Kentucky, located in the southeastern region of the United States, is a state known for its rich history, charming small towns, and vibrant cities. With its rolling hills, expansive farmland, and bustling urban centers, Kentucky offers a unique blend of nature and culture. To help visitors and residents navigate this beautiful state, we have created a detailed map of Kentucky with cities and highways.
This map highlights Kentucky’s major cities, including Louisville, Lexington, Bowling Green, and Owensboro, as well as its primary highways and roads. Whether you’re planning a road trip or simply want to explore Kentucky’s unique landscape and culture, this map is an essential tool. So, grab your map and get ready to discover all that Kentucky has to offer, from its historic landmarks to its charming small towns and everything in between.
Printable Kentucky Map With Cities and Highways
Cities
Ashland
Ashland is a vibrant home rule-class city located in Boyd County, Kentucky. The largest city in Boyd County, Ashland is situated on the southern bank of the Ohio River at the state border with Ohio and near West Virginia. The city has a population of 21,625, according to the 2020 census.
Ashland is a principal city of the Huntington–Ashland metropolitan area, commonly referred to as the “Tri-State area,” which is home to 376,155 residents as of 2020. The city is an important economic and medical center for northeastern Kentucky, with a thriving business community and a range of medical facilities and services.
Ashland is also a hub for cultural and recreational activities, with a variety of museums, parks, and other attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Ashland has something to offer everyone.
Bowling Green
Bowling Green is a historic home rule-class city and the county seat of Warren County, Kentucky. Founded by pioneers in 1798, Bowling Green played a significant role in the American Civil War as the provisional capital of Confederate Kentucky.
Today, Bowling Green is a thriving community with a population of 72,294, making it the third-most populous city in the state after Louisville and Lexington. The city’s metropolitan area is the fourth largest in the state after Louisville, Lexington, and Northern Kentucky, with an estimated population of 179,240. The combined statistical area it shares with Glasgow has an estimated population of 233,560.
Bowling Green is a hub for manufacturing, with numerous manufacturers such as General Motors, Spalding, and Fruit of the Loom located in the city. The Bowling Green Assembly Plant has been the source of all Chevrolet Corvettes built since 1981.
The city is also home to Western Kentucky University, a vibrant institution of higher education, and the National Corvette Museum, which celebrates the history and legacy of the iconic American sports car. Whether you’re interested in history, education, or the automotive industry, Bowling Green is a city with something for everyone.
Campbellsville
Campbellsville is a charming city located in central Kentucky, founded in 1817 by Andrew Campbell. The city is known for its rich history, including its beautiful historic downtown area, and its proximity to Green River Lake State Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Campbellsville is also home to Campbellsville University, a top-ranked institution of higher education, and Taylor Regional Hospital’s health care system, which provides quality medical care to residents of the region. The city is the county seat of Taylor County, with a geographic boundary shaped like a heart, adding to its unique character and appeal.
Campbellsville celebrated its bicentennial on July 4, 2017, marking two centuries of growth, progress, and community spirit. Whether you’re interested in history, education, or outdoor pursuits, Campbellsville is a rewarding and captivating city.
Covington
Covington is a vibrant home rule-class city in Kenton County, Kentucky. Located at the confluence of the Ohio and Licking rivers, the city lies just south of Cincinnati, Ohio, across the Ohio River, and west of Newport, Kentucky, across the Licking River. With a population of 40,691 at the 2020 census, Covington is the largest city in Northern Kentucky and the fifth-most populous city in the state.
The city is a part of the Cincinnati metropolitan area and serves as one of Kenton County’s two seats, along with Independence. Covington is a hub for business, culture, and entertainment, with a thriving downtown area that features a range of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
The city is also home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural institutions, including the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, the Behringer-Crawford Museum, and the Carnegie Visual and Performing Arts Center. Whether you’re looking for history, the arts, or simply delicious local cuisine, Covington is a city you won’t want to miss.
Danville
Danville is a charming home rule-class city located in Boyle County, Kentucky. It serves as the seat of its county and has a population of 17,236, according to the 2020 Census. Danville is the principal city of the Danville Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of the Boyle and Lincoln counties.
The city is known for its rich history and vibrant downtown area, which was recognized with a Great American Main Street Award from the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2001. Danville has also been recognized as one of the best places to retire in the United States, ranking fourth on Money magazine’s list in 2011.
The city is home to Centre College, a top-ranked liberal arts college that has hosted U.S. vice-presidential debates in both 2000 and 2012, adding to its reputation as a hub for education and intellectual discourse. When it comes to history, education, and local culture, Danville is a city that offers something for everyone.
Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown is a thriving home rule-class city and the county seat of Hardin County, Kentucky. With a population of 28,531 at the 2010 census and an estimated population of 30,289 in 2019, Elizabethtown is the 11th-largest city in the state. The city is included in the Elizabethtown–Fort Knox, Kentucky Metropolitan Statistical Area, which is the principal city of the area.
