift shop are just some of the museum's other added features.

If you're looking to bring home a serious souvenir, you can custom-build your own Corvette — Bowling Green is the only plant in the world that builds them.

Address: 350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY 42101

Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Maysville-Mason County Tourism

In 1833, Harriet Beecher Stowe visited one of her students in Maysville, Kentucky. During the visit, she witnessed a slave auction at a local courthouse, and it was this distressing event that, in part, inspired her to write her classic novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Her former student's family home, the Marshall Key House, now also houses the Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum. The small house is more than 215 years old and decorated in the style it would have been when Stowe visited. Patrons can also observe artifacts related to the American Civil War and slavery.

Anyone interested in a tour can book one through the Old Washington Visitor Center on Main Street in Maysville. While in Maysville, visitors may want to explore the National Underground Railroad Museum and the Kentucky Gateway Museum for historical collections and temporary exhibits.

Harriet Beecher Stowe, Slavery to Freedom Museum was closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is scheduled to reopen in 2023.

Address: 1001 Forest Ave., Maysville, KY 41056

Mammoth Cave National Park

Top things to do in kentucky

Did you know the longest recorded cave system in the world is in Kentucky? Mammoth Cave National Park and its more than 400 miles of recorded caves, located about 40 miles northeast of Bowling Green, is free to visit (cave tours incur an additional fee). Aboveground, the park offers hiking, biking, camping, scenic drives, horseback riding and more.

Still, the park's cave tours showcase the area's interesting history and serve as its primary draw. Enslaved Black Americans mined the caves for saltpeter in the 18th century, and enslaved men and women also developed cave tour routes as Mammoth Cave transitioned into a tourist destination. Following the Civil War, generations of now-free Black guides continued to lead tours.

Today, tours are remarkably accessible, including versions for various levels of mobility and hearing. Routes range from a quarter-mile with a dozen stairs to more than 2 miles with 600 stairs.

Address: One Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, KY 42259

Vent Haven Museum                                                          

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Vent Haven Museum

Don't be a dummy — if you're in Fort Mitchell, come check out the world's only museum dedicated to ventriloquism. Vent Haven is the result of a decades-long personal collection of ventriloquist dummies and paraphernalia by W.S. Berger. In operation since 1973, the museum now houses more than a thousand dummies spanning three centuries of use. Special exhibits have included the characters used by Darci Lynne, the 2017 winner of "America's Got Talent."

Tours are by appointment only, customized to visitors' interests and range from 45 minutes to an hour. The museum operates seven days a week, seasonally. Vent Haven Museum is in Kentucky but located just 7 miles from downtown Cincinnati .

Vent Haven Museum was closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is scheduled to reopen in August 2022.

Address: 33 W. Maple Ave., Fort Mitchell, KY 41011

Muhammad Ali Center

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of the Kentucky Department of Tourism

Born Cassius Clay in Louisville in 1942, Muhammad Ali went on to have an iconic career in boxing that eventually earned him the nickname "The Greatest." Most people know him as a charismatic athlete, but Ali donated his time and money to charitable causes throughout his life. In 2005, Ali cofounded Kentucky's Muhammad Ali Center, a multicultural gathering space and nonprofit museum dedicated to the "Six Core Principles" that he lived his life by: confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect and spirituality. The exhibits inspire greatness with artifacts, historical footage, multimedia presentations and more.

The Muhammad Ali Center is located along Louisville's renowned Museum Row. Admission ranges from $9 to $14; children under 5 are free.

Address: 144 N. Sixth St., Louisville, KY 40202

Take five at the Big Four Bridge

Top things to do in kentucky

Linking Kentucky and Indiana, the Big Four Bridge straddles the Ohio River with its Kentucky entrance located along the 85-acre Louisville Waterfront Park. The 53-foot-high bridge, originally built in 1895, allowed railroad cars to enter Louisville through 1968, when train traffic was diverted. In 2014, an access ramp was constructed to convert the previously decommissioned train bridge into a mile-long pedestrian space. The reimagined bridge provides walkers and bikers a panoramic view over the Ohio River, and recent travelers say it is especially stunning at sunset. From twilight to 1 a.m., a rainbow of LED lights illuminate the bridge. About 1.5 million visitors are estimated to cross the bridge every year.

Address: 1101 River Road, Louisville, KY 40202

U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Part roadside attraction, part homage to country music royalty, this museum sits along a gas station exit ramp off U.S. Highway 23, also known as "the country music highway." Highlighting talent from the eastern part of Kentucky, the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum features 14 exhibits spanning country artists who have called the Bluegrass State home, including artists like Loretta Lynn and Chris Stapleton. Keeping the tradition alive, a bluegrass musician takes to the porch steps to play every Thursday night.

The museum costs $4 to enter and is located in Paintsville, Kentucky, more than 100 miles east of Lexington and not very far from the border of West Virginia. If you're traveling toward Louisa, the Kentucky Country Music Museum is yet another collection of local legend paraphernalia — and this time, it's inside of an actual gas station.

Address: 120 Stave Branch, Staffordsville, KY 41256

Harland Sanders Café and Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Sure, KFCs are found everywhere — even in Egypt with a view of the pyramids . However, the world-famous chain started in Corbin with Colonel Harland Sanders (an honorary title, not a military colonel). The Sanders Café opened in 1937, but the structure was rebuilt after a fire in 1939 and reopened on Independence Day in 1940. Colonel Sanders' "secret" fried chicken recipe was developed on-site, and in 1956 he began to franchise restaurants across the nation. The original cafe remains, now a museum listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can walk through a model of the motel room, view KFC memorabilia including a Green Lantern and Colonel Sanders crossover comic book and, of course, try some chicken and biscuits in a distinct dining room.

