Discover the Rich Heritage of Bell County at the Historical Society
Explore the rich history of Middlesboro at Bell County Historical Society, where local heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and dedicated storytelling.
The Bell County Historical Society in Middlesboro, Kentucky, is a treasure trove of local history and culture. This museum is a must-visit for tourists eager to explore the intriguing stories of the region. With exhibits showcasing everything from the area's mining past to its unique cultural heritage, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich narrative of Bell County. The society's friendly staff is always on hand to provide insights and answer questions, making this one of the most engaging historical experiences in Kentucky.
A brief summary to Bell County Historical Society
- 207 N 20th St, Middlesboro, Kentucky, 40965, US
- +1606-242-0005
- Visit website
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum's hours before your visit, as they are open from Tuesday to Saturday.
- Take advantage of guided tours for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
- Engage with the staff; they have a wealth of knowledge and are eager to share local stories.
- Don't forget to explore the gift shop for unique local souvenirs.
Getting There
-
Car
From any location within Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, make your way to US-25E N. Head northwest on any park road until you reach the intersection with US-25E N. Merge onto US-25E N and continue for approximately 10 miles. Take the exit toward Middlesboro. After exiting, continue straight onto N 20th St. The Bell County Historical Society will be on your left at 207 N 20th St, Middlesboro, KY 40965. Parking is available on the street.
-
Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, you will need to first take a local bus or shuttle service from the park to the nearest bus station in Middlesboro. Once in Middlesboro, you can take a taxi or rideshare service to reach the Bell County Historical Society at 207 N 20th St. Ensure to check the local bus schedules in advance as service may vary. Taxi fares can range from $10-$20 depending on the distance from the bus station.
Discover more about Bell County Historical Society
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kentucky golden horse
34.9 km
Discover the Kentucky Golden Horse Sculpture, a stunning tribute to equestrian heritage and a perfect pit stop for travelers in Williamsburg, Kentucky.
Former Holston River Bridge Abutments
52.6 km
Discover the remnants of the Former Holston River Bridge Abutments in Jefferson City, Tennessee – a historical landmark rich with stories and scenic beauty.
Rice Grist Mill
54.5 km
Step into history at the Rice Grist Mill, a captivating historical landmark in Norris, Tennessee, surrounded by the stunning Appalachian landscape.
Fort Anderson
59.9 km
Explore the historic Fort Anderson in Rocky Top, Tennessee, where rich history meets stunning natural beauty, perfect for every traveler.
General Longstreet Museum
60.7 km
Explore the legacy of General James Longstreet at this engaging museum in Russellville, TN, featuring interactive exhibits and a wealth of historical artifacts.
Witt Foundry Historial Site
64.1 km
Explore the Witt Foundry Historical Site in Morristown, TN, and uncover the stories of Tennessee's industrial past and craftsmanship.
Colonel Robert McFarland Historical Marker
64.4 km
Explore the Colonel Robert McFarland Historical Marker in Morristown, TN—a significant tribute to a Revolutionary War hero and a slice of American history.
Daniel Boone National Forest
68.5 km
Explore the natural beauty and adventure of Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Big South Fork Scenic Railway
68.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Kentucky aboard the Big South Fork Scenic Railway, a unique journey through time and nature.
Zoo Knoxville
69.5 km
Immerse yourself in wildlife at Zoo Knoxville, where adventure and education meet in a beautifully designed natural habitat.
Sharp's Ridge Veterans Memorial Park
70.4 km
Explore Sharp's Ridge Veterans Memorial Park, a serene tribute to our heroes in North Knoxville, offering scenic views and peaceful walking trails.
Pittsburg and Wilderness Road Historical Marker
70.9 km
Explore the Pittsburg and Wilderness Road Historical Marker, a pivotal site commemorating the early American westward expansion in Kentucky's scenic landscape.
Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
71.2 km
Explore the Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum, a serene oasis of nature with stunning gardens, educational programs, and picturesque wedding venues.
Old North Knoxville, Inc.
71.8 km
Discover the charm of Old North Knoxville, where history meets community spirit in a picturesque setting filled with Victorian homes and local culture.
Historic Ramsey House
72.1 km
Explore the Historic Ramsey House in Knoxville, TN – a captivating historical landmark filled with rich history and scenic beauty.
Unmissable attractions to see
Middlesboro / Arthur Museum
0.4 km
Explore the Middlesboro Arthur Museum, a captivating journey through local history and heritage in the heart of Kentucky.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Sign
1.7 km
Explore the rich history and breathtaking landscapes of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, where adventure and nature meet.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Visitor Center
1.9 km
Explore the Appalachian beauty and history at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in Kentucky.
