The Mountain Arts Center stands as the cultural centerpiece of Prestonsburg, offering world-class entertainment in a 1,054-seat theater that has hosted some of country music's greatest names. Since opening in 1996, the MAC has welcomed Loretta Lynn, Dwight Yoakam, Chris Stapleton, Billy Ray Cyrus, Ricky Skaggs, Patty Loveless, George Jones, Montgomery Gentry, Merle Haggard, The Temptations, and dozens of other national headliners. The venue features a commercial recording studio, art gallery, meeting rooms, and arts education facilities.
Billie Jean Osborne's Kentucky Opry performs at the Mountain Arts Center during summer and Christmas seasons, offering Saturday night shows featuring classic country, bluegrass, gospel, and Appalachian-style comedy. The Kentucky Opry Jr. Pros, performers ages 6 to 18, open for the main show and represent some of the finest young musical talent in the region. Many former Jr. Pros have gone on to careers in Nashville, New York, and on national tours.
Pikeville, just 27 miles southeast of Prestonsburg, offers the 7,000-seat Appalachian Wireless Arena, Eastern Kentucky's premier venue for major concerts and events. The arena has hosted acts including Kid Rock, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, Eric Church, Alan Jackson, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Alice Cooper, and many others. The facility also hosts monster truck shows, WWE events, Disney productions, sporting events, and regional tournaments.
The Appalachian Center for the Arts in Pikeville provides additional theater programming, arts education, and cultural events. Between the Mountain Arts Center, the Appalachian Wireless Arena, and the Jenny Wiley Amphitheatre, you will have access to more live entertainment options than many physicians practicing in rural areas could imagine.
Prestonsburg offers a dining scene that surprises visitors expecting limited options in a small Appalachian town. The Brickhouse serves American comfort food including ribeye steaks, burgers topped with pulled pork, and crab cakes in a house-turned-restaurant that often hosts live music. Lizzie B's Cafe and Bakery draws crowds for breakfast and lunch with freshly made pastries and sandwiches. Billy Ray's Restaurant serves home-style cooking with breakfast available all day.
For international flavors, Made to Crave has earned a devoted following for its Mountain Mexican cuisine with bold flavors and generous portions. El Azul Grande and El Rodeo Grande provide additional Mexican options, while Yamato Steak House of Japan offers hibachi-style dining. Giovanni's Pizza serves Italian favorites, and Pig in a Poke brings barbecue traditions to the table. The Music Highway Grill at Jenny Wiley State Resort Park uses locally grown produce, meat, and dairy.
The East Kentucky Science Center and Varia Planetarium, located on the Big Sandy Community and Technical College campus, features one of the most technologically advanced planetariums in the country. The 40-foot dome seats 85 and includes a Digistar 7 projection system, the state's only GOTO Star Projector, and a laser light show system. The 3,000-square-foot exhibit hall offers hands-on STEM activities, and planetarium shows run Tuesday through Saturday with laser shows following.
The Samuel May House, the Big Sandy Valley's oldest brick building, operates as a living history museum documenting life in early 19th-century Appalachia and Civil War history. The Mountain Arts Center houses the Cedar Coal Exhibit and the Ranier Racing Museum alongside rotating art exhibitions featuring regional artists. Webb's Grocery in nearby Van Lear preserves the history of coal company stores and serves as the departure point for tours of Loretta Lynn's Butcher Hollow cabin.
Pin-Zone Bowling Zone in Prestonsburg offers family-friendly bowling with recently renovated lanes and a welcoming atmosphere. The facility hosts leagues, parties, and casual bowling for all ages. For outdoor family recreation, Jenny Wiley State Resort Park provides swimming, playgrounds, picnic areas, and nature programming throughout the year.
