Welcome to
Kentucky
Where Appalachian heritage whispers from the hills and echoes through a charming, historic town.
Grayson is home to Kentucky Christian University, a private Christian university that was founded in 1919.
The town's newspaper, The Grayson Journal-Enquirer, has been serving the community since the late 19th century.
Legend has it that some areas around Grayson are haunted by the spirits of Civil War soldiers.
Grayson is known for its annual 'Old Timey Days' festival, celebrating Appalachian heritage and traditions.
Grayson, Kentucky, the county seat of Carter County, traces its origins back to the early 19th century. While an exact founding date remains somewhat debated, the town officially took shape following the establishment of Carter County in 1838 and was named in honor of William Grayson, a prominent figure in early American history known for his role in the Revolutionary War and the Constitutional Convention. The town's location along early transportation routes, specifically near the Little Sandy River, contributed to its initial growth as a trade and service center for the surrounding agricultural communities. A significant courthouse fire in 1864 destroyed many early records.
Grayson's history is interwoven with the broader narrative of Eastern Kentucky, a region characterized by its rich natural resources, particularly timber and coal. The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed significant industrial development in the area, with Grayson serving as a hub for logging and the transportation of resources downriver. The arrival of the railroad further solidified Grayson's importance as a commercial center. The town has maintained a strong sense of community and local pride, preserving much of its historic character and small-town charm.
Today, Grayson offers visitors a glimpse into the past, with several historical buildings and landmarks still standing. The town's proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities, such as Grayson Lake State Park, has made it a popular destination for those seeking both historical exploration and natural beauty. Its position along US 60 ensures easy access and maintains its relevance in the 21st century.
Partner with us to share your town with all of Kentucky — featured placement, local business highlights, and a home for your community on the map.
Partner with usamenity:restaurant
601 Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
amenity:restaurant
amenity:restaurant
amenity:restaurant
amenity:restaurant
shop:gift
401 E Main St, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:restaurant
601 C W Stevens Boulevard, Grayson
amenity:cafe
100 Academic Pkwy, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:restaurant
789 Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
shop:gift
1710 E W US. Hwy 60, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
shop:bakery
120 Greenland Plaza Suite A, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
tourism:museum
62 Marigold Ln, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
shop:hardware
shop:car
shop:furniture
shop:convenience
599 Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
shop:beauty
222 KY 1947, Grayson
leisure:park
shop:convenience
leisure:park
shop:yes
600 C W Stevens Boulevard, Grayson
shop:car_repair
756 C W Stevens Boulevard, Grayson
leisure:park
shop:mobile_home_dealer
1090 KY-7, Grayson
shop:car
shop:car
333 C W Stevens Boulevard, Grayson
shop:convenience
850 North Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
shop:convenience
630 North Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
shop:supermarket
630 North Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
shop:convenience
951 Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
amenity:restaurant
603 East Main Street, Grayson
amenity:restaurant
shop:convenience
801 Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
amenity:restaurant
shop:beauty
789 N Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
amenity:restaurant
shop:second_hand
512 East Main Street, Grayson
leisure:park
shop:clothes
shop:convenience
608 Carol Malone Boulevard, Grayson
shop:florist
402 E Main St, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:restaurant
1051 KY-7, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:restaurant
117 W Main St, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:bar
530 N Carol Malone Blvd, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:restaurant
209 Carol Malone Blvd, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
amenity:restaurant
750 Carol Malone Blvd, Grayson, KY 41143, USA
While we prioritize independent local storefronts that carry the soul of the town, these national brands are located nearby and support local employment.
DQ Grill & Chill
amenity:restaurant
Goodwill
shop:charity
Grandview Clothing Outlet
shop:clothes
Huddle House
amenity:restaurant
Connections that unite Grayson with other Kentucky towns
administrative