Kentucky, located in the southeastern U.S., is known as the “Bluegrass State” for the bluegrass found in its pastures. It has about 4.5 million residents. Frankfort is the capital, while Louisville, famous for the Kentucky Derby, is the largest city.
10 Largest Cities in Kentucky
1. Louisville (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Jefferson County
- Area: 397.7 square miles
- Population: 633,045 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 502
- ZIP Codes: 40201-40299
- Latitude/Longitude: 38.2527° N, 85.7585° W
Location and History
Louisville is situated on the Ohio River along Kentucky’s northern border and is the state’s largest city. Founded in 1778 by George Rogers Clark and named in honor of King Louis XVI of France, Louisville grew into a major trading hub due to its strategic location on the river. The city became a transportation center with the development of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad and the expansion of the shipping industry. Famous for the Kentucky Derby, which has been held annually since 1875, Louisville has a rich cultural heritage and plays a key role in the state’s economy. Today, it is a center for healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics.
Major Landmarks
- Churchill Downs: Home of the Kentucky Derby, this iconic horse racing track hosts the “most exciting two minutes in sports” every May.
- Muhammad Ali Center: A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali, the legendary boxer and humanitarian born in Louisville.
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: A museum celebrating the history of baseball and the iconic Louisville Slugger bat, with factory tours available.
- Louisville Waterfront Park: A scenic park along the Ohio River offering walking trails, picnic areas, and views of the downtown skyline.
- The Belle of Louisville: A historic steamboat that offers sightseeing cruises on the Ohio River.
Major Highways
Louisville is well-served by a network of highways, including Interstate 65, which runs north-south, connecting the city to Indianapolis and Nashville. Interstate 64 runs east-west through the city, providing access to St. Louis and Lexington. Interstate 71 connects Louisville to Cincinnati, while the I-264 and I-265 beltways encircle the city, making it easy to navigate the metropolitan area. U.S. Route 31 and U.S. Route 60 also pass through the city, providing additional regional access.
2. Lexington (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Fayette County
- Area: 286.0 square miles
- Population: 325,330 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 859
- ZIP Codes: 40502-40598
- Latitude/Longitude: 38.0406° N, 84.5037° W
Location and History
Lexington, known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” is located in the heart of Kentucky’s Bluegrass region. Founded in 1775, it is one of the oldest cities in the state and was named after the Battle of Lexington in the American Revolutionary War. Lexington has a long history as a center for thoroughbred horse breeding and racing, with its surrounding farmland renowned for raising some of the finest horses in the world. The city is home to the University of Kentucky and has a strong economy centered on education, healthcare, and agriculture. Lexington’s vibrant cultural scene and historic charm make it one of Kentucky’s most beloved cities.
Major Landmarks
- Keeneland Race Course: A historic horse racing track known for its thoroughbred races and seasonal auctions.
- The Kentucky Horse Park: A working horse farm and educational park that celebrates Kentucky’s horse heritage, featuring museums and horse shows.
- Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate: The historic home of Henry Clay, a prominent 19th-century statesman, open for tours and events.
- University of Kentucky: The state’s largest university, with a beautiful campus and the famed Rupp Arena, home to the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team.
- Mary Todd Lincoln House: The childhood home of Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of President Abraham Lincoln, offering guided tours.
Major Highways
Lexington is connected by several major highways. Interstate 75 runs north-south through the city, linking it to Cincinnati and Knoxville. Interstate 64 runs east-west, connecting Lexington to Louisville and West Virginia. U.S. Route 60 and U.S. Route 27 also pass through the city, providing access to nearby towns and cities in central Kentucky. Additionally, the Bluegrass Parkway runs southwest from Lexington, connecting it to the western part of the state.
3. Bowling Green (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Warren County
- Area: 39.33 square miles
- Population: 75,140 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 270, 364
- ZIP Codes: 42101-42104
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.9685° N, 86.4808° W
Location and History
Bowling Green is located in southern Kentucky, about 60 miles north of Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1798, Bowling Green grew as a regional trading and transportation center. During the Civil War, it served as the provisional capital of Confederate Kentucky before being reclaimed by Union forces. Today, Bowling Green is best known as the home of Western Kentucky University and the General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, where every Corvette is manufactured. The city has a strong economy based on manufacturing, education, and tourism, with the National Corvette Museum drawing visitors from around the world.