The region hosts several annual festivals that bring the community together. The Jenny Wiley Festival in October features arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, live music headliners, and family activities. The Battle of Middle Creek Reenactment in September combines Civil War history with the Kentucky Highland Folk Festival. Van Lear Days celebrates the region's country music heritage. Throughout the year, farmers markets operate in nearby communities, offering fresh local produce and artisan goods.
Prestonsburg offers convenient retail options including a Walmart Supercenter for everyday needs. Local boutiques line the downtown area, including Daffodils Boutique for women's clothing and accessories, Little Rascals Boutique for children's items, and specialty shops offering Appalachian crafts and gifts. Webb's Grocery in Van Lear sells Loretta Lynn memorabilia alongside traditional snacks like MoonPies and RC Cola.
For expanded shopping, Pikeville (27 miles) and Paintsville (13 miles) offer additional retail options. Lexington, approximately two hours away, provides access to major department stores, specialty retailers, and the shopping options of a metropolitan area when desired.
Living in Prestonsburg, you will discover entertainment options that challenge assumptions about rural community life. From Grammy-winning artists performing at the Mountain Arts Center to Broadway musicals under the stars at Jenny Wiley Amphitheatre, from planetarium shows exploring the cosmos to Civil War reenactments on preserved battlefields, the cultural calendar stays full throughout the year. The difference from metropolitan entertainment is not in quality or variety, but in accessibility and cost. You will attend concerts without fighting traffic or paying premium parking fees, and you will recognize neighbors in the audience who share your appreciation for live music and community gathering.
Prestonsburg has emerged as a destination for hikers seeking Appalachian terrain without the crowds found at more famous locations. The Sugarcamp Mountain Trail System, which opened in 2017, offers more than 20 miles of hand-carved trails beginning on reclaimed mountaintop and descending into Jenny Wiley State Resort Park. The trails provide spectacular views of Dewey Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges, with difficulty levels ranging from beginner-friendly routes to technical terrain that challenges experienced hikers.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park adds another 13 miles of hiking trails through forested wilderness. The park is named for pioneer woman Jenny Wiley, who was captured by Native Americans in 1789 and escaped after 11 months. Walking these trails, you can imagine her eluding her captors through the same mountain terrain. The 8.6-mile Prestonsburg Passage Rail Trail offers a paved option for walkers, runners, and wheelchair users, featuring the unique "School Bus Bridge", an actual school bus converted into a pedestrian bridge at the six-mile mark.
The Sugarcamp Mountain Trail System has earned recognition as one of the premier mountain biking destinations in Kentucky. Created through collaboration between dedicated volunteers, the City of Prestonsburg, and Jenny Wiley State Resort Park, the trails feature technical singletrack that has drawn riders from across the state and region. Trail names like "Feathered Indian," a double black diamond descent, and "Fern Gully," a technical, twisty route, indicate the challenging terrain available.
The system includes approximately 6 miles of machine-built, horse-friendly trail suitable for beginners, plus 20 miles of hand-carved singletrack for experienced riders. Shuttle service from the state park campground to the Sugarcamp Mountain Trailhead eliminates the long climb for those seeking to maximize downhill runs. Pro-Fitness Multisports in Prestonsburg offers bike parts, service, and sales for Cannondale, GT, Schwinn, and Trek bicycles.
Dewey Lake, a 1,100-acre impoundment with 52 miles of shoreline, offers fishing that draws anglers from across the region. The lake holds the Kentucky state record for the largest muskellunge ever caught, and silver muskellunge continue to be stocked annually. Largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, crappie, bluegill, and white bass all inhabit the lake. Catfish populations are particularly strong, making Dewey Lake one of the top catfish destinations in eastern Kentucky.
The Jenny Wiley State Resort Park Marina provides 199 open slips, three boat launching ramps, and pontoon boat rentals. Additional boat ramps at German Bridge and other locations around the lake provide easy access. Winter fishing on Dewey Lake can be productive on warm days. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources has placed fish attractors including Christmas trees, stake beds, brush piles, and hinge-cut trees in more than 10 locations throughout the lower half of the lake.
The Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River offers 164 miles of river fishing for smallmouth bass, spotted bass, rock bass, and channel catfish. Woody debris throughout the river creates excellent habitat for game fish.
The Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River has become a paddling destination, with the Levisa Fork Paddlefest held the fourth Saturday of each month from May through September. The 8-mile kayaking journey launches from behind Billy Ray's Restaurant in downtown Prestonsburg and flows through the heart of Appalachian hill country. The $15 registration includes lunch at the endpoint in Paintsville and shuttle service back to your vehicle.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the full 16.4-mile route from Prestonsburg to Paintsville takes four to six hours depending on river conditions. The Levisa Fork features gentle waters suitable for beginners along with mild rapids that add excitement without creating dangerous conditions. The river passes rolling hills, verdant forests, and wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the journey.
Dewey Lake provides additional water recreation including swimming, water skiing, and jet skiing. The lake's clean mountain water and 52 miles of undeveloped shoreline create a peaceful setting for all water activities.
StoneCrest Golf Course offers championship-level golf on 700 acres of mountaintop terrain overlooking the Appalachian Mountains. Designed by Chris Chrissman and Jack Sykes in consultation with Kentucky Golf Hall of Fame member Russ Cochran, the par-72 course opened in 2001 on a reclaimed coal mine site. The course stretches over 7,000 yards from the black tees, with four additional tee box options making it accessible to all skill levels.
The 13th tee box sits at 1,349 feet elevation and provides views of the mountains and horizon in three directions. Golf Digest rates StoneCrest among the best courses in eastern Kentucky, with bent grass fairways and greens that roll well in season. The course has hosted both the Men's and Women's Kentucky State Amateur Championships. Amenities include a pro shop, club repairs, practice green, driving range with Toptracer technology, and a clubhouse with bar and grill. Stay-and-play packages are available in partnership with Jenny Wiley State Resort Park and local hotels.
Kentucky's elk herd, the largest east of the Rocky Mountains, makes its home in the mountains surrounding Prestonsburg. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources reintroduced elk to eastern Kentucky between 1997 and 2003, transporting 1,513 animals from western states. The herd now numbers more than 11,000 animals spanning 16 counties, with prime habitat on reclaimed surface mines near Prestonsburg.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park hosts guided elk tours from September through early March. Morning tours depart early for the best viewing opportunities and include continental breakfast and van transportation to viewing sites. Watching these powerful herbivores graze against the backdrop of Appalachian ridges provides an experience typically associated with western destinations, available within minutes of downtown Prestonsburg.
The Dewey Lake Wildlife Management Area encompasses 9,172 acres of steep, rugged, forested terrain surrounding Dewey Lake. The hardwood ridges offer white-tailed deer hunting during October with low hunting pressure due to challenging access. The WMA is designated a Quality Deer Management Area with special regulations that have improved trophy potential.
The surrounding forests support populations of deer, turkey, ruffed grouse, rabbit, squirrel, and furbearers. Floyd County lies within Kentucky's 16-county elk zone, where hunters can apply for quota elk hunts through the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Kentucky's elk hunts are highly competitive, but residents have improved odds compared to out-of-state applicants.
The best access to Dewey Lake WMA hunting areas is by boat, with hiking required to reach prime ridgetop habitat. Hunters should prepare for physical demands and plan for packing harvested animals back to boat access points.
German Bridge Campground, located at the headwaters of Dewey Lake, serves as the primary equestrian facility for the area. The campground features a 20-stall barn, primitive and full-hookup campsites, a boat ramp, and access to miles of riding trails. Electric and water hookups, shower facilities, and restrooms are available for overnight stays.
