8 Offbeat Kentucky Towns To Visit In 2025
Venture to the Southern United States for some sweet Kentucky charm. From top-tier bourbon in Bardstown to mouthwatering Owensboro BBQ, satisfy the heartiest cravings with the state's culinary masterpieces. Embrace the peacefulness of Versaille's expansive horse country and travel by train through the panoramic scenery. Make it a memorable stay in 2025 with Kentucky's many offbeat small towns. Have a chilling adventure in haunted Perryville or see the birthplace of KFC in Corbin. The state is filled with peculiar adventures and lasting memories.
Midway
Midway is an endearing and historical railroad town. The quirky village features railroad tracks running through its old-world downtown. From adorable boutiques to delicious eateries, Main Street offers endless activities. For a closer look at the area's rich history, stop by the Midway Museum. The exhibits showcase vintage photographs, art by lifelong resident Sue Wallace, Midway's African American history, and Mildred Martin's family heirlooms.
Established in 1835, Bluegrass Distillers at Elkwood Farm is a notable Midway landmark. Savor some award-winning, locally crafted bourbon in the tasting room. Explore the barrel room or make your way to the mansion to check out the visitor's center. The surrounding landscape of Elkwood Farm is peaceful, with rows of heirloom blue corn.
Bardstown
Known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown is a quintessential Kentucky town. Kick off the beginning of September with the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Tickets include samples from over 60 distilleries, access to the Bourbon History Museum, and meeting industry professionals. For a more intimate experience of Kentucky's finest, stop by the world-famous Bardstown Bourbon Company. The company proudly produces some of the top-rated bourbon in the world. Take home a bottle and try the unique flavors from the Discovery Series or the Cathedral French Oak.
Founded in the late 1700s, Bardstown is one of the oldest towns in Kentucky. With approximately 200 historical buildings, it is easy to get lost in Bardstown's captivating past. Walk along the grounds of My Old Kentucky Home, a striking example of 19th-century architecture. The home formerly belonged to John Rowan Sr. and was an inspiration to Stephen Foster's song "My Old Kentucky Home, Good Night!. Throughout the year, My Old Kentucky Home hosts a variety of events. Drop in for My Old Kentucky Barbeque or ring in the spooky season with Shadows of Federal Hill.
Corbin
Corbin is an off-beat Kentucky treasure with an intriguing history. The city is recognized as the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Discover its magical beginnings at the Sanders Cafe and Museum. Tour the kitchen where Harland Sanders created the world-famous KFC recipe and browse an eccentric collection of KFC merchandise. Finish off with a good old bucket of fried chicken in the 1940s-style dining room. Pay homage to the man himself at Sanders Park. The painted mural and bronze statue make an iconic photo opportunity.
Home to many whimsical attractions, Corbin is an unforgettable destination. Coined as the "Niagara of the South," be in awe at the crashing waterfall at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. The cascading waters are mesmerizing and a serene break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visit during the full moon to witness the Moonbow, a rare sighting not to be missed. The Pinball Museum of Corbin is another odd yet family-friendly activity. Choose from over 100 different pinball machines. Feel nostalgic with classic games like Pac-Man, Street Fighter, and Millipede.
Versailles
Versailles is a scenic paradise in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass Region. The area has a comforting small-town feel and is highlighted by its many magazine-worthy horse farms. There is no better way to immerse in Versaille's landscape than by taking a train ride at the Bluegrass Scenic Railroad and Museum. Bask in the panoramic views of Woodford County and relax on this compelling journey.
Dive into Versaille's rich art and culture scene. Start with a visit to the Irish Acres Gallery, located in a striking 1930s schoolhouse. Venture around 50 showrooms housing a massive collection from furniture and bronze statues to crystals and fine art. Follow up with a satisfying meal. Savor fine dining in a fairytale atmosphere at The Glitz at Irish Acres. It is no surprise the establishment made an appearance in Southern Living Magazine. Select items to complete a three-course meal. The seasonal menu changes every few weeks to keep things fresh.
