7 Undiscovered Small Towns in Kentucky
These undiscovered small towns prove that Bluegrass State is so much more than horse racing and bourbon! There’s no denying that Kentucky is a beautiful state with its rolling hills and lush forests. Hidden between long stretches of road are some of the most charming towns with friendly locals and amazing food. Explore the quirky art scene of Paducah, or explore vast cave systems in Glasgow. In these small towns, you'll discover communities rich in tradition, offering everything from vibrant music festivals to local crafts and fantastic Southern cuisine.
Bardstown
Travel to the Bourbon Capital of the World in Bardstown. Aside from its rustic Kentucky charm, Bardstown is home to notable distilleries like Barton 1792, Heaven Hill, and Willett Distillery. But before embarking on your distillery tour, make sure to stop by the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History, with exhibits providing a history of of bourbon. The charming streets in the downtown district boast plenty of quaint shops and cafes to spend an entire afternoon.
One of Bardstowns biggest claims to fame (outside their amazing bourbon) is the beautiful mansion Federal Hill that inspired the song “My Old Kentucky Home”. The mansion is nestled in the sprawling ground of My Old Kentucky Home State Park and allows visitors to take self-guided tours of the amazing estate. To really admire the beauty of Kentucky, make sure to lace up your hiking boots and go for a hike in Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest.
Paducah
Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River is the quirky town of Paducah. As a thriving art town, it’s also considered to be the Quilting Capital of the World. Head to The National Quilt Museum in the downtown district to admire a rotation of some of the most amazing quilts in the world. Lower Town Arts District is another great place to admire Paducah’s art scene. Explore unique galleries and studios, or partake in an annual festival like QuiltWeek or Barbecue on the River.
But there’s so much more to discover in Paducah than it’s art scene. Civil War history buffs have to check out Fort Anderson (a former Union fort during the Civil War) or explore the amazing Lloyd Tilghman House & Civil War Museum. With beautiful charm and stunning murals (like the Paducah Wall-to-Wall Floodwall Murals), there’s something for everyone in this artsy Kentucky town.
Midway
Situated in the heart of the Bluegrass region of Kentucky, Midway is a small town with an enormous heart. The downtown area (aka Railroad Street) is cozy and walkable, and you can spend an afternoon exploring the locally-owned shops, cafes, and antique stores. If you plan your visit just right, you could catch the Midway Fall Festival held every September. It hosts live music, vendors, and lots of family-friendly activities.
However, Midway's surrounding beauty lands it on this list of underdiscovered gems. Situated right on the outskirts of this charming town are stunning parks and scenic views, like the Kentucky River and the Bourbon Trail. Take a short drive outside of town to discover the Weisenberger Mill on the scenic backdrop of South Elkhorn Creek. Or, relax and unwind at the beautiful Wildside Winery in a rural setting.
Glasgow
As the name of the town suggests, Glasgow has a strong Scottish heritage. The downtown district is a lovely mix of 19th and 20th-century commercial buildings with cozy locally-owned shops and cafes. However, the town square holds all the action. Be sure to check out Plaza Theatre to catch a live show or a special movie screening in the restored theater.
Just outside the charming downtown district, Glasgow is a stone's throw from the iconic Mammoth Cave National Park. Take a tour of one of the world’s longest cave systems or hike in its flourishing and beautiful forests. The cave system is also a great place to watch nature and supports unique species like Kentucky cave shrimp, eyeless fish, and various species of bats.
Versailles
Versailles is famous for its bourbon, thoroughbred farms, castles, and breathtaking views. The Kentucky Castle, also known as Martin Castle, is one of Versaille's most iconic spots. While it was initially a private residence, today it’s a premier luxury hotel, spa, and restaurant. The town is also home to Woodford Reserve and Three Chimneys Farm, home to champion thoroughbreds. Visitors can book a tour of these amazing farms to learn a little bit more about the horses.
If you want a more laid-back visit to Versailles, be sure to stop by the famous Woodford Reserve Distillery. It’s one of Kentucky’s oldest and most respected distilleries, nestled on the banks of Glenn’s Creek. Take a tour of the distillery, or just order a drink and take your surroundings. Or, be sure to check out the Castle & Key Distillery, which hosts botanical gardens and lovely views.
Danville
Also known as the Birthplace of Kentucky, Danville has a deep history in every corner of this small town. In the heart of Danville is Constitution Square, where the first Kentucky Constitution was signed in 1792. Today, it’s a peaceful historical site with original structures like the courthouse and the jail. Walking the street, downtown feels like stepping back into the 19th century with modern flair and quaint local shops. And if you plan your stay just right, you can even catch the Celebration of Brass Music, which draws visitors from all over the country.
One of the most popular spots among locals and tourists is Pioneer Playhouse, an outdoor theater founded in 1950. There, you can catch live community productions and live music. History buffs will have to check out the amazing McDowell House, the former home of Dr. Ephraim McDowell. It’s the very site where the first successful abdominal surgery was performed in 1809. And to spend a little time outdoors, make sure to add Central Kentucky Wildlife Refuge and Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site to your list of things to do in Danville.
Maysville
Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River is the humble little town of Maysville. Once considered the Gateway to the West, it was a popular stop among early American settlers heading out west. Today, it’s a charming town bustling with locally-owned shops, cafes, and historical landmarks worth checking out. The Kentucky Gateway Museum Center is the pride of Maysville and gives visitors a unique view into the rich and dynamic history of the riverside town.
Fun fact: Maysville is home to actress Rosemary Clooney and every year hosts the Rosemary Clooney Festival at the historic Russell Theatre.
The heart of a state isn’t often found in larger cities. It’s those smaller, tight-knit communities that capture the true soul of a state. These small, undiscovered Kentucy towns give visitors a glimpse into what makes Kentucy so special. From historical sites like Fort Anderson in Paducah to the inspiration of “My Old Kentucky Home” in Bardstown, there’s something here for everyone! These small towns are home to vast cave systems, castles, and the best bourbon in the United States. Each town promises a warm welcome and a taste of the simple life.
