8 Most Beautiful Cities In Kentucky
Known for its rich culture and history which is prevalent throughout the state, Kentucky is a beautiful place to visit. It is home to some of the world’s best horse racing, which is one of the main reasons people visit the state. Bourbon, tobacco, and college basketball are all famous in Kentucky which gives it an air of cultural essence no matter where you go. Moreover, with many national parks and attractions such as Mammoth Cave National Park located in the state, natural beauty is bound to be present all around. With so much to offer, there are plenty of beautiful cities in Kentucky, waiting to explore.
Bardstown
Located in Nelson County, Bardstown is a peaceful town known for its welcoming environment. Home to more than 13,500 people, you will find that everyone here is friendly and there is a small-town feel that makes things more enjoyable. For example, you can check out Kentucky’s famous Bourbon in one of Bardstown’s many distilleries. Some of the most famous is Bardstown Bourbon Company and Heaven Hill Distillery which all offer delicious bourbon. Apart from the drinks, the city is also filled with amazing eateries to balance out your palette. If you are a burger lover, be sure to check out Bardstown Burger for some of the finest buns and patties in the region.
While the city’s 12 square mile area is home to many lively places to eat, drink, and shop, it is also a hub for history. Settled more than 2 centuries ago in 1780, Bardstown is the state’s second oldest city! So, no matter where you go, you can find important sites that have developed over the years. For example, the Civil War Museum here is the fourth largest in the country and houses dozens of unique exhibits from the time. Along with this, the Bardstown Historic District is on the National Register of Historic Places and houses many unique sights that showcase architecture, battles, and more.
Paducah
Paducah is the county seat of McCracken County in western Kentucky. The city is known for its intricate history and experienced artisans which are prevalent in the local quilt-making industry. No matter where you go, you can find the impact of beautiful quilt-making! For example, spend your day at the National Quilt Museum, which is one of the best quilt showcases in America and has hundreds on display. The city is so intertwined with the art that it hosts quilt shows every year and is also often referred to as the "Quilt City" of Kentucky.
However, if quilts are not your cup of tea, there is still a lot more to see in this 20-square-mile city. Home to around 27,100 people, the city is rich with culture and you can find a large influence of sports such as baseball and racing. When it comes to racing, Paducah is also home to the Paducah International Racway which is still used for motorsport races. Apart from this, thanks to its location along the Ohio River, Paducah has an abundance of waterside sights that are famous to tourists from all over. This ranges from historical sights like the Wacinton Sculpture, to beautiful natural views along Bob Noble Park. So, no matter what kind of beauty you are looking for, you can find it in Paducah.
Owensboro
Owensboro is home to a healthy population of 60,000 and is one of the largest metropolitan areas in the state. It is the county seat of Daviess County and is often called the region’s culinary and cultural hub. When it comes to the local arts scene, Owensboro has a vital influence on the Bluegrass genre of music. Testament to this, the city is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, one of the only facilities focused on Bluegrass music. From a broader perspective, you can spend your day watching a Broadway show or enjoying a concert at the RiverPark Center. Also, if you are lucky, you might be able to attend one of the many cultural festivals that take place in Owensboro throughout the year.
While the cultural scene is sure to bring in loads of people, what do you do after a trip to the museum? Well, Owensboro has you covered with some of the best eating establishments in western Kentucky. The city is famous for its signature hickory-smoked barbeque mutton coupled with some of the best bourbons in the state. Two of the best places to try out these dishes are Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn and Old Hickory Bar-B-Que. Not only have these places been around for years, but they also offer a friendly environment that is perfect to end the day.
Louisville
When it comes to cities in Kentucky, no list is complete without the urban hub, Louisville. This massive city is the largest in the state and with a population of 633,000, is one of the most populous in America. Thus, the city is a treasure trove of urban beauty and you can find monumental buildings and skyscrapers at every corner. In particular, the city’s true cultural beauty is always on display within the downtown area and historic district. Here, you can find historic sights such as the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, which has produced the city’s famous Slugger baseball bats since 1884. You can also spend your day walking along Main Street, filled with art shops, museums, and restaurants for an ideal day within Louisville’s hustle and bustle!
Apart from the city’s beautiful skyline and urban beauty, its location along the Ohio River and nearby parks offer up some scenic natural views. For example, check out Iroquois Park, a lovely 730-acre park perfect for people of all ages. Hiking, cycling, golfing, and basketball are all activities available at this park. If physical activity isn’t your thing, you can also take a trip along the Ohio River on the Belle of Louisville cruise that travels daily! Moving further through Louisville’s immense downtown, you will find dozens of sights with their own history and beauty. One of the best places for horse racing fans is Churchill Downs, a thoroughbred racetrack that has been open since the late 1800s. All in all, Louisville is the economic, cultural, and entertainment hub of Kentucky and it is a perfect place to witness the state's beauty no matter what you enjoy!