Major Landmarks
- National Corvette Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Chevrolet Corvette, featuring exhibits, classic cars, and a motorsports park.
- Lost River Cave: A seven-mile cave system offering underground boat tours and hiking trails in a unique natural setting.
- Historic RailPark and Train Museum: A museum housed in a restored train depot, showcasing the history of rail transportation in the region.
- Western Kentucky University: A public university with a picturesque campus overlooking the city, home to cultural events and Hilltoppers athletics.
- Fountain Square Park: A historic downtown park surrounded by shops and restaurants, serving as a focal point for community events.
Major Highways
Bowling Green is located at the crossroads of several key highways. Interstate 65 runs north-south through the city, connecting it to Louisville and Nashville. U.S. Route 31W and U.S. Route 68 provide additional routes through the city, while the William H. Natcher Parkway offers a direct connection to Owensboro and the western part of the state. These highways make Bowling Green an important transportation hub in southern Kentucky.
4. Owensboro (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Daviess County
- Area: 22.31 square miles
- Population: 60,183 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 270, 364
- ZIP Codes: 42301-42304
- Latitude/Longitude: 37.7719° N, 87.1112° W
Location and History
Owensboro is located along the southern bank of the Ohio River in northwestern Kentucky. Founded in 1817, the city was named after Colonel Abraham Owen, a veteran of the War of 1812. Owensboro developed as a riverport city, playing a crucial role in the region’s agricultural economy. Known as Kentucky’s “Barbecue Capital,” Owensboro hosts the annual International Bar-B-Q Festival, celebrating its rich barbecue tradition. The city has a diverse economy, with manufacturing, healthcare, and education playing major roles. Owensboro’s revitalized riverfront area has become a cultural and recreational hub for residents and visitors.
Major Landmarks
- Smothers Park: A riverfront park offering playgrounds, a splash pad, and scenic views of the Ohio River, serving as a focal point for community events.
- International Bluegrass Music Museum: A museum dedicated to preserving the history of bluegrass music, offering exhibits, performances, and educational programs.
- Western Kentucky Botanical Garden: A beautiful garden featuring a wide variety of plants, sculptures, and walking paths.
- Owensboro Museum of Science and History: A museum showcasing local history, natural sciences, and hands-on exhibits for children.
- RiverPark Center: A performing arts center that hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events, located along the scenic Ohio River.
Major Highways
Owensboro is connected by several key highways. The U.S. Route 60 bypass runs around the city, providing access to nearby towns. U.S. Route 431 runs south from Owensboro, while U.S. Route 231 connects the city to Indiana across the Ohio River. The Audubon Parkway provides a quick route to Henderson and I-69, making Owensboro easily accessible from western Kentucky and southern Indiana.
5. Covington (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Kenton County
- Area: 13.7 square miles
- Population: 40,960 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 859
- ZIP Codes: 41011-41019
- Latitude/Longitude: 39.0837° N, 84.5086° W
Location and History
Covington is located on the southern bank of the Ohio River, directly across from Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1815, Covington grew as an industrial and manufacturing center due to its proximity to the river and railroads. The city played an important role in the development of northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati metropolitan area. Today, Covington is known for its historic architecture, including many 19th-century buildings, and its vibrant arts and culture scene. Its location near downtown Cincinnati makes it a popular residential area for commuters, and it remains an important part of the region’s economy.
Major Landmarks
- Roebling Suspension Bridge: A historic bridge connecting Covington to Cincinnati, designed by John A. Roebling, who later designed the Brooklyn Bridge.
- MainStrasse Village: A charming historic district featuring 19th-century German-inspired architecture, restaurants, shops, and annual festivals.
- Devou Park: A large park offering hiking trails, a golf course, and panoramic views of the Cincinnati skyline.
- Behringer-Crawford Museum: A museum dedicated to the history and culture of northern Kentucky, located in Devou Park.
- St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption: A stunning Gothic Revival cathedral with impressive stained glass windows, often referred to as “Kentucky’s Notre Dame.”
Major Highways
Covington is well-connected by major highways. Interstate 71 and Interstate 75 run concurrently through the city, providing a direct route to Cincinnati, Lexington, and beyond. Interstate 275, the beltway around Cincinnati, passes through Covington, offering access to the entire metropolitan area. U.S. Route 42 and U.S. Route 25 also run through the city, linking it to neighboring towns in northern Kentucky.
