White Plains KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near White Plains, Kentucky.
1. White Plains City Park
COMMUNITY OUTDOOR SPACE
White Plains City Park offers a welcoming green space for both locals and visitors to enjoy the outdoors. The park features a walking trail, ballpark, and basketball court, making it an ideal location for a leisurely stroll or family-friendly recreation. Its central location within the city creates a lively gathering spot for community events throughout the year.
2. White Plains Community Center
LOCAL EVENT VENUE
The White Plains Community Center serves as a hub for civic activities, meetings, and social events in the heart of White Plains. This 4,200-square-foot venue accommodates local gatherings, educational workshops, and special celebrations year-round. Its amenities make it a valued resource for the small-town community spirit.
3. Madisonville City Park
RECREATIONAL COMPLEX
Madisonville City Park is a premiere family recreation destination situated a short drive from White Plains. Visitors enjoy walking trails, beautiful lakes for fishing, picnic pavilions, and numerous sports courts for active fun. The park's scenic setting and ample amenities make it a popular spot for both residents and travelers.
4. Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FARM
Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf offers a hands-on agricultural experience perfect for families. Guests can interact with farm animals, pick pumpkins in season, and explore the fun mini golf course. The farm combines education and entertainment in a scenic rural setting just outside White Plains.
5. Thistle Cottage
HISTORIC MANSION MUSEUM
Thistle Cottage is a beautifully maintained historic home turned local history museum in Madisonville. Its exhibits showcase the heritage and culture of Hopkins County, making it a fascinating stop for history enthusiasts. Visitors can tour antique-furnished rooms and enjoy rotating art and cultural displays.
6. Hopkins County-Madisonville Public Library
COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE CENTER
This public library in Madisonville provides a gateway to education and culture for the Hopkins County area. Visitors can browse an extensive collection of books, attend regular programs for adults and children, and utilize computers and research resources. The library is a welcoming space fostering lifelong learning.
7. Cranberry Lake Preserve
NATURE TRAIL & WILDLIFE
Cranberry Lake Preserve offers nature enthusiasts serene walking trails that meander around a peaceful lake. Visitors can observe local wildlife, enjoy birdwatching, and spend time in a tranquil outdoor setting. It's an excellent spot for relaxation and photography in the White Plains area.
8. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park
SCENIC FOREST RETREAT
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park is a vast natural haven with hiking trails, a picturesque lake for swimming and boating, and a resort lodge for overnight stays. Located within easy reach of White Plains, the park delights visitors with birdwatching, horseback riding, and breathtaking forest scenery. It's an ideal base for outdoor adventure seekers.
9. Hopkins County Veterans Memorial
HONORING LOCAL VETERANS
The Hopkins County Veterans Memorial stands as a permanent tribute to the area's military service members. Set in a quiet, reflective location, the site features engraved monuments, flags, and commemorative displays. Visitors are encouraged to pay their respects and learn about the region's military legacy.
10. Mahr Park Arboretum
BOTANICAL SANCTUARY
Mahr Park Arboretum invites guests to explore themed gardens, wooded trails, and picturesque lakeshores spread over hundreds of acres. The arboretum provides educational signage, wildlife habitats, and peaceful spots for picnicking or photography. It's a favorite destination for families and nature lovers in Hopkins County.
11. Riverside Park
HISTORICAL BASEBALL STADIUM
Riverside Park is a historic wooden ballpark in Dawson Springs, known for its classic grandstand and ties to early 20th-century minor league baseball. Visitors can catch local games or explore the nostalgic atmosphere of one of Kentucky's most charming baseball venues. The park also hosts community events and outdoor concerts.
12. Adsmore Museum
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
The Adsmore Museum in Princeton provides a unique glimpse into Edwardian-era life through its immersive, period-furnished rooms and costumed interpreters. The museum regularly changes displays to reflect significant events in the historic Smith-Garrett family's life. It's an authentic window into Western Kentucky's past for all ages.
13. Lake Malone State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION
Lake Malone State Park in neighboring Dunmor offers hiking, swimming, and fishing along the picturesque shores of Lake Malone. Numerous scenic trails wind through rocky bluffs and dense forests, while the lake attracts boaters and anglers alike. The park's campground and picnic areas are perfect for family adventures.
14. Hopkins County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE GALLERY
This museum in Madisonville preserves and exhibits artifacts, photographs, and stories highlighting the rich history of Hopkins County. Visitors can explore themed displays about coal mining, railroads, and daily life in the region's past. The museum is a must-visit for history buffs interested in Western Kentucky's heritage.
15. Lake Beshear
FISHING AND BOATING HAVEN
Lake Beshear is a scenic, 760-acre reservoir near Dawson Springs known for its excellent fishing, boating, and kayaking opportunities. The clear waters and forested shoreline attract anglers, families, and nature lovers throughout the year. Several boat ramps and picnic areas make it easy to enjoy a lakeside outing.