6 Best Towns in Kentucky to Visit in 2024
Kentucky is a state with more than bourbon. There are beautiful mountains, charming towns, unique history and a rich culture. The old small towns in Kentucky are some of the best places to see the charm of the state. From the Mountain Mushroom Festival in Irvine to the Arts and Crafts Capital of Kentucky, Berea, the state has many amazing small towns to visit. Explore the best six towns in Kentucky that are worth checking out in 2024.
Irvine
Irvine is a hidden gem in Kentucky with community spirit and breathtaking countryside. The town hosts a unique annual festival in April, the Mountain Mushroom Festival. This is a popular fest for morel mushroom lovers. The Mushroom Festival celebrates Appalachian culture, the morel mushroom, Kentucky agate, arts and crafts. There is a morel market where you can buy morels at the fest, along with agate hunts in the nearby creek and arts and crafts vendors.
If you aren't a fan of mushrooms, Irvine is worth a visit for the scenery alone. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in town. Irvine has it's own nature preserve, the Lily Mountain Nature Preserve. This offers 350 acres of hiking trails and woodlands. This is a great option for family activities and exploring the natural surroundings in Irvine. Another great spot to visit for natural scenery is the Red River Gorge. Located less than an hour from the heart of town, Red River Gorge is better known as "Kentucky's best-kept secret." At the gorge, wander on trails that take you through fields of wildflowers and admire hundreds of sandstone arches. Irvine is a town you will want to visit with your camera ready.
Augusta
Another town to visit this year in Kentucky is Augusta. The dreamy town is next to the Ohio River. In the summertime, there is often musicians playing alongside the river. There is even a Riverfest that takes place every summer, featuring live music.
Augusta's historic charm is also found in it's historic shops and museums. A great spot to check out is the Augusta General Store,. Enjoy a delicious meal and look at some antiques, furniture and giftable items. For those who find antiques fascinating, make sure to be in town for the May 4th annual Junkfest Day. This is where vendors setup their unique junk items. You never know what you might find for sale.
To learn more about a unique historic figure in town, visit the Rosemary Clooney House Museum. This museum celebrates the life of the small-town girl who became a beloved Hollywood movie star. Don't forget to take a trip on the Ferry in Augusta. This is one of the oldest ferry services on the Ohio River. Running seven days a week, the ferry is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a stunning sunset over the river.
Paducah
Another town located on the Ohio River is Paducah. This town rests where the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers meet. While the population is over 20,000, the town still has a charming community vibe. Some of the events that attract people to the town every year include the Dogwood Trail Celebration, Barbecue on the River, Christmas in Paducah and Quiltweek.
The town has a strong artist community and is home to the National Quilt Museum. The museum features artists quilts from around the world and often hosts events. Beyond quilts, Paducah also has the Wall to Wall Murals. The murals are a stunning collection created by Robert Dafford and his team of artists. There are 50 mural paintings that celebrate the arts and river culture of the town.
Berea
Art lovers will be happy to know Kentucky is home to another art-loving town, Berea. The quaint town is in the mountains and is home to a thriving art scene. To see some local arts and crafts check out Top Drawer Gallery in town. Every year the town hosts the Berea Craft Festival in July. Over 110 artists from across the United States attend the festival and have demonstrations showing their work. In August another festival takes place, the Berea Celtic Festival. This is a gathering of musician, singers and artists that celebrate authentic, traditional, grassroots Celtic music.
Being in the mountains, Berea has stunning scenery, which can serve as an inspiration for artists. Hikers will also enjoy the Indian Fort Mountain Trail System. The trails are in one of the oldest managed private forests in the country and are open all year.
Cadiz
Located in the stunning scenery of Trigg County, Cadiz is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. If you are looking for a place this year to enjoy the outdoors, Cadiz is the ideal town. Lake Barkley State Park is a great destination in Cadiz. The park offers a peaceful camping experience and the opportunity to see wildlife while enjoying lakeside views.
Cadiz is also home to the outdoor paradise called The Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. It is on the Kentucky and Tennessee border. This area offers everything from camping and hiking to fishing and boating. Across the border in Tennessee, but only 30 minutes away, is the Homeplace 1850s Working Farm and museum, a great place to check out to learn about the area's history. In Cadiz there is more opportunity to explore historic sites. These include the area's oldest buildings, a dormer railroad depot and a courthouse dating back to the 19th century.
Pineville
Another town next to stunning mountain scenery is Pineville. One of the best places to get a good view of the town is at Chained Rock. This is a legendary hike that takes hikers to a large chained rock. Clear Creek is a nearby trail that also offers breathtaking views. Golfers should visit Wasioto Winds Golf Course within Pine Mountain State Resort Park for spectacular mountain scenery.
Besides the amazing surroundings, there are other attractions that draw people into Pineville. One is the Mountain Laurel Festival held annually in May. The small-town parade dates back to 1931 and is a legendary Kentucky event. One of the most treasured traditions of the festival is the Coronation of the Queen from the annual pageant.
A Must Visit For 2024
Aside from horse racing, bourbon, and bluegrass music, Kentucky is a beautiful state, with mountain scenery and historic charm. The small towns are one of the best places to experience the state's old-time atmosphere with special festivals and attractions. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoors in Cadiz, or visit Paducah for the Quiltweek, a visit to these Kentucky towns will make an unforgettable experience.
