Settled between two lakes in the mountains of eastern Kentucky, you’ll find the city of Paintsville. This city of note is located at the heart of the US 23 Country Music Highway. Paintsville offers a unique experience for any type of traveler, whether you are an individual country music fan, a family seeking outdoor adventure, or a tour group wanting to explore the rich musical and cultural heritage of central Appalachia.
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Local Events
Submit your event using the form below and join us in making Paintsville a lively, connected, and fun-filled place to be. Let’s celebrate together!
Stay A While
Experience true Appalachian hospitality with a stay in Paintsville. Whether you prefer the convenience of a modern hotel, or the comfort of an Airbnb, we have the perfect accommodations for you.
6 Must-See Attractions
Butcher Holler, Home of Loretta Lynn
The coal mining town of Butcher Holler (or Butcher Hollow), Kentucky, is the birthplace of country music legend Loretta Lynn. For any country music fan, a visit to Butcher Holler is a must-see, as it is a chance to witness the humble beginnings of one of the greatest voices in the history of country music.
Webb’s Grocery Store
The General Store near Butcher Hollow and Van Lear, Kentucky is a historic landmark. Built in 1918 as Mine No 5 Store for the Consolidation Coal Company, it is now on the National Register of Historic Places.
US 23 Country Music Highway Museum
For country music fans, the hills and hollers surrounding U.S. 23 are hallowed ground. This part of Kentucky has a long and storied history of music and storytelling, and it has produced more hit country artists per capita than any other region.
Mountain HomePlace
The Mountain HomePlace is an 1850’s working farm situated on 27 acres of land. It offers visitors the opportunity to explore and experience a unique slice of history with its McKenzie double-pen cabin, one-room school house, the old Fish Trap United Baptist Church, a blacksmith shop, and a barn with farm animals.
Paintsville Lake State Park
This state park lake in eastern Kentucky is an ideal destination for outdoor recreation. With its steep cliffs, wooded coves, and 1,140 acres of lake, it is perfect for boating, skiing, and fishing.
Dawkins Line Rail Trail
The Dawkins Line Rail Trail is the largest rail-to-trail in the state and is open year-round, stretching 36 miles from Hagerhill in Johnson County to Evanston in Breathitt County. It is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.
Join Tourism Director Jeremiah Parsons on ‘Pure Paintsville’ as he takes the airwaves at WKLW K94.7 FM, with radio host Adam Preece.
Loretta Lynn's Homeplace
Country Music Highway stop draws visitors ‘home’
- Kathy Witt, Kentucky Living
“Visitors paying a call at the Loretta Lynn Homeplace at Butcher Holler in Van Lear find the cabin filled with the furniture, mementos and touchstones of Loretta’s childhood—radio, ringer washing machine, photographs and more. No heat or indoor plumbing, but the butter churn in the kitchen is the very one Loretta’s mother, Clara Marie Webb, used to make butter. The hand-dug well outside is where Loretta drew water…”
Eastern Kentucky’s most visited attraction
Gear Up For Adventure
“You can boat and fish in ample, well-stocked lakes, hike and bike across rail lines and through tunnels, discover unique downtown merchants and eateries, and even walk on the world’s longest plastic bridge.”
Browse The Paintsville Guide
Experience Paintsville with our delicious food, accommodations, events, and local shopping. Whether you’re craving tasty to eat, looking for a comfortable place to stay, or just need a touch of nature to recharge, there’s relaxation waiting around every corner.
KentuckyTourism.com— the official site of the Kentucky Department of Tourism. We are proudly featured in The Official Kentucky Visitor’s Guide, so you can easily plan your visit to Paintsville! Download the free, interactive guide here.
You may also order a free copy or place bulk orders through Kentucky Tourism by visiting their site.
View the Interactive Visitor’s Guide
The Waterfall Trail
The Kentucky Waterfall Trail is a journey through some of the state’s most breathtaking natural wonders, and Paintsville is proud to be a part of it. From cascading falls to serene pools, the trail offers a perfect escape into nature’s beauty. Explore the hidden gems of the region, where every waterfall tells a story of time and tranquility. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a peaceful retreat, the Waterfall Trail promises an unforgettable adventure.