The metropolitan area is included in the Louisville/Jefferson County–Elizabethtown–Madison, Kentucky-Indiana Combined Statistical Area. The Elizabethtown Metropolitan area has an estimated population of 153,057, making it the 5th-largest metropolitan area in the state. Elizabethtown is a hub for business, culture, and entertainment, with a range of restaurants, shops, and attractions.
The city is also home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural institutions, including the Brown-Pusey House, the Hardin County History Museum, and the Elizabethtown Nature Park. Whether you’re fascinated by history, the arts, or local cooking, Elizabethtown has to be on your list.
Florence
Florence is a dynamic home rule-class city located in Boone County, Kentucky. The city is the second largest in Northern Kentucky, after Covington, and is part of the Greater Cincinnati Metropolitan Area. With a population of 31,946 at the 2020 census, Florence is the eighth-largest city in the state and the largest that is not a county seat.
Florence is a hub for business, culture, and entertainment, with a range of restaurants, shops, and attractions. The city is also home to a number of parks and recreational areas, including the Florence Nature Park and the Florence Skate Park. Whether you want outdoor recreation, shopping, or local cuisine, Florence is the city for you.
Fort Thomas
Fort Thomas is a picturesque home rule-class city located in Campbell County, Kentucky. The city is situated on the southern bank of the Ohio River and is the site of an 1890 US Army post. With a population of 16,325 at the 2010 census, Fort Thomas is the largest city in Campbell County and is officially part of the Cincinnati – Northern Kentucky metropolitan area.
The city is known for its rich history, vibrant community, and scenic beauty, with a range of parks and recreational areas that offer stunning views of the Ohio River and the surrounding landscape.
Fort Thomas is home to a number of historic landmarks and cultural institutions, including the Fort Thomas Military and Community Museum, which celebrates the city’s military heritage and the contributions of its residents to the nation’s defense. Whether you’re looking for history, outdoor pursuits, or local culture, Fort Thomas is a city that’ll offer everything you want.
Frankfort
Frankfort is a historic home rule-class city and the capital of the U.S. state of Kentucky. It serves as the seat of Franklin County and has a population of 28,602, according to the 2020 United States census. The city is located along the Kentucky River and is the principal city of the Frankfort, Kentucky Micropolitan Statistical Area, which includes all of Franklin and Anderson counties.
Despite being the capital of the state, Frankfort is the fourth-smallest state capital city in the United States by population. The city has a rich history, dating back to colonial America when it was a ford across the Kentucky River along one of the great buffalo trails used as highways. The site was named “Frank’s Ford” in memory of pioneer Stephen Frank, who was killed in a skirmish with Native Americans in 1780. In 1786, the Virginia legislature designated 100 acres as the town of Frankfort, and after Kentucky became a state in 1792, it was chosen as the capital.
Today, Frankfort is a hub for government, culture, and education, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and institutions of higher education, including Kentucky State University and the Kentucky Historical Society. Whether you enjoy history, education, or local culture, Frankfort is waiting with open arms.
Georgetown
Georgetown is a vibrant home rule-class city located in Scott County, Kentucky. With a population of 37,086 at the 2020 census, it is the 6th-largest city by population in the state and serves as the seat of its county. The city was originally called Lebanon when founded by Rev. Elijah Craig and was renamed in 1790 in honor of President George Washington.
Georgetown is home to Georgetown College, a private liberal arts college, and is part of the Lexington-Fayette, KY Metropolitan Statistical Area. The city’s growth began in the mid-1980s when Toyota built Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, its first wholly-owned United States plant, in Georgetown.
The plant opened in 1988 and builds the Camry, Camry Hybrid, Avalon, Lexus ES, and RAV4 Hybrid automobiles. Georgetown also served as the training camp home for the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals at one time. Whether you’re interested in education, business, or sports, Georgetown is a city that offers something for everyone.
Glasgow
Glasgow is a charming home rule-class city located in Barren County, Kentucky. It serves as the seat of its county and is the principal city of the Glasgow micropolitan area, which comprises Barren and Metcalfe counties.
With a population of 15,014 at the 2020 U.S. census, Glasgow is a vibrant community that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The city is well-known for its annual Scottish Highland Games, which attract visitors from all over the region.
In 2007, Barren County was named the number one rural place to live by The Progressive Farmer magazine, highlighting the area’s natural beauty, friendly community, and high quality of life. Whether you love outdoor recreation, cultural events, or local food, Glasgow is an unmissable destination.
Henderson
Henderson is a picturesque home rule-class city located along the Ohio River and serves as the county seat of Henderson County, Kentucky. With a population of 29,781 at the 2020 U.S. census, Henderson is a vibrant community that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities.