Parts of Harland Sanders Café and Museum were closed for renovations at the time of publication. It is scheduled to reopen in 2022.

Address: 688 U.S. Highway 25 W, Corbin, KY 40701

Creation Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of the Creation Museum

From curators not sold on the Big Bang Theory — the astronomical event, not the comedy series — the Creation Museum is dedicated to "creation science," an explanation of human existence drawn straight from the pages of the Bible. According to the Pew Research Center, nearly half of Kentucky's adult population identifies as evangelical Protestant. In a survey by the same group, 67% of respondents believed humans have always existed in our present form or evolved due to God's design. Regardless of what you think, the Creation Museum offers a unique perspective on the origin of life with more than 140 exhibits.

Admission costs about $45 for adults and $25 for kids ages 11 to 17, while children under 10 are free. A companion exhibit features a life-sized replica of Noah's Ark about 40 miles south.

Address: 2800 Bullittsburg Church Road, Petersburg, KY 41080

Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Timothy Miller | Courtesy of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

This house museum with an alliterative name and design — Richardsonian Romanesque — particularly delights fans of HBO's "Gilded Age." The Conrad-Caldwell house, originally constructed in 1895, is a prime example of Louisville's elaborate Victorian architecture. Louisville holds the distinction of having the highest concentration of Victorian homes in the country. Surround yourself with beautiful objects on a tour of the home, which was purchased by William Caldwell in 1908.

Caldwell's firm was responsible for the creation of the giant bat at the Louisville Slugger Museum and the Mickey Mouse ears at Walt Disney World . Self-guided and docent-led tours of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum cost from $8 to $12 and can be reserved online.

Address: 1402 Saint James Court, Louisville, KY 40208

Dinosaur World

Top things to do in kentucky

With a name like Cave City, Kentucky, maybe it's not all that surprising that visitors will find hundreds of life-size dinosaur figures in the town. While it might seem a little cheesy initially, past travelers to Dinosaur World rave that the colorful statues and interactive "fossil digs" were a huge hit with their kids and more fun than they originally expected. Walking trails and an indoor museum encourage visitors to learn about their ancient ancestors.

Admission costs $15.75 for adults, with discounted rates for children and seniors. For about $6 more, visitors can purchase an Excavation Pass, which allows them to "excavate" shiny rocks, minerals and bones to take home. Unlike prehistoric times, Dinosaur World is a dog-friendly attraction for leash-trained pups. A 5,000-square-foot gift shop might add to the bill, but Dinosaur World encourages families to bring their own food and drink.

Address: 711 Mammoth Cave Road, Cave City, KY 42127

Newport Aquarium

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Newport Aquarium

Do the words "shark rope bridge" instill fear or excitement? If it's the latter, you're in for a treat at Kentucky's Newport Aquarium. Considered one of the best aquariums in the country, Newport Aquarium is known for its sharks above all else. Walk through a glass tunnel while these sea predators swim above and around you. Or, if you're extra daring, attempt to cross the Shark Bridge, a suspended rope bridge where thrill-seekers can walk inches above the 385,000-gallon shark and fish tank (free with admission). Of course, there's more on display at this lively aquarium, including penguins, crocodiles, stingrays and an exhibit featuring eels that dwell in an old shipwreck.

The museum is located in Newport, Kentucky, and tickets start at $59.99, with discounts available for children and seniors.

Address: 1 Aquarium Way, Newport, KY 41071

Pleasant Hill Shaker Village

Top things to do in kentucky

Shaker is a sect of the Quaker religion, and Pleasant Hill, Kentucky, has the largest restored Shaker community in the United States. Most people might know of them from their sought-after furniture designs, but the Shakers have a fascinating history. The Pleasant Hill Shaker Village began in 1805 and lasted until 1910. Now, just 34 of the original 250 pre-Civil War buildings have been restored, but visitors can immerse themselves in 3,000 acres of craft demonstrations, history exhibits and 40 miles of hiking trails that cross organic gardens and cow pastures.

Pleasant Hill's Shaker Village, about 25 miles southwest of Lexington, Kentucky, is free to visit; however, a $10 donation is suggested for hikers, and admission for tours and exhibits starts at $14.

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330

Take a gander at the Mother Goose House

Top things to do in kentucky

Is there anything more amusing than a house with a goose on top? We're not talking about Canadian geese — the Mother Goose house in Hazard, Kentucky, features a 15-foot goose structure resting on a round stone home with egg-shaped windows. The avian idea was that of George Stacy, who built the home for him and his wife between 1935 and 1940. Its origins are slightly more grim than its whimsical appearance suggests, with Stacy killing an actual goose to use its bones as a blueprint. The fantastical structure continues to stand today, despite a temporary goose decapitation due to high winds in March 2021. Though its creator has passed on, the home is still occupied 80 years later. Driving along Interstate 476, it's hard to miss.

Address: 2906 N. Main St., Hazard, KY 41701

Cozy up at The National Quilt Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of The National Quilt Museum

Past travelers, who visit from all 50 states and more than 40 countries, generally agree that this textile museum is one of the top attractions in Paducah, Kentucky. The National Quilt Museum describes itself as displaying "the finest quilting and fiber art in the world." With 600 quilts in its collection, the museum offers rotating displays, with thousands more submissions for consideration sent in each year. World-class quilters decide on new additions to the museum based on quality and diversity, and the museum prides itself on a well-rounded contemporary collection.

Visitors note that the museum is artistic and not kitschy, defying expectations of what a quilt museum can be. Tickets to the museum start at $12, with discounts available for seniors and students, while children under 12 are free.

