Whitesburg KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Whitesburg, Kentucky.
1. Bad Branch State Nature Preserve
SCENIC WATERFALL HIKING
Bad Branch State Nature Preserve offers visitors a stunning natural escape with hiking trails leading to a 60-foot waterfall. Nature enthusiasts can explore the diverse ecosystem that is home to rare and endangered plant species in this protected area. The preserve provides spectacular views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains and is perfect for photography and bird watching.
2. Kentucky Mist Moonshine
LOCAL CRAFT DISTILLERY
Kentucky Mist Moonshine is a craft distillery offering authentic Appalachian spirits made from local ingredients. Visitors can tour the facility to learn about the moonshine-making process and sample various flavored moonshines produced on-site. The distillery also features a gift shop where travelers can purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs of their Kentucky adventure.
3. Appalshop
APPALACHIAN ARTS CENTER
Appalshop is a multi-media arts center celebrating Appalachian culture through various mediums including film, music, and theater. The center houses June Appal Records, Headwaters Television, WMMT-FM radio station, and the nationally acclaimed Roadside Theater performance company. Visitors can attend monthly bluegrass music shows, view exhibitions, or participate in cultural workshops that highlight the rich heritage of the region.
4. Hemlock Overlook
PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Hemlock Overlook provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains and valleys. Visitors can enjoy the serene natural setting while taking in the spectacular mountain landscape that changes with the seasons. The overlook is an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
5. Little Shepherd Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN DRIVE
Little Shepherd Trail is a scenic 38-mile mountain road offering spectacular views of the Appalachian landscape. Travelers can drive along the ridge of Pine Mountain, stopping at various overlooks to admire the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding forests and valleys. The trail is particularly beautiful during fall when the foliage transforms into vibrant colors, making it a must-visit attraction for nature lovers.
6. Historic Downtown Whitesburg
CHARMING HISTORIC DISTRICT
Historic Downtown Whitesburg is a National Register Historic District that transports visitors back to 1912 when eastern Kentucky's first coal boom began. The area features numerous buildings showcasing the craftsmanship of Italian stonemasons who established their own Little Italy in Letcher County. Visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and historic sites while experiencing the authentic charm of this Appalachian town.
7. Harry Caudill Library
LOCAL HISTORY REPOSITORY
The Harry Caudill Library serves as a vital resource for both locals and visitors interested in Appalachian history and genealogy. Located in the heart of Downtown Historic District, the library houses an extensive collection of handwritten family histories and published works in its genealogy section. Visitors can trace their roots or learn about local heritage while exploring the library's rich resources.
8. Letcher County Recreational Center
MODERN FITNESS FACILITY
The Letcher County Recreational Center offers visitors and locals alike a modern facility for fitness and relaxation. The center features various amenities including exercise equipment, swimming facilities, and spaces for recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a workout, take a refreshing swim, or participate in community events hosted at this welcoming venue.
9. Carcassonne Square Dance
TRADITIONAL MOUNTAIN DANCING
The Carcassonne Square Dance takes place in a historic one-room schoolhouse built by the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression. On the second Saturday of each month, visitors can experience an authentic Appalachian square dance featuring nationally known musicians like banjo master Lee Sexton. This cultural tradition has operated continuously for more than 50 years and has been featured at prestigious events like the Kentucky Folk Life Festival and the Smithsonian Institution.
10. Kingdom Come State Park
RUGGED MOUNTAIN RECREATION
Kingdom Come State Park, named after the novel by John Fox Jr., offers visitors stunning natural beauty with its massive rock formations, dense forests, and mountain streams. Located approximately 20 miles from Whitesburg in Harlan County, the park provides numerous recreational opportunities including hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the park's highest point at Little Shepherd Trail or marvel at unique geological features like Raven Rock and Log Rock.
11. Devil's Bathtub
NATURAL SWIMMING HOLE
Devil's Bathtub is a stunning natural formation featuring crystal-clear emerald waters nestled among the Appalachian Mountains. Located approximately 37 miles from Whitesburg in Scott County, Virginia, this hidden gem requires a moderate hike that involves multiple creek crossings to reach the refreshing natural swimming hole. Visitors are rewarded with a serene setting where they can swim in the smooth, carved-out stone basin surrounded by lush forest.
12. Natural Tunnel State Park
ANCIENT LIMESTONE CAVE
Natural Tunnel State Park features a massive naturally formed tunnel that has been called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' and serves as an active railroad passage through the mountains. Located about 47 miles from Whitesburg in Scott County, Virginia, the park offers visitors a chairlift ride down to the tunnel floor or hiking trails with observation decks providing spectacular views of this natural phenomenon. Beyond the tunnel, visitors can enjoy camping, swimming, picnicking, and exploring the park's cave and creek systems.
13. Creation Kingdom Zoo
INTERACTIVE WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Creation Kingdom Zoo offers visitors an up-close experience with exotic and native wildlife in a beautiful mountain setting. Located approximately 55 miles from Whitesburg in Scott County, Virginia, this family-friendly attraction features animals from around the world with a focus on conservation and education. Visitors can feed certain animals, attend keeper talks, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while learning about various species and their habitats.
14. Jenkins Coal Museum
MINING HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Jenkins Coal Museum chronicles the fascinating history of this model city built by Consolidation Coal Company in 1912. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the construction of the town and the development of the surrounding coal fields that shaped the region's economy and culture. The museum offers a glimpse into the lives of coal miners and their families, preserving an important chapter of Appalachian industrial heritage.
15. Veterans Memorial Park
TRIBUTE TO SERVICE
Veterans Memorial Park stands as a solemn tribute to those who served in the United States military from the local area. Built in 2012 and located in downtown Jenkins, the memorial features monuments and displays honoring veterans from various conflicts. Visitors can pay their respects while reflecting on the sacrifices made by service members from this Appalachian community.