The city is part of the Evansville Metropolitan Area, which is locally known as the “Tri-State Area,” and is considered the southernmost suburb of Evansville, Indiana. Henderson is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and scenic beauty, with a range of parks and recreational areas that offer stunning views of the Ohio River and the surrounding landscape. History, outdoor pursuits, and local culture – Henderson has it all!
Hopkinsville
Hopkinsville is a charming home rule-class city located in Christian County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and has a population of 31,180, according to the 2020 census. The city is known for its rich history, friendly community, and scenic beauty, with a range of parks and recreational areas that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hopkinsville is a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. Whether you’re interested in history, education, or simply enjoying the local culture, Hopkinsville is a city that ticks all the boxes.
Independence
Independence is a thriving home rule-class city located in Kenton County, Kentucky. It is one of the county’s two seats of government and has a population of 24,757, according to the 2010 U.S. census, which was up from 14,982 at the 2000 census. Independence is the third-largest city in Northern Kentucky after Covington and Florence.
The city is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. The current mayor of Independence is Chris Reinersman, who is dedicated to promoting the city’s growth and development while preserving its unique character and heritage. Whether you’re looking for a local hub of business, recreation, or culture, Independence is waiting for you.
Jeffersontown
Jeffersontown is a vibrant home rule-class city located in Jefferson County, Kentucky. With a population of 26,595 at the 2010 U.S. census, Jeffersontown is a major suburb of Louisville and the metro area’s largest municipality outside Louisville. The city is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents.
When the Louisville Metro government was established in 2003, Jeffersontown chose to retain its status as an independent city, highlighting the city’s unique character and heritage. Locally, the city is often referred to by the abbreviated name J-town, which reflects the city’s close-knit community and strong sense of identity. Whether you’re interested in business, recreation, or simply enjoying the local culture, Jeffersontown is a city that offers what you need.
Lexington
Lexington is a vibrant city located in the heart of Kentucky, and serves as the county seat of Fayette County. With a population of 322,570, according to the 2020 census, Lexington is the second most populous city in Kentucky after Louisville and the 60th-most populous city in the United States.
By land area, it is the country’s 28th-largest city. The city is also known as the “Horse Capital of the World” and is located within the state’s Bluegrass region. Lexington is home to a range of notable locations, including the Kentucky Horse Park, The Red Mile and Keeneland race courses, Rupp Arena, Central Bank Center, Transylvania University, the University of Kentucky, Bluegrass Community and Technical College, and the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) Headquarters.
The city has a nonpartisan mayor-council form of government, with 12 council districts and three members elected at large, with the highest vote-getter designated vice mayor. Whether you’re interested in history, education, or simply enjoying the local culture, Lexington has got you covered.
Louisville
Louisville is a bustling city located in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and is the most populous city in the state. It is also the sixth-most populous city in the Southeast and the 27th-most populous city in the United States. Louisville is the historical seat and, since 2003, the nominal seat of Jefferson County, on the Indiana border.
The city was founded in 1778 by George Rogers Clark and was named after King Louis XVI of France, making it one of the oldest cities west of the Appalachians. With nearby Falls of the Ohio as the only major obstruction to river traffic between the upper Ohio River and the Gulf of Mexico, the settlement first grew as a portage site.
Louisville was also the founding city of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, which grew into a 6,000-mile (9,700 km) system across 13 states. Today, Louisville is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and thriving economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. If you’re looking for history, education, and local culture, Louisville is waiting for you.
Madisonville
Madisonville is a thriving home rule-class city located in Hopkins County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and is located along Interstate 69 in the state’s Western Coal Fields region. With a population of 19,591 at the 2010 census, Madisonville is a vibrant community that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities.
The city is a commercial center of the region and is home to Madisonville Community College, which provides a range of educational opportunities for residents. Madisonville is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. With brilliant education, business, and cultural opportunities, Madisonville is a city that offers plenty for everyone.
Mayfield
Mayfield is a delightful home rule-class city located in Graves County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and has a population of 10,017, according to the 2020 United States Census. The city is known for its rich history, friendly community, and scenic beauty, with a range of parks and recreational areas that offer amazing views of the surrounding landscape.
Mayfield is a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Mayfield is a city that offers something for everyone.
Middlesboro
Middlesboro is a unique home rule-class city located in Bell County, Kentucky. With a population of 10,334 at the 2010 U.S. census, Middlesboro is the largest city in southeastern Kentucky and is located entirely between Pine Mountain and the Cumberland Mountains in the Middlesboro Basin, an enormous meteorite crater.
This makes it one of three known astroblemes in the state. The city is located just 1 mile (1.6 km) west of the Cumberland Gap, which played a significant role in the history of the region. Middlesboro is known for its wonderful natural beauty, with a range of parks and recreational areas that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
The city is also home to a vibrant community that celebrates its unique character and heritage, with a range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of history, outdoor pursuits, or local culture, Middlesboro is a city with plenty to offer.