Tri-State Trail
3.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Tri-State Trail in Kentucky, a premier hiking destination with diverse landscapes and wildlife encounters.
KY-TN-VA Tri-State Point
3.6 km
Experience the unique convergence of Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia at the historic Tri-State Point, a remarkable landmark rich in culture and natural beauty.
Cumberland Gap Marker
3.7 km
Explore the Cumberland Gap Marker, a historic site that showcases the journey of early American settlers through the Appalachian Mountains.
Cumberland Gap
3.8 km
Explore the majestic beauty and rich history of Cumberland Gap, a stunning mountain pass at the crossroads of Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee.
Little Congress Bicycle Museum
4.3 km
Explore the Little Congress Bicycle Museum in Cumberland Gap, TN, where cycling history comes to life through a fascinating collection of bicycles.
Gap Cave
4.3 km
Explore the enchanting Gap Cave in Virginia, a stunning natural attraction showcasing spectacular rock formations and unique ecosystems.
Olde Towne Cumberland Gap Ghost Tours
4.4 km
Delve into the supernatural with Olde Towne Cumberland Gap Ghost Tours, where history meets haunting tales in a captivating journey.
Harrison Mayes Roadside Cross
6.3 km
Discover the Harrison Mayes Roadside Cross, a serene memorial in Harrogate, TN, that reflects the area's rich history and natural beauty.
Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
9.7 km
Explore the historic trails and stunning landscapes of Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, a natural reserve rich in history and adventure.
Kentucky Ridge State Forest
12.7 km
Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of Kentucky Ridge State Forest, a premier nature preserve ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and hunting.
Pine Mountain State Resort Park
14.2 km
Discover Kentucky's Pine Mountain State Resort Park, a perfect blend of breathtaking nature, outdoor activities, and comfortable lodging for an unforgettable getaway.
Chain Rock
16.1 km
Explore the stunning Chain Rock in Pineville, KY – a breathtaking cliff with rich history, scenic views, and adventure for all nature lovers.
Essential places to dine
Sonny's BBQ
54.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Sonny's BBQ in Corbin - where every bite tells a story of flavor.
Pizza House-Pine Knot
64.7 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Pizza House-Pine Knot, where delicious pizzas and warm hospitality await you in Kentucky.
Jackie's Dream
71.2 km
Experience authentic Southern cuisine at Jackie's Dream in Knoxville – where every bite tells a story.
Ale' Rae’s GastroPub
72.3 km
Discover the unique flavors of Ale' Rae's GastroPub in Knoxville – where comfort food meets culinary innovation in a warm setting.
Bistro By The Tracks
72.4 km
Experience the finest American cuisine at Bistro By The Tracks in Knoxville - where culinary excellence meets Southern hospitality.
The Bohemian Knoxville
72.9 km
Experience culinary artistry at The Bohemian Knoxville, where Southern comfort meets global flavors in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kefi
73.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of authentic Greek cuisine at Kefi in Knoxville's Old City - where every meal is a Mediterranean celebration.
The Melting Pot
73.3 km
Discover an exquisite fondue experience at The Melting Pot in Knoxville – where every meal is a celebration of flavors and togetherness.
Lonesome Dove Knoxville
73.3 km
Experience exquisite American fine dining at Lonesome Dove Knoxville, where culinary creativity meets warm hospitality in Tennessee's vibrant capital.
STIR
73.4 km
Discover innovative New American cuisine at STIR in Knoxville's Old City - where flavor meets creativity in every dish.
Osteria Stella
73.4 km
Discover the essence of Italy at Osteria Stella in Knoxville—where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Southern Grit
73.4 km
Discover the essence of Southern cuisine at Southern Grit in Knoxville’s Old City – where every dish tells a story.
Kaizen
73.4 km
Experience authentic Asian flavors at Kaizen in Knoxville's vibrant Old City – where every dish tells a story.
Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive
73.7 km
Experience the best Southern barbecue at Sweet P's Barbecue and Downtown Dive in Knoxville – where flavor meets tradition in every bite.
BABALU - Knoxville
73.8 km
Experience vibrant Latin American cuisine at Babalú Knoxville with delicious tacos, tapas, and unique craft cocktails in a lively downtown setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Touch of Class
0.3 km
Discover the finest floral artistry at A Touch of Class in Middlesboro, KY, where every arrangement is crafted with passion and expertise.
