The 6 coziest towns in Kentucky to visit in 2024

When you think of Kentucky, some very clear images come to mind. Wide, lush, white-fenced pastures with horses roaming around; those huge “rick houses” where Kentucky’s famous bourbon is aged; and then, of course, there are the friendly people. Add to that the many cozy little communities in the Bluegrass State, and this state is one of the most welcoming places to visit in the USA.

Spread across a diverse landscape that includes everything from the Appalachian Mountains to dramatic gorges and waterfalls (as well as horse farms), the state’s small towns offer unique opportunities to experience a slice of authentic Kentucky. Learn about six of the coziest towns in Kentucky to visit in 2024. Each offers a mix of scenic beauty, cultural significance and community spirit.

Bardstown

Located in the heart of the state, just 40 miles south of Louisville, Bardstown is the epitome of cozy. Dubbed the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” 11 major distilleries have set up shop in and around Bardstown, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Southern whiskeys. In addition to sampling this popular beverage on tours of establishments like the Bardstown Bourbon Company and Heaven Hill Distillery, be sure to stop by the Old Talbott Tavern. Built in 1779 as a stagecoach stop (it once hosted Abraham Lincoln and even outlaw Jesse James), there are countless whiskeys to enjoy at the property’s bourbon bar, the oldest in the U.S. (cozy rooms are also available).

Another experience related to the theme is the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History. It highlights the city’s bourbon heritage and features exhibits about former presidents who were known to enjoy the occasional tipple. My Old Kentucky Home State Park is also worth a visit for its beautiful grounds and historic mansion. Downtown Bardstown is also fun to explore, with landmarks like the Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral and the red-brick Old Courthouse. Plan a visit in September to coincide with the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Festival, a celebration of the state’s bourbon heritage with tastings, distillery tours and live entertainment.

Berea

If you follow I-75 40 miles south of Lexington, you’ll find another cozy Kentucky town: Berea. Considered the arts and crafts capital of Appalachia, this cozy little town is home to Berea College, one of the oldest operating educational institutions in the country (and one highly regarded for its free education and promotion of the arts). The college gives the town a young and vibrant vibe, and its students get involved in everything from the town’s many craft and art boutiques, like the Kentucky Artisan Center in Berea, to helping out at events like the three-day Berea Craft Festival in July.

For the ultimate feeling of coziness, book a stay at the Historic Boone Tavern Hotel and Restaurant. Opened in 1909 to meet the demand for lodging that arose after the college opened in town, this delightful old hotel offers a variety of stylish accommodations.

Danville

Danville, just an hour’s drive southwest of Lexington, is a city rich in historical significance. The historic center of the city is the Constitution Square Historic Site, a beautiful three-acre green space where Kentucky’s first constitution was drafted. The McDowell House Museum is a short walk from here and honors the groundbreaking surgery of Dr. Ephraim McDowell, while a little further down Main Street, the Norton Center for the Arts hosts regular performances and exhibitions.

The city’s events calendar for 2024 is maturing with highlights including the popular Constitution Square Festival in September featuring local artisans and food vendors. For those who can plan even further ahead, plans are already underway for the Great American Brass Band Festival in May 2025.

Harrodsburg

As Kentucky’s oldest town, cozy little Harrodsburg offers a unique glimpse into the state’s pioneer past. In addition to its many well-preserved 18th-century buildings, Harrodsburg’s main attractions include the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, a restored site offering tours, workshops and demonstrations of traditional crafts. Old Fort Harrod State Park features a replica of the original fort built in 1774, as well as a museum with artifacts from Kentucky’s early history.

Geographical landmarks in the area include the scenic Kentucky River Palisades, which offer excellent views and opportunities for outdoor recreation such as hiking and kayaking. Additionally, nearby Herrington Lake is popular for fishing and boating. If you’re planning a visit in 2024, look forward to the Pioneer Days Festival, featuring reenactments, arts and crafts, and traditional music, as well as the Shaker Village Craft Fair, featuring live demonstrations of traditional Shaker crafts (both events take place in August).

Paducah

Located at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers in the southwestern part of the state and halfway between Nashville and St. Louis, Paducah has a lot to offer visitors. Major attractions in Paducah include the National Quilt Museum, with its impressive collection of contemporary quilts and textile art, and the Paducah Wall to Wall Murals, a series of paintings along the flood wall on the historic riverfront depicting the city’s history. The Yeiser Art Center and the Maiden Alley Cinema are two other major Paducah attractions worth visiting.

Need a good reason to visit Paducah in 2024? The city’s cultural calendar features several major events worth checking out, including the Lower Town Arts & Music Festival, featuring live performances, art exhibits, and local food, and the Paducah Riverfront Concert Series, featuring free live music along the city’s beautiful riverfront.

Midway

If ever a cozy little community earned its name, it’s Midway. The name comes from its geographic location “halfway” between the state capital of Frankfort and the city of Lexington and the towns of Georgetown and Versailles. About 70 percent of the entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so visitors will want to explore the Midway Historic District, with highlights like the Historic Railroad Depot, which now houses shops and restaurants, and the town’s unique Main Street, which is bisected by a railroad line.

Equus Run Vineyards, located just a few miles outside of town, is a great day trip destination and offers tours and wine tastings. Those looking for outdoor recreation should explore Elkhorn Creek, popular for fishing, kayaking and picnicking.

For those who prefer a more laid-back vibe, Kentucky’s small towns are the place to be. These charming little communities offer a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them the perfect destination for a cozy getaway in 2024. From the bourbon heritage of Bardstown to the artsy charm of Paducah and Berea, each town has its own unique character. Whether you’re looking to explore historic sites, enjoy local festivals, or just take in the scenic scenery, be sure to include these six coziest towns in Kentucky in your 2024 travel plans.