6. Richmond (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Madison County
- Area: 22.6 square miles
- Population: 37,343 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 859
- ZIP Codes: 40475-40476
- Latitude/Longitude: 37.7479° N, 84.2947° W
Location and History
Richmond is located in central Kentucky, about 25 miles southeast of Lexington. Founded in 1798 by Colonel John Miller, a veteran of the American Revolution, Richmond was named after Miller’s hometown in Virginia. The city grew as a regional trading center and later became home to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), one of the state’s largest universities. Richmond played a significant role during the Civil War, with the Battle of Richmond being one of the most important Confederate victories in Kentucky. Today, Richmond is a growing city with a strong economy based on education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Major Landmarks
- Eastern Kentucky University: A large public university offering a wide range of academic programs, with a campus that includes historic buildings and modern facilities.
- Battle of Richmond Visitors Center: A museum and educational center dedicated to the 1862 Civil War battle, offering exhibits and tours of the battlefield.
- Hummel Planetarium: Located on the EKU campus, this planetarium offers educational programs and stunning visual displays of the night sky.
- White Hall State Historic Site: The historic home of Cassius Marcellus Clay, a prominent abolitionist and politician, open for tours.
- Lake Reba Recreation Complex: A popular park offering a lake, golf course, sports fields, and picnic areas for outdoor activities.
Major Highways
Richmond is connected by several major highways. Interstate 75 runs north-south through the city, providing access to Lexington and Knoxville, Tennessee. U.S. Route 25 runs parallel to I-75 and serves as a local thoroughfare through Richmond. Kentucky Route 52 runs east-west, connecting Richmond to nearby communities like Berea and Winchester. These highways make Richmond easily accessible from across central Kentucky.
7. Georgetown (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Scott County
- Area: 17.73 square miles
- Population: 37,086 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 502
- ZIP Codes: 40324
- Latitude/Longitude: 38.2098° N, 84.5588° W
Location and History
Georgetown is located in central Kentucky, just north of Lexington. Founded in 1784 and originally called Lebanon, the city was renamed Georgetown in 1790 to honor President George Washington. Georgetown grew as an agricultural community, and today, it is known for its thriving automotive industry, particularly the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky plant, the company’s largest production facility in North America. Georgetown College, a private liberal arts college founded in 1829, also plays a key role in the city’s economy and cultural life. The city’s proximity to Lexington has contributed to its rapid growth in recent years.
Major Landmarks
- Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky: The largest Toyota plant in North America, offering tours that showcase the production process of Toyota vehicles.
- Ward Hall: A historic Greek Revival mansion built in 1857, open for tours and events, considered one of Kentucky’s finest antebellum homes.
- Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm: A farm dedicated to providing a home for retired racehorses, offering tours and opportunities to interact with the horses.
- Georgetown College: A private liberal arts college with a beautiful campus, known for its strong academic programs and community involvement.
- Yuko-En on the Elkhorn: A Japanese-inspired garden that promotes peace and tranquility, located along the Elkhorn Creek in downtown Georgetown.
Major Highways
Georgetown is well-connected by major highways. Interstate 75 runs along the eastern edge of the city, providing a direct route to Lexington and Cincinnati. U.S. Route 25 runs through the heart of Georgetown, serving as a major local thoroughfare. Kentucky Route 32 provides an east-west route through the city, while the nearby Bluegrass Parkway offers access to the western part of the state. These highways make Georgetown easily accessible from the surrounding region.
8. Florence (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Boone County
- Area: 10.3 square miles
- Population: 33,081 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 859
- ZIP Codes: 41042
- Latitude/Longitude: 38.9989° N, 84.6266° W
Location and History
Florence is located in northern Kentucky, about 10 miles southwest of Cincinnati, Ohio. Founded in 1830, Florence grew as a small farming community and later developed into a commercial and residential hub due to its proximity to Cincinnati and major transportation routes. The city’s location along Interstates 71 and 75 has made it a key commercial center in the region, with numerous shopping centers, restaurants, and hotels. Florence is known for its iconic water tower with the phrase “Florence Y’all,” a symbol of the city’s friendly, laid-back character. Today, Florence has a thriving economy centered on retail, healthcare, and logistics.
Major Landmarks
- Florence Y’all Water Tower: A local landmark with a playful slogan, located along I-75, and a symbol of the city’s welcoming spirit.
