Explore the largest city in southeastern Kentucky when visiting Middlesboro. Located one mile west of the Cumberland Gap, between Pine Mountain and the Cumberland Mountains, this city has the distinction of being one of the only cities in the world that was built inside a meteor crater! When staying at one of the Choice Hotels in Middlesboro, you have easy access to the sights and destinations that make this area unique.
Find out about local history by visiting the Bell County Historical Society & Museum. It’s located in a former Carnegie Library building that built back in 1908. The museum promotes and preserves the history of the Cumberland Gap area, including the significant part the railroad and coal mines played in the growth of the area. You also can stop by the local Chamber of Commerce to see the Coal House. Built in 1926 using one of the area’s most abundant natural resources, this house is made of 42 tons of coal! Next to the house, you’ll find the Bell County Coal Mining Museum, which is an outdoor museum that showcases coal mining equipment from the 1960s.Adventure seekers will want to make some time to visit Cumberland Gap National Historic Park. Follow in the footsteps of pioneers as you traverse miles and miles of scenic trails while viewing wildlife and plant life. You can also buy tickets to take a ranger-led Gap Cave tour for an exciting underground excursion! When staying at one of our Middlesboro hotels, you’ll also be minutes from Pine Mountain State Resort Park, where you can enjoy even more of the area’s beautiful scenery.Whether you’re planning to stay for a day, a week or longer, Choice Hotels in Middlesboro, KY offer convenient accommodations and great value for your trip to the “Crater City.” Book your stay today. We look forward to making your visit a great one!