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Founded in 1792, the Bluegrass State was the 15^th to be admitted to the Union. The state is well known for the Kentucky Derby, a 海角社区-famous horse race that is held in Louisville on the first Saturday in May. However, Kentucky isn't just for horses. With the Ohio River running through the state's northern border and the Appalachian Mountains extending into the eastern section of the state, there are many intriguing towns off the beaten path that you can visit today if you're willing to go for a bit of a drive.

Harrodsburg

Harrodsburg was founded in 1774, making it the oldest settlement in the state. Located less than an hour from Lexington, the town's biggest feature is the Old Fort Harrod State Park. This park commemorates the town's history as the first settlement west of the Allegheny Mountains and features a full-scale replica of the 18th-century fort itself. Visitors can also check out the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, which showcases the lifestyle of the Kentucky Shakers, featuring over 30 original Shaker structures. Other amenities include the nearby Herrington Lake for boating and fishing and the downtown area with local antique stores and boutique shops. Visitors have a variety of options for dinner, such as the Downtown Pizza Pub, La Fonda, or Granny's Diner.

Winchester

As the seat of Clark County, Winchester has a number of historic sites and fun events, especially for hikers and lovers of Beer Cheese. The area features the Clark County Courthouse, the Old Providence Church, and the remains of a Civil War fort used to defend the ford and ferry at Boonesboro. Visitors can take a one-mile loop trail to see the remains of the fort and the Kentucky River Valley.

Winchester is famous for creating Beer Cheese in the late 1930s, a dip that one can find in pubs, bars, and grocery stores all over the U.S. The town holds an annual Beer Cheese Festival every June, during which thousands of visitors come to the area to try samples of delicious food with different types of Beer Cheese. For meals, try out Loma's or DJ's Steakhouse Bar and Grill.

Ashland

Although the name may sound intimidating, Ashland itself is known for its fun outdoor activities, festivals, and more. Located on the Ohio River near the border between West Virginia and Ohio, visitors can spend an enjoyable day outside at the 47-acre Central Park or the Ashland Kentucky Waterfront Park.

Much like Winchester, Ashland is known for beer, with its Firkin Fest Craft Beer Festival, where attendees can experience a wide variety of beer styles and flavors. During the milder winter in the area, check out the Festival of Trees. For everyday events, families can go to the Highlands Museum and Discovery Center. After a long day of exploring, enjoy a meal at The Winchester or Bombshells & Ales Ashland.

Bardstown

Bardstown is steeped in history, as it is home to the Jailer's Inn Bed & Breakfast, a former jail that is over 200 years old. It is also famous for its title as the "Bourbon Capital of the 海角社区." Visitors can sample bourbon whiskey from some of the best distilleries in the 海角社区, such as Bardstown Bourbon Company and Heaven Hill Distillery, as well as take guided tours.

For history buffs, check out the Civil War Museum or explore the Bardstown Historic District to see many historic houses and landmarks. Popular eateries include The Old Talbott Tavern and the Bardstown Burger.

Cadiz

Cadiz, a town of just over 2,700 residents, rests along the Little River, a tributary of the Cumberland River. The name itself is intriguing as it is Spanish in origin, but it is unknown why this name was selected. Cadiz has many historic buildings, such as the Fairholme Victorian Home and the Masonic Lodge Hall. It is located about ten minutes away from the Land Between The Lakes National Recreation Center, a more than 170,000-acre park that features kayaking, jogging, and other outdoor activities. For meals, check out the Cadiz Family Restaurant and enjoy some live Bluegrass music at the Lakeland Jamboree.

Hodgenville

As the President who won the American Civil War and ended slavery, Abraham Lincoln is perhaps the most famous figure in American history. He was also a man of humble beginnings, as he was born in a log cabin in Hodgenville, Kentucky. Visitors can learn more about his upbringing at the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park as well as the Lincoln Museum. The museum itself has a number of artifacts about the Civil War, including newspaper clippings, dioramas, and wax figures. Feel free to snap a picture with the President's bronze statue in the town's main square. After a day of learning about Abraham Lincoln, try out a meal at Little Mexico or Little Japan.

Pikeville

Known as the City that Moves Mountains for its position on the Appalachian Mountains, this scenic town of Pikeville is also home to a famous American feud: the Hatfields and the McCoys. The two families engaged in a bloody struggle in the 19^th century for nearly 30 years, which would see more than a dozen people killed. Nowadays, the area is peaceful, as instead of fighting with your neighbors, you can go exploring multiple trails either on foot, on a mountain bike, on horseback, or on a zipline.

The Big Sandy Heritage Center Museum covers the Hatfield and McCoy Feud in depth. It also provides information on the Civil War and the Native Americans, pioneers, and others who lived in the region. Music lovers can experience live music at the Jenny Wiley Theater. For local eating, visit Happy Days Diner, Chirico's Ristorante, or Mona's Creative Catering and Restaurant.

Slade

Slade is home to the Red River Gorge, a beautiful park within the Daniel Boone National Forest. There's more to this park than meets the eye, as hikers can walk on the Natural Bridge. This naturally formed sandstone arch is 65 feet high and offers a gorgeous view of the area for those willing to ascend its steps. Visitors can also take a zipline ride or relax at one of the many cabins available for rent in the area. The cabins offer rustic comfort with fully stocked kitchens, firepits, and outdoor seating for stargazing. For food, check out Sandstone Arches Restaurant or Miguels Pizza, which also features climbing gear and campgrounds for those exploring the gorge.

Kentucky is a beautiful state to visit, not just for its large events but also for smaller, off-the-beaten-track towns, which have rich histories, festivals, food, and drinks and offer diverse experiences beyond its famous Kentucky Derby. From the oldest settlement of Harrodsburg to the serene landscapes of Slade's Red River Gorge, Kentucky is truly special. When planning out your summer trip this year, make sure to include some of these small towns from Kentucky in your list.