The Most Quaint Must-Visit Small Towns in Kentucky

Greenville

First on our list of the must-visit small towns in Kentucky is the lovely area of Greenville. Add this town to your bucket list because there’s a ton to see and do in this quaint area. Whatever you want to do, you can do it here. Whether it be camping, playing sports, hiking through the park, or anything else, there’s likely an opportunity in Greenville. The town is also known for its fantastic food. Stop by J & H Bakery and try some of the finest desserts and donuts you ever had. There is also a fantastic golf course where you can play 18 holes if the mood should strike you. Even if you don’t have any plans in mind, you can stroll through the downtown area and see great shops and places to visit. Along the way, you’ll talk to some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Bellevue

With a population of just over 5,000 people, Bellevue is a small but lovely town that’s beautiful and friendly, and it’s been that way since the 1800s. The town is actually named for its gorgeous view of the Ohio River. Take your camera if you’re going for a visit. While you’re there, take a few hikes and enjoy the natural beauty that the town and the outskirts have to offer. There are also plenty of activities for the whole family, including farmer’s markets, concerts, parades, art shows, and more. Though the town has some of the comforts of the modern day, there are also many fun old-timey attributes, like the antique shops and the old-school ice cream parlor that will remind you of simpler times. Parents can take a load off by visiting the microbrewery and then wake up the next morning and enjoy the various lunch and brunch spots in town. Stop in as many shops and businesses as you can find because they offer something for everyone and they’re all quite lovely.

Paris

If you can’t travel to France to see the sights, then you can at least try the next best thing, and that’s visiting the charming town of Paris, KY. This town is located in Bourbon County, which is famous for its various horse farms. However, for something new, head to Paris and take your camera. While there, you can take a photo next to a 20-foot recreation of the Eiffel Tower. Then, head to Secretariat Park. Secretariat is considered to be the best racehorse of all time, and you can see a life-sized recreation of him in the park. You’ll also see the world’s largest mural of the horse ever made. Again, bring your camera. Finally, you can stop by Claiborne Farm, which is the final resting place of the famous horse. In between those fun activities, you can walk down Main Street and stop by the local shops and eateries and meet the residents. If you’re going to be in the area, it’s worth your time to visit this town because there’s nothing else quite like it.

Henderson

Another one of the must-visit small towns in Kentucky is Henderson, which is located near the Ohio River. This small town is quaint and doesn’t have a lot of people, but the folks there are very cultured and have a lot of charm. They have a thriving food scene and the art scene is off of the charts. In fact, one of the towns’ favorite people is artist John James Audubon, who really put the place on the map. While you’re there, bring the kids to the Audubon Museum, where you can learn about the town’s history and see some fantastic paintings. Then, stop by John James Audubon State Park and explore hundreds of paths. Explore anywhere in this small town, and you’ll meet some of the friendliest people in the entire state. Come for a day or for a week. No matter what, you’ll love your experience.

Danville

With 17,000 residents, Danville is a little bigger than some of the other quaint towns on this list, but it’s still a treat to discover. Danville is considered the birthplace of Kentucky, so there’s a lot to see and enjoy. Start at the Constitution Square Historic Site, which is a huge museum that has interesting items and log buildings. Try to visit Danville during the summer, especially if you love movies, because you can stop by Pioneer Playhouse, which is the state’s oldest outdoor theater. Bring your kids to the Great American Dollhouse Museum which has 200 displays with various dolls that your little ones will truly adore. There’s also the GLASS National Art Museum, which has many artistic designs that are all made out of glass. Walk down the city streets and stop at the shops and many tasty restaurants. After dinner, go to Burke’s Bakery and try some of the finest cookies, pastries, and donuts you’ll ever eat. There’s something here for everyone.

Horse Cave

In addition to the cool name, the town of Horse Cave has plenty of adventures and sights to behold. For one, the town is home to Hidden River Cave, which is the world’s longest suspension bridge that’s underground. You can access it right from Main Street. Walk through the cave, and you’ll be amazed at what you see. In fact, the whole area is considered a National Register of Commercial Places Historic District. Then, stop by the American Cave Museum, where you can learn the history of the cave. For something completely different, stop by the Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, where you can see real-life kangaroos. Then, go to the Dutch Country Safari Park and see real-life camels right there in the middle of Kentucky. When you’re hungry, head to Farmwald’s Restaurant and Bakery for their famous pies. You’ll never run out of fun things to do in Horse Cave, KY.

La Grange

Head a bit outside of Louisville and you can find the charming town of La Grange. This is another place that really showcases the beauty of Kentucky. You’ll notice it as you walk through the lovely parks and hiking trails. Along the way, you’ll likely see a bit of wildlife, including gorgeous butterflies. Later on, head to the Oldham County Historic Center, where you can learn a ton about the history of the town and the many residents that make it so special. Walk through the town square and along the side streets and you’ll come across some of the finest eateries and small shops where you can explore and buy a nice souvenir for your relatives. If you want to get the most out of your trip, you can also travel to other nearby cities that are just a quick drive away.

Berea

Another larger, but still quaint town on this list is Berea. Coming to this town is like going back in time to the golden old days. Walk down the street and you’ll see wonderful places, like the Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant and the Honeysuckle Dining and Bourbon House. There’s always something fun going on in town, whether it’s an art show, a hands-on workshop, or a musical artist doing their thing. You can also leave town and head to the Berea College Forest, where you can hike some of the best trails in the entire state. You can really get a thrill by visiting during the holiday season. It’s then that you can enjoy the annual “Christmas in the Village” celebration. While there, you and your kids can enjoy hot cocoa, storytelling, roasting marshmallows around the fire, and watching an epic tree-lighting ceremony.

