We are soaking in the last few weeks of summer vacation here in Harlan County, and it’s not too late to join in on the fun! Enjoy the sunshine atop the highest peaks in Kentucky, or have some fun in the water while being surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. Here are our recommendations for ending your summer the right way:
- Movie Night – Fly, don’t walk, down to the Harlan Center on July 17th for a free movie night! They will be showing Superman, and it is one you don’t want to miss.
- Kingdom Come State Park Paddle Boats – Looking to go on an adventure, see the full summer trees reflect off the water, and have fun while doing it? If you answered yes to any of these, then riding the paddle boats across the lake at Kingdom Come State Park is the thing for you!
- Gears & Beers – Join us every 4th Thursday for a night of cars, community, and a packed 1st Street in front of the courthouse! Gears and Beers offers everything from classic cars, hot rods, imports, trucks with families out and kids picking their favorites!
- Historic Harlan Museum – From a full timeline of Harlan County History to an extensive Cawood Ledford exhibit, the Historic Harlan Museum is a great place to have some historical fun! On Free Kids Day, which is observed on the last Tuesday of each month, kids can enter the museum for free (but the accompanying adult must pay for their own admission). Keep your ticket stub and take it to the Summer Concert Series for a chance to win $250!
- Splashpads – Make a splash in either Verda or Harlan at one of the two Harlan County splashpads! These are sure to cool you off and leave you soaked!
- Summer Concert Series – For the remainder of July, enjoy performances by local artists and bands every Thursday! You are guaranteed to see fun music, great vibes, and free T-shirts to the first 25 people who show out for these incredible artists and bands.
- Spray & Play – Jump for joy during July with our annual Spray and Play! Children can enjoy water inflatables, kiddie pools, and popsicles and drinks all for FREE! Spray & Play is every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in July.
- Follow The Moonbow – Head to Moonbow Tipple every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 2 PM – 3 PM until August 7th for a summer reading adventure and a free cookie!
- Black Mountain Thunder Zipline – Did you know that Harlan County is home to the longest, tallest, and fastest zipline in the state of Kentucky? Racing at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and towering over lush green forests, the Black Mountain Thunder Zip Line is one of our most thrilling attractions. Schedule a zipline tour today and end your summer with a thrill.
- Portal 31 Mine Tour – Descend into the depths of the Appalachian Mountains with this unique mine tour. You get to experience animatronics and, for our spooky friends, maybe even some paranormal activity from the ghosts of miners past.
- Camp Blanton – Camp Blanton is a popular spot for outdoor recreation and events, and for good reason. Situated in Blanton Forest, Kentucky’s largest old-growth forest, the wildlife and scenery provide the best Kentucky wilderness experience. Spend the end of your summer connecting with nature!
- Kingdom Come Mini Golf – Get your favorite putter and swing on by Kingdom Come State Park to play mini golf. This is the perfect way to have some Harlan County fun with friends!
- Pine Mountain Settlement School – Serving as a hub for cultural and environmental education, Pine Mountain Settlement School is a national historic landmark that has been a pillar of our community for more than one hundred years. They have preserved Appalachian traditions and the buildings on their campus, which make you feel like you are stepping back into history.
- Martins Fork Lake – There is no better way to cool off on a hot summer’s day than lying on a beach and taking a dip in the beautiful Martins Fork Lake! To make the most of your day, check out our How To Have a Beach Day in the Mountains blog!
