'The Queen City Of The Mountains' Is A Picturesque Kentucky City Hidden In The Heart Of Appalachia

Nestled deep in Eastern Kentucky's Appalachian region, where rolling green mountains stretch as far as the eye can see, lies a charming Kentucky city that has earned the beloved nickname "Queen City of the Mountains." Hazard, Kentucky, may be tucked away from the beaten path, but this picturesque mountain town rivals other celebrated southern mountain destinations — like Ellijay, Georgia, famed for its rustic charm and increasingly popular wine country in the Appalachian foothills.

Getting to this mountain gem requires a scenic drive through Kentucky's stunning countryside. Hazard sits 116 miles southeast of Lexington, making Blue Grass Airport (LEX) the closest major airport at 121 miles away. Most visitors fly into Lexington and rent a car for the two-hour drive through winding mountain roads that offer breathtaking views of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Louisville's airport, while farther at 186 miles, provides another option for those preferring a three-hour drive through Kentucky's diverse landscapes.

Situated along the North Fork of the Kentucky River, this mountain town's history and heritage can be traced back to the end of the 18th century. Founded in 1795 by Elijah Combs, this Perry County seat evolved from housing pioneer families to becoming southeastern Kentucky's major mining center. Named after the War of 1812 hero Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, the town transformed with the railroad's 1912 arrival. What began as a lumber hub quickly shifted to coal mining, establishing Hazard as the region's coal industry heartbeat — a legacy celebrated at September's Black Gold Festival. Today, this resilient community continues its coal heritage while maintaining the Appalachian spirit that has defined it for over two centuries.

When visiting Hazard, the Bobby Davis Museum and Park should be on your list of must-visit stops, offering an enriching glimpse into the mountain community's heart and history. Located on Walnut Street overlooking downtown Hazard, the museum and the park offer a serene, scenic space that showcases local contributions and the area's evolving culture. The museum was originally founded as a memorial to Bobby Davis and other local World War II veterans, and today stands as a gateway to Hazard's unique heritage. The surrounding park regularly hosts special events, from seasonal celebrations to lively garden tours. Freshly reopened in 2025 after a pandemic closure, the revitalized space is now brimming with new energy. Thanks to partnerships with organizations like the Appalachian Arts Alliance and the Southeast Kentucky African-American Museum, visitors can enjoy rotating exhibits, book signings, and community events that keep Hazard's rich Appalachian spirit alive.

Outdoor enthusiasts can find a surprising array of mountain adventures in Hazard. The area features several trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and ATV adventures, with the main concentration found at Perry County Park, one of the county's largest recreational facilities, just minutes from downtown. The park's diverse six miles of hiking terrain accommodates everyone from adrenaline-seeking four-wheelers to families enjoying walks by leafy environs and gentle streams. Beyond the trails, the expansive area also features basketball courts, baseball fields, an outdoor pool, putt-putt golf, tennis courts, playgrounds, and Kentucky River boat access. If you want to extend the outdoor fun, visit Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, only twenty-five miles away from Hazard, offering outdoor opportunities like prime fishing, boating, and hiking through Appalachian wilderness, complemented by lodge accommodations and golf.

Even as a small town, Hazard's culinary scene is surprisingly diverse. Barbecue lovers rave about Big Blue Smokehouse, a local favorite noted for its mouthwatering smoked meats and steaks. If you crave a taste of Italy, Giovanni's Pizza dishes up classic recipes, while chains China King Buffet and Panda Inn serve generous portions of Chinese flavors. La Palma Mexican Grill delights with vibrant Mexican cuisine, and you can refuel with coffee and baked goods at Hazard Coffee Co. or sample treats from Rudy's Bakery & Catering. For down-home American fare, options like Prime 606 Steakhouse and Frances's Diner round out the choices.

Beyond the eateries, you can shop a slice of small-town Kentucky at the Hazard Village Shopping Center and June & Joy's Boutique. For unique finds and handmade crafts, swing by the Perry County Farmers Market in downtown Hazard. This lively market, open from June to October, bursts with local produce, fresh-baked goods, jams, and more to let you savor the local community spirit and Appalachian bounty. For a longer stay at Hazard, you'll find cozy accommodations from trusted chains like the Holiday Inn Express & Suites and Hampton Inn & Suites — both offering modern amenities and prime locations for exploring the area. To explore more such underrated small-town gems, visit Midway, a quaint Kentucky town celebrated for its historic streets and vibrant local culture.