There are so many delightful small towns in Kentucky, each one deserving of the spotlight. Today, we’re giving Danville its 15 minutes of fame, as this little locale truly is a treasure. A certified Kentucky Cultural District, Danville is a delightful town that’s home to numerous historic landmarks, art galleries, unique museums, and wonderful restaurants. During the winter, Danville is especially charming, with the town adorned in twinkle lights and holiday decor.

Hailed as the Birthplace of Kentucky, Danville is a town of about 17,000 in the heart of the Bluegrass State. On December 4, 1787, the Virginia Legislature established Danville as a town... in Virginia.
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
Danville became a part of the Commonwealth of Kentucky when Kentucky became a state in 1792.
"The City of Firsts," Danville was the location of the first Courthouse in Kentucky (1785), the first U.S. Post Office west of the Alleghenies (1792), the first Capital of Kentucky (1785), and the first Political Club in the West (1786).
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
In other "firsts," Danville was also the location of the first college in the West (1783) and the first law school in the West (1799).
As a result, historical plaques and statues fill the town, putting Danville's history on proud display -- and these areas are especially beguiling during the winter months when the Bluegrass skies shine bold cobalt blue and twinkle lights fill the town.
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
Constitution Square is one of the most notable sites in town and is a must-visit when exploring. Danville is the "Birthplace of the Bluegrass" since the first Constitutional Convention in the West was held at Constitution Square in 1792 when Kentucky's first Constitution was signed.
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
Today, a stately bronze statue of two friends embracing, adorned with the state motto "United We Stand, Divided We Fall" and surrounded by carefully preserved and restored frame buildings, marks this historic spot.

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Other historic points of interest in town include the Abraham Lincoln Museum, Watts-Bell House, the Boyle County Courthouse, and nearby Perryville Battlefield, the site of the state's bloodiest Civil War battle.
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
There's a lot of history in Danville, some of it quite heavy, but during the quiet months of winter, a peaceful beauty permeates this historic town.
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
Of course, the town itself exuberantly embraces the cold weather season, with Danville's charming shops and small businesses providing lots of ways to shop locally all winter long!
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
The town itself celebrates with holiday lights, live music throughout the season, and even an annual Christmas parade. Popular hang-outs like Morley's Backyard keep cozy fires crackling and twinkle lights twinkling all winter long.
Destination Danville, Ky / Facebook
The perfect place to stop and stay this winter, book a night or two at one of Danville's cozy inns, like Chaplin Hill Bed and Breakfast, and be prepared to fall in love with this delightful Kentucky town!
Rob Moler / Google Reviews


Enjoy a walk around the historic town of Danville, KY in this video from Sights, Sounds, And Flavors:

Winter in Kentucky is especially picturesque, and the charming town of Danville is especially nice. Have you visited Danville, Kentucky, during the winter months? What are some of your favorite small towns in Kentucky? Share a story or two in the comments.

Continue your small-town adventures by reading about this picture-perfect town that truly comes alive during the winter season and makes for a delightful day trip or weekend getaway in Kentucky.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Places To Eat In Danville, KY

Chris Muras | November 15, 2023

What are some restaurants in Danville, KY?
Danville is a smaller city but big on entertainment and dining options. Here are a few fun and unique restaurants in Danville, KY you should really check out:

  • La Cosa Nostra: This fascinating and fun restaurant is located in an old bank that was built in the 1880s. Not only will you dine in a historic bank, but you'll also have the opportunity to be seated in the bank vault itself! La Cosa Nostra takes fine Italian dining to a somewhat weird but wonderful place that is sure to make memories.
  • Grace Cafe: This charming restaurant in Danville prides itself on fresh, locally sourced food that comes at a fair price. In fact, you can decide the price! Everyone is welcome and the prices listed on the menu are "suggested" prices, meaning you can pay what you can, help out the next guest by paying it forward, or even volunteer to help out in the restaurant for 30 minutes to cover your meal. On top of that, kids always eat free.
  • Copper and Oak: This high-end burger joint features some of the best craft burgers in the area. With a wide selection of bourbon and craft beers to accompany your burger, you'll be sure to enjoy your evening to the fullest. The atmosphere is reminiscent of an old speakeasy, which makes for a fun vibe to enjoy a meal and a drink. As part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you can make a tasty pitstop along your tour of the finest bourbon distilleries in the nation.

If you love trying new places to eat, here are a few more little-known restaurants in Kentucky that are worth hunting down for a good meal.

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