Mother Goose is a cultural icon and many of us likely remember learning “her” singsong stories and rhymes as kids. However, what some might not realize is that, here in Kentucky, Mother Goose is literally, well, a house. You may be familiar with the “Mother Goose House” in Hazard that’s been a popular roadside attraction for years, and it’s easily among the quirkiest places in Kentucky. If you love a unique roadside attraction, pack your bags, because this one is unforgettable.

We all remember the classic tales of Mother Goose. While there are varying stories regarding the history of Mother Goose (who may or may not have been an actual person), the legacy of these nursery rhymes and tales is firmly embedded in American culture.
Jarrod Bevins/Google Local
You may have heard the stories of Mother Goose growing up. For many people just hearing that name brings back childhood memories.
And in Hazard, Kentucky, Mother Goose is quite literally the town's centerpiece -- as large and in charge as the Mother herself!
Erik Michaels/Google Local
This town is not messing around when it comes to childhood fairytales.
The Mother Goose building was built in the late 1930s by George Stacy who was inspired to create it after a delicious meal of... goose. (Sorry, Mama G!)
Mother Goose House/Facebook
Despite that slightly disconcerting inspiration, the house has become a local icon.
Proving that truth is indeed stranger than fiction, this iconic destination in Kentucky has been through quite a bit in recent years.
Julie Ashbaugh/Google Local
The building has had many purposes and withstood many tragedies over the years.

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A few years ago, the Mother Goose attraction was turned into an inn where folks could come and spend the night. However, in 2021, a terrible storm ravaged the inn, causing what many feared would be irreparable damage to the iconic goose.
Shandria Brown/Google Local
Can you imagine staying here when it was an inn? It's a very unique story, that's for sure.
But in times of trouble and strife, Kentuckians always, always rise to the challenge. Because we're stronger together, and our state is full of helpers.
Mother Goose House/Facebook
The whole town banded together to save this iconic building.
Thanks to community efforts and generous donations, Mother Goose was repaired to her original glory, assuming her throne once again in 2022.
Erik Michaels/Google Local
It says a lot about this building's emotional value to the town that revitalizing it was a priority.
Today, you can come to the Mother Goose building for photo ops and to visit the gift shop, picking up a souvenir to remember your trip to this only-in-Kentucky attraction. Though, really, who could forget a place like this?
Julie Ashbaugh/Google Local
The best souvenir of all may be a photo next to these out-of-this-world building.
We take things quite literally here in Kentucky -- and we also have a sharp sense of humor. When in Hazard, drive slowly and watch for ducks... and geese!
Bobby Duff/Google Local
You never know what you might find when traversing the land of Mother Goose!

Curious to learn more about this quirky Kentucky attraction? Check out this feature c/o PBS on YouTube:

Have you heard about the Mother Goose House in Kentucky? What a wild, wonderful, and wholly unique place… you know, kind of like Kentucky. If you’ve been there before, let us know in the comments below. We love to hear your firsthand accounts of these unique experiences.

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More to Explore

Quirkiest Towns In Kentucky

CC | March 11, 2024

What are the quirkiest small towns in Kentucky?

This isn’t the only spot in the Bluegrass State where things are delightfully wonky. Many small towns have their funny little quirks that have been developed over time. If you’re looking for an offbeat vacation, consider checking out these quirky small towns in Kentucky.

  • Bardstown
  • Cadiz
  • Berea
  • Guthrie
  • Jamestown
  • Pineville
  • Augusta
  • Stearns
  • Bloomfield
  • Fredonia
  • Upton
  • Elkton
  • Wilmore
  • Princeton

 

What are the best roadside attractions in Kentucky?

Mother Goose isn’t the only roadside attraction worth visiting in the state. In fact, you could design a whole road trip on the unique and unusual sites off Kentucky highways. Add these roadside attractions in Kentucky to your next travel itinerary.

  • Flying Saucer "Futuro" House
  • Giant T-Rex
  • Kentucky's Stonehenge
  • National Corvette Museum Sinkhole
  • Kentucky Rushmore
  • World's Largest Bourbon Barrel
  • World's Largest Underpants
  • The Great American Dollhouse Museum
  • Florence Y'all Water Tower
  • World's Largest Crucifix
  • World's Largest Bottle of Booze
  • House Made Of Coal
  • World Peace Bell
  • World's Longest Go-Kart Track
  • World's Largest Roll of Sausage

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Featured Addresses
Mother Goose Inn, 2906 N Main St, Hazard, KY 41701, USA