Not long ago I posted an article about the 10 most beautiful small towns in Kentucky, but it just wasn't enough. Many of the beautiful communities of the Bluegrass were left out, and some of the readers were upset. This time, I’ve made it a point to list the most charming small towns according to you, the readers.
Here are 12 charming, small towns in Kentucky you will not want to miss:
12. Paris
This small, peaceful town has been around a while. It was initially established in 1776, but the land rights were not recognized. It was re-established in 1786, but wasn’t named until 1789. It was named Hopewell, after Hopewell NJ, which was the owner’s home town. In 1790 it was renamed Paris, in gratitude to the French for their aid in the war. This quaint, charming town is much more serene then either namesake, and is a great place to "get away".
11. Russell Springs
Known as the Gateway to Lake Cumberland, Russell Springs is one of the most beautiful small towns you’ll ever visit. Named Big Boiling Springs in 1850, this charming town took its current name in 1855. That didn’t last and the name was changed to Kimble in 1888, but changed back to Russell Springs in 1901.
10. London
Established in 1826, this small town is quiet most the time. It hosts the World’s Chicken Festival, in recognition and remembrance of Colonel Sanders. It's also home to the World’s Largest skillet and a lot of country charm.
9. Glasgow
Riding through Glasgow can be like stepping back in time. Some of the beautiful homes still stand from the early 1800s. Each year, the town also celebrates its touch of Scottish history with the Annual Highland Games competition.
8. Liberty
Founded in 1806 by veterans, this small community has a strong sense of calm. It was not actually established until 1830, but people were still drawn to the area. Many residents have been there for generations, which testifies to its attractiveness. There isn’t a lot to get excited about in Liberty, except Liberty itself. It's a place worth visiting for sure.
7. Greensburg
If you blink, you might miss this town, and that would be a shame. It was originally owned by John Glover and was named Glover’s Station. This quaint country town was actually established under its current name in 1784, and still offers a quiet escape from the big city.
6. Glendale
This historic town has been around since before the official post office was built in 1859. It hosts the annual Glendale Crossing Festival each October, where a variety of antiques and unique goods can be found. The town’s famed Whistle Stop has been recommended as a great place to eat, though I’ve never had the pleasure of trying it myself.
5. Falls of the Rough
In 1792, George Washington settled around 5000 acres near here. The first actual home was built in 1823 by Willis Green, and still stands today. Indian relics have been discovered everywhere in the area, as the water made it a popular gathering place over the centuries. It still is a popular place to go and just relax and appreciate nature in a small community.
4. Columbia
Columbia was initially settled in 1802 and is still one of the sweetest, most traditional communities in Kentucky. While living there, a wonderful neighbor passed away. Almost the entire town turned out to pay their respects to Bob… He wasn't much for technology, so his casket was carried by horse drawn wagons instead. Traffic was backed up, but there were no complaints. That is a fine example of the kind of people that live there.
3. Ashland
Ashland dates back to 1786 and was started by the Poage family along the Ohio. It's another favored community of Kentuckians due to its peaceful, down home environment. It's said one can easily lose themselves for hours in the beauty of Central Park.
2. Bardstown
This town in the Bluegrass has been repeatedly recognized for its beauty and historic environment. It was initially called Baird’s town in 1785 and is still home to some century old architecture. This community is not only renowned among the locals, but has also been recognized for its amazing scenic atmosphere all across the US.
1. Danville
This small town was repeatedly suggested by readers of the first "Charming Small Towns" article, so here it is. Danville has been around since 1774, and is considered the city of Kentucky "firsts". It had the first "Kentucky" courthouse, post office west of Allegheny Mountains, and had the first state supported school of the deaf.
Visiting a small town with a lot of history can be an amazing experience. Kentucky has a lot of little communities that hold the state’s history within their borders. Not only that, but many have managed to hold onto that small town charm as technology advanced. If you're ever looking to visit somewhere that holds onto traditions and history, check out some of these towns. Please feel free to bring up any other charming spots in the comments.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!