Welcome to Traveler Heavens, your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Paintsville, KY. If you are looking for a small town with a lot of charm and plenty of activities, Paintsville is the perfect destination for you. There are numerous things to do in Paintsville, and we will be highlighting the top attractions and activities to make your visit unforgettable.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or cultural events, Paintsville has something for everyone. With our expert guidance and insider knowledge, you’ll discover all the hidden gems this quaint Kentucky town has to offer. From the scenic drives through the Appalachian Mountains to the rich history of coal mining in the area, Paintsville is a town that will captivate and inspire you.
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Our guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to Paintsville, so you can make the most of your time and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, let’s dive into the things to do in Paintsville, KY and start planning your adventure today!
List of Things to Do in Paintsville KY
Paintsville is a small town located in Johnson County, Kentucky. Despite its size, there are several interesting things to do and see in Paintsville. Here are some suggestions:
- Visit the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum
- Explore the beautiful Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
- Mountain Home Place
- Check out the Mayo Mansion
- Visit the historic Mayo Methodist Church
- Eastern Kentucky at the Coal Miners’ Museum
- Play a round of golf at the Paintsville Golf Course
- Loretta Lynn’s Birthplace
- Go fishing or kayaking on Paintsville Lake
- Take a scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains
Details of Things to Do in Paintsville KY
Paintsville, Kentucky may be a small town, but it offers plenty of interesting and fun activities for visitors. One can learn about the history and heritage of country music at the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum or take a drive along the scenic Country Music Highway. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, fishing, and camping.
The Mayo Mansion and Mayo Methodist Church showcase the town’s rich history and architecture. For those interested in the coal mining history of Eastern Kentucky, the Coal Miners’ Museum is a must-visit. Paintsville also hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Kentucky Apple Festival and Christmas in the Park.
Nature lovers can enjoy fishing or kayaking on Paintsville Lake or take a scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains. Overall, Paintsville is a great destination for those looking for a combination of history, outdoor recreation, and natural beauty.
1. Visit the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum
The U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum is one of the top things to do in Paintsville, KY. This museum celebrates the rich history and heritage of country music in Eastern Kentucky. The museum is located along the Country Music Highway, which winds through the region and features several historic sites and scenic views. The Country Music Highway was named in honor of the many country music stars who have come from the area, including Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, and Dwight Yoakam. The museum showcases the lives and careers of these and other legendary country music artists.
Visitors to the museum can explore exhibits that showcase the history of country music in Eastern Kentucky, including artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia from famous musicians. The museum also features an audio-visual room that plays clips of performances by local musicians. Special events and concerts are held at the museum throughout the year, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience live music and entertainment.
The U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of country music in Kentucky. It is a unique and informative experience that provides visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s rich musical heritage. With its interactive exhibits, live music events, and engaging displays, the U.S. 23 Country Music Highway Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paintsville, KY.
2. Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is one of the most popular attractions in Paintsville, KY. This beautiful park is located on Dewey Lake and offers visitors a range of activities to enjoy. There are over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through the park’s scenic forests, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area. The lake itself covers over 1,000 acres and is stocked with a variety of fish, making it a popular spot for fishing and boating.
One of the unique features of Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is its theater, which hosts performances of musicals and plays throughout the summer. Visitors can also take part in guided tours of the park, which provide insights into the area’s history, geology, and wildlife.
For those who want to stay overnight, the park offers a range of accommodations, including cabins and campsites. There are also several picnic areas and playgrounds for families to enjoy. During the winter months, visitors can go cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice fishing.
Overall, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is a great place to spend a day or a weekend. With its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and cultural events, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Paintsville, KY.
3. Mountain Home Place
Mountain Home Place is a unique living history museum located in Paintsville, KY. This museum provides visitors with an opportunity to step back in time and experience what life was like in Eastern Kentucky in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum is a recreated pioneer farmstead that consists of several buildings, including a log cabin, schoolhouse, and general store.
Visitors can take guided tours of the museum and learn about the daily life of early settlers in the region. The museum’s interpreters are dressed in period clothing and demonstrate a range of activities, including blacksmithing, weaving, and candle making. The museum also hosts several special events throughout the year, including a Civil War reenactment and a Christmas open house.
