Blackey KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Blackey, Kentucky.
1. Bow Barn Gifts and Antiques
ANTIQUING AND LOCAL FINDS
Bow Barn Gifts and Antiques offers a charming selection of vintage antiques and locally sourced gifts, making it a delightful stop for collectors and tourists alike. Housed in a rustic barn, the atmosphere is inviting, and each corner is filled with carefully curated items that reflect the region's heritage. Visitors enjoy browsing the unique treasures, often discovering one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
2. Lilley Cornett Woods Appalachian Ecological Research Station
NATURE PRESERVE AND HIKING
Lilley Cornett Woods Appalachian Ecological Research Station is a pristine old-growth forest featuring more than 550 acres of protected land. Visitors can embark on guided hikes through majestic hardwood stands, observing diverse plant and animal life unique to the Appalachian region. The station is a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers seeking an immersive ecological experience.
3. Roundabout Music Company
LIVE MUSIC AND VINYL
Roundabout Music Company is a local favorite where music lovers gather to explore vintage vinyl records and enjoy live performances. The shop supports regional musicians by hosting small concerts and community jam sessions throughout the year. Its cozy setting and friendly staff make it a welcoming hub for culture and entertainment.
4. Mann Farms
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AGRITOURISM
Mann Farms invites visitors to experience traditional Kentucky farming with seasonal activities like pumpkin picking, hayrides, and petting zoos. This family-run farm showcases the region's agricultural heritage and offers hands-on fun for all ages. Guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and fresh, local produce.
5. Letcher County Veterans Memorial Museum
MILITARY HISTORY TRIBUTE
The Letcher County Veterans Memorial Museum in Whitesburg pays homage to local veterans through thoughtfully curated exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can learn about the area's military history and the personal stories of those who served. The museum stands as a poignant reminder of the community's commitment to honoring its heroes.
6. Letcher County Coal Miners Memorial
COAL MINING HERITAGE
The Letcher County Coal Miners Memorial in Hemphill is dedicated to the miners who powered Kentucky's coal industry. The memorial features plaques and sculptures that commemorate the sacrifices and contributions of local miners. It is an evocative site for those interested in the region's industrial history.
7. Kentucky Mist Distillery
CRAFT SPIRITS AND TASTINGS
Kentucky Mist Distillery in Whitesburg distills small-batch moonshine and flavored spirits inspired by Appalachian recipes. The tasting room welcomes visitors to sample award-winning moonshines and learn about generations of distilling traditions. The distillery's rustic charm and friendly guides create an engaging and memorable visit.
8. Appalshop
ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER
Appalshop is a renowned multi-media arts center in Whitesburg, celebrating Appalachian culture through music, theater, and film. Visitors can explore exhibits, attend live performances, or listen to WMMT-FM radio broadcasts produced on-site. With its vibrant programming, Appalshop plays a vital role in preserving and promoting regional heritage.
9. Jenkins Coal Museum
COAL MINING EXHIBITS
The Jenkins Coal Museum takes guests through the history of coal mining in eastern Kentucky, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays. Housed in a building with historic significance, the museum highlights the rise of Jenkins as a model coal town. It's an essential stop for those interested in the economic and social roots of the region.
10. Little Shepherd Amphitheatre
OUTDOOR DRAMA EXPERIENCE
The Little Shepherd Amphitheatre presents live performances of 'The Little Shepherd of Kingdom Come,' dramatizing Kentucky's storied past. Set against stunning natural scenery, the outdoor venue immerses audiences in engaging theatrical productions. Seasonal shows draw visitors looking for authentic Appalachian storytelling.
11. Downtown Jenkins Historic District
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR
Downtown Jenkins Historic District offers a glimpse into early 20th-century life with well-preserved architecture and charming streets. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour, discovering the legacy of Italian stone masons and the coal industry's influence. Plaques and interpretive signs provide context for a rich and complex history.
12. Harry Caudill Library
GENEALOGY AND LOCAL HISTORY
The Harry Caudill Library in Whitesburg is a treasure trove for those researching Appalachian genealogy and local history. Its genealogy collection features handwritten family histories and rare published works documenting the area's past. Researchers and casual visitors alike appreciate the library's welcoming staff and depth of resources.
13. Highland Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Highland Winery in Seco crafts wines using locally grown grapes and fruits, providing tastings in a picturesque mountain setting. Visitors enjoy sampling unique Appalachia-inspired flavors and touring the historic winery grounds. The friendly staff shares insights into the winemaking process and the area's vinicultural traditions.
14. Mountainrose Vineyards
REGIONAL VINEYARDS EXPERIENCE
Located just across the Kentucky border in Wise, Mountainrose Vineyards offers a scenic retreat with lush vineyards and panoramic Appalachian views. Guests are invited to sample award-winning wines in a welcoming setting and stroll through beautiful rows of vines. The peaceful ambiance makes it a popular day-trip for Letcher County visitors.
15. Pine Mountain Trail
SCENIC HIKING ADVENTURE
The Pine Mountain Trail provides hikers with dramatic overlooks, diverse wildlife, and miles of well-maintained paths through Kentucky's untouched wilderness. Trekking along the ridge, visitors can spot rare plant species and enjoy expansive views of the surrounding valleys. The trail network suits all skill levels and is a must for outdoor enthusiasts.
16. Whitesburg Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Whitesburg Farmers Market is a community hub showcasing the bounty of eastern Kentucky farms. Shoppers find fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisan foods in a lively open-air setting. Regular events and friendly vendors make this market a favorite Saturday stop for locals and travelers.