Address: 215 Jefferson St., Paducah, KY 42001

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Top things to do in kentucky

Ponies and chicken aside, the most famous Kentucky offering is its American-style whiskey, known as bourbon. Dozens of working bourbon distilleries are operating in Kentucky today; the state produces 95 percent of the world's bourbon, with more than two aging barrels for every resident, at any given time. It's a $9 billion industry, and travelers can experience it firsthand with a distillery tour — or two, or three. Locations for favorites like Jim Beam and Maker's Mark are sprinkled between Louisville, Lexington and Frankfort, the Kentucky state capital, with one outlier — Green River Distilling — out west in Owensboro, Kentucky. Of course, you can pick and choose your favorite brands to visit, or you can go whole hog by following Kentucky's official Bourbon Trail, a liquid adventure across 18 distilleries lasting an estimated four days.

Sip sweet wine at Purple Toad Winery

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Purple Toad Winery

If you don't drink the brown stuff, head to Purple Toad Winery, Kentucky's largest winery and a traveler-favorite attraction in Paducah. Visitors to the 25,000-square-foot facility will find a staggering more than 40 types of wine, including seasonal and test varietals in addition to best-selling bottles. Tastings are free and include up to eight wines for oenophiles to enjoy. Sweet wines are Purple Toad Winery's specialty, with inventive combinations like a mango chardonnay and a strawberry jalapeno wine. Wine-tasting is one of the best things to do in Kentucky in November, or throughout the fall, due to cool temperatures and ripe grapes.

Nonalcoholic fruit punch slushies are available for purchase, and pets on a leash are welcome on the grounds.

Address: 4275 Old U.S. Highway 45 S, Paducah, KY 42003

Mary Todd Lincoln House

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Mary Todd Lincoln House

Head to Lexington to connect with the life of former First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln in her childhood home. The Federal-style house was built in 1806 and designated as a museum in 1977, making it the first historic site dedicated to a first lady. Mary's life was not without complexities, including the assassination of her husband, President Abraham Lincoln. The museum strives to shed light on her whole life, including her years outside the White House. On the museum's website, a 1-mile walking tour guide is available for download, which allows visitors to experience Lexington as the Lincolns might have.

Admission to the museum costs $15 for adults and $6 for children ages 6 through 17, and children 5 and younger are free. The Mary Todd Lincoln House is only open seasonally, mid-March through November, and closed on Sundays.

Address: 578 W. Main St., Lexington, KY 40507

Journey to Germany via MainStrasse Village

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of John Lair

The address might say Covington, Kentucky, but Deutschland inspired this tourist town. MainStrasse (Main Street) Village is a National Historic District and includes examples of 19 th -century homes, businesses and restaurants. The shopping and dining district blends wheat beer with bourbon and polka with Dixieland music for a unique convergence of the American South and Western Europe. MainStrasse is the place to be year-round for festivals and events like Mardi Gras, Oktoberfest (of course) and more offbeat gatherings, like the "World's Longest Yard Sale" in August.

Address: 406 W. 6th St., Convington, KY 41014

Red River Gorge: The Grand Canyon of Kentucky

Top things to do in kentucky

Explorer Daniel Boone first took in the scenery of the Red River Gorge in the 1700s, and tourists today can explore the aptly named Daniel Boone National Forest in several ways. The Red River Gorge is an acclaimed climbing and rappelling destination, but more risk-averse visitors can also hike, kayak or drive along the scenic byway. Hourlong kayak tours take travelers through the Gorge Underground, an unground portion of the canyon system that's easily navigated with a gentle paddle and a headlamp.

Red River Gorge is about 70 miles southeast of Lexington, and those looking to spend the night can reserve a campsite at the nearby Natural Bridge State Resort Park.

Address: 3451 Sky Bridge Road, Stanton, KY 40380

Stretch your legs at the Paducah Riverwalk

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Paducah CVB

Architectural Digest recognizes historic downtown Paducah, Kentucky, as one of the most beautiful main streets in America. See what the fuss is about as you familiarize yourself with this town by foot; it boasts more historical markers per capita than anywhere else in the state. Paducah sits in the southwestern corner of Kentucky and is separated from Illinois by the Ohio River. Along the Paducah waterfront, pedestrians can enjoy views of the river and (occasionally) the paddle wheel boats that still navigate it.

Past travelers praise the lively floodwall murals and the peaceful waterfront views. If you do get tired of walking, a free trolley regularly runs through historic downtown.

Address: Riverfront at Broadway & Kentucky Ave., Paducah, KY 42001

Catch a Wildcats or Cardinals game

Top things to do in kentucky

Sports are always in season in Kentucky, with college baseball games held February through May and college basketball games October to March. The state's two most prominent sports programs are the University of Kentucky's Wildcats and the University of Louisville's Cardinals. The Wildcats play baseball games at the Joe Craft Center in Lexington, and the Cardinals shoot hoops at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville.

College sports are a big deal in these parts, and both colleges are known to sell out games. Buy tickets early or opt for a less popular sport when you know you want to catch a game. If you're rooting for the Wildcats, go blue; otherwise, be sure to dress in your best reds for the Cardinals.

Address: 338 Lexington Ave., Lexington, KY 40506 (Joe Craft Center); 1 Arena Plaza, Louisville, KY 40202 (KFC Yum! Center)

Frazier History Museum

Top things to do in kentucky

Courtesy of Frazier History Museum

From the explorations of Lewis and Clark to the largest public collection of toys soldiers in the world, the Frazier History Museum in Louisville provides patrons with an eclectic mix of historical curiosities. Visitors have commented that they particularly enjoy being able to take in the unusual artifacts, like President Theodore Roosevelt's "big stick," while sipping bourbon — for educational purposes only, of course. Temporary exhibits buffer the museum's permanent collection, like "West of Ninth," a photography exhibition that comments on race, and "Border State," which delves into Kentucky's role in the American Civil War.