Perryville
Arguably one of the most haunted cities in Kentucky, Perryville is perfect for an eerie adventure. On October 8, 1862, Perryville hosted the largest Civil War battle in the state. Today, the grounds are an official State Park, and visitors can roam the area where many soldiers perished. Reserve a time to partake in a paranormal expedition at night and have a chilling experience on the moonlit battlefield.
Take a stroll down the charming and historic Merchants Row. The well-preserved district features original 1800s structures with the Chaplin River flowing in behind. Give a previously loved item a new home at Chaplin River Antiques. From fine China to old books, the locally-owned shop offers one-of-a-kind souvenirs. A few doors down, The Blended Tribe is another Merchants Row gem with Kentucky trinkets. Grab jewelry, home decor, or clothing to commemorate an incredible Perryville trip.
Owensboro
Indulge in Kentucky's finest at Owensboro, known for its legendary barbeque. Celebrate these tasty cravings at the annual BBQ & Barrels Festival and watch downtown Owensboro light up with excitement in May. Dig into endless BBQ and bourbon while enjoying the live music and a carnival. Travelers in Owensboro at other times of the year can still devour these famous flavors locally. Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn is a standout favorite, proudly named Southern Living’s Best BBQ in the State for 2022. Try the BBQ mutton, a Kentucky specialty.
Bluegrass music has been part of Kentucky’s story for generations. Take a journey to the humble beginnings at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. View old musical instruments, discover set items from the TV show My Bluegrass Story, and see all the superstars on the wall at the Hall of Fame Room. Dance to the music at the annual ROMP Music Festival. The end of June kicks off with four days jam-packed with Bluegrass artists serenading the crowd. Stay awhile and pitch a tent or RV at the campsite and bring the whole family for the free Kids Zone activities.
London
The annual World Chicken Festival is a fun-loving London oddity in this unique city. Festivities take place at the end of September and include vendors, live entertainment, carnival rides, and contests. Feast on crispy, mouthwatering fried chicken specially prepared on the world's largest stainless steel skillet. This one-of-a-kind event is not to be missed and truly encompasses Kentucky's iconic cuisine.
Tucked up against the Appalachian Mountains, London is surrounded by panoramic views. Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park is a breathtaking and lively area. Book a cozy cottage, unwind with a round of golf, dip in the pool, or hit the trails and soak up that crisp forest air. While at the park, peek inside the Mountain Life Museum. Journey through replica buildings that showcase Appalachian Mountain culture and the state's pioneer heritage.
Paducah
Paducah proudly holds the title of a UNESCO Creative City, one of just nine in the entire country. See Kentucky's artistic side at the National Quilt Museum. The massive collection is enchanting and bursting with color. Browse through hundreds of handmade quilts from worldwide crafters. Do not forget to head downtown to take a photo with the Giant Knitting Needle. This zany roadside attraction literally marks the spot of Paducah's quilting legacy.
Support the locals and the economy at the Art Guild of Paducah. Nothing beats a handmade keepsake straight from the source. The organization has a stunning ensemble of fine art, ceramics, photography, and stained glass. Join the crowd at the Lower Town Arts and Music Festival, hosted every year in May. Wander the streets and purchase from art vendors as well as delicious eats. The family activities and live entertainment will keep you smiling and laughing from morning until night.
Embrace the Quirky Side of Kentucky
Traveling through the South hits differently. Travel back in time to Bardstown, one of Kentucky's oldest cities. See KFC's roots in Corbin, dig into Owensboro's delectable BBQ, or head to London for the eccentric World Chicken Festival. Perryville's eerie atmosphere is perfect for getting to know Civil War history. Midway provides a glimpse of Kentucky's historic railroad ties. Indulge in a slower-paced life in Versaille's horse country or head to Paducah, an art lover's paradise. Kentucky is full of surprises around each corner.
