Maysville, Kentucky the county seat of Mason County sits in a beautiful location along the banks of the Ohio River. It’s a small town that boasts a range of fabulous recreational activities, historical and cultural sites. Maysville is within easy reach of much of Kentucky for a daytrip or short getaway. It’s about an hour northeast of Lexington and an hour southeast of Cincinnati. Read on for our picks for the best things to do in Maysville.
Jump to:
Best Things to Do in Maysville, KY,Things to do Outdoors in Maysville, KY, Where to Eat in Maysville, KY, and Best Places to Stay in Maysville, KY
Best Things to Do in Maysville, KY
National Underground Railroad Museum
The National Underground Railroad Museum is located inside the former home of the Bierbower family who housed slaves on the run as a part of the Underground Railroad. The museum preserves many of the personal belongings and furniture of the family and has photographs and items related to the underground railroad’s history. Other exhibits include items related to African American Religion, the culture of slavery and Maysville’s role in the larger abolitionist movement. The museum is open Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
38 W. 4th Street, Maysville, KY 41056 | 606-564-3200
You can also visit the Maysville-Mason County Convention & Visitors Bureau to arrange a tour of significant Underground Railroad locations in the area – one of the most popular routes taken north through Kentucky by fleeing slaves. Tours visit sites such as the Old Washington Historic District in Maysville, the National Underground Railroad Museum and the Rankin and John P. Parker Houses in Ripley, Ohio.
Learn About Maysville’s History at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center
Based on Maysville’s small size, you may be surprised to find out how many significant people have visited and lived in the town. Everyone from pioneers and explorers to artists, movie stars and slaves seeking freedom. The museum boasts a range of dynamic collections, interesting exhibits and it’s own genealogical-historical library. You’ll learn the story of the people and events of Maysville and the seven surrounding counties through a collection that goes back 300 years. The museum is also home to the impressive Kathleen Savage Browning Miniatures Collection, a mesmerizing collection of 1/12 scale models of people, homes, furniture, clothing, artwork and more. Nextdoor to the main museum center, the Old Pogue Experience tells the story of bourbon and the Old Pogue distillery, one of the state’s oldest distillers of fine bourbon and rye whiskey.
215 Sutton Street, Maysville, KY 41056 | 606-564-5865
Taste Kentucky Bourbon at The Old Pogue Distillery
The family-owned and operated Old Pogue Distillery is one of the state’s oldest bourbon distilleries. The original distillery was founded soon after the Civil War in Maysville. This historic H.E. Pogue Distillery was built very near a site that was thought to be the first location Bourbon was distilled in Kentucky. Today the bourbon-making tradition is carried on by descendents of these original Pogues using the original recipes on the same plot of land. Visitors can tour the distillery, learn about bourbon-making, and sample their products. The distillery offers Old Pogue Whiskies, glassware and barrel heads for sale.
715 Germantown Road, Maysville KY 41056 | 859-512-6422
Check out One of Maysville’s Historic Theaters
Maysville has not only one but two wonderful historic theaters – the Washington Opera House and the Russell Theater. The Washington Opera House is a working theater and the home theater of the Maysville Players who have been performing there since 1964. The building is a beautifully restored 1889 building at the end of the main downtown shopping district. The “Opera” sign out front is a Maysville landmark and a beacon for those who love live theater.
The Russell Theatre is a 1920s theater that was originally meant to be a movie theater and is built in an indulgent Spanish Colonial style. The theater closed its doors in 1983 and has been under the process of restoration for a number of years. Visitors can tour the theater by appointment only. Appointments can be made by messaging the Russell Theatre Facebook Page. Maysville native, Rosemary Clooney once attended a red carpet event that was held at the theatre.
In nearby Helena, KY, Laura Lee’s Concert House and Folk Theater is a newer venue occupying a historic 1914 church with enormous stained glass windows. Live theater, musical performances and private events are often held here.
Shop the Historic District
Maysville has fantastic shopping ranging from small, locally owned boutiques to larger chain stores. In the downtown and Old Washington historic districts, you’ll find some of the best shopping, all of which can be explored on foot. Gifts, home furnishings, decor and souvenirs are available in abundance. You’ll find a veritable treasure trove of locally produced products, hand-crafted items and many unique pieces. Downtown Maysville is very walkable with free parking available. There are public restrooms and a number of restaurants and cafes if you need a break from all the shopping.
Browse Maysville’s Art Galleries
Maysville has a thriving art community and a number of local galleries:
Ohio River Valley Artists Guild
Mark Dyer Creative Fine Art Studio
EAT Gallery
Ken Swinson Gallery and Log CabinPrint Shop
Fried Fired Pottery
Lorraine Marcella Gallery
Admire the Flood Wall Murals
Make sure to check out the floodwall murals. The murals were painted in 1998 by artist Robert Dafford of Dafford Murals in Lafayette, LA. They portray the city’s early river history and are a beautiful addition to the town.