General admission is $14, with discounted rates available for students, seniors, children and military members.

Address: 829 W. Main St., Louisville, KY 40202

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best Hotels in Kentucky
  • The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
  • The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago
  • The Top Restaurants in Louisville, Kentucky

Tags: Travel , US Vacations , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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Sarah McCosham

I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books. I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.

More by this Author

If you’re looking for a small-town getaway in Kentucky, you’ve come to the right place! The Bluegrass State is full of winsome little towns, each of which brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re looking for a beach retreat, a weekend of historical adventure, a mountain escape, or a getaway to one of the most beautiful small towns in America (more on that in a bit!), you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for right here, in Kentucky. Here are eight small towns in Kentucky that are full of charm and perfect for a weekend escape:

great small towns to visit in kentucky

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great small towns to visit in kentucky

So, tell us: which of the small towns on the above list will you retreat to first? Where are your favorite places to go for a weekend escape in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments section below!

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  • Where to Go in 2024 The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2024 An Insider's Guide to Paris — Luxury Hotels, Vintage Shops, and the City's Best Restaurants Included This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 5 Coastal Towns in Alaska That Are Adorable in Any Weather T+L's Review of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Grandeur This Exclusive Helicopter Dining Experience Is the Best Way to See the 'Grand Canyon of Mallorca’ CLOSE Part of Where to Go in 2024

This Southern U.S. City Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in 2024 — How to Plan the Perfect Visit

Louisville, Kentucky, is called the "Gateway to the South."

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best shopping, best nightlife, best restaurants, best time to visit, neighborhoods to visit, how to get there and how to get around.

Courtesy of @GoToLouisville

For decades, Louisville, Kentucky, was known only for a two-minute horse race, the Kentucky Derby, celebrating its 150th running in 2024. Now, thanks to a marked uptick in bourbon tourism, visitors are coming for the bourbon and staying for the culture. Bourbon & Beyond draws more than 140,000 tourists to the area, and in 2023, Louisville was a top trending travel destination, according to Airbnb . Downtown Louisville’s Whiskey Row on Main Street is a major tourism magnet for the city, providing a starting point for several days of bourbon tourism without leaving the city limits. There are also world-class restaurants, more than a dozen distilleries, and family-friendly museums. It's no wonder the city, called the "Gateway to the South," was named one of the best places to travel in 2024 . Whether you're into history or nature, there's lots to do in Louisville year-round. Here's how to plan a memorable trip.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

  • The Seelbach Hilton was a popular hangout spot for both F. Scott Fitzgerald and Al Capone. In fact, Fitzgerald based "The Great Gatsby" on his time there.
  • The Kentucky Bourbon Trail draws more than 2.1 million visitors to the state each year, many of whom stay in Louisville for its nightlife and restaurant scene.
  • Jack Fry’s was a favorite of Louisville’s own Muhammad Ali — sit at table 17 where he sat.
  • Michter’s at Fort Nelson is a great place for a nightcap, and the open mezzanine allows guests to peer into a working distillery after hours.
  • Cave Hill Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 150 distillery owners and businesspeople as well as Colonel Harland Sanders and Muhammad Ali.

Courtesy of @GoToLouisville

Hotel Genevieve

Hotel Genevieve features Parisian-inspired decor, 122 guest rooms, and three restaurants and bars by James Beard-nominated chef Ashleigh Shanti. Plus, it’s located in the trendy NuLu district near boutiques, distilleries such as Rabbit Hole and Angel’s Envy , and locally owned coffee shops like Please & Thank You and Quills .

Hotel Distil, Autograph Collection

Located right in the middle of Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, this Marriott Autograph Collection hotel features an original facade from the 1860s and is just a few doors down from the Old Forester Distillery on Main Street.

21c Museum Hotel

“ 21c is such a fun and weird place to stay — and I mean weird in the best way. It's part contemporary art gallery, part hotel, and part upscale restaurant and bar, so it has a little bit of everything for someone staying a few nights in Louisville. And where else can you take in world-renowned art while sipping on one of the city's best old fashioned cocktails — and have your bed just a quick elevator ride away?” said Sara Havens of The Bar Belle .

The Brown Hotel

Home to the iconic Hot Brown open-faced sandwich, The Brown Hotel opened in 1923 only 10 months after construction began. Then-prime minister of Great Britain David Lloyd George was the first guest of the 234-room property, which sits near the Black Jockeys Lounge and the Fourth Street Live! entertainment district.

The Seelbach Hilton

“Like a fine wine, The Seelbach has continued to age gracefully throughout its nearly 120 years, offering guests a taste of "The Great Gatsby" era in the heart of downtown Louisville. Tip: Don’t miss the renowned Rathskeller ballroom in the basement,” said Jordan Skora, marketing communications manager at Louisville Tourism .

Bourbon & Beyond

“ Bourbon & Beyond has become the jewel of Kentucky’s musical festival scene, making Louisville the ideal destination for celebrating Bourbon Heritage Month each September,” said Missy Hillock, innkeeper at Chateau Bourbon .

Big Four Bridge

“The Big Four Bridge offers city skyline and colorful sunset views, plus some exercise while crossing the scenic Ohio River from Louisville to Jeffersonville, Indiana, a charming destination brimming with dining options,” said Rosanne Mastin, public relations manager at Louisville Tourism.

