Charm and authenticity shine through Kentucky’s Main Street communities, where the past meets the present in ways that will both delight and enrich you.

Stroll downtown Paducah, where folk art galleries and farm-to-table cafés line picturesque streets, then discover more artisans, chefs and mixologists sharing their talents along the riverfront in Covington. Experience the best of small-town Appalachia blended with the arts and history in Pikeville, then explore pretty parks and family attractions in Williamsburg.

As part of one of the oldest accredited Main Street programs in the country (formed in 1979), these revitalized downtowns both promote and preserve the historic architecture and cultural heritage that blend to build a unique “sense of place” in the Bluegrass State.

The Main Street program advocates a return of community self-reliance, local empowerment, and the rebuilding of downtowns based on traditional 
assets: distinctive architecture, historic character, a pedestrian friendly environment, personal service, local ownership, and a sense of place. 

The Main Street Approach is a highly successful, grassroots, community driven, comprehensive methodology used to revitalize traditional downtown districts throughout the United States developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and administered by the Kentucky Heritage Council. It is a common-sense way to address the variety of issues that face traditional business districts and help reverse downtown decline and re-establishes downtown as the community’s focal point and center of activity. 

Explore Kentucky Main Streets

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