Paducah also has beautiful Floodwall murals painted by Robert Dafford is Paducah, check out our guide to Paducah here.
Take a Drive to see the Oldest Covered Bridge in Kentucky
Kentucky’s oldest covered bridge, the Dover Covered Bridge is located in Mason County, about 12 miles away from Maysville. The bridge is thought to have been built in 1835 and was built in a unique queen-post truss design. It spans 60 feet long over Lee’s Creek. The bridge was closed to vehicle traffic in 2016 when it was heavily damaged by flood waters.
Old Lee’s Creek Road, Dover, KY 41034
Things to do Outdoors in Maysville, KY
Cummins Nature Preserve
If you are looking for a quiet place to enjoy nature or get some fresh air and exercise, check out Cummins Nature Preserve. You’ll find hiking trails, camping, picnic shelter, pond and a diverse habitat to explore. There are special events held at the preserve from time to time for holidays or outdoor education.
3049 Pickett Lane, Maysville KY 41056
Play a Round of Golf at one of these Golf Courses near Maysville, KY
There are four golf courses near Maysville, KY:
Laurel Oaks Golf Club
Wells Creek Golf Course
Kenton Station Golf Course
Maysville Country Club
Blue Licks Battlefield State Park and Nature Preserve
Blue Licks Battlefield State Park is about 25 miles away from Maysville along US 68 in Robertson County. It sits adjacent to Short’s Goldenrod State Nature Preserve, a 210-acre natural area named for an endangered goldenrod species. Blue Licks State Park offers hiking along an old bison trail, birding, nature study, camping, canoeing, minigolf and more. The park also has a resort lodge with 32 clean, nice rooms. Check out Expedia.com to book a room.
10288 Maysville Road, Carlisle, KY 40311 | 859-289-5507
Find more fun things to do in Robertson County here
Where to Eat in Maysville KY
Maysville may be small but their dining scene is diverse with a range of delicious places to eat.
Caproni’s on the River
This Italian Restaurant on the banks of the Ohio River has long attracted Maysville residents and visitors looking for delicious and filling food. Originally, the restaurant operated as a sandwich shop and was mostly frequented by railroad workers due to its proximity to the Amtrak station and the CSX tracks. It was remodeled and reopened under new owners in 2000 and has seen a number of high-society visitors including Hillary Clinton, several Kentucky Governors, and many famous movie stars, and musicians. Menu highlights include fresh pasta, fresh salads, and a range of perfectly cooked meat and fish dishes.
320 Rosemary Clooney Street, Maysville, KY 41056
Snow Donuts
This popular donut shop in Maysville, KY offers fresh made donuts, coffee and delicious pastries. Its a great place to grab a breakfast sandwich served on your choice of croissant, toast, bagel or biscuit. But, if you prefer something sweet to start your day, they certainly have you covered with a wide range of baked goods and delicious donuts.
1120 US 68 Maysville, KY 41056 | 606-407-6002
Desha’s
If you’ve enjoyed the Lexington mainstay, Desha’s restaurant, you might want to take advantage of your time in Maysville to try the original location. Some say the interior of the restaurant could use an update, but the food is reliably good. They serve American favorites for lunch and dinner including sandwiches, salads, burgers, steak, seafood and chicken dishes. We like to order the Meat & Three which gives you a choice of fish, fried chicken, roast beef or a pork chop served with three side dishes, cornbread, tea and fruit cobbler with ice cream for dessert.
1155 US 68, Maysville, KY 41056 | 606-564-9275
Where to Stay in Maysville, KY
Moon River Bed and Breakfast
Moon River B&B occupies a beautifully renovated 1888 row house in historic downtown Maysville. The home features plenty of historic charm as well as all of the modern amenities that you could ask for. The owners live onsite and are on hand to help you with anything you need, including tips on things to do in Maysville, KY. The property has 2 private bedrooms with ensuite baths and a private efficiency apartment. Stays include a continental breakfast on weekdays and a full breakfast on the weekends.
320 Market Street, Maysville, KY 41056 | 606-563-8812
Book Moon River Bed & Breakfast directly on their website
French Quarter Inn
The French Quarter Inn is a traditional hotel that overlooks the Ohio River. This hotel brings the spirit of New Orleans to Maysvile. The rooms are each individually decorated and feature amenities such as WiFi, TVs, whirlpool tubs, mini fridges and microwaves. Many rooms have river views. Suites are also available with separate living spaces. There is a seasonal outdoor pool as well as a restaurant with breakfast and a bar/lounge area that is open each evening.
25 E. Mcdonald Parkway, Maysville, KY 41056 | 606-564-8000
In addition, there are several reliable chain hotels in Maysville including:
Check out Expedia.com for more great places to stay in Maysville, KY
