9 Most Hospitable Retirement Towns In Kentucky
From tranquil towns nestled in the Appalachians to vibrant communities along the Ohio River, and from heritage towns with storied history and charming architecture to stimulating cultural hubs, Kentucky offers diverse lifestyles suited to almost any retirement plan. With a cost of living below the national average, retirees have more savings to invest in luxuries focused on a better quality of life. Kentucky is also known for its homegrown bourbon, rolling pastures in the heart of horse country, and a unique brand of Southern hospitality. Here are the nine most hospitable retirement towns in Kentucky for settling down.
Danville
Danville is located in Kentucky’s Bluegrass region, not far from Lexington. The vibrant art scene makes this a top choice for retirees who love diverse cultural experiences and exploring their creative side. Spots like Paint Parties/Designs by Stein are popular gathering places where you can explore working with acrylics at instructor-led classes. The experience is very social and includes all your art supplies in the price.
Norton Center for the Arts is a cultural center focused on the performing arts. It is also a community hub for enriching experiences and sharing ideas through their Engagement Programs. Everyone is invited to participate in a diverse range of events, from creative conversations to jam sessions featuring visiting performers and artists. An exciting mix of classes and workshops is also ongoing at the Art Center of the Bluegrass, from “Bob Ross”-inspired painting to hands-on ceramics and culinary classes to advanced workshops for experienced artists. The center also keeps you connected to the local art scene through a series of changing exhibitions. Aspiring writers gather at the Boyle County Public Library for author-led discussions. Local writers share their work and offer constructive feedback in support of one another’s writing pursuits.
Bardstown
This retirement town was rated the Most Beautiful Small Town in America by Rand McNally and USA Today and holds the title as the Bourbon Capital of the World. With two impressive claims to fame that attract visitors from around the world, Bardstown has plenty of experience delivering authentic Southern hospitality. Flaget Memorial Hospital's park-like setting and healing environment help set the tone for welcoming healthcare where retirees can find quality care and innovative preventative programs. You are sure to receive a warm welcome when treating yourself to comfort foods or drinks in local establishments that combine nostalgia with modern twists on Southern favorites and jovial company. Whether it is steak burgers and a slice of mile-high meringue pie at Mammy’s Kitchen or micro-distillery cocktails at the vintage-chic Circa 1856 bar, you will find servers and fellow patrons mighty neighborly.
Bardstown events take town celebrations to new heights. Town volunteers come together to do their part to bring the Bardstown Main Street Program to life. People of all ages work side by side to make every celebration a success, offering retirees hours of community involvement to get to know their neighbors.
Corbin
With a motto like "Corbin Loves Company," you know this retirement town puts hospitality first. Located equidistant between Lexington and Knoxville, the peaceful town by the shores of Laurel River Lake honed its hospitality skills, welcoming nature lovers and outdoorsy types to Daniel Boone National Forest. With acres of parkland in your backyard, you can lead an active life, whether you follow the trails along the cliff-lined shores at Laurel Lake, fish for rainbow trout or walleyes, or learn to scuba dive in one of Kentucky’s deepest, clearest lakes.
The Corbin Senior Activity Center is dedicated to meeting the needs of the growing senior population, offering retirees access to continuing education programs and opportunities for involvement in activities that promote youthfulness and physical activity. Meet new people volunteering with the Friends of the Corbin Public Library to help raise funds for library services and resources. Sign up for a wide range of programs and events, from yoga to crochet classes, or join the Scrapbook & Journaling Club. As the hometown of Colonel Sanders of Kentucky Fried Chicken fame, you can dine at Colonel Sanders’ original 1940s restaurant and visit the museum just for kicks. Dining out is always a new experience at Seasons Restaurant. Their homestyle menu features classics like the Kentucky Hot Brown.
Berea
Berea is located in the southern part of central Kentucky near the foothills of the Appalachians. As the Folk Arts & Crafts Capital of Kentucky, the homey town is dedicated to sharing its heritage and culture with visitors and newcomers alike. Berea's CHI Saint Joseph Health has 25 beds offering medical care to locals for various requirements and specialties.
Socializing is at the heart of Berea, where the town welcomes visitors to join in its annual festivals throughout the year. The Arts & Crafts Festival gathers over 100 artists and craftsmen who sell their wares in the forested mountains, where the aroma of local food vendors and sounds of live music fill the air. Foodies wait for the Spoonbread Festival each year to celebrate this savory Appalachian cornbread-with-a-twist. An inspiring display of hot air balloons lights up the sky on the festival’s first night. A carnival atmosphere fills the entire weekend with food, music, rides, fair food favorites, and, of course, spoonbread.
Become a part of the folk-art community at The Kentucky Guild of Artists & Craftsmen, from volunteer work to participating in ongoing workshops. The Guild offers skills training for aspiring craftsmen and hosts events and exhibits to promote the creative community. The Berea College Forestry Outreach Center offers free educational experiences exploring the beauty of the Appalachians. From staff-led group hikes to morning meditation in the forest and evening star gazing parties to arts and crafts nights, you can join people of all ages, pursue new interests, and discover the beauty of the area.
Somerset
With its lakeside views and cozy spot nestled on the edge of the Mississippian Plateau, Somerset is all about social events and exploring the expansive outdoors. It caters to a wide range of lifestyles, whether you love getting out there and finding new adventures or prefer the role of spectator. Pulaski County Senior Citizen Center makes it easy to participate in meal, social, recreation, and exercise programs with convenient transportation to and from the senior center as well as other local places around town.