The Sugarcamp Mountain Trail System includes approximately 6 miles of horse-friendly, machine-built trails with spectacular views of Dewey Lake and the surrounding mountains. These multi-use trails provide access to the high country without the technical challenges of the mountain biking singletrack.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park attracts birders during the Spring Warbler migration, when numerous species pass through on their northward journey. American Redstarts and various warbler species are common sightings. The asphalt road from May Lodge to the two-bedroom cottages provides surprisingly productive birding year-round. The Jenny Wiley Executive Golf Course area is particularly good for Eastern Bluebirds.
The Dewey Lake Wildlife Management Area's 52 miles of undeveloped shoreline and dense hardwood forests support diverse wildlife populations. Deer, wild turkey, ruffed grouse, and various small mammals are regularly observed. The lake itself provides habitat for wading birds, waterfowl, and osprey during migration seasons.
Living in Prestonsburg, you will have outdoor recreation options that rival destinations requiring far longer drives from metropolitan practice locations. Within minutes of leaving work, you can be casting for trophy muskellunge, descending technical mountain bike trails, or watching elk graze on reclaimed mountaintops. The 700-acre golf course sits atop a mountain with 360-degree views. The kayak launch is steps from downtown restaurants. The hunting covers nearly 10,000 acres of public land. For physicians seeking an active lifestyle outside the hospital, Prestonsburg delivers access and variety that larger cities struggle to match.
Prestonsburg maintains several well-designed city parks that provide everyday recreational opportunities for residents. Archer Park serves as the community's primary multi-use facility, featuring tennis courts, swimming pools, ball fields, a playground, dog park, lighted outdoor basketball court, and picnic pavilions. Located at 66 Archer Park Road, this family-friendly space accommodates everything from youth sports to weekend picnics, with the dog park allowing your four-legged family members to run and socialize.
Star City Park celebrates Prestonsburg's designation as a Tree City USA, a recognition earned by communities committed to preserving greenery and nature. The park includes multiple fruit trees, a walking course through a shaded area alongside a pond, a shelter for gatherings, and a basketball court. Located at the intersection of East Friend Street and North Highland Avenue, the park provides a quiet green space within minutes of downtown.
Rosenberg Square anchors downtown Prestonsburg as a charming public gathering space for events, live performances, and seasonal celebrations. The inviting layout, decorative lighting, and central location make it a popular spot for both residents and visitors to relax and experience community events throughout the year.
Highlands ARH Wellness Center, located at 5000 KY Route 321 Suite 104, provides hospital-affiliated fitness facilities for community members. As part of the Appalachian Regional Healthcare system, the wellness center offers exercise equipment, fitness classes, and wellness programming with the backing of medical professionals who understand the unique health needs of the region.
No Limits Fitness Centers operates a Prestonsburg location offering traditional gym equipment and training options. For physicians seeking to maintain fitness routines between shifts, these facilities provide convenient access without the long drives required in many rural communities. Additional fitness options are available in Pikeville (27 miles), including Anytime Fitness locations that offer 24-hour access for healthcare professionals working irregular hours.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park features an 18-hole championship disc golf course, the newest addition to the park's recreational offerings. The course is laid out on the former par-3 ball golf course with additional holes cut through mountain woods, providing elevation changes on most holes. Signs at recreational tees mark a total course length of 5,440 feet, with a mix of long shots, short shots, and technical wooded holes.
The course attracts players from across eastern Kentucky, with deer frequently visible during morning rounds. The setting provides memorable holes with views of Dewey Lake and the surrounding mountains. After your round, the May Lodge is a two-minute walk away for refreshments. For players preferring traditional golf, StoneCrest Golf Course sits adjacent to the state park with its 700-acre championship layout.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park maintains a swimming pool for overnight lodge and cottage guests, providing a controlled aquatic environment separate from the lake. The pool operates seasonally from Memorial Day through mid-August, with trained recreation staff coordinating summer activities for children and adults.