- Florence Mall: A large shopping center offering a wide range of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Boone County Veterans Memorial Park: A park dedicated to honoring military veterans, featuring walking paths, sports fields, and picnic areas.
- World of Golf: A popular family-friendly destination offering a driving range, mini-golf, and a golf course.
- Dinsmore Homestead: A historic 19th-century farm and estate located just outside Florence, offering tours and special events.
Major Highways
Florence is strategically located along Interstate 75, which runs north-south and connects the city to Cincinnati, Lexington, and beyond. Interstate 71 also passes through Florence, providing access to Louisville and northern Ohio. U.S. Route 42 runs through the city, serving as a major local thoroughfare, while Kentucky Route 18 connects Florence to nearby towns. The city’s location along these highways makes it a key transportation hub in northern Kentucky.
9. Hopkinsville (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Christian County
- Area: 31.91 square miles
- Population: 31,730 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 270, 364
- ZIP Codes: 42240-42241
- Latitude/Longitude: 36.8656° N, 87.4886° W
Location and History
Hopkinsville is located in southwestern Kentucky, near the Tennessee border. Founded in 1804 and named after Samuel Hopkins, a veteran of the American Revolutionary War, the city developed as a regional center for agriculture and trade. The construction of the railroad in the 19th century spurred further growth, and Hopkinsville became known for its tobacco production. Today, the city has a diversified economy, with manufacturing, agriculture, and the nearby Fort Campbell military base playing significant roles. Hopkinsville is also known for its rich history and scenic countryside.
Major Landmarks
- Trail of Tears Commemorative Park: A historic site that honors the Native Americans who passed through Hopkinsville during the Trail of Tears, featuring a museum and annual powwows.
- Pennyroyal Area Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Hopkinsville and Christian County, with exhibits on the Civil War, agriculture, and local culture.
- Jeffers Bend Environmental Center: A nature preserve offering trails, educational programs, and opportunities for birdwatching and outdoor recreation.
- Round Table Literary Park: A unique park inspired by the legends of King Arthur, featuring statues and sculptures of characters from Arthurian legend.
- Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center: A popular water park with slides, pools, and a lazy river, providing family-friendly entertainment during the summer months.
Major Highways
Hopkinsville is connected by several major highways, making it a key transportation hub in southwestern Kentucky. The Pennyrile Parkway (I-169) runs north-south, providing access to I-24 and connecting the city to Nashville and Paducah. U.S. Route 41 and U.S. Route 68 run through Hopkinsville, linking it to nearby communities. Kentucky Route 91 provides a direct route to the western part of the state. These highways, along with local roads, make Hopkinsville easily accessible from across the region.
10. Nicholasville (Kentucky)
City Facts
- County: Jessamine County
- Area: 13.1 square miles
- Population: 31,093 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 859
- ZIP Codes: 40340-40356
- Latitude/Longitude: 37.8806° N, 84.5724° W
Location and History
Nicholasville is located just south of Lexington in central Kentucky. Founded in 1798 and named after Colonel George Nicholas, a prominent Kentucky politician, Nicholasville grew as a small agricultural community. The city’s proximity to Lexington has contributed to its steady growth, and it is now one of the fastest-growing cities in the state. Nicholasville serves as a residential suburb for many who work in Lexington and offers a quieter, rural lifestyle. The city is known for its beautiful landscapes, horse farms, and access to outdoor recreation.
Major Landmarks
- Camp Nelson National Monument: A historic site that served as a Union Army supply depot and recruiting center during the Civil War, now a national monument offering tours and educational programs.
- Taylor Made Farm: A renowned thoroughbred horse farm located just outside Nicholasville, known for raising championship horses.
- Riney B Park: A community park offering sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths, serving as a popular spot for local events and recreation.
- Chrisman Mill Vineyards: A local winery offering tastings, tours, and events in a scenic countryside setting.
- High Bridge Park: A park located along the Kentucky River, featuring the historic High Bridge, once the tallest railroad bridge in the world.
Major Highways
Nicholasville is connected by several major highways. U.S. Route 27 runs north-south through the city, providing a direct route to Lexington and southern Kentucky. Kentucky Route 169 and Kentucky Route 29 serve as local routes, connecting Nicholasville to surrounding communities. The nearby Bluegrass Parkway offers access to the western part of the state, making Nicholasville a key transportation hub for the region.