Kentucky Bourbon Trail

With seven stops in Louisville alone, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail includes 46 of the state's 90-plus distilleries. On Main Street, you'll find Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. , Michter’s Fort Nelson , the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience , Old Forester , and Angel’s Envy . Round out your trip with a visit to the Frazier History Museum’s " Spirit of Kentucky " exhibit.

Speed Art Museum

Founded by Hattie Bishop Speed in 1925, the Speed Art Museum includes collections of Roman antiquities, Native American art, works by Kentucky artisans, and more. Rotating exhibitions include "Louisville’s Black Avant-Garde" and "Winslow Homer: American Storyteller."

Cave Hill Cemetery

“When in Louisville, you should visit Cave Hill Cemetery and enjoy a walk among the distillers laid to rest there,” said Michael Veach, bourbon historian .

Charles Zapata/Courtesy of @GoToLouisville

Work the Metal

“ Work the Metal is the one and only place I visit anytime I need a thoughtful, quirky, or fun gift for a friend or family member — especially if it’s bourbon or Kentucky-related,” said Heather Wibbels, managing director of the Bourbon Women Association .

Spark Boutique

“ Spark Boutique is a fantastic mix of fashionable, one-of-a-kind looks and pieces that won’t break the bank. Their inventory is always changing, leaving shoppers with a fresh look after each visit,” said Hillock.

Frazier History Museum Gift Shop

“The Frazier History Museum gift shop is a treasure trove of unique Kentucky themed-gifts, apparel, and curated bourbons without requiring an admission ticket to browse. However, the ‘ Cool Kentucky ’ exhibit will draw you into the museum,” said Cleo Battle, president and CEO of Louisville Tourism.

Art Eatables

Immerse yourself in every possible bourbon and chocolate combination at Art Eatables . Proprietor Kelly Ramsey pairs each whiskey with a specific chocolate flavor profile for unique bourbon truffles.

Caufield’s Novelty

A Louisville staple since 1920, this costume shop is also part amusement park. Be sure to visit the Dungeon, the spooky back room, and have your photo taken with Michael Myers on his front porch.

The Back Door

“One of my favorite dive bars is the beloved Back Door , which has been a staple in the Highlands neighborhood for more than three decades,” said Havens. “An array of thirsty locals gather [here] to catch up, eat delicious wings, and play a few rounds of pool. The bartenders treat you like family, and the drinks pack quite a punch.”

Hell or High Water or Tartan House

“For a fun cocktail experience, head to Hell or High Water or Tartan House . Both have incredibly curated cocktails and lend themselves to lingering over great conversation,” said Wibbels.

The Bar at Fort Nelson

“ The Bar at Fort Nelson has a great cocktail menu and talented staff,” said Veach.

Trouble Bar

“ Trouble Bar , five minutes east of downtown, has a fine whiskey list, including flights curated by experts, and a great all-inclusive vibe,” said Susan Reigler, whiskey educator at Buzzard’s Roost .

Come for the rotating beers on tap and extensive whiskey selection; stay for the smoked meats and mac at cheese bowls at Four Pegs .

Featured on Chopped , Volare is a local favorite for well-prepared Italian food, farm-to-table tasting menus, and a fresh catch of the day every Friday. Be sure to try the barrel-aged Manhattan cocktail.

Bourbons Bistro

“Go to Bourbons Bistro in one of Louisville's most charming historic districts — Crescent Hill. There's an outstanding bourbon list, barrel picks, and a bourbon-friendly menu,” said Reigler.

“ Jack Fry’s is a Louisville classic, well-known for delivering Southern staples and attentive service in a cozy setting amid the city's famed Restaurant Row. Ask to sit at table 17, the very spot where Muhammad Ali frequently dined,” said Stacey Yates, chief marketing officer at Louisville Tourism.

“With its location in NuLu, Bar Vetti is one of my favorites. They offer both dinner and lunch, with an upbeat ambience, incredible food [and] cocktails, and the GM, Hap, goes above and beyond with customer service,” said Lisa Higgins, founder of Mint Julep Experiences .

”Located in the heart of historic Whiskey Row, Number 15 is the perfect destination for local and regional fare, from its signature sandwiches to perfectly curated cocktails. It's a must-visit for anyone visiting the Derby City and looking for authentic Kentucky food at an affordable price,” said Yates.

There’s lots to do in Louisville no matter the season. April is Mint Julep Month , which coincides with the Kentucky Derby Festival , a three-week party celebrating the two-minute Kentucky Derby . September is National Bourbon Heritage Month, and festivities include the Bourbon & Beyond music festival and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival , about 45 minutes south in Bardstown. October brings the St. James Court Art Show , which has been running since 1957. Throughout the year, visitors to Kentucky’s distilleries make Louisville their home base because of the abundant hotels, restaurants, and bars in the city, as well as the convergence of three interstate highways.

“When guests ask, we highly recommend shopping in NuLu. There are so many unique and local boutiques and artisans that appeal to all ages,” said Higgins. NuLu is also home to Muth’s Candies , a locally owned confectionary that has been in business for more than 100 years. Be sure to try the local favorite, Modjeskas, a handmade marshmallow wrapped in caramel.

Whiksey Row

Once the epicenter of the business of bourbon, this historic district was saved not once but twice — first by Preservation Louisville’s Marianne Zickuhr and later from a fire — before becoming the city's current bourbon tourism center.

The Highlands

One of Louisville’s oldest suburbs, The Highlands is home to an eclectic collection of bars, restaurants, and shops.

Louisville is a car-dependent city, and once you get into the outskirts, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft become scarce. Fortunately, downtown is very walkable, and a well-planned trip can be easily spent within the radius of just a few blocks. Otherwise, rental cars are strongly recommended. Louisville’s airport, about 10 minutes by car from downtown, has direct flights to and from many major U.S. cities. There are also several options for rental bicycles and scooters throughout downtown Louisville.

