Why Travelers Are Falling for This Small Historic Town in Kentucky

As much as I love large cities, I'm always on the hunt for a charming small town to escape to. Life is all about balance, and I need to balance the hustle and bustle of city life with the slow pace of a small town every couple of months to keep my sanity. Kentucky is full of charming small towns that are all worthy of a weekend adventure, but few can compare to Maysville. This small historic town in Kentucky offers a little bit of everything and makes for a great family-friendly weekend getaway.

The History Behind This Charming Town

Nestled along the Ohio River, Maysville has a fascinating history that covers everything from Daniel Boone to Harriet Beecher Stowe. Daniel Boone and Simon Kenton founded the city, and its location along the Ohio River made it an important stop on the Underground Railroad, as Ohio (a free state) was just across the river. Beautiful murals have been painted along the town’s flood wall, symbolizing Maysville as a pivotal stop. Visit Maysville’s National Underground Railroad Museum to learn more. 

What Travelers Love Most About This Historic Small Town in Kentucky

Maysville is about an hour away from both Lexington and Cincinnati, making it an easy day trip from either major city.  The town’s population hovers under 10,000 residents, which is the perfect size for this small historic town in Kentucky. If you’re not planning on driving, there’s also an Amtrak train station right in the heart of downtown Maysville. The town itself is fairly walkable, but you’ll want a car if you plan to explore beyond Maysville. 

One of my favorite things to do in Maysville is to set off on foot. The Cummins Nature Preserve is in the northern part of town and offers more than six miles of trails to enjoy. It’s beautiful in the summer when everything is vibrant green, but boy oh boy does it take on another level in the fall. 

Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore in Maysville

Visitors will find plenty of places to stay in Maysville. I’m a fan of staying in the historic district, and something like this house in downtown Maysville is just perfect. Not only does this vacation rental offer extraordinary views, but you’ll be centrally located to any of Maysville’s restaurants, museums, and shops. 

Speaking of restaurants, one restaurant in Maysville you need to try is Delite’s. This 50s-style diner in downtown Maysville is the go-to spot for everything from pancakes to burgers. If you’re craving Italian, head over to Pasquale’s. Check out the Facebook page before you go because there are daily specials that might tempt you!

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planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner. Feeling inspired? Check out our full list of the most historic towns in Kentucky.