Hazard KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Hazard, Kentucky.
1. Mother Goose House
WHIMSICAL ARCHITECTURAL WONDER
The Mother Goose House in Hazard is a quirky architectural landmark designed to look like a giant goose, built by George Stacy who started working on it in 1935 using a goose skeleton to build the home to scale. This unique structure was completed in 1940 and contains rocks from many US states and Canada, standing as a monument to imagination and creative genius. The house has gained worldwide attention, being featured in the New York Times, on the Oprah Winfrey Show, and on Home and Garden Television's 'Extreme Homes'.
2. Bobby Davis Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Bobby Davis Museum is one of the top attractions in Hazard, offering visitors a glimpse into the local history and heritage of the region. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of Hazard and Perry County's past. The museum serves as an important cultural institution that preserves the unique historical legacy of this Kentucky mountain community.
3. Perry County Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Perry County Park stands as a recreational lover's paradise in Hazard, offering an array of amenities to cater to every outdoor enthusiast. The park is a testament to the county's commitment to providing top-notch outdoor facilities for visitors and locals alike. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails and various outdoor recreation activities in this beautiful natural setting.
4. Holliday Farm and Garden
RURAL AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Holliday Farm and Garden is a popular attraction in Hazard that offers visitors a chance to experience rural agricultural life in Eastern Kentucky. The farm showcases traditional farming methods, seasonal produce, and beautiful garden displays that highlight the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can learn about sustainable farming practices while enjoying the serene countryside atmosphere that characterizes this part of Kentucky.
5. Art of the Mountains Quilt Trail
COLORFUL CULTURAL HERITAGE
The Art of the Mountains Quilt Trail features approximately 40 painted quilt blocks, each measuring 4' x 4', displayed throughout the Hazard region. These colorful works of art celebrate the rich quilting traditions of Appalachia, transforming the landscape into an outdoor gallery. Visitors can follow the trail to discover these beautiful painted quilt patterns that honor the cultural heritage and artistic traditions of Eastern Kentucky.
6. Challenger Learning Center of Kentucky
SPACE EDUCATION HUB
The Challenger Learning Center of Kentucky is a state-of-the-art space technology learning center located in Hazard. This educational facility offers immersive programs for students and includes summer camps that are open to the public, providing hands-on experiences related to space exploration and science. Located at 1 Community College Drive, the center inspires curiosity about space and fosters interest in STEM fields among visitors of all ages.
7. Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR GETAWAY
Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, located a few miles north of Hazard, is a pristine Kentucky State Park known for its clean facilities and beautiful natural surroundings. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, boating, hiking, horseshoes, playgrounds for children, and miniature golf for family fun. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's well-maintained trails that showcase the scenic beauty of Eastern Kentucky's landscape.
8. Appalachian Apparel Co.
LOCAL FASHION AND CULTURE
Appalachian Apparel Co. is a popular specialty shop in Hazard that showcases locally-inspired clothing and accessories celebrating the region's unique culture. Visitors can browse through a selection of Appalachian-themed merchandise that makes for perfect souvenirs or gifts representing Eastern Kentucky. The shop serves as a creative outlet for local designers and artists while offering tourists an authentic piece of Appalachian heritage to take home.
9. Battle of Leatherwood Site & Reenactment
CIVIL WAR HISTORICAL EXPERIENCE
The Battle of Leatherwood Site in Hazard commemorates a significant Civil War conflict that took place in Perry County, preserving an important piece of local and national history. Visitors can explore the battlefield where Union and Confederate forces clashed, learning about the strategic importance of Eastern Kentucky during the Civil War through interpretive displays. The site hosts periodic reenactments that bring history to life, allowing guests to witness the sights and sounds of this historic battle.
10. Buckhorn Lake Area Presbyterian Church Log Cathedral
HISTORIC RUSTIC SANCTUARY
The Buckhorn Lake Area Presbyterian Church Log Cathedral is an amazing church built in 1928 from white oak harvested from the surrounding forests. This architectural marvel stands as the center of the small mountain town of Buckhorn near Hazard, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and historical significance. Visitors can admire the rustic beauty and spiritual ambiance of this unique log structure that represents an important part of the area's religious heritage.
11. Daniel Boone National Forest
VAST WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Daniel Boone National Forest offers visitors to the Hazard area access to over 708,000 acres of protected wilderness spanning across eastern Kentucky. The forest features countless hiking trails, pristine streams, waterfalls, and dramatic cliff lines that showcase the natural beauty of the Appalachian region. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities ranging from hiking and camping to rock climbing and wildlife viewing in this expansive natural treasure.
12. First Baptist Church
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS LANDMARK
First Baptist Church is a notable religious landmark in Hazard that showcases beautiful architecture and serves as an important spiritual center for the community. The church's interior features impressive design elements including stained glass windows that tell biblical stories through vibrant colors and images. Visitors interested in religious architecture or local community hubs will appreciate this historic church that has been a cornerstone of Hazard for generations.
13. Specialty Shops District
LOCAL CRAFTS AND GOODS
The Specialty Shops District in Hazard features a collection of unique local businesses offering authentic Appalachian crafts, goods, and souvenirs. Visitors can explore various shops selling handmade items, regional foods, mountain crafts, and other distinctive merchandise that represents the cultural heritage of Eastern Kentucky. Shopping in this district provides an opportunity to support local artisans while discovering one-of-a-kind treasures that capture the spirit of Appalachia.
14. Perry County Wildlife Management Area
NATURE AND WILDLIFE HAVEN
Perry County Wildlife Management Area near Hazard offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to experience the diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife of Eastern Kentucky. The area features numerous trails for hiking and wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot native species in their natural habitat. Nature photographers and birdwatchers will particularly appreciate this undeveloped wilderness area that showcases the natural beauty of the Appalachian region.
15. Hazard Pavilion
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER
The Hazard Pavilion serves as a comprehensive recreation center offering various indoor activities and facilities for visitors and locals alike. The center features swimming pools, fitness equipment, and sports courts that provide recreational opportunities regardless of weather conditions. Families visiting Hazard appreciate this versatile facility that offers entertainment options complementing the region's abundant outdoor attractions.