Murray
Murray is an energetic home rule-class city located in Calloway County, Kentucky. It serves as the seat of Calloway County and is the 19th-largest city in Kentucky. With a population of 17,741 during the 2010 U.S. census, Murray is a college town and is home to Murray State University.
The city is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. Murray is also a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. Whether you’re interested in education, business, or simply enjoying the local culture, Murray is a marvelous choice.
Newport
Newport is a bustling home rule-class city located at the confluence of the Ohio and Licking rivers in Campbell County, Kentucky. With a population of 14,150 at the 2020 census, Newport is a major urban center of Northern Kentucky and is part of the Cincinnati metropolitan area.
Historically, it was one of four county seats of Campbell County, highlighting the city’s rich history and unique character. Newport is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents.
The city is also a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. Whether you’re looking for history, business, or local culture, Newport is a great destination.
Owensboro
Owensboro is a bustling home rule-class city located in Daviess County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and is the fourth-most populous city in the state. Owensboro is located on U.S. Route 60 and Interstate 165, about 107 miles (172 km) southwest of Louisville, and is the principal city of the Owensboro metropolitan area.
With a population of 60,183 according to the 2020 census, Owensboro is a thriving community that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The metropolitan population was estimated at 116,506, making it the sixth-largest in the state as of 2018, and the seventh-largest population center in the state when including micropolitan areas.
Owensboro is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. Whether you’re searching for education, business, or local culture, Owensboro is a hugely rewarding city.
Paducah
Paducah is a characterful home rule-class city located in McCracken County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and is the largest city in the Jackson Purchase region. Paducah is located at the confluence of the Tennessee and the Ohio rivers, halfway between St. Louis, Missouri, to the northwest and Nashville, Tennessee, to the southeast.
With a population of 27,137 according to the 2020 census, Paducah is a vibrant community that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. Twenty blocks of the city’s downtown have been designated as a historic district and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting the city’s rich history and unique character.
Paducah is the principal city of the Paducah metropolitan area, which includes McCracken, Ballard, Carlisle, and Livingston counties in Kentucky and Massac County in Illinois. The total population of the metro area was 103,481 in 2020, while the Paducah–Mayfield combined statistical area had a total population of 140,138. Whether you’re fascinated by history, outdoor pursuits, or culture, Paducah is a city with plenty to offer.
Radcliff
Radcliff is a thriving home rule-class city located in Hardin County, Kentucky. With a population of 21,692 at the 2010 census and an estimated population of 22,914 in 2019, Radcliff is a vibrant community that offers a range of cultural and recreational opportunities. The city is included in the Elizabethtown–Fort Knox Metropolitan Area and its economy is largely dominated by the adjacent U.S. Army base Fort Knox and by the nearby city of Elizabethtown.
In the past, Radcliff’s population fluctuated greatly depending on the deployments of the units at the base, but the BRAC reorganization of 2005, and the quartering of the U.S. Army’s Human Resources Command to Fort Knox has created a larger and more stable population.
Radcliff is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. Whether you’re interested in education, business, or simply enjoying the local culture, Radcliff is a city that offers something for everyone.
Richmond
Richmond is a bustling home rule-class city located in Madison County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and is named after Richmond, Virginia. The city is home to Eastern Kentucky University and has a population of 34,585 according to the 2020 census, making it the fourth-largest city in the Bluegrass region and the state’s seventh-largest city.
Richmond is the ninth largest population center in the state with a Micropolitan population of 106,864, and it serves as the center for work and shopping for south-central Kentucky. The city is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents.
Richmond is also the principal city of the Richmond-Berea, Kentucky Micropolitan Area, which includes all of Madison and Rockcastle counties. Whether you’re interested in education, business, or simply enjoying the local culture, Richmond is a city with plenty in store.
Shively
Shively is a charming home rule-class city located in Jefferson County, Kentucky, and a suburb of Louisville within the Louisville Metro government. With a population of 15,264 as of the 2010 census, the city has seen a slight increase of 107 (+0.7%) from 15,157 in 2000.
Shively is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents. The city is a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. With a plethora of educational, business, and cultural opportunities, Shively is a city for everyone.
Somerset
Somerset is a charming home rule-class city located in Pulaski County, Kentucky. It serves as the seat of Pulaski County and has a population of 11,924 according to the 2020 census. Somerset is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents.
The city is a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. Whether you’re interested in education, business, or simply enjoying the local culture, Somerset is an exciting choice.
Winchester
Winchester is a wonderful home rule-class city located in Clark County, Kentucky. It serves as the county seat and is part of the Lexington-Fayette, KY Metropolitan Statistical Area. With a population of 18,368 according to the 2010 census, Winchester is known for its friendly community, beautiful parks, and vibrant economy, with a range of businesses and industries that provide employment opportunities for residents.
