Cities and Towns in Bourbon County, Kentucky
Founded in 1785, Bourbon County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Bourbon County was formed from Fayette County. The city of Paris is the county seat. With FIPS code of 17, Bourbon County has a population of 20,229 and area of 291 square miles (754 km²).
List of all cities in Bourbon County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clintonville, KY | 40361 | 859 |
| Millersburg, KY | 40348 | 859 |
| North Middletown, KY | 40357 | 859 |
| Paris, KY | 40361 | 859 |
| 40362 | 859 |
Major Cities and Towns in Bourbon County, Kentucky
Paris
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 7.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,700 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40361
- Latitude: 38.2096° N
- Longitude: 84.2522° W
Location and History
Paris, the county seat of Bourbon County, is located in central Kentucky, about 18 miles northeast of Lexington. Founded in 1789 and originally named Hopewell, it was renamed Paris in honor of the French assistance provided to the American colonies during the Revolutionary War. Paris became a thriving agricultural town, particularly known for its horse farms and the production of high-quality bourbon whiskey, a heritage that continues today. The city was also a center of trade for the surrounding Bluegrass region, with railroads and riverboats contributing to its economic success in the 19th century. Paris’s historic architecture reflects its rich past, with many buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paris is served by Paris Independent Schools, including Paris High School and Paris Middle School. Major landmarks in the city include the Bourbon County Courthouse, a grand 1902 structure that stands at the heart of downtown. The Hopewell Museum, housed in a Beaux-Arts style building, preserves the area’s history through its exhibits. Claiborne Farm, a world-renowned Thoroughbred breeding farm just outside the city, is another key attraction, with famous racehorses like Secretariat having been bred there. Paris also features scenic landscapes and historic homes that showcase the city’s equestrian and agricultural heritage.
Millersburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 790 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40348
- Latitude: 38.3023° N
- Longitude: 84.1488° W
Location and History
Millersburg is a small town located in northern Bourbon County, about 10 miles from Paris. Established in 1817 by John Miller, the town developed as a local center for trade and agriculture. Millersburg’s early growth was fueled by its location along major transportation routes, including the Maysville and Lexington Turnpike, which facilitated the movement of goods and people through the region. During the Civil War, Millersburg was home to a military institute, and several skirmishes occurred nearby, adding to the town’s historical significance. Today, Millersburg retains its small-town charm while embracing its rich history and rural character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Millersburg is home to the Millersburg Military Institute, a historic school that was founded in 1893 and operated for over a century, now repurposed as Mustard Seed Hill, a community and event space. Another notable landmark is the Millersburg Ferry, once a key transportation link across the Licking River. The town also boasts the Confederate Monument, which commemorates local soldiers who fought during the Civil War. The Blue Licks Battlefield State Resort Park is nearby, offering historical exhibits and outdoor activities. Millersburg’s schools are part of the Bourbon County School District, with Millersburg Elementary serving local children.
North Middletown
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 640 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40357
- Latitude: 38.1454° N
- Longitude: 84.1055° W
Location and History
North Middletown is a small town located in the eastern part of Bourbon County, roughly 12 miles from Paris. The town was incorporated in 1818 and is named after its position between Paris and Lexington, making it the “middle town” between these two major Kentucky cities. North Middletown was historically an agricultural community, with tobacco farming and horse breeding being central to its economy. In the 19th century, it served as a trading post and stopover for travelers moving between Lexington and other towns in the region. Although small in size, North Middletown has maintained its rural charm and remains a peaceful residential community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Middletown Elementary School, part of the Bourbon County School District, serves local students. The town’s landmarks include several historic homes and churches, such as the North Middletown Christian Church, which has been a community gathering place since the early 19th century. The town also boasts scenic farmland and historic tobacco barns, reflecting its agricultural heritage. Nearby attractions include the Claiborne Farm and other horse farms in Bourbon County, which highlight the region’s ongoing connection to the Thoroughbred industry. The town’s rural setting offers a quiet retreat from the busier neighboring cities, emphasizing community and tradition.
