A historic downtown, an Adena culture earthwork mound and public art offer several tangible ways to explore Montgomery County’s history. In Mount Sterling, discover it among the courthouse square, commercial streets and historic buildings; beyond downtown, hills, parks and other attractions shape the visit.
History, Art and Traditions in Mount Sterling
The Commercial Historic District in Mount Sterling was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. The district includes the courthouse square and commercial buildings on North Maysville Street and East and West Main Street. It comprises 63 buildings in all. The Northwest Residential District offers a different perspective on the town’s history: this 18-block area extends along West Main Street and North Maysville Street and includes around 250 residential properties.
Individual buildings also tell the story of the town’s development. Ascension Episcopal Church is a historic Gothic church dating to 1878. Its distinctive features include hand-carved walnut woodwork and Mt. Sterling’s first stained-glass memorial windows. A historic bell is also considered a symbol of Mt. Sterling.
The Mt. Sterling Art Trail takes visitors on a scenic walk through downtown, linking public art, restored buildings and colorful murals. Those who want to explore historic sites and buildings can start at the History Museum next to the courthouse: the Historic Downtown Walking Tour begins there and includes historic sites and restored buildings. Downtown also features historic markers, and local merchants welcome visitors.
The J.D. Wilson Gallery houses a permanent collection of contemporary Kenyan art, considered the largest of its kind in North America. Court Days in Mount Sterling is a recurring three-day tradition featuring handmade goods, antiques, tools and collectibles. Check event dates before your trip. A behind-the-scenes tour of the Ruth Hunt Candy Factory shows how candy is made; confirm the tour in advance.
Another historic site lies outside the downtown area: Little Mountain Indian Mound was built by the Adena culture about 2,000 years ago. This approximate date makes it a much older testament to regional history than Mount Sterling’s surviving commercial and residential districts.
Hills, Parks and Activities
The terrain in Montgomery County is predominantly hilly to rolling. High peaks and ridges can be found along the eastern and southern edges; many rise above 1,200 feet. This landscape contrasts with the streets and buildings at the heart of the historic sights.
For outdoor recreation, Botts Park offers walking paths and a disc golf course. Becca’s Butterfly Garden, a registered Monarch Waystation, is also located there. Easy Walker Park has an inclusive playground. Recreation Bowl Park, also known as “The Mound,” has been renamed and is undergoing renovations; it has pickleball courts.
MSMC Aquatic Center features level access, water sprays, tipping buckets and a large vortex slide. Garden enthusiasts can see or buy more than 1,300 daylily varieties at Hickory Springs Of Montgomery Daylilies. The Judy Drive-In has been showing movies under the open sky since 1952; check which screenings are currently offered before your trip.
Other leisure options combine entertainment and sports: Tenth Frame Cinema & Sterling Lanes offers current movies, bowling and arcade games. Irish Hills Golf Course combines golf with views, meals and a country club atmosphere; check the venue’s operating status before your trip.
Mount Sterling is accessible via Interstate 64, Exit 110. You can combine the journey with a stay that focuses on historic architecture, art, parks or the area’s varied leisure activities.
Discover more destinations: Mt Sterling, Jessamine County, Whitley County, Woodford County, Jefferson, Taylor County, Cumberland County, Grant County
For the main travel overview: Kentucky.