The city is located roughly halfway between Lexington and Mt. Sterling, making it an ideal location for those who enjoy the convenience of urban amenities while still enjoying the charm of a small town.
Winchester is a hub for culture, education, and entertainment, with a range of historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and events that celebrate the city’s heritage and the contributions of its residents to the region. If you’re looking for education, business, or culture, Winchester is a rewarding option.
Highways
Route 23
U.S. Route 23 (US 23) is a major highway in the state of Kentucky, extending 157.765 miles from the Virginia state line near Jenkins to the Ohio state line west of South Shore. The route passes through a number of cities and towns, including Pikeville, Prestonsburg, Paintsville, Louisa, Catlettsburg, Ashland, Russell, Flatwoods, Raceland, Wurtland, Greenup, and South Shore.
US 23 is an important transportation artery in the region, connecting communities and providing access to key economic and cultural centers. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 23 offers a convenient and efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 25
U.S. Route 25 (US 25) is a major highway that spans across the state of Kentucky, covering a distance of 178.9 miles (287.9 km). The route begins at the split between US 25E and US 25W in North Corbin and ends at US 42/US 127 at the Ohio state line in Covington. US 25 is an important transportation channel in the region, connecting communities and providing access to key economic and cultural centers.
The route passes through a number of cities and towns, including London, Mount Vernon, Berea, Richmond, and Florence. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 25 offers a convenient and fast route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 25E
U.S. Route 25E (US 25E) is a major highway in Kentucky that spans a distance of 144.7 miles (232.8 km). Exiting the Cumberland Gap Tunnel and Tennessee, US 25E has a trumpet interchange with the entrance road for Cumberland Gap National Historical Park before heading west to the city of Middlesboro in Bell County.
North of KY 74, US 25E continues through Middlesboro as North 12th Street, the main commercial thoroughfare, providing access to Middlesboro Mall, and intersecting KY 441 before exiting northern Middlesboro’s city limits, picking back up the Cumberland Gap Parkway designation for the rest of its duration in Kentucky.
Between Middlesboro and the city of Pineville, US 25E travels through the Kentucky Ridge State Forest/Pine Mountain State Resort Park in the Pine Mountain Ridge and accesses Bell County High School. US 25E then becomes a horseshoe-shaped bypass of Pineville’s central business district and intersects KY 66.
The route also passes through the city of Barbourville, providing access to Union College, and meeting KY 225 and KY 11. US 25E then enters a rugged forested area in the Cumberland Plateau near the unincorporated community of Baileys Switch before transitioning from a rural setting to a more exurban-developed land use as it approaches the conurbation of Corbin-North Corbin.
The route reunites with US 25W and the unsuffixed US 25 at a heavily congestion intersection, dubbed by Kentucky transportation personnel as “Malfunction Junction”, where US 25 continues north towards London. Overall, US 25E remains a multilane divided highway for its entire extent in Kentucky.
Route 27
U.S. Route 27 (US 27) is a major highway in Kentucky that spans 201.120 miles (323.671 km) from the Tennessee border to the Ohio border at Cincinnati. The route crosses into the state in the Lake Cumberland area, passing near or through many small towns, including Somerset, Stanford, and Nicholasville.
US 27 then passes straight through the heart of Lexington, including past the University of Kentucky (UK) and Transylvania University. The road provides easy access to the many attractions in Lexington, including the Kentucky Horse Park, Keeneland Race Course, and the Mary Todd Lincoln House.
North of Lexington, US 27 passes through Cynthiana and Falmouth before entering Campbell County and passing through many Northern Kentucky suburbs before ending at the Ohio state line on the Taylor Southgate Bridge in Cincinnati. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 27 offers a quick and efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 31E
U.S. Route 31E (US 31E) is a major highway in Kentucky that runs parallel to US 31, with Interstate 65 in between. The route spans a distance of 143.8 miles (231.4 km), beginning at the Kentucky-Tennessee border and passing through several towns, including Scottsville, Glasgow, Hardyville, Hodgenville, New Haven, Bardstown, and Mount Washington, before ending in downtown Louisville at the junction of US 31W and US 31.
US 31E only has interchanges with interstates in Jefferson County, with both being beltways: I-265/Gene Snyder Expressway and Interstate 264 (Watterson Expressway). However, it also has interchanges with the Louie B. Nunn Cumberland Parkway in Barren County and the Martha Layne Collins Blue Grass Parkway in Nelson County.
US 31E is a key vital transportation artery in the region, connecting communities and providing access to key economic and cultural centers. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 31E offers a convenient channel through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 41
U.S. Route 41 (US 41) is a major highway that runs from Miami, Florida, to Copper Harbor, Michigan, with a total length of 2,286.74 miles (3,683.88 km). In Kentucky, the route covers a distance of 106.952 miles (172.123 km), primarily paralleled by the Pennyrile Parkway and Interstate 69.
