Historical Attractions Near Ashland, KY

If you are interested in learning more about the history and culture of eastern Kentucky, rest easy knowing there are plenty of things to do in Ashland, Kentucky and the surrounding area.

We’ve gone through and highlighted some attractions that have historical significance to the tri-state region.

Paramount Arts Center

Address: 1300 Winchester Ave, Ashland, KY
Distance from us: 10.3 miles

The Paramount Arts Center located in Downtown Ashland offers a rare opportunity to ‘travel back in time’. The building boasts of a strikingly grandiose 1930’s décor, architecture that’s been meticulously maintained and restored throughout the years. In fact, walking through the brass doors reveals an interior that is almost exactly the same as when the theater opened in 1931.

For decades, the Paramount Arts Center has been dedicated to entertaining families from around the country by hosting top-tier events.

These events include:

Live theater
Music and arts festivals
Concerts
Dance performances

To learn more about their upcoming shows and events, feel free to visit their website.

Upcoming Paramount Events

Camayo Arcade

Address: 1530 Winchester Ave, Ashland, KY
Distance from us: 10.5 miles

Another fascinating historical gem in Ashland is the first indoor shopping mall built in Kentucky. The Camayo Arcade first opened its doors in 1926, and after a renovation in 2012, is still open to the public today. With marble floors and a mesmerizing mezzanine, the unique decor truly is a sight to behold.

The arcade offers some shopping opportunities and is home to Jim’s Hot Dogs and Spaghetti, a local favorite that serves great food at an affordable price. There is also a spa onsite, allowing you to experience services that will make your stress melt away. The Camayo room is also a well-known spot in the arcade, as it serves as a venue for weddings, intimate dinners, meetings, and other events.

Port of Ashland

The Port of Ashland is many things to the surrounding community. It serves as a peaceful place to view the Ohio river while enjoying a local meal, as well as serving as a fishing spot for anglers. The locale can serve as a place to unwind while viewing the tranquil landscape. But the historical significance lies in the statues located there.

When world-renowned artist Gines Serran-Pagan visited Ashland, Kentucky, he fell in love with the area. Moved by “the energy of the river, people, and culture”, he, along with his children, designed and created three breathtaking bronze monuments that represent his vision of the city and serve as an homage to the area’s metallurgic industry.

These sculptures make up the largest collection of mixed media bronze sculptures in the world.

Learn More

Autumn Colors Express

Address: 935 7th Ave, Huntington, WV
Distance from us: 19.8 miles

While a bit further of a drive from our location, the Autumn Colors Express offers a unique, once in a lifetime experience for train lovers.

Each year, during the autumn season, the Autumn Colors Express links Huntingdon, Charleston, and Hinton, West Virginia as part of the Hinton Railroad Days Festival via vintage passenger trains. Each railcar has been restored to its original, luxurious condition, offering large windows, restroom access as well as comfortable seating. It is also one of the last trains available to the public that features glass domed cars as well as panoramic observation cars.

The all-day excursion takes you through America’s newest national park, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve and offers awe-inspiring views that are only available by train. View the fall colors in style while glimpsing iconic sights such as a ghost town and the New River Gorge Bridge.

Note that the excursion only runs during a short time and you will need to book in advance. To learn more, check out their website.