Morehead

Morehead, KY, offers many opportunities for family fun and exploration. It’s a small and quaint town, but it has a lot of personality. Nature fans will find plenty of trails to hike and places for picnics by visiting the plush and green Daniel Boone National Forest. There are also plenty of places to pop a tent and go camping. While you’re out there, stop by Cave Run Lake. It’s a lovely place to go swimming and it has some of the best fishing opportunities in the state. As night comes around, head to town and get your dose of culture. Head to the Morehead Theatre for a show or the Rowan County Arts Center and enjoy the lovely exhibits. While you go from place to place, walk down the streets and take in the folksy charm of the town. Stop in the stores and try the restaurants and make it a weekend you won’t soon forget.

Harrodsburg

Of all the amazingly quaint but beautiful towns on this list, Harrodsburg may be the oldest. This town has been around for so long that George Washington once visited there while he was fighting in the Revolutionary War. In fact, the town is steeped in history. Walk through the town square, and you’ll find old buildings that are straight out of a school book. Plus, you can visit Old Fort Harrod State Park and see an old fort that was used during that time. Spend more time at the park and enjoy the long winding trails that are perfect for the whole family. Harrodsburg is also home to many tasty restaurants. For lodgings, consider the Beaumont Inn. It offers small-town charm and a staff that exemplifies Southern hospitality.

Pikeville

Another one of the must-visit small towns in Kentucky is Pikeville. This is another place that is steeped in history as it was where the infamous Hatfield and McCoy battles took place. However, Pikeville is much more than that. Bring your camera to this town that is set against the Appalachian Mountains. You can hike many amazing trails in the area and see plants and wildlife that are out of this world. If you’re interested in the Hatfield/McCoy altercation, you can learn more about it by taking a driving tour that comes with audio that will tell you the whole story. You can even visit some of the businesses started by famous individuals, such as Cherico’s Ristorante. The food there is still fantastic. Later on, you can learn more about this quaint town by visiting the Appalachian Center for the Arts. Finally, head downtown for a concert and finish the night by gazing up at the stars. It’s all quite splendid.

Maysville

Maysville has many unique things to see, so visit this town with the whole family. This is the home to Kathleen Savage Browning Miniatures Collection, which is the largest collection of miniatures in the world. Bring your microscope because these little beauties have a lot of details and you’ll want to see it all. There are miniature houses, scenes with multiple characters, and pop culture references. Later on, visit the Old Washington Historic District, which was constructed during the 1700s. It is one of the earliest settlements in Kentucky’s history, and much of it is still intact. Absorb the beauty of this old town and stop in many of the shops and restaurants that are loaded with charm and great products. This town is located on the banks of the Ohio River, so you can get some great pictures and have fun in the water. Stay at a hotel or go camping. Either way, you must check out this town!

Bardstown

If you enjoy a fine beverage now and then, add Bardstown to your list. This is another of the many must-visit small towns in Kentucky. It’s known as the Bourbon Capital of the World because it has many distilleries in and around the town, so you could spend days touring them all. But that’s not it. There are a lot of fun and historical activities you can try here, like visiting the Old Talbott Tavern, where you’ll find the world’s oldest stagecoach shop. This town is also home to two Civil War museums that will teach you everything you need to know about the infamous altercation. Everything about this quaint town screams “old fashioned.” You’ll walk down the street and see log houses made from the 18th and 19th centuries. You’ll also see many fine stores and eateries that sell new and historical items. Finally, head to My Old Kentucky Home State Park, where you can see gorgeous greenery, take walks through the forest, and enjoy the peace and quiet. This is a lovely town if you love the luxuries of days past.

Rosine

The city of Rosine is known for many things. It’s a quaint town that’s lovely from almost any angle. It also has some of the friendliest people that you’re ever sure to meet. There are also plenty of great restaurants and mom-and-pop stores to explore. However, the biggest claim to fame is that this place is known for Bill Monroe, who’s widely considered to be the father of Bluegrass music. Much of this town is dedicated to this talented man. You can visit his grave or visit the Bill Monroe Museum. Then, you can hear his music playing through the speakers of the many establishments in town. If you like more contemporary music, you can stop by The Rosine Barn Jamboree every Saturday and catch a concert. The food here is amazing, especially the BBQ. This is a great place to visit during one day of a trip so you can really absorb the culture.

Hodgenville

Finally, on our list of the must-visit small towns in Kentucky, we have the lovely town of Hodgenville. This is where former President Abraham Lincoln was born, and you’ll get plenty of reminders as you walk down the friendly streets. For instance, you can visit Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park and see the Memorial Building, which is full of historic artifacts. Then, head downtown, where you can continue to learn about our great president by viewing colorful dioramas that tell you every key detail about his life and political career.

Once you’re done with your history lesson, check out the many shops and restaurants in the area. One of the hotspots is Laha’s Red Castle, where you can order some of the finest burgers in the state. Then, satisfy your sweet tooth by visiting the Sweet Shoppe and Dessert Café. Try to visit during October. That’s when the city celebrates Lincoln Days, where people from around the country show up in their best Abraham Lincoln costumes.