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Whether you love spending a night camped out under the stars or devouring a plate of finger-licking-good barbecue ribs, there’s somewhere for you to spend some leisure time in eastern Kentucky. Here are a few awesome things to do around Paintsville.
Connect with Nature at Paintsville Lake
If you love the great outdoors, pack up the car and head to Paintsville Lake State Park in nearby Staffordsville. There are 1,140 acres to explore and plenty of things to do right here. Camp at one of the RV or primitive walk-in sites, enjoy a lake view picnic, or romp around the two playgrounds. Launch your boat and go fishing in the lake. If you don’t have your own, rent a pontoon, fishing, or peddle-boat from the park’s full-service marina.
Take a stroll on one of three scenic walking paths, including the Kiwanis Trail. It runs 1.6-miles along the shoreline past steep cliffs and wooded coves. The 18-mile Dawkins Line Rail Trail stretches from Johnson to Magoffin Counties and is open to hikers, bikers, and equestrians.
Explore the Coal Miners’ Museum
Located just 15-minutes south of Paintsville lies the home of Van Lear’s Coal Miners’ Museum. This gallery shares the wonderful story of Appalachian history with guests of all ages. It’s the area’s premier display of artifacts and memorabilia from the town’s coal-mining community of the 1920s and 1930s.
It currently houses several collections, including coal mining tools, a 1950s soda fountain, and works of art, plus replicas of an infirmary, post office, schoolhouse, and a local Veteran’s Hall of Fame. It’s located on Miller’s Creek Road in the former headquarters of the local division of the Consolidation Coal Company.
Visit the Birthplace of Loretta Lynn
When Loretta Lynn sang about being a coal miner’s daughter, she was telling a true story. Situated in scenic Johnson County, Butcher Hollow is a must-see for fans of this famous, classic country music artist. It’s truly her incredible legacy that brings people out to this remote rural community and her birthplace.
Stop by Webb Grocery and shop its fine collection of Loretta Lynn memorabilia. Her brother Herman runs it, and he also offers guided tours of this superstar’s childhood home.
Pig out at Smokin’ Butts
One of the best things to do, no matter where you’re visiting, is to eat. Smokin’ Butts in Paintsville is a hidden gem that serves up some of the county’s best barbecue. Perched on the edge of the Paintsville Country Club golf course, this family-owned restaurant knows their stuff, from the smoked brisket to the moistest corn pudding ever.
The pitmasters offer platters piled high with pulled pork, sliced turkey, and smoked sausage. Share a plate of fried pickles or gobble up a pair of smokin’ tacos. Why not go for the baby back ribs? They come in either a full or a half rack. This joint even has mini corn dogs on the kid’s menu.
If you’re looking for a way to get to your next adventure in Paintsville, then stop by Hutch Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram today!
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