US 41 enters Kentucky in the Todd County community of Guthrie and passes through several towns, including Hopkinsville, Madisonville, and Henderson, before leaving the state and entering Evansville, Indiana. The route provides access to many attractions and destinations in the region, including the Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, the Madisonville City Park, and the Audubon State Park. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 41 offers a marvelous route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 42
U.S. Route 42 (US 42) is a major highway in Kentucky that starts in Louisville and heads northeast through Prospect on the Oldham County and Jefferson County line. From here, US 42 is a two-lane road passing through the northern Kentucky hills, paralleling between Interstate 71 and the Ohio River. The route passes through Goshen near North Oldham High School and continues through Oldham County into Trimble County.
In Bedford, US 42 intersects with US 421 and is concurrent through downtown. The route still heading northeast crosses into Carroll County prior to crossing the Kentucky River and entering Carrollton. US 42 follows northeast along the south bank of the Ohio River, passing Markland Lock and Dam and KY 1039 Markland Dam Bridge, which connects between Kentucky Speedway and Indiana.
Heading east, US 42 parallels the Ohio River passing through Warsaw, Gallatin County, about 5 miles (8.0 km) prior to intersecting with US 127 starting an extended concurrency. US 127 heads south toward Glencoe, Owenton, and eventually Frankfort. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 42 offers a scenic and efficient route through the beautiful northern Kentucky countryside.
Route 45
U.S. Route 45 (US 45) is a major highway that enters Kentucky at Fulton in Fulton County and travels northeast through Hickman County, Graves County, and McCracken County. The route passes through many small towns and communities, including Clinton, Mayfield, and Lone Oak, before arriving in Paducah as a four-lane highway.
In Paducah, US 45 serves as a major artery, intersecting with Interstate 24 at Exit 7 and intersecting US 60 and 62. The route provides access to many attractions and destinations in the region, including the Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, the Columbus-Belmont State Park, and the National Quilt Museum.
US 45 leaves Kentucky from Paducah’s northern border across the two-lane, metal-grate Brookport Bridge to Brookport, Illinois, across the Ohio River. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 45 offers a brilliant route through the heart of western Kentucky.
Route 51
U.S. Route 51 (US 51) is a major highway that runs through the western portion of Kentucky, covering a distance of 42 miles (68 km) from the Tennessee state line at Fulton to the Illinois state line at Cairo, Illinois. The route passes through many small towns and communities, including Clinton, Arlington, Bardwell, and Wickliffe, providing access to local businesses and attractions.
US 51 is a mostly rural route, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside. The route also carries part of the Great River Road near the northern end of its route in Kentucky, offering travelers a unique perspective on the Mississippi River and its history. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 51 offers a quick and rewarding route through the heart of western Kentucky.
Route 60
U.S. Route 60 (US 60) is a major highway that spans the width of Kentucky, covering a distance of 495 miles (797 km) and passing through 22 of the state’s counties. In the early days of the U.S. Highway System, US 60 was originally intended to be numbered as US 62.
However, following extensive lobbying and complaints filed by Kentucky governor William J. Fields to the American Association of State Highway Officials, the route was re-designated as US 60 before the system was finalized. In Kentucky, US 60 parallels the Ohio River, entering the state from Cairo, Illinois, and traveling northeast to Louisville before taking a direct eastward route (near Interstate 64, I-64) to rejoin the Ohio River in downtown Ashland.
Along the way, US 60 passes through many of Kentucky’s major cities, including Paducah, Henderson, Owensboro, Louisville, the state capital of Frankfort, and Lexington. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 60 offers a convenient and efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 62
U.S. Route 62 (US 62) is a major highway in Kentucky that spans a distance of 391.207 miles (629.587 km) across 20 counties in western, north-central, and northeastern Kentucky. The route enters the state by crossing the Ohio River near Wickliffe and begins heading eastward at Bardwell, passing through many small towns and communities along the way.
US 62 provides access to several major cities in the region, including Paducah, Calvert City, Princeton, and Maysville. The route crosses the Ohio River a second time at Maysville to enter the state of Ohio. Along the way, US 62 offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and provides access to many local attractions and destinations. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 62 offers a great route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 68
U.S. Route 68 (US 68) is a designated “Scenic Highway” that winds through forested, hilly terrain in Kentucky. The route passes near or through many cities and towns, including Reidland, Aurora, Cadiz, Hopkinsville, Elkton, Russellville, Auburn, Bowling Green, Glasgow, Edmonton, Greensburg, Campbellsville, Lebanon, Perryville, Harrodsburg, Lexington, Paris, and Maysville.
