Small towns are the heart and soul of the Bluegrass, and we have so much love for each and every little locale in the state. But some small towns get a bit more attention than others, and so today we’re going to shine the spotlight on an underrated river town in Kentucky that’s a total hidden gem: Carrollton.

With a population of just under 4,000, Carrollton is your quintessential small town in Kentucky, but its location makes it extra special.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook

Located in north-central Kentucky at the confluence of the Ohio and Kentucky rivers, Carrollton offers visitors and residents so much more than your typical small town.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook

Because with two major rivers in its backyard, Carrollton is the perfect place for all sorts of water recreation, from canoeing and kayaking to floating and boating.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook

Carrollton’s River Walk is another popular way to experience the town’s waterfront; this paved walking trail along the Ohio and Kentucky River banks is the perfect place to drink in the town’s amazing views.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook

Of course, it’s also perfectly fine if you simply want to sit back and enjoy the beautiful river views! Point Park looks out at the point where the mighty Ohio and Kentucky rivers meet.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook Point Park, 116 Main St, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA

Carrollton’s riverfront location is inextricably connected with its history, too, with several points of interest in town. Built in 1792, the Historic Masterson House is the oldest home located along the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Louisville, and it’s a beautiful place to explore.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook Highland Avenue, Highland Ave, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA

The town is also home to General Butler State Resort Park, a treasure of a Kentucky State Park that offers unrivaled amazing camping, recreation, and accommodations.

Kentucky State Parks General Butler State Resort Park, Kentucky 227, Carrollton, KY, USA

When you work up an appetite exploring Carrollton, you’ll find all sorts of charming spots to dine. The Wingbarn is a perennial favorite, featuring no-frills Southern dishes sure to satisfy any appetite.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook 606 Polk St, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA

Carrollton is the kind of place that offers families a high quality of life, complete with all the perks of living in a small town, from seasonal festivals…

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook

…to an adorable downtown district full of locally owned shops and restaurants.

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook Come and pay a visit to Carrollton, Kentucky. It’s the kind of warm and welcoming place sure to win a special spot in your heart.

Have you visited Carrollton, Kentucky, before? It’s a delightful town that’s quintessential Bluegrass soul and spirit!

Carrollton/Carroll County Tourism & Convention Commission/Facebook

Point Park, 116 Main St, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA

Highland Avenue, Highland Ave, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA

Kentucky State Parks

General Butler State Resort Park, Kentucky 227, Carrollton, KY, USA

606 Polk St, Carrollton, KY 41008, USA

Come and pay a visit to Carrollton, Kentucky. It’s the kind of warm and welcoming place sure to win a special spot in your heart.

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Address: Carrollton, KY 41008, USA