One of the unique features of Mountain Home Place is its emphasis on education. The museum offers a range of programs and activities for school groups, including hands-on learning experiences and guided tours. The museum also has a gift shop that sells handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Mountain Home Place is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and culture. With its engaging exhibits, knowledgeable interpreters, and beautiful setting, this museum provides visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the region’s past or just want to enjoy a day out with the family, Mountain Home Place is a great destination for anyone visiting Paintsville, KY.
4. Mayo Mansion
Mayo Mansion is a historic landmark and a must-visit attraction in Paintsville, KY. This stunning mansion was built in the early 1900s by the Mayo family, who were prominent in the region’s coal mining industry. The mansion features 42 rooms and was designed by the renowned architect Charles Alling Gifford. The building’s architecture combines elements of Colonial Revival and Neoclassical styles, making it a unique and impressive structure.
Visitors to Mayo Mansion can take guided tours of the building and explore its many rooms and features. The mansion is filled with antique furnishings, art, and other artifacts, providing visitors with a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Mayo family. The mansion’s gardens are also a highlight, featuring beautiful landscaping and a range of plant species.
One of the unique features of Mayo Mansion is its role in local history. The mansion served as a hub of social and political activity in Eastern Kentucky for many years, and several notable figures, including President Lyndon B. Johnson, have visited the estate. Today, the mansion is owned and operated by the City of Paintsville, and it serves as a museum and event space.
Overall, Mayo Mansion is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a unique experience in Paintsville, KY. With its stunning design, beautiful gardens, and rich history, the mansion provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s past and a truly memorable experience.
5. Mayo Methodist Church
The historic Mayo Methodist Church is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in Paintsville, KY. This beautiful church was built in the late 1800s and has served as a religious and cultural center for the community for over a century. The building’s architecture is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, and it features beautiful stained glass windows and ornate woodwork.
Visitors to Mayo Methodist Church can take guided tours of the building and learn about its history and significance to the community. The church’s interior is filled with unique features, including a pipe organ, a bell tower, and a beautiful sanctuary. The church also hosts several special events throughout the year, including a Christmas concert and a community Easter egg hunt.
One of the unique features of Mayo Methodist Church is its role in the region’s history. The church has played an important role in the community’s religious and social life, and it has been the site of many important events, including weddings, funerals, and community gatherings.
Overall, Mayo Methodist Church is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religion. With its stunning design, unique features, and rich history, the church provides visitors with a glimpse into the region’s past and a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re looking to attend a worship service or simply explore the building’s beauty and history, Mayo Methodist Church is a great destination for anyone visiting Paintsville, KY.
6. Coal Miners’ Museum
The Coal Miners’ Museum in Van Lear, KY, just a short drive from Paintsville, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the region’s coal mining history. This unique museum is housed in a historic building that was once a company store for the Van Lear Coal Company, and it features exhibits, artifacts, and displays that highlight the coal mining industry’s impact on the region.
Visitors to the Coal Miners’ Museum can take guided tours of the building and explore its many exhibits and displays. The museum is filled with artifacts, tools, and equipment used by coal miners throughout the region’s history, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into the challenging and dangerous work of coal mining. The museum also features exhibits on the region’s coal camps, including photographs, documents, and other memorabilia.
One of the unique features of the Coal Miners’ Museum is its location in Van Lear, a historic coal town that was once a thriving hub of coal mining activity. The town has since declined, but the museum serves as a reminder of the region’s rich coal mining history and the impact it had on the community.
Overall, the Coal Miners’ Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the region’s history, culture, and industry. With its unique exhibits, displays, and artifacts, the museum provides visitors with a comprehensive and fascinating look into the coal mining industry’s impact on the region. Whether you’re a history buff, a coal mining enthusiast, or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Coal Miners’ Museum is a great destination for anyone visiting Paintsville, KY.
7. Paintsville Golf Course
The Paintsville Golf Course is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves golfing or wants to enjoy some outdoor recreation in Paintsville, KY. This beautiful and challenging course is set amidst the scenic hills and mountains of Eastern Kentucky and offers golfers of all skill levels a fun and challenging experience.
The Paintsville Golf Course features 18 holes, with a par of 71 and a length of over 6,300 yards. The course is well-maintained and features a variety of challenges, including bunkers, water hazards, and undulating greens. Golfers will also enjoy the course’s stunning natural beauty, with views of the surrounding hills and mountains at every turn.