Georgetown
Combining historical and natural beauty, Georgetown is another beautiful city in Kentucky. It is the county seat of Scott County and home to a population of 37,000. While being quite a small town in the 1900s, the opening of a Toyota manufacturing plant in the city prompted quick growth for Georgetown. Thanks to this, you can identify the synergy of old town traditions and modern innovations throughout. Take a step back in time and Georgetown’s rich history spanning more than 200 years is visible through the many establishments and monuments in the city. The Ward Hall plantation mansion is one of the most famous sites in the city as it showcases the unique Greek Revival architecture style and has been standing since 1853. Similarly, the local Georgetown Scott County Museum is popular and houses many exhibits showcasing the region’s history.
Moving forward into the present and Georgetown has a wide range of beautiful natural sights that are some of Kentucky’s best. If you plan on visiting with family, the local Evans Orchard & Cider Mill is home to nearly 200 acres of family-owned land which is open to everyone. This mill offers a wide range of things to do with a petting zoo, rat racers track, and a large orchard to pick your own fruits. The nearby Yuko-En on the Elkhorn is a unique attraction that showcases the bond between Japan and Kentucky. This four-season garden houses beautiful sights such as the Tokugawa Gate, a breathtaking pond, and many Japanese-style bridges. No matter what you do, be sure to head to Bourbon 30 Spirits Distillery to have a taste of some of the region’s best bourbon!
Frankfort
The county seat of Franklin County and the capital city of Kentucky, Frankfort is one of the most important and beautiful cities in the state. It has a major impact on Kentucky’s culture and is a vital hub for political and economic decisions. The city of 28,600 people has a rich history that has developed since its establishment in 1786. Most of the Frankfort boasts beautiful buildings that showcase unique architecture from the 19th century. One of the most influential sites in this regard is the Kentucky State Capitol Building which has been a monumental establishment since it was built in 1909. The city also played a major role in the American Civil War, thanks to which you can find military establishments such as Fort Hill along the outskirts!
Apart from its deep-rooted history, Frankfort is also quite lively with many recreational options. The city’s 15-square-mile area has a total of nine parks, each of which offers a range of amenities. For example, if you want to enjoy a picnic along the Kentucky River, check out the scenic River View Park. On the other hand, for a more adrenaline-filled day out, check out Cove Spring Park with its archery range, nature trails, and more. The city also boasts some amazing public transportation routes and cycling tracks making it the perfect place to travel around and take in the state’s beauty! Thus, along with being the political capital, Frankfort is also one of the most beautiful cities in Kentucky.
Lexington
When it comes to the lovely hospitality of Kentucky, there are few cities better than Lexington. The county seat of Fayette County, Lexington is home to a bustling population of 322,500 making it the second most populous in the state. So, no matter where you go in the city, you can always find friendly people willing to strike up a conversation. The population surges even higher in Lexington during the annual horse sales. This is because the city is famous for its thoroughbreds and annual horse races which draw people from all over America. The event and horses are so famous that Lexington is often called the "Horse Capital of The World." If you plan on visiting during this time, check out one of the many race courses such as Kentucky Horse Park, and The Red Mile.
Apart from this, Lexington is a massive city in terms of size with an area of 286 square miles. This area includes everything from cultural sites and museums to parks and restaurants making it the perfect place to visit for everyone. If you are a nature lover and want to witness Kentucky’s natural beauty, the city has more than 100 parks such as the beautiful Triangle Park in downtown. On the flip side, for history enthusiasts, the city’s beauty is prevalent through the many historic sites on offer. For example, you can visit the Mary Todd Lincoln House, a tavern built in 1806 which was later the childhood home of Mary Todd Lincoln (Wife of President Abraham Lincoln). After spending your day out and about, cool down at West Sixth Brewing and enjoy some of Kentucky’s staple booze offerings.
Edgewood
While it may be the last city on this list, Edgewood is certainly one of the most beautiful cities in the state. Located in Kenton County, this city of 8,500 offers the perfect mix of natural parks, great eateries, and historic value. Thanks to this, it is one of the best places to visit if you want to take in all types of Kentucky’s charm. If you are a sporty person, spend your day at Freedom Park, which is always full of people playing baseball, soccer, or volleyball! Or, visit Full Throttle Adrenaline Park which offers unique activities like go-karting, axe throwing, and more. For a more peaceful day, take your family and friends to Presidents Park and enjoy a hike along one of the many hiking trails.
Once you have had your fair share of natural fun, Edgewood has many nearby tourist attractions that are perfect for an evening out. Namely, for history enthusiasts, visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, which explains African American history through unique exhibits. End your day at one of the many shows such as the Pickled Brothers Circus and Viola, for a beautiful day out in Kentucky!
Ranging from historical establishments built in the 1800s to modern parks that offer beautiful views, Kentucky has it all. Not only that, but each city offers a unique combination of history, nature, and recreation, so you can have fun no matter where you go. Moreover, with bourbon and horse racing present all around, you will always find the perfect way to end your day! So, what are you waiting for, book a trip to one of these cities and take in Kentucky’s beauty for yourself!