US 68 is Broadway through downtown Lexington and Harrodsburg Road before leaving the city. The route passes several Civil War battle sites, including the Jefferson Davis State Historic Site, the Battle of Tebbs Bend Historic Civil War Site, and the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. Every year, an annual 400-mile (640 km) yard sale is held along the highway for four days in early summer.
Recent improvements have been made to sections of the highway, including the completion of the Paris Pike in 2003 and ongoing work to make US 68 four lanes through Land Between the Lakes. The long-term goal is to widen and make safer the entire US 68 corridor through Kentucky as part of the Heartland Parkway project. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 68 offers a scenic and historic route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 79
U.S. Route 79 (US 79) is a key highway that enters Kentucky from Tennessee in Todd County, west of Guthrie, and runs northeast into Logan County, terminating at a junction with US 68, US 68 Business, and Kentucky Route 80 (KY 80) in Russellville. The route remains a two-lane road throughout Kentucky, passing through many small towns and communities along the way.
US 79 provides access to several local businesses and attractions, including the Lake Malone State Park and the Logan County Courthouse. The route offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular route for travelers looking to explore the heart of Kentucky. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 79 offers a convenient route through the western part of the state.
Route 119
U.S. Route 119 (US 119) is a two- and four-lane highway that runs from Pineville at U.S. Route 25E to the West Virginia state line at South Williamson in Kentucky. The route follows the Cumberland River past Harlan to near the source of the river’s Poor Fork, crosses Pine Mountain south of Whitesburg, and meanders along the mountain to Jenkins, where it joins US 23 and turns north to Pikeville.
From Pikeville to US 23, it is part of ADHS Corridor F, and from Jenkins north to Pikeville, it is part of Corridor B. From US 23/KY 80 at Pikeville eastward towards the state line, it is part of Corridor G. The route offers gorgeous views of the surrounding countryside and provides access to several local businesses and attractions, including the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail and the Breaks Interstate Park. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 119 offers a clean and easy route through the eastern part of Kentucky.
Route 127
U.S. Route 127 (US 127) is a major highway that runs 207.7 miles (334.3 km) from the Tennessee state line in rural Clinton County to the Ohio state line in Cincinnati, passing through many small towns and communities along the way. The southern portion of the route is mostly rural, offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
US 127 runs through the state capital of Frankfort before continuing north, providing access to many local businesses and attractions, including the Kentucky State Capitol and the Kentucky History Center. The route eventually passes through several Cincinnati suburbs in Northern Kentucky, joining US 42 near Warsaw and US 25 in Florence before crossing the Ohio River via the Clay Wade Bailey Bridge. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 127 offers a convenient and efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 150
U.S. Route 150 (US 150) is an east-west highway that spans 121.097 miles (194.887 km) in Kentucky, running from the Indiana state line above the Ohio River to US 25/KY 1249 at Mount Vernon. The route passes through many small towns and communities along the way, offering access to local businesses and attractions.
US 150 provides scenic views of the surrounding countryside and passes through several state parks, including Lincoln Homestead State Park and Levi Jackson Wilderness Road State Park. The route also intersects with several major highways, including US 60 and US 127. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 150 offers an efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 231
U.S. Route 231 (US 231) is a major highway that spans 86.465 miles (139.152 km) in Kentucky, running from the Tennessee state line near Adolphus to the William H. Natcher Bridge on the Ohio River (Indiana state line) near Rockport, Indiana. The route crosses the state mainly in the west-central region, traversing Allen, Warren, Butler, Ohio, and Daviess Counties.
US 231 provides access to several local businesses and attractions, including the Mammoth Cave National Park and the Owensboro Museum of Science and History. The route offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and intersects with several major highways, including the Western Kentucky Parkway and the William H. Natcher Parkway. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 231 offers a wonderful route through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 421
U.S. Route 421 (US 421) is a major highway that traverses twelve counties in the central and eastern parts of Kentucky, traveling in a southeast-to-northwest path from the Virginia state line near Pennington Gap to the Indiana state line, on the Ohio River at Milton, Kentucky and Madison, Indiana.
The route spans 250.536 miles (403.199 km) and passes through many small towns and communities along the way, providing access to local businesses and attractions. US 421 offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and intersects with several major highways, including the Hal Rogers Parkway and the Mountain Parkway. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 421 offers a marvelous channel through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 431
U.S. Route 431 (US 431) is a major highway that runs 86.93 miles (139.90 km) in Kentucky, traveling from the Tennessee state line south of Adairville to US 60 at Owensboro. The route crosses the state in mainly west-central portions, passing through or near towns such as Russellville, Lewisburg, Central City, and Livermore.
US 431 provides access to several local businesses and attractions, including the Lake Malone State Park and the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art. The route offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and passes through several counties, including Logan, Muhlenberg, McLean, and Daviess. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 431 offers a convenient path through the heart of Kentucky.
