Known for its horse racing, bourbon trails, and undulating hills, Kentucky also has quaint little communities that many tourists overlook. These eleven charming Kentucky towns are worth a trip:
1. Bardstown
Where: Nelson County
Features: Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown is home to award-winning distilleries, a quaint city, and a rich history.
The Bardstown Bourbon Company and State Park, my former home in Kentucky, are must-sees.
2. In the middle
Where: Woodford County
Features: A charming downtown with cafes, boutique stores, and an old-world charm in this historic railroad town.
Railroad Street and the neighboring horse farms are must-sees.
3. Hodgenville
Where: LaRue County
Features: Abraham Lincoln was born in this little, historically significant town that is surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
The Lincoln Museum and Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park are must-sees.
4. Harrodsburg
Where: Mercer County
Features: With its restored architecture and Shaker culture, Harrodsburg, Kentucky’s oldest town, provides a window into the early history of the state.
Old Fort Harrod State Park and Pleasant Hill Shaker Village are must-sees.
5. The Grand Rivers
Where: Western Kentucky
Features: This town is ideal for those looking to unwind and enjoy the outdoors because it is tucked away between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.
Patti’s 1880s Settlement and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area are must-sees.
6. The town of Pikeville
Where: Eastern Kentucky
Features: A thriving Appalachian town with a rich cultural legacy and breathtaking views of the mountains.
The Appalachian Wireless Arena and the Hatfield & McCoy Historic Site are must-sees.
7. Danville
Where: Boyle County
Features: Known as the “City of Firsts,” Danville is home to a vibrant arts scene and was instrumental in Kentucky’s early statehood.
The Norton Center for the Arts and Constitution Square Historic Site are must-sees.
8. Maysville
Where: Mason County
Features: Maysville is renowned for its stunning architecture, river views, and historic significance. It is located along the Ohio River.
The Rosemary Clooney House and the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center are must-sees.
9. Berea
Where: Madison County
Features: Known for its handicrafts, Berea is a center for outdoor recreation and artists.
The Kentucky Artisan Center and the Berea Pinnacles’ hiking paths are must-sees.
10. Paducah
Where: McCracken County
Features: Known for its thriving arts scene, historic riverfront, and quilt-making legacy, Paducah is a UNESCO Creative City.
The Paducah Riverwalk and the National Quilt Museum are must-sees.
11. Augusta
Where: Bracken County
Features include scenic views, a historic ferry, a quaint river hamlet, and links to Hollywood.
The Rosemary Clooney and Augusta Ferry Museums are must-sees.
Travelers are encouraged to discover the lesser-known gems of the Bluegrass State as each of these Kentucky villages offers a distinctive fusion of history, culture, and scenic beauty.
