Pineville KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Pineville, Kentucky.
1. Pine Mountain State Resort Park
KENTUCKY'S FIRST STATE PARK
Pine Mountain State Resort Park is a beloved natural haven, recognized as Kentucky's first state park. Visitors enjoy over 15 miles of scenic hiking trails, cozy lodge accommodations, cabins, and spectacular mountain views. The park features engaging activities, including ziplining, golf, and access to breathtaking overlooks such as the iconic Chained Rock.
2. Chained Rock
LEGENDARY SCENIC OVERLOOK
Chained Rock is a striking geological formation and overlook perched atop Pine Mountain within the state park. According to local legend, a heavy chain was placed between two large boulders to prevent them from tumbling down onto the town below. The accessible trail to the overlook rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of Pineville and the surrounding valleys.
3. Wasioto Winds Golf Course
MOUNTAIN GOLFING EXPERIENCE
The Wasioto Winds Golf Course offers a championship-level, 18-hole layout nestled beside Pine Mountain State Resort Park. Renowned for its challenging design and breathtaking mountain scenery, the course attracts golf enthusiasts from across the region. Modern facilities and scenic fairways make it a standout for both casual and serious players.
4. Honeymoon Falls
SERENE TWIN WATERFALLS
Honeymoon Falls is a tranquil double waterfall found along the Honeymoon Trail in Pine Mountain State Resort Park. The gentle cascade and lush Appalachian surroundings create a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and photographers. An improved staircase ensures easy access to this hidden gem for hikers of most abilities.
5. Chain Rock Trail
POPULAR HIKING PATH
The Chain Rock Trail leads adventurers through a picturesque forest to the famed Chained Rock overlook. This moderately challenging hike includes scenic vistas, wildflowers, and glimpses of Pineville far below. The trail's fascinating legends and natural beauty make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
6. The Naming of the Cumberland River at The Narrows
HISTORIC RIVER MARKER
The Naming of the Cumberland River at The Narrows commemorates the river's historical significance near Pineville. A roadside marker details how this vital Appalachian waterway got its name and its role in regional history. The site offers insight into early exploration and settlement in southeastern Kentucky.
7. Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival
ANNUAL CULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival is an annual event rooted in the traditions and heritage of Pineville and southeastern Kentucky. The multi-day festival features concerts, crafts, a gala parade, a beauty pageant, and the crowning of the festival queen in a picturesque outdoor amphitheater. Locals and visitors alike gather each spring to celebrate the blooming mountain laurel and the community's Appalachian spirit.
8. Historic Bell Theater
RESTORED HISTORIC VENUE
The Historic Bell Theater stands as a beloved cultural centerpiece on Pineville's Main Street. This art deco venue, dating to the 1930s, hosts live performances, concerts, and classic movie nights throughout the year. Its lovingly restored interior and rich history make it a must-visit stop for those interested in Appalachian arts and heritage.
9. Railroad Tunnel at Clear Creek Trail
HIDDEN HISTORIC TUNNEL
The Railroad Tunnel at Clear Creek Trail is a unique remnant of Pineville's railroad past, tucked away within a scenic walking area. This hand-cut tunnel invites exploration and photography, surrounded by the lush landscape of southeastern Kentucky. It provides a peek into the area's industrial heritage and is a favorite for hikers and history buffs.
10. Laurel Cove Amphitheater
NATURAL OUTDOOR STAGE
Laurel Cove Amphitheater is a picturesque outdoor stage nestled within Pine Mountain State Resort Park. Each year, it sets the scene for the Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival's coronation and other community performances. The stunning natural acoustics and wooded backdrop provide a memorable experience for audiences and performers alike.
11. Pineville Main Street
DOWNTOWN SHOPPING & DINING
Pineville Main Street is the heart of downtown, lined with local shops, eateries, and historic buildings. Visitors can browse unique boutiques, sample regional cuisine, and enjoy the small-town charm of this Appalachian community. Historic murals and festive events throughout the year make Main Street a vibrant destination.
12. Hensley Settlement
LIVING APPALACHIAN HISTORY
Hensley Settlement preserves a historic mountain community just a short drive from Pineville within Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. This restored early 20th-century settlement features log cabins, schoolhouse, and farm fields that evoke pioneer life in Appalachia. Guided tours offer visitors a chance to experience the history and landscape of Kentucky's mountain folk.
13. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
ICONIC MOUNTAIN PASS
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park lies just outside Pineville, preserving the famed mountain pass that opened the American West to settlers. Visitors can explore miles of trails, visit the museum, and enjoy spectacular overlooks at this historic crossroads of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia. Wildlife, wildflowers, and historic sites abound in this beloved Appalachian park.
14. Bell County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Bell County Historical Society Museum in nearby Middlesboro showcases the region's diverse heritage through artifacts, photographs, and engaging exhibits. The museum highlights everything from Appalachian culture to coal mining and railroad history. It offers visitors a deeper appreciation of the people and events that have shaped Bell County.
15. Middlesboro Crater
ANCIENT METEORITE IMPACT SITE
The Middlesboro Crater, located in the neighboring city, is one of North America's few confirmed meteorite impact sites. This geological wonder forms the unique basin that defines the town of Middlesboro and is best viewed from various scenic points around the city. Geology enthusiasts and curious visitors can explore interpretive signage and trails explaining the area's dramatic origins.