Prestonsburg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and what to see in Prestonsburg, Kentucky. Read on for a comprehensive travel guide on this beautiful Daniel Boone Country destination in the United States.


Introduction to Prestonsburg

Prestonsburg is a charming town located in the heart of Daniel Boone Country, Kentucky, in the United States. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, vibrant culture, and rich heritage, Prestonsburg is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a food lover, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this picturesque town.

List of Places to Visit in Prestonsburg

Here’s a list of some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss while visiting Prestonsburg.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Historic Samuel May House Museum
  • The Mountain Arts Center
  • Floyd County Historical Society and Museum
  • Archer Park
  • Middle Creek National Battlefield

Natural Attractions of Prestonsburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
  • StoneCrest Golf Course
  • Dewey Lake
  • Paintsville Lake State Park
  • Fishtrap Lake State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Prestonsburg

Prestonsburg is a nature lover’s paradise, offering some of the best hiking and biking trails in the region. Here are some of the best routes to check out:

  • The Dawkins Line Rail Trail
  • The Jenny Wiley State Resort Park Trails
  • The John A. Blackburn Trail
  • The Mountain Parkway Trail

Best Things to Do in Prestonsburg: Activities and Tours

  • Take a tour of the Historic Samuel May House Museum
  • Watch a live performance at the Mountain Arts Center
  • Attend a festival or event, such as the Pigskin Classic or the Kentucky Apple Festival
  • Go fishing or boating at Dewey Lake
  • Play a round of golf at StoneCrest Golf Course

Week-Long Itinerary for Prestonsburg

Day 1: Visit the Historic Samuel May House Museum and Archer Park Day 2: Hiking in the Jenny Wiley State Resort Park Day 3: Visit the Mountain Arts Center and attend a show Day 4: Visit the Floyd County Historical Society and Museum Day 5: Spend the day at Dewey Lake Day 6: Go golfing at StoneCrest Golf Course Day 7: Explore the Dawkins Line Rail Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Prestonsburg

No trip to Prestonsburg is complete without trying some of the local cuisine and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks in the area:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kentucky Hot Brown
  • Fried chicken
  • Bourbon balls
  • Derby pie
  • Spoonbread

Local Beverages

  • Kentucky bourbon
  • Ale-8-One

Where to Stay in Prestonsburg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some great accommodation options in Prestonsburg:

  • Comfort Suites Prestonsburg
  • Brookshire Inn Prestonsburg
  • Jenny Wiley State Resort Park
  • Hilton Garden Inn Pikeville

What to Buy in Prestonsburg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Kentucky bourbon
  • Handcrafted art and jewelry
  • Local honey and maple syrup
  • Handwoven baskets
  • Quilts and other textiles

Local Culture and Customs of Prestonsburg

Prestonsburg is a town with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind include:

  • People in Prestonsburg tend to be friendly and welcoming, so don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation.
  • Kentucky is known for its horse racing, so you might want to catch a race while you’re in town.
  • The state is also famous for its bourbon, so you might want to try some of the local distilleries.

Best Time to Visit Prestonsburg

The best time to visit Prestonsburg is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild, and the colors are at their most vibrant. The summer months can be hot and humid, while the winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Prestonsburg

Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure a pleasant experience in Prestonsburg:

Do:

  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
  • Try some of the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to the local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to tip your waitstaff and service providers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Prestonsburg

Prestonsburg is generally a safe town for visitors, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions, such as not leaving valuables in your car and locking your doors and windows.

Health in Prestonsburg

Visitors to Prestonsburg should ensure that they have adequate medical insurance coverage before traveling. There are several medical facilities in the area, including Highlands Regional Medical Center and the Prestonsburg Health Care Clinic.

Getting to Prestonsburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Prestonsburg is easily accessible by car or bus. Some of the transportation options available include:

Airports Near Prestonsburg

  • Tri-State Airport (HTS)
  • Blue Grass Airport (LEX)
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)

Bus Stations Near Prestonsburg

  • Greyhound Bus Station
  • Mountain Transit Authority

Other Options

  • Renting a car
  • Taking a taxi or rideshare service

How to Get Around in Prestonsburg

The best way to get around Prestonsburg is by car. Taxis and rideshare services are also available in the area.

Where to Go Next from Prestonsburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that you might want to check out:

  • The Red River Gorge
  • The Daniel Boone National Forest
  • Natural Bridge State Resort Park
  • Breaks Interstate Park

Conclusion

From its stunning natural scenery to its rich cultural heritage, Prestonsburg is a destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, history and culture, or great food and drink, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this charming town in Kentucky.