Many cities throughout Kentucky claim to be exciting, interesting, and filled with a cool factor that should make us all want to visit. We know our state well enough to know that these claims all have some truth to them, as Kentucky is, indeed, filled with cool towns and cities. But one particular town makes a very strong argument to come and spend time within its city limits, and we are absolutely on board. Berea, Kentucky is a mountain town in the central part of our state that has such an interesting history and plenty of artistic flair and natural beauty, that is really is just as cool as it claims to be.

From the early days, before the city was even known as Berea, this Kentucky town has had a wonderfully unique flair.

The city is known for historic Berea College, the first interracial and coeducational college in the South, as well as a vibrant community of artisans and an abundance of natural beauty. Berea has always seemed ahead of the times in many ways, and the city also clings to the traditions of diversity, social justice, environmental responsibility and community service and there's evidence of this all over this cool mountain town.

Many artists call Berea home and locals and visitors celebrate their talents and passion.

Areas of town such as Artisan Village and the Kentucky Artisan Center are great places to visit to get to the heart of the art scene. There are also several fairs and festivals throughout the year where you can browse, experience, and shop for a variety of items such as pottery, jewelry, instruments, paintings, glass, and much, much more. The most popular event is the Berea Craft Festival, which takes place in July at the Indian Fort Theater.

The town of Berea, including locals, college students, and visitors, all enjoy gathering for a variety of events all year long.

It's a festive town that is filled with spirit and friendly faces, and plenty of opportunity for socializing. Visit during the popular Spoonbread Festival in September and you can even enjoy a beautiful hot air balloon glow.

Many times throughout the year, you can hop aboard a trolley, which makes stops at all of the major attractions around town.

Owned by Berea College, you'll want to save time to enjoy a 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.

Also try a few of the local favorites, like Native Bagel Company. Stop here for breakfast and coffee before your day of exploring Berea.

In addition to the thriving arts scene of crafts, music and theater, Berea is also a place to find adventure.

Hiking the nearby Berea Pinnacles is an experience that can't be missed. The sweeping views are some of the best in the state and there are plenty of trail options to choose from. A visit to Anglin Falls within the John B. Stephenson Memorial Forest is also a must and stop by the Berea Welcome Center for all you need to know about the adventures awaiting you in this official Kentucky Trail Town.

Those who hold Berea close to their hearts will always tell you what an amazing place it is and what a lovely community the city has created.

And we are totally on board with this claim and have to agree that Berea is just a cool place to live, work, visit and make memories in the heart of Kentucky.

Berea's past, present, and future make it one of the coolest places in our state and a town that definitely deserves a visit. Have you spent time in Berea? What did you think? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on all of the happenings in this mountain town, visit its website here and follow along with them on Facebook here.

And for more on the wonderful hiking trails around Berea, check out our previous article here.