Maysville Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Maysville with our comprehensive travel guide. Find information on places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Maysville

Maysville, located in the Northern Ohio River Region of Kentucky, is a beautiful town that boasts many outdoor adventures and scenic views. Founded in 1787, Maysville has a rich history and culture, while also providing visitors with a range of modern amenities. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, Maysville has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Maysville

Maysville and its surrounding areas offer a variety of attractions to explore. Here are some must-see places in Maysville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kentucky Gateway Museum Center: This museum showcases the history of Northern Kentucky through exhibits about the early pioneers and industries that have shaped the region.
  • Rosemary Clooney Museum: This museum celebrates the life and legacy of singer and actress Rosemary Clooney, who was born in Maysville.
  • Washington Visitors Center: This historic site is the childhood home of President George Washington’s mother and offers guided tours and educational programs.

Natural Attractions of Maysville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Ohio River: Take a scenic boat tour or participate in water sports such as kayaking and fishing.
  • Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park: Explore the hiking trails, visit the museum, or play golf at this beautiful park.
  • Fleming County Covered Bridge Tour: Visit the seven historic covered bridges in the area and learn about their history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maysville

Maysville is an excellent destination for hikers and bikers, offering many well-maintained trails. Here are some popular routes to explore:

  • The South Fork Trail: This trail is perfect for hiking, running, or biking and boasts picturesque views of the South Fork of the Licking River.
  • The Maysville River Trail: This scenic trail runs along the Ohio River and offers beautiful views of the water and surrounding areas.
  • The Eagle Creek Trail: This challenging hiking trail offers stunning views of the Eagle Creek Valley and is ideal for experienced hikers.

Best Things to Do in Maysville: Activities and Tours

Maysville has many activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour: Take a tour of this historic distillery and learn about the bourbon-making process while sampling some delicious whiskey.
  • Ghost Tours: Discover the spooky side of Maysville with a guided ghost tour that takes you through the town’s haunted streets.
  • The Old Pogue Distillery Tour: Learn about the art of distilling and the history of the Old Pogue Distillery, which has been in operation since 1876.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maysville

A week-long trip to Maysville can be a perfect getaway. Here’s what you can do in a week:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center and take a walk in the Maysville Historic District
2 Go on a hiking trip in Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park
3 Take a boat tour of the Ohio River and explore the Rosemary Clooney Museum
4 Visit the Washington Visitors Center and take a tour of the Fleming County Covered Bridges
5 Enjoy some outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and golfing
6 Take a tour of the Buffalo Trace Distillery and the Old Pogue Distillery
7 Explore the Eagle Creek Trail and go on a ghost tour of Maysville’s haunted streets

Food and Drink Scene of Maysville

Maysville has a vibrant food and drink scene that showcases the town’s unique culture and flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Maysville Sandwich: This signature sandwich features sliced ham, turkey, and cheese, filled with toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles.
  • Fried Chicken: Maysville is famous for its fried chicken, which is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
  • Cheese Coneys: A local specialty, cheese coneys are hot dogs topped with a special chili sauce and heaps of cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon: As the birthplace of bourbon, Maysville offers a range of whiskey options for visitors to try.
  • Ale-8-One: This locally-brewed soft drink has a unique ginger and citrus flavor and is an excellent beverage to pair with your meals.
  • Craft Beers: Local breweries offer a range of craft beers that can be enjoyed at many restaurants and bars in Maysville.

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

Maysville has many accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular choices:

  • Hampton Inn Maysville: This hotel offers comfortable rooms and is located centrally, making it a perfect base for exploring Maysville’s attractions.
  • The Simon Kenton Inn: This historic inn offers a bed and breakfast experience and is located near downtown Maysville.
  • Campgrounds: Outdoor enthusiasts can find many campgrounds nearby, offering amenities such as fire pits and clean bathrooms.

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

Maysville has many local products that visitors can buy as souvenirs, including:

  • Kentucky Bourbon: Take home a bottle of bourbon from one of the town’s many distilleries and impress your friends with a taste of the town’s signature drink.
  • Handcrafted Pottery: Maysville is home to many talented potters, and visitors can buy unique pottery that features town’s traditional design and style.
  • Quilts: Maysville has a rich tradition of quilting, and visitors can buy a locally-made quilt that reflects the town’s history and culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Maysville

Maysville is a welcoming town that values its traditions and culture. Visitors are expected to respect the town’s customs, such as saying please and thank you and being polite to locals. Dressing appropriately for the weather and the occasion is also appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Maysville

Maysville can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is in the fall when the weather is mild, and the town’s landscape changes into a gorgeous array of hues. Spring can also be an excellent time to visit, with warm temperatures and blooming flowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maysville

Do:

  • Try local food and beverages
  • Explore the town’s many outdoor attractions
  • Interact with friendly locals

Don’t:

  • Litter or harm the environment
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions
  • Be rude or unfriendly to locals

Safety and Health

Safety in Maysville

Maysville is generally a safe town with low crime rates. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings, avoid carrying large sums of cash, and keep their valuables safe.

Health in Maysville

Maysville has many healthcare facilities that offer high-quality medical care, and visitors are advised to purchase health insurance before visiting the town.

Getting to Maysville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Maysville can be reached through multiple transportation modes. Here are some common options:

Airports Near Maysville

  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (about 75 miles from Maysville)
  • Blue Grass Airport in Lexington (about 60 miles from Maysville)

Bus Stations Near Maysville

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Cincinnati (about 60 miles from Maysville)
  • Jacksontown Bus Terminal in Kentucky (about 35 miles from Maysville)

Other Options

  • Car rental services are available from the airports and nearby towns.
  • Private shuttle service providers offer transportation from the airports to Maysville.

How to Get Around in Maysville

Maysville has many transportation options that cater to all budgets. Visitors can rent a car, take a taxi or an Uber ride, or use the local bus service.

Where to Go Next from Maysville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore the surrounding areas near Maysville, which offer many exciting destinations, including:

  • Lexington, Kentucky: Known for its horse breeding and racing industry
  • Cincinnati, Ohio: A metropolitan city known for its museums, parks, and sports teams
  • Frankfort, Kentucky: The capital city of Kentucky, with many historic sites and attractions

Conclusion

Maysville offers a unique and exciting travel experience that combines history, culture, and outdoor adventure. With something for everyone, Maysville is an excellent destination for a weekend getaway or a week-long trip. Be sure to explore all that Maysville has to offer, from hiking and biking trails to local food and drink, there is something for every traveler to enjoy.