Route 460
U.S. Route 460 (US 460) is a major highway that extends from Frankfort, Kentucky to Norfolk, Virginia. In Kentucky, the route begins in Frankfort and ends at the Virginia state line. US 460 passes through several small towns and communities along the way, providing access to local businesses and attractions.
The route offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and intersects with several major highways, including US 127 and US 23. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, US 460 offers a convenient and efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Interstates
Interstate 65
Interstate 65 (I-65) is a major interstate highway that enters the state of Kentucky from Tennessee, five miles (8.0 km) south of Franklin. The route passes through several major cities, including Bowling Green, Elizabethtown, and Louisville, providing access to many local businesses and attractions.
I-65 offers scenic views of the surrounding countryside and intersects with several major highways, including the Bluegrass Parkway and the Western Kentucky Parkway. The route is an important transportation corridor for both commercial and personal travel, connecting the southern and northern regions of the United States. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, I-65 offers an efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Interstate 71
Interstate 71 (I-71) is a major interstate highway that begins east of Downtown Louisville at the Kennedy Interchange, where it meets I-64 and I-65. This interchange is sometimes called the “Spaghetti Junction”. From Louisville, the route roughly follows the Ohio River in a diagonal path toward Northern Kentucky. I-71 is largely a four-lane highway between Louisville and Cincinnati, except for the approach to Kentucky Speedway in Sparta, where it runs three lanes each way for about two miles (3.2 km).
The route is marked by signs near the town of Carrollton, commemorating a tragic accident that occurred on May 14, 1988, when a drunk driver struck a church bus full of children and teenagers, killing 27 people on board. After running 77 miles (124 km) from Louisville, I-71 merges with I-75 near Walton and intersects I-275, the Cincinnati beltway. The route crosses the Ohio River via the lower level of the Brent Spence Bridge (while the southbound direction uses the upper level) and continues into Cincinnati.
Interstate 75
Interstate 75 (I-75) is a major interstate highway that runs from near Williamsburg to Covington by way of Lexington in Kentucky. The route enters the Cumberland Plateau region from Tennessee and then descends into the Bluegrass region through the Pottsville Escarpment before crossing the Ohio River into Ohio. I-75 follows along the U.S. Route 25 (US 25) corridor for the entire length of Kentucky, passing through several major cities, including Lexington and Cincinnati.
The route provides access to many local businesses and attractions, including the Kentucky Horse Park and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. I-75 is an important transportation corridor for both commercial and personal travel, connecting the southern and northern regions of the United States. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, I-75 offers a convenient and efficient route through the heart of Kentucky.
Interstate 24
Interstate 24 (I-24) is a major interstate highway that enters the Jackson Purchase region of western Kentucky on a north-south alignment. The route gradually veers southeast and enters the western fringes of Paducah a few miles later, where the welcome center utilizes Whitehaven, the only historic house in the US used as a rest area. I-24 continues to shift southeast and has interchanges with US 60, US 62, and US 45 in Paducah.
Passing through the Hendron and Farley communities adjacent to Paducah, the highway shifts into a direct east-west alignment and has an interchange with US 68 in Reidland. The route then enters Marshall County and reaches an interchange with I-69 and a connector road to US 62 and Calvert City to the north, beginning a concurrency with the former.
The highways cross the Tennessee River onto the Pennyroyal Plateau and Livingston County just north of Kentucky Dam and its Kentucky Lake impoundment. The route then has an interchange with Kentucky Route 453 (KY 453) north of Lake City and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area before crossing the Cumberland River into Lyon County. I-24 gradually veers eastward, passing through Mineral Mound State Park and crossing KY 93 without an interchange.
The route then enters a landscape consisting mostly of farmland and has an interchange with KY 139 in the southern tip of Caldwell County. The highway then crosses into Trigg County and crosses the Muddy Fork Little River a short distance later before reaching an interchange with US 68 and KY 80 between Cadiz and Hopkinsville. The route then crosses into Christian County and has a partial cloverleaf interchange with US 41 Alternate before crossing into Tennessee.
Interstate 64
Interstate 64 (I-64) is a major interstate highway that travels for 191 miles (307 km) in Kentucky, passing through major towns and cities such as Louisville, Frankfort, Lexington, and Ashland. The route has several major junctions with other Interstates, including I-65, I-71, I-264, and I-265 in Louisville and I-75 in Lexington.
The portion of I-64 in Kentucky is home to two “exceptionally significant” structures indicated by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA): the Cochran Hill Tunnel, a twin tube at Cherokee Park in Louisville built in 1974, and a 1960s-era modern-styled rest area near Winchester.
In Downtown Louisville, I-64 passes under a public plaza called the Riverfront Plaza/Belvedere, one of the only structures in the state built on top of an interstate. Between the Indiana state line and Lexington, I-64 is named the Daniel Boone Expressway. The entire length of I-64 in Kentucky has been designated as a portion of the Purple Heart Trail.