Where to Go in 2024

Historic buildings and shops in Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, Maine. Image credit Wangkun Jia via Shutterstock

  • 9 Most Memorable Small Towns in New England

When it comes to exploring small-town life, New England can offer quite the experience to its visitors. Located in the northeastern part of the United States, New England is home to six states, New Hampshire, Rhode Island , Maine , Connecticut , Vermont , and Massachusetts . Each of these states has charming small towns that take you back in time. With streets echoing the colonial history of the country, and beautiful bays, forests, and mountains covering the landscape, these nine most memorable small towns in New England are a must-visit!

Woodstock, Vermont

Ottauquechee River flowing through Woodstock, Vermont.

Nestled in the heart of Vermont, Woodstock is the quintessential American small town with several charming elements, including preserved Victorian mansions that date back to the 19th century. Besides the mansions, visitors can also look forward to exploring scenic cheese and maple farms as well as beautiful covered bridges. With the Green Mountains as its backdrop, Woodstock is an extremely photogenic town. One of its prime beauties is the Ottauquechee River, which has helped shape various natural wonders of the state, such as the famous Quechee Gorge.

Another must-visit destination in Woodstock is the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, the state’s only national park, which boasts a variety of wetlands, glacial features, and tree strands. Animal species that tourists may spot at the park include the white-tailed deer, barred owls, wood ducks, painted turtles, and fishers.

North Conway, New Hampshire

Train station, North Conway, New Hampshire.

Sitting at the corner of the Mount Washington Valley and White Mountains in the state of New Hampshire, is North Conway. Often referred to as a resort town, North Conway is popular among tourists looking for short weekend getaways. From beautiful ski resorts and breathtaking wilderness areas to fine restaurants and top-notch bed and breakfasts, North Conway offers a complete package deal for a fun and relaxing holiday!

For those who like to explore a town on wheels, driving on the 34-mile-long Kancamagus Scenic Byway is an absolute must. It is known for its gorgeous fall foliage. The byway also passes through the White Mountain National Forest, located between Lincoln and North Conway. Don’t miss seeing the Albany Covered Bridge and waterfalls like Diana’s Baths on your way!

Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic Seaport, an outdoor recreated 19th-century village and educational maritime museum in Mystic, Connecticut.

Mystic , a small town in Connecticut, earned quite a bit of fame from the 1988 rom-com ‘Mystic Pizza,’ starring Julia Roberts. The movie was quite an accurate portrayal of the seaport town and its idyllic spirit, which remains intact to date. Mystic Seaport is known for its huge collection of ancient watercraft. This includes Charles W. Morgan, a 19th-century whaling ship, as well as the nearby USS Nautilus. The latter was the first submarine powered by nuclear energy in the United States. Despite being a small town, Mystic has a plethora of must-see attractions.

Take a day to walk around the historic downtown, lined with quaint, charming shops. Don’t forget to get a few shots of the majestic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, and enjoy a nice meal in the Olde Mistick Village. Tourists can also take guided tours along the beautiful coastline to get a close view of ancient landmarks such as the Mystic Seaport Museum.

Ogunquit, Maine

Fishing boats docked in Perkins Cove, Ogunquit, on coast of Maine south of Portland

Ogunquit is a serene seaside town in Maine with blooming wildflowers, making it a picturesque and memorable destination for tourists. The town is known for historic clapboard buildings and beachy cottages. Lobster fans will absolutely love Ogunquit because they can enjoy eating at popular lobster spots such as Lobster Pound, Oarweed, and Barnacle Billy’s. The best part? These eateries remain open till the fall. For outdoor enthusiasts, it would be a shame to miss a biking tour near Ogunquit.

There are several scenic routes, such as the Shore Road (a coastline route), or the Berwicks and Mt. Agamenticus. Ogunquit is also home to stunning beaches like Footbridge Beach and Wells Beach, which are excellent places to relax and enjoy a picnic with friends and family.

Westerly, Rhode Island

Image of the Martin House in Westerly, Rhode Island, USA. Editorial credit: Rachel Rose Boucher / Shutterstock.com

Westerly might be a small town in Rhode Island, but it is known for its thriving downtown, full of amazing restaurants, trendy bars, beautiful beaches and shopping boutiques. Its Watch Hill Beach and Misquamicut Beach are absolutely swoonworthy. Watch Hill is a small beach located behind the old Flying Horse Carousel. It is home to a bathhouse and is especially popular among families.

Misquamicut State Beach, on the other hand, features modern beach facilities, such as outdoor showers, shade gazebos, and a playground. It also has a beachfront that runs for half a mile. When in Westerly, don’t forget to visit the Vesta Bakery for mouthwatering cream puffs and the Tapped Apple Cidery and Winery for amazing white wine!

Stowe, Vermont

Aerial view of the charming town of Stowe, Vermont.

While Vermont has several beautiful towns to visit, Stowe probably gets the maximum influx of tourists during winter. This is primarily because it has slowly become a prime ski destination attracting snowboarders and skiers to the magnificent Mount Mansfield (4,393-foot tall peak). But Stowe has something to offer to its visitors in every season; summer is a great time for outdoor adventure, while spring is all about maple sugaring.

The town hosts several exciting annual events, such as the Winter Rendezvous, Stowe Foliage Arts Festival, and Stowe Farmers Market, among others. Some popular places to eat in Stowe include Tipsy Trout, Alpine Hall, and Matterhorn.

Chilmark, Massachusetts

Menemsha Harbor, Chilmark, Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts.

