7 of the Most Welcoming Towns in Kentucky
Kentucky is a state known for bourbon, bluegrass, and fried chicken. Beyond this, when people think of Kentucky, they probably think of southern hospitality, best seen in the state's small towns. Kentucky is home to some of the most welcoming towns in the states. Maysville is a charming town with waterside restaurants and quaint local shops. Some small towns in Kentucky, such as La Grange, are known for their kindness. Meanwhile, Berea features beautiful Kentucky forests and delectable comfort food, such as spoonbread. Whether you are a nature lover or a foodie, there is something about these Kentucky small towns that will make you feel at home.
Bellevue
Sitting on the Ohio River, Bellevue is a warm and welcoming Kentucky town. The town is near bustling places such as Newport but retains the charm of a historic Kentucky river town. For some southern charm, check out the Bellevue farmers' market at Beck Park. The market sells everything from local produce to baked goods and features live music and food trucks. Bellevue's Fairfield Avenue is a popular street in the heart of town where many small businesses are lined up. Fairfield has been the beating heart of the community since the 1800s. The storefronts have an inviting appearance with colorful buildings and unique designs. Among the shops, visitors will find everything from a retro ice cream parlor to quaint antique shops.
Maysville
Another town on the banks of the Ohio River is Maysville. The picturesque town has a historic downtown with sweet waterside restaurants, such as Caproni's on the River. The Old Washington Historic District is a particularly charming part of town. Here you can delve into the history of a 1700s village bustling with local shops and museums. This area was significant in history for its ties to the Underground Railroad. A unique tour the town offers is of covered bridges. Maysville has eight of the remaining 13 covered bridges in Kentucky.
Paris
Paris, Kentucky, has everything from a charming historic district and southern sweetness to its own 20-foot-tall Eiffel Tower. The town's Main Street has a historic charm with old shops and eateries. Here you can find some vintage clothing and handmade goods. One of the best places to stop to eat is the Paris Train Depot. Built in 1882, the depot was a popular place for transport until the late 1960s. Today, it is the Trackside Restaurant and Bourbon Bar, a cozy small-town eatery.
Pikeville
If you like the allure of the mountains mixed with the energy of a small town, Pikeville is your place. The peaceful community is set against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains. Being near the mountains, there are opportunities for outdoor recreationists to go skiing and snowboarding near town. Pikeville itself is a relaxed town with an interesting history and cool art scene. Downtown, there is the Appalachian Center for the Arts, which showcases Pikeville's history and local artists.
La Grange
Just 20 miles northeast of Louisville, is the quaint town of La Grange. In 2019, La Grange was named the Kindness Capital of Kentucky. The town earned this title thanks to two young sisters who started the nationwide "Be Kind" sign campaign. The girls painted signs saying "Be Kind" and sold them to people around town, with the money raised going to charity.
Beyond kindness, La Grange has a well-preserved, historic downtown. Many of the buildings in La Grange date back to the 19th century. Downtown, there are charming shops, boutiques, and restaurants. The biggest attraction downtown isn't a shop; it is a train. La Grange has a freight train running on Main Street, adding to the ambiance.
Bardstown
If your idea of a welcoming town is one that knows what drink to offer you, Bardstown is your place. Nicknamed the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown is home to eleven distilleries. Some of the most popular include Heaven Hill Distillery, Four Roses, and the Bardstown Bourbon Company. Beyond booze, the town has a cute downtown square lined with local boutiques. There is also a village of authentic 18th and 19th-century log homes on Museum Row, adding to the town's charm.
Berea
A town with a blend of art and the outdoors in Kentucky is Berea. The town boasts over 8,400 acres of forest, with a well-maintained trail system to explore. There are walking and biking trails in town. Some of the most popular biking trails include Berea City Park, the 3-mile Mayde Beebe White Trail, and the 1-mile John B. Stephenson Memorial Trail. Berea's beautiful forests and trails make it perfect for exploring the inviting Kentucky nature. Beyond beautiful scenery, Berea also welcomes visitors with delicious food. The historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant is a place where you can try spoonbread, a Southern cornmeal soufflé and a comfort food must-try.
Visit Kentucky
Considering all these towns have to offer, Kentucky is a state that should be on your radar. From strolling through the historic streets of Kentucky's Paris to enjoying a bourbon in Bardstown, Kentucky is full of surprises. Whether you decide to see the train running through La Grange or relax and enjoy southern hospitality in Pikeville, Kentucky is the perfect destination for your next trip. Taking a trip to these welcoming Kentucky small towns will have you feeling right at home.
