8 Cutest Small Towns In Kentucky

Also known as the “Bluegrass State”, Kentucky is a key part of the southeastern United States, filled with diverse natural and cultural images. From folk music to famous derbies and a renowned fried chicken restaurant, the charm and beauty of Kentucky can all be explored through a visit to its beautiful towns. Here fascinating history, pretty natural surroundings, and loads of welcoming hospitality define what a small American town is all about. For those looking to discover some of the best of America, then Kentucky’s towns may be just the right spots. 

Bardstown

The seat of Nelson County and known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown is a charming locale with just over 13,500 residents. Situated in Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region and considered the first stop on the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail, Bardstown is home to some nine celebrated distilleries, each offering wonderful tours and the opportunity to taste and purchase authentic Kentucky Bourbon. A visit here is surely one of the most memorable excursions for anyone visiting Bardstown. In addition to its picturesque beauty, alluring 18th and 19th-century architecture, and plenty of unique Kentucky charm, even just a brief sojourn in Bardstown will bring pleasant memories. 

Hodgenville

Known as the birthplace of America’s 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, Hodgenville is a fascinating Kentucky town that continues to honor the legacy of one of the nation’s most important political leaders. Born in a log cabin near the modern-day town in 1809, Hodgenville is the site of the Lincoln Museum and the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Park. Here mementos from the Civil War, wax displays of figures from the era, historical newspaper clippings, and more can be discovered, giving visitors a unique insight into the life of the former President. 

Pose with his bronze statue in the main square or browse any great souvenir shops with ties to Lincoln. And with easy access to the nearby Nolin River, even a quiet afternoon along the water may be the best way to spend one’s time. 

Pikeville

Pikeville is the seat of Pike County and was formally established in 1824. Indeed this charming town of nearly 8,000 residents is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Whether exploring the Appalachian Mountains (that surround the city) or going mountain biking, ziplining, hiking, and even horseback riding, there is never a shortage of great activities in Pikeville.Meanwhile, for the art enthusiast, visits to the Artists Collaborative Theatre or the Jenny Wiley Theatre offer a variety of live musical performances, especially the much loved Kentucky bluegrass genre. And, of course, the annual spring Hillbilly Days is always guaranteed fun for the whole family!

Somerset

The town of Somerset was first settled back in 1798 and today is home to a modest population of just under 12,000 inhabitants. The seat of Pulaski County, this charming town is located near Lake Cumberland, where opportunities for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and even water skiing, are always popular. Meanwhile, for some great fun for the whole family, a stop at Finley’s Fun Center in the nearby community of Danville is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. From classic arcade games to roller skating and laser tag, family members of all ages will love their time here. 

Rosine

Though it has only a population of some 110 permanent residents, Rosine is a culturally important and charming destination for anyone to visit in Kentucky. Known as the birthplace of Bill Monroe, the founder of the Bluegrass music genre, thousands of aficionados from across the world descend on this small town. With visits to his birth home (now a historical museum), the music stages he performed, and even his modest grave site, Rosine is a reminder that even the smallest places can have a tremendous impact. In addition, at the nearby International Bluegrass Music Museum, a great collection of memorabilia, stories, and other fascinating insights are all assembled in a place that is a must not just for lovers of the genre but of music in general. 

Maysville

Maysville is located on the banks of the Ohio River and is a charming place for nature and history lovers alike. Home to just under 9,000 residents, visitors can appreciate several historical sites here, including the Washington Opera House (1889), the Russell Theatre (1930), or the 607-meter-long Simon Kenton Memorial Bridge completed in 1931. Meanwhile, in the downtown area, many great and tasty local restaurants dot the landscape, offering some of the best authentic Kentucky cuisine and small-town charm. Sending an afternoon at the Kentucky Gateway Museum is also a fantastic way to learn more about the people and events that helped shape the modern “Bluegrass State.” 

La Grange

The seat of Oldham County, La Grange, was first established in 1840 and is now home to just over 10,000 residents. A genuine farm community, visitors will surely notice the abundance of farms and their related animals all around. And with several delightful farm tours ideal for the entire family, learning how to care for livestock and farm sustainably is both informative and fun. Additionally, tourists can enjoy the nearby Whiskey Row and its distilleries and the Kentucky Derby Museum, providing a unique insight into this State cultural institute. And, of course, watching the many freight trains pass through Main Street is always a wonder. 

Greenville

First settled in 1812, Greenville is full of Kentucky pride, and its small-town charm is always on display. Home to a population of just under 4,500 people, Greenville has many great locally run restaurants, small boutique shops, and loads of welcoming hospitality. Indeed even just a brief, casual stay in town will surely leave any visitor with a smile. In addition, some other attractions of note include the Lake Malone State Park, perfect for picnics and bike rides, and the beautiful Brizendine Brothers Nature Park. Here some 12 acres of the forest create a most stunning ambiance, perfect for quiet relaxation and thoughtful contemplation. 

One of the southeastern United States’ most beautiful and historic places, the “Bluegrass State “of Kentucky, is indeed full of excellent reasons to visit. Through an exploration of its charming towns, a snapshot of what makes Kentucky so special becomes clear. From historic towns like Hodgenville and Rosine to outdoor treasures like Pikeville and Bardstown, Kentucky and its towns are never short of something exciting to discover for tourists of all ages and interests.