Retirees enjoy a full social calendar at Somerset’s diverse gatherings, including drinks and trivia nights at Makers Mill. This unique venue is a place for creative spirits and social butterflies who love discovering vintage and creative finds. Take on a DIY project or attend a craft show at the Pulaski County Library, or mingle with locals and visitors who share similar interests at town festivals, from classic car enthusiasts to movie buffs and foodies to music enthusiasts.
Experience Somerset’s waterways and scenic Lake Cumberland, fishing or riding the invigorating white waters at Cumberland Falls. Lead an active life, enjoying a range of outdoor adventures suited to any ability level at Cumberland Falls State Park. Grab your binoculars to join fellow birders as they listen for the calls of different species and spot them in the trees. Hike the extensive trails, whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along even paths or a faster-paced walk along varied terrain.
Fort Thomas
Fort Thomas is a suburb of Cincinnati on the southern bank of the Ohio River. Retirees can straddle two states, living a peaceful life in a Kentucky home while enjoying the big-city amenities of one of Ohio’s largest urban centers.
Fort Thomas is a friendly, welcoming community with events that bring the town together. The Farmers Market in Tower Park is open from April to December, boasting bragging rights as one of the top markets in the region. As a midweek event, you are sure to run into neighbors for friendly conversation, free from Saturday crowds.
The market shifts into holiday mode in December, offering unique gifts and high-quality products for your holiday feast. Slip on your ugly holiday sweater for the annual Fort Thomas Holiday Walk to enjoy the Tour de Tinsel Ride, light the Inverness Tree, shop in the Cultural Arts District, and finish the night at the City Hall tree lighting. Keep up to date with issues that impact retirement living at the Campbell County Public Library. Meetings cover topics such as Medicaid and Medicare, and ongoing events offer stimulating social activities, including chess clubs and DIY group craft projects.
Paris
Located on the Stoner Fork of the Licking River, Paris is a gem in the Bluegrass region. Its green pastures are home to some of Kentucky’s most notable horse farms, including Claiborne Farm of Secretariat fame. The combination of history and countryside makes Paris a peaceful place to hang your hat, with a twist of vibrant hospitality to keep you busy and social. Baptist Health Primary Care is ready to help manage chronic diseases and offer assistance with preventative care to help retirees maintain a higher level of health.
At the heart of the town is Made in Paris, a collective of business owners and community gathering places focused on promoting all things local. Retirees can get involved at Made in Paris cultural sites, including First Presbyterian Church of Paris. Everyone is welcome to connect with the community through creative workshops, the chess club, or volunteering to support local charity efforts. The group also holds social events, including Beer & Hymns at the Rose and Thorne Pub.
Lend a helping hand at Hopewell Museum, where you can immerse yourself in local art and history as a docent, leading school tours and workshops, getting involved in exhibit planning and installation, landscaping, or doing administrative work. You can learn new skills or share your knowledge. Indulge your inner bookworm at the Paris-Bourbon County Library by sharing your talents as a volunteer or attending library events. Writers groups, book clubs, group crafts, and “Garden Gossips” are just a few examples of the opportunities available on the social calendar.
Ashland
Ashland is part of the Tri-State area on the southern bank of the Ohio River near the borders of Ohio and West Virginia. The revitalized downtown area is pedestrian-friendly, where the murals of Art Alley showcase the town’s creativity and locally owned restaurants and boutiques offer Ashland hospitality. Discover the diverse exhibits at The Highlands Museum and Discovery Center, where you can explore the Country Music Highway, the legacy of famed female journalist Jean Thomas, and an impressive collection of town artifacts. Explore the latest collections at the center's Artist’s Corner, or submit your work for consideration as a contributor. You can also volunteer as a tour guide, assisting student groups during the school season.
Take in a show at the acclaimed Paramount Arts Center featuring the Paramount Players. The vintage theater is an Ashland landmark dating back to 1931, when people came from miles to view a picture show. Today, volunteers and local talent work together to produce first-class live performances and events. Ashland Senior Center offers services and social activities, including mental and physical exercise programs, games, lunches, and an in-house library service. Shop the Thursday Farmers Market for fresh produce and locally made ingredients, and discover the work of local artisans at the Maker’s Market in Broadway Square. Discover handcrafted items or sell your handiwork as a vendor.
Lawrenceburg
Affectionately called “The Burg,” Lawrenceburg offers a charmed rural life set against the green hills of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region. Its mainstay events infuse the downtown with a lively spirit, making it a popular spot for community get-togethers. Lawrenceburg’s cruise-ins along South Main Street have been a town ritual for over 25 years. From May to October, up to 250 members of the Wheels of Time Car Club line the street with their vintage, classic, and muscle cars in a display of motor power. Fridays from June to August are all about good eats and music at Food Truck Fridays. Walk over to Century Bank Park to sample food from various vendors, featuring local staples like burgers and BBQ, as well as assorted treats and ethnic delights.
Switch gears in September at Stave Fest, where a juried arts and crafts fair sets up along Main Street. The park also features live music, accompanied by a caravan of local food trucks and beverage vendors serving a variety of tipples and edibles. Take the annual America in Bloom tour exploring the creative landscaping and gardens in town.
Retire In Kentucky
These nine most hospitable retirement towns in Kentucky are warm, friendly communities waiting to welcome you home. Whatever you imagined your retirement years might look like, there are ample opportunities to find them in Kentucky. The beautiful countryside and waterways keep you active, while community events and town-run attractions provide a sense of purpose. Additionally, like-minded people gather at numerous clubs and centers to keep you engaged and involved.