Chilmark is one of the three popular up-Island towns in Massachusetts, the other two being West Tisbury and Aquinnah. This quaint, charming town is home to various preserves and sanctuaries that offer a variety of fishing spots and walking trails. One of the recommended hikes is through the Waskosim’s Rock Reservation, which offers breathtaking views from the hilltop. Another beautiful spot for walking is the Peaked Hill Reservation. Both parks are under the management of the Martha’s Vineyard Land Bank.

Martha’s Vineyard is widely known for its sun-kissed waters and stunning coastlines. With a more rural vibe, Chilmark is home to Menemsha, a fishing village (be ready to savor delicious lobster rolls and chowder among other local dishes!).

Bar Harbor, Maine

Aerial view of Bar Harbor, Maine.

Known to be an entryway to the famous Acadia National Park , Bar Harbor is a small town located on Mount Desert Island. It is home to the Cadillac Mountain, the eastern seaboard’s highest point, where one can possibly witness the first sunrise of the country. The seaside hamlet is particularly busy between May and October because several tourists visit to enjoy whale watching as well as Eden Farmers’ Market. Some of New England and Maine’s best restaurants are in Bar Harbor.

These include the West Street Cafe, CIAO, and the Side Street Cafe. Within Bar Harbor, tourists can find rocky beaches, boreal forests, glacial-formed valleys, and lakes.

Manchester, Vermont

Equinox Pond and Mount Equinox at the Equinox Preservation Trust in Manchester, Vermont.

Planning a fun family outdoor adventure? Manchester in Vermont could be the perfect destination! The population of the town is less than 5,000, and it is enveloped by the Green and Taconic Mountains. These mountains are ideal for scenic nature excursions from places such as Mount Equinox (3,848 feet tall) and the Lye Brook Falls trail. When visiting in autumn, don’t miss the opportunity to pick up pumpkins at the Equinox Valley Nursery. Also, tourists are encouraged to buy handcrafted souvenirs from Manchester Woodcraft.

New England is essentially responsible for inventing the concept of scenic all-American towns. So, don’t miss a chance to visit one of these nine memorable towns in the state on your next vacation.

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COMMENTS

  1. 15 Best Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky

    Hodgenville is a small town that transports you back in time where you can see the perspective from one of the nation's most influential leaders that can be seen within one day. 7. London. London, Kentucky, is a small town that caters to residents and travellers alike who are obsessed with the outdoor lifestyle.

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    2. Paducah. If you want to visit a small town in Kentucky that has accomplished something that nowhere else in the world has, that would be Paducah, a historic town with much of it included in the National Register of Historic Places. Paducah has been a UNESCO Creative City (Crafts and Folk Art) for nearly a decade.

  3. 17 Charming Small Towns in Kentucky You Need to Visit (2024)

    10. Glasgow: quaint towns in Kentucky. The landscape around Glasgow is rolling, tree-covered hills that span out as far as you can see. There's great fishing in the lakes and rivers that flow through here, great hiking in the mile after mile of trails that span around. There's even some golf as well.

  4. 12 Of The Best Rural Towns In Kentucky

    Maybe they've heard of smaller, but still fairly well-known towns like Paducah, Owensboro, Bowling Green, or Frankfort. However, some of the most charming places to visit are small towns located out in the rural parts of the state. Here are the 12 best rural towns in Kentucky. 1. Midway.

  5. The Most Charming Small Towns In Kentucky

    Population: 10,183. The Miss Manners of small towns, La Grange is the Kindness Capital of Kentucky and the only town in the U.S. with a freight train running on its historic Main Street. The train may be rumbly, but it only adds to the Mayberry-esque ambiance of a quaint downtown awash in yesteryear colors and lined with boutiques, restaurants ...

  6. 17 Top-Rated Small Towns in Kentucky

    14. London. Van Hook Falls, Daniel Boone National Forest, KY. Although the fourth largest city to bear the "London" name outside of its namesake in the UK, London, Kentucky, is only a fraction of the size. In fact, its population of under 8,000 people makes it a clear contender for our list of the top small towns in Kentucky.

  7. 12 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Kentucky You Should Visit

    Midway. Midway, Kentucky, October 16, 2016: Main street of Midway - a small town in Central Kentucky famous of its boutique shops and restaurants. Editorial Credit: Alexey Stiop via Shutterstock. Midway is a small laid-back town in the bluegrass region of Kentucky, with a population of approximately 1,800 people.

  8. These Are 13 Of The Coolest Small Towns In Kentucky

    Here are 13 special small towns in Kentucky with populations between 1,000 and 2,800: 1. Stearns. Stearns, KY, USA. Anthony/Flickr. Stearns is home to the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, the Blue Heron Interpretive Center, McCreary Country Museum, Barthell Coal Camp, and some of the Daniel Boone National Forest.

  9. 10 Most Beautiful Small Towns in Kentucky You Must Explore

    7: Glasgow. Wikimedia/Ichabod. Rate this attraction: 338. 34. Map. But make it Kentucky! Glasgow is one of the most beautiful small towns in Kentucky because of its ability to preserve history. As a significant plot in the civil war, there are numerous artifacts and relics that can be viewed throughout the city.

  10. 8 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky

    8 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in Kentucky. From the rolling bluegrass pastures and historic distilleries of bourbon country to pioneering settlements and quaint main streets, Kentucky is brimming with unique small towns that capture the heart and soul of the state. Each region has its own distinctive flair and local traditions, but visitors will find Southern hospitality and pride in ...

  11. 12 Charming Towns: Best Small Towns In Kentucky To Visit

    Monterey, K: The population as of 2021 was 111. Bremen. KY: The population as of 2021 was 172. Thornhill, KY: The population as of 2021 was 182. As we set our intentions for the upcoming year, make a resolution to visit these 12 best small towns in Kentucky.

