8 Small Towns In Kentucky That Are Full Of Charm And Perfect For A Weekend Escape

If you’re looking for a small-town getaway in Kentucky, you’ve come to the right place! The Bluegrass State is full of winsome little towns, each of which brings something unique to the table. Whether you’re looking for a beach retreat, a weekend of historical adventure, a mountain escape, or a getaway to one of the most beautiful small towns in America (more on that in a bit!), you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for right here, in Kentucky. Here are eight small towns in Kentucky that are full of charm and perfect for a weekend escape:

Grand Rivers, Kentucky/Facebook

Grand Rivers is a little lakefront town that's just plain wonderful. A charming lighthouse, fantastic restaurants, and incredible outdoor recreation opportunities make Grand Rivers an amazing place to spend a weekend. While you're there, definitely stay at Lighthouse Landing, a postcard-perfect marina in the heart of Grand Rivers!

Berea Tourism/Facebook

A vibrant arts community located just south of Lexington, Berea is a delightful little mountain town. Areas such as Berea's Artisan Village and the Kentucky Artisan Center are great places to visit to get to the heart of the art scene. While you're there, you'll definitely want to enjoy meal at the historic Boone Tavern. First opened in 1909, you can also stay overnight in this stately Kentucky restaurant and hotel. The food is outstanding and the historic atmosphere is one-of-a-kind -- just like Berea!

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Visit Murray, Kentucky/Facebook

Known as the friendliest small town in Kentucky, Murray is a delight of a place. This college town is located just west of Kentucky Lake, and really does have it all: amazing restaurants, scenic beauty, and a welcoming, small-town spirit. When you're visiting, consider a stay at the Murray Inn and Art Gallery, a quaint little hotel that's also home to an art gallery.

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Greenville Tourism Commission/Facebook

Founded in 1799, Greenville is an idyllic little town located in western Kentucky’s rolling blue hills. Renowned for its family-friendly festivals, historic downtown, and Southern hospitality, Greenville is about as charming as it gets. Experience the splendor of this small Kentucky town by booking a night at The Wickliffe House, a historic inn located right in Greenville's charming downtown.

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J. Stephen Conn/Flickr

The river town of Augusta was founded in 1797, and it really is a true Bluegrass treasure. Home to about 1,000 residents, Augusta celebrates its business district, which is home to local retailers and incredible regional restaurants. Augusta's crowning glory is Riverside Drive, a scenic boulevard with unparalleled river views. Happily, visitors can stop and savor the scenery at Parkview Country Inn, a winsome, waterfront property that's positively enchanting.

FloNight/Wikimedia Commons

A certified Kentucky Cultural District, Danville is home to numerous historic landmarks, art galleries, unique museums, and wonderful restaurants. The perfect place to stop and stay, book a night or two at one of Danville's many B&Bs.

Visit Maysville KY/Facebook

If you're into history, you'll love Maysville, Kentucky. This splendid little locale is home to eight of Kentucky's 13 remaining covered bridges, including the iconic Dover Bridge. In terms of Maysville museums, the National Underground Railroad Museum, Harriet Beecher Stowe Slavery to Freedom Museum, and Kathleen Savage Browning Miniatures Collection at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center are all must-visits. Stop and spend a weekend in Maysville by booking a night or two at the French Quarter Inn, a historic and charming hotel.

Visit Bardstown/Facebook

There's a reason Bardstown is lauded as one of the best small towns in America -- because indeed, this lovely little Kentucky town really is exceptional. A superlative superstar, Bardstown is full of top-rate distilleries (the town is known as the bourbon capital of the world, after all), historic buildings (like My Old Kentucky Home), and beguiling beauty. Experience Bardstown to the fullest by spending a night at the Bourbon Manor B&B. Just be warned: once you visit Bardstown, you might never want to leave!

So, tell us: which of the small towns on the above list will you retreat to first? Where are your favorite places to go for a weekend escape in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments section below!