In addition to its excellent golfing facilities, the Paintsville Golf Course also offers a range of amenities and services to its guests. These include a fully-stocked pro shop, a restaurant and bar, and a driving range and putting green for practice. The course also hosts a range of events and tournaments throughout the year, providing opportunities for golfers to compete and socialize with other golf enthusiasts.
Overall, the Paintsville Golf Course is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy some outdoor recreation or a fun round of golf in Eastern Kentucky. With its challenging course, stunning natural beauty, and range of amenities and services, the Paintsville Golf Course is a great destination for anyone visiting Paintsville, KY. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to try your hand at the sport, this course is a must-visit attraction in the area.
8. Loretta Lynn’s Birthplace
Loretta Lynn’s Birthplace, located just outside of Paintsville, KY, is a must-visit destination for fans of country music and those interested in the life and career of one of its most iconic figures. The birthplace is a modest, two-room log cabin where Loretta Lynn was born in 1932 and spent her early years before moving to Washington state.
The cabin has been lovingly restored and is now a museum that features exhibits and displays that highlight Loretta Lynn’s life, career, and legacy. Visitors can tour the cabin and see the humble beginnings of one of country music’s most celebrated performers. The museum also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase memorabilia and souvenirs related to Loretta Lynn.
One of the special things about Loretta Lynn’s Birthplace is its location in the beautiful and scenic hills of Eastern Kentucky. The area’s natural beauty and quiet charm provide a fitting backdrop for a museum that celebrates the life of a woman who has become an icon of American culture.
Overall, Loretta Lynn’s Birthplace is a unique and fascinating attraction that offers visitors a glimpse into the early life of one of country music’s most beloved performers. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Loretta Lynn or simply interested in learning more about the history of country music, a visit to this historic log cabin is a must-do when in Paintsville, KY.
9. Paintsville Lake
Paintsville Lake, located in Eastern Kentucky, is a beautiful and serene destination that offers visitors a range of outdoor activities and recreation. The lake is situated in a scenic valley surrounded by rolling hills and provides visitors with a stunning backdrop for fishing, boating, camping, and hiking.
One of the special things about Paintsville Lake is its abundance of fish. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can also rent boats and explore the lake’s 1,140 acres of water or take a leisurely paddle in a canoe or kayak.
In addition to its excellent fishing and boating opportunities, Paintsville Lake also offers a range of hiking and camping opportunities. The lake is surrounded by the Paintsville Lake State Park, which features several hiking trails that wind through the area’s stunning natural beauty. The park also offers a range of camping options, from primitive campsites to modern RV facilities, making it an ideal destination for an overnight stay.
Overall, Paintsville Lake is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to enjoy some outdoor recreation in Eastern Kentucky. With its stunning natural beauty, excellent fishing and boating opportunities, and range of hiking and camping options, the lake is a must-visit attraction when in Paintsville, KY. Whether you’re an avid fisherman, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, Paintsville Lake is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience.
10. Appalachian Mountains
The Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky offer visitors a range of outdoor activities and stunning natural beauty. The Appalachian region spans over 200,000 square miles and includes some of the most scenic areas in the Eastern United States. Visitors to the region can explore the area’s rugged terrain, dense forests, and scenic vistas while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities.
One of the special things about the Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky is the opportunity for hiking and backpacking. The area features several trails, including the famous Sheltowee Trace Trail, which offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region. The trail winds through some of the most stunning areas of the Appalachian Mountains, including rugged mountain ridges, dense forests, and scenic waterfalls.
In addition to hiking, the Appalachian Mountains offer a range of other outdoor activities, including rock climbing, fishing, and hunting. The area’s abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes make it a popular destination for hunters and fishermen.
Overall, the Appalachian Mountains in Kentucky are a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of Eastern Kentucky. With its rugged terrain, stunning vistas, and abundance of outdoor activities, the region offers visitors a chance to experience some of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring areas of the United States. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, the Appalachian Mountains are sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a place to start your visit to Paintsville, KY, we highly recommend checking out the Jenny Wiley State Resort Park. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and range of outdoor activities, the park is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Eastern Kentucky. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, boating, or simply relaxing and taking in the stunning views, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park is sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience. So pack your bags, hit the road, and come explore all the exciting things to do in Paintsville, KY!
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