Dewey Lake itself offers swimming access at multiple points along its 52 miles of shoreline, though swimming is at your own risk without lifeguard supervision. The clean mountain water and numerous coves provide opportunities for family swimming during summer months. Archer Park's swimming pools offer another option for community aquatic recreation during the warmer season.
Prestonsburg offers two bowling facilities for family entertainment and league play. Pin-Zone Bowling Zone has earned a loyal following for its recently renovated lanes, friendly atmosphere, and Southern hospitality. The facility hosts church groups, youth parties, and community gatherings, with one reviewer noting the staff makes visitors feel genuinely welcomed regardless of where they come from.
Bowl Rite Lanes provides additional bowling options in the immediate area. Both facilities offer league nights, open bowling, and party reservations, making them popular destinations for family outings, youth activities, and adult recreation. The bowling facilities serve as community gathering spots during evenings and weekends.
You Me & Pottery operates as a paint-your-own pottery studio in downtown Prestonsburg, providing a creative outlet for families seeking hands-on activities. Visitors pick their piece, paint and glaze it, and return in two weeks to collect their fired artwork. For those who prefer immediate results, acrylic paint options allow same-day completion. The studio hosts birthday parties and family outings, offering a screen-free activity that appeals to all ages.
The East Kentucky Science Center and Varia Planetarium offers educational recreation beyond its exhibit hall and star shows. The 3,000-square-foot exhibit space features hands-on STEM activities that engage children while teaching scientific principles. Planetarium shows, laser shows, and rotating exhibits provide repeat-visit appeal for families with curious children.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park employs a trained recreation director who coordinates daily summer activities and year-round special events for children and adults staying at the lodge or campground. The playground near the cottages, marina, and recreation center provides additional play space for visiting families.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park serves as a nature education hub through its trail systems, birding opportunities, and wildlife viewing. The park's setting in a moist Appalachian environment, dominated by maples, pawpaws, and tulip poplars, provides rich habitat for wildlife observation. The Spring Warbler migration attracts birders from across the region, with American Redstarts and numerous warbler species passing through.
The Dewey Lake Wildlife Management Area's 9,172 acres surrounding the lake provide additional nature education opportunities. The dense hardwood forests and undeveloped shoreline support diverse wildlife populations. The park's guided elk tours from September through March offer structured wildlife education experiences that combine transportation, expert narration, and close-up viewing opportunities.
Jenny Wiley State Resort Park's trained recreation director coordinates organized activities during summer months, providing structured programming for families and groups. Friday and Saturday evenings feature a dance pad at the campground for line dancing, bringing the community together for social recreation.
Archer Park hosts youth sports leagues utilizing its ball fields, while the tennis courts and basketball courts support casual play and organized activities. The park's pavilions can be reserved for team gatherings, end-of-season celebrations, and community sports events. Local schools and community organizations utilize these facilities for youth athletic development.
Paintsville Lake State Park, approximately 20 miles northwest of Prestonsburg, adds another 242 acres of parkland with 26 miles of waterfront on 1,100-acre Paintsville Lake. Fishing, boating, and swimming are primary attractions, providing variety for families who want to explore beyond Dewey Lake. The park offers an easy day trip for weekend recreation.
Cabwaylingo State Forest in West Virginia, accessible from the Prestonsburg area, provides over 8,000 acres of wooded space for fishing, hunting, hiking, and biking. The forest's rugged terrain appeals to outdoor enthusiasts seeking backcountry experiences beyond the more developed state park facilities.
Living in Prestonsburg, you will find that recreational facilities provide the structure and convenience that busy professionals need to stay active and connected. The city parks offer everyday exercise opportunities within minutes of home. The bowling alleys provide rainy-day entertainment for families. The pottery studio creates space for creative expression outside work hours. The fitness centers maintain your wellness routines. And the state park adds swimming, disc golf, and organized recreation that would require separate memberships in larger cities. For physician families, these accessible facilities mean children can participate in sports, parents can maintain fitness, and weekends offer variety without extensive travel.