Antique & Modern Jewelry
0.3 km
Explore a world of exquisite jewelry at Antique & Modern Jewelry in Middlesboro, KY, where timeless elegance meets contemporary design.
Middlesboro Mall
1.3 km
Explore Middlesboro Mall: A vibrant shopping center in Kentucky with diverse stores, delicious dining, and entertainment for all ages.
Bath & Body Works
1.3 km
Explore Bath & Body Works in Middlesboro, KY for luxurious beauty supplies, captivating fragrances, and thoughtful gifts that elevate your self-care routine.
Roses Discount Store
1.5 km
Explore Roses Discount Store in Middlesboro for unbeatable prices on clothing, electronics, home goods, and more—perfect for every budget!
Signatures Formal Boutique
1.8 km
Explore Signatures Formal Boutique in Middlesboro, KY for the finest selection of bridal gowns, tuxedos, and formal wear to make your special occasion unforgettable.
Gap Creek Coffee House
4.2 km
Explore the rustic charm and delightful brews of Gap Creek Coffee House in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee - your cozy retreat for great coffee and pastries.
Gertie's Commissary
4.2 km
Discover unique antiques and local souvenirs at Gertie's Commissary, a cherished gift shop in the heart of Cumberland Gap, TN.
Whistle Stop Antiques
4.5 km
Discover unique vintage collectibles and charming decor at Whistle Stop Antiques in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee.
Village Shops
6.0 km
Explore unique gifts and local treasures at Village Shops in Harrogate, TN - a charming destination for every tourist.
Allstar Apparel and Awards
8.6 km
Explore custom apparel and unique souvenirs at Allstar Apparel and Awards in Cumberland Gap, your go-to screen printing shop for memorable travel keepsakes.
Pickers Paradise
21.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of vintage finds at Pickers Paradise in Tazewell, Tennessee - a haven for antique lovers and history buffs alike.
The Shop
31.0 km
Discover unbeatable deals on home goods at The Shop in Barbourville, where quality meets affordability for every traveler.
Hot Off The Press Boutique
42.3 km
Explore unique local fashion at Hot Off The Press Boutique in Harlan, Kentucky, where trendy style meets charming local flair.
Jennifer's Resale Shop
46.1 km
Explore Jennifer's Resale Shop in Williamsburg, KY for unique vintage finds and delightful home goods that tell a story.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The 606
0.2 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at The 606 in Middlesboro, Kentucky, where home-cooked meals meet warm hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ike's Artisan Pizza
0.2 km
Discover the delicious artisan pizzas crafted with fresh ingredients at Ike's Artisan Pizza in Middlesboro, KY, perfect for families and friends.
Shades Café & Steakhouse
0.3 km
Discover Shades Café & Steakhouse, where exceptional steaks and a cozy café ambiance meet in the heart of Middlesboro, Kentucky.
Conley's Drive-In Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover the charm of classic American dining at Conley's Drive-In Restaurant in Middlesboro, KY, where nostalgia meets deliciousness.
Cumberland avenue La Esperanza
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at La Esperanza, Middlesboro's go-to Mexican restaurant for authentic cuisine and warm hospitality.
Bones Cracked Ribs
0.7 km
Discover the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Bones Cracked Ribs, where smoky flavors and warm hospitality come together in Middlesboro, Kentucky.
Wildcat Cafe
0.7 km
Discover the delightful Wildcat Cafe in Middlesboro, Kentucky, where delicious breakfasts and warm hospitality await every visitor.
La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant in Middlesboro, Kentucky.
Royal Waffle King
1.1 km
Discover delicious waffles and hearty breakfast dishes at Royal Waffle King, a beloved breakfast gem in Middlesboro, KY.
Pelancho's
1.1 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere at Pelancho's, Middlesboro's top spot for delicious food and drinks.
Sonic Drive-In
1.2 km
Experience the nostalgia of American fast food at Sonic Drive-In in Middlesboro, Kentucky, where flavorful meals and a unique drive-in experience await.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
1.4 km
Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Middlesboro, KY, where hearty meals and nostalgic gifts await.
Bubby's of Middlesboro
1.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Bubby's of Middlesboro, where every dish is crafted to perfection.
El Mariachi Mexican Grill
1.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Mariachi Mexican Grill in Middlesboro, a vibrant destination for flavorful dishes and lively atmosphere.
Two Gen Grill
1.8 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern cuisine at Two Gen Grill in Middlesboro, KY, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.