  12. 12 Best Small Towns In Kentucky You Must Visit

    Harrodsburg. Easily one of the best small towns to live in Kentucky, Harrodsburg has one of the most intriguing attractions in all of the Bluegrass State, Old Fort Harrod State Park. This attraction is a full-scale replica of the 1774 fort that was built by James Harrod. This park spans fifteen acres and wonderfully depicts the first permanent ...

  13. 16 Best Small Towns in Kentucky (+ Bourbon Trail Towns!)

    Bardstown. Nestled in the heart of KY's Bluegrass Region is picturesque Bardstown, the first stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Bardstown is known as the Bourbon Capital of the World. Home to 9 well-known distilleries, Bardstown is the perfect place to go for bourbon distillery or wine tours and discover the city's authentic fine art.

  14. 9 Best Small Towns To Visit In Kentucky

    9 Best Small Towns To Visit In Kentucky. Known for its rich culture, from horse racing to delicious bourbon, Kentucky is an amazing state to visit. Nestled within the Southeastern United States, visitors flock to the iconic state to enjoy the natural sights and amazing cities. You'll often find tourists enjoying the lively vibe and stunning ...

  15. Kentucky's Most Charming Small Towns You Simply Have To Visit

    Full of quaint old town charm, Paducah is sited at West Kentucky's Four Rivers Basin making it a great place to board a traditional steamboat cruise or follow the marked River Walk trail.

  16. The 10 Most Beautiful Towns In Kentucky

    Bardstown is home of My Old Kentucky State Park, which hosts The Stephen Foster Story, a Broadway-style musical about the 'American father of music' and composer of Kentucky's state anthem. The downtown area is a mix of historic buildings, eclectic boutiques and great restaurants. Bardstown, KY, USA. 1. Berea.

  17. The 12 Best Small Towns in Kentucky to Move to in 2024

    Bardstown, KY. Average rent (one-bedroom): $1,225. Average home value: $230,900. Great for: Outdoor activities, nightlife, historic sites, retirees, families. One of the most stunning places in Kentucky is Bardstown, which is surrounded by natural beauty and has a lot to offer — including lots of bourbon whiskey!

  18. Here Are The 10 Most Charming Small Towns in Kentucky

    Here are 10 of the most charming towns in Kentucky where you can experience a slice of small town life: 1. Midway. Midway, KY, USA. Wikipedia. This charming spot in the Bluegrass is home to the Scottswood Bed and Breakfast. Visitors can get a home cooked meal and enjoy the calming influence of the small town feel.

  19. 8 Charming Small Towns Near Louisville, Kentucky

    Shelbyville is quintessential Kentucky. There are more than 90 horse farms and ample riding trails. This small town has wineries and distilleries, including the Jeptha Creed Distillery which specializes in bourbon, vodka, and moonshine. It's also a great place to get outdoors. Golf courses and parks surround the area.

  20. 10 of the Most Quaint Small Towns in Kentucky

    Edmonton is a lovely small town in Kentucky where people are polite and friendly. It is also known for its Chamber of Commerce, with around 300 members and more than 150 businesses; it is the Largest Little Chamber in the Commonwealth. From the leisure aspect as well, Edmonton has a lot to offer.

  21. Best Small Towns in Kentucky

    Small Towns in Kentucky Wildlands. Kentucky Wildlands, a 14,000-square-mile region that is home to one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, also is home to some of the state's cutest small towns, each with its own unique gem worth visiting. Kentucky Wildlands visit was hosted. Corbin Austin City Saloon. Photo credit: Kim Orlando ...

  22. The Best Small Town In Every Southern State 2024

    South Carolina: Beaufort. Peter Frank Edwards. The Palmetto State has a number of wonderful small towns, but Beaufort is regularly voted the best. That's because of the abundance of moss-draped oaks, historic homes, proximity to quiet beaches, and winding nature trails found at Hunting Island State Park.

  23. 29 Top Things to Do in Kentucky

    Wine-tasting is one of the best things to do in Kentucky in November, or throughout the fall, due to cool temperatures and ripe grapes. Nonalcoholic fruit punch slushies are available for purchase ...

  24. 10 Top-Rated Small Towns In Kentucky

    10 Top-Rated Small Towns In Kentucky. Bordered by the US States of West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio, the Commonwealth of Kentucky is a scenic landlocked state in the American Southeast. This mid-sized state is acclaimed for its rolling hills, luxuriant forests, navigable waterbodies, artificial lakes, and distinct Kentucky culture.

  25. 8 Small Towns In Kentucky That Are Perfect For A Weekend Escape

    Grand Rivers is a little lakefront town that's just plain wonderful. A charming lighthouse, fantastic restaurants, and incredible outdoor recreation opportunities make Grand Rivers an amazing place to spend a weekend. While you're there, definitely stay at Lighthouse Landing, a postcard-perfect marina in the heart of Grand Rivers! Berea.

  26. Louisville, Kentucky, Was Named One of the Best Places to Travel in

    The 15 Best U.S. Small Towns for a Summer Vacation Man Fires Gun in a Kentucky National Park After Claiming to See Bigfoot You Can Visit a Few Real Reindeer in Kentucky This Holiday Season

  27. 9 Most Memorable Small Towns in New England

    9 Most Memorable Small Towns in New England. When it comes to exploring small-town life, New England can offer quite the experience to its visitors. Located in the northeastern part of the United States, New England is home to six states, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, Connecticut, Vermont, and Massachusetts.Each of these states has charming small towns that take you back in time.