Historic Downtown Whitesburg

Many of the buildings in downtown Whitesburg were built during a period of expansion after World War I, and the downtown core still maintains a unique sense of mountain culture. Visitors can pick up authentic Applachian crafts and gifts at the Cozy Corner gift shop, enjoy a coffee at Summit City Café, or simply "take a stroll down Broadway" and enjoy this mountain town.

Appalshop

Founded in 1969, Appalshop is a multi-disciplinary arts and education center that produces original films, video, theater, music and spoken-word recordings, radio, photography, multimedia, and books. Appalshop is also home to Mountain Community Radio (WMMT 88.7 FM), a great source of bluegrass music and local commentary. Appalshop is located in downtown Whitesburg, about 15 minutes from Isom.

Valley of the Winds Art Gallery

This gallery displays the original artwork of Sharman, Jeff, and Evan Chapman-Crane. Jeff does realistic paintings of mountain people and places, and Sharman exhibits representational images of endangered animals. Evan's work displays an experimental nature and global interest in mediums and subject matter. The Valley of the Winds Gallery is about 40 minutes away in Eolia.

The Kentucky Coal Mining Museum

Housed in the former International Harvester Company Store, The Kentucky Coal Mining Museum offers a view into the evolution of the coal mining industry in Eastern Kentucky. The Museum is about 50 minutes away in Benham, KY.

Hindman Settlement School

Currently a school for dyslexic children, the Hindman Settlement School has long been a part of education and cultural heritage in neighboring Knott County. MCC has partnered with the Settlement School in order to promote literacy by furnishing tutors for adult education. You'll need about 20 minutes to get to the Hindman Settlement School from Isom.

Visit the Hindman Settlement School

Marie Stewart Crafts Shop

The Marie Stewart Crafts Shop in Hindman showcases the work of local artisans. This shop, currently managed by MCCer Marie Neudorf, stocks many beautiful items, including pottery, woodwork, paintings, quilts, and jewelry in a cozy cabin-like setting. Many volunteers find time to pick up something uniquely Appalachian at this shop, or at its webstore. The Marie Stewart Crafts Shop is about 20 minutes from Isom.

Visit the Marie Stewart Crafts Shop

Appalachian Artisan Center

The Appalachian Artisan Center is another destination for those who appreciate fine Appalachian craftsmanship. The AAC is a focal point for Hindman's main street business area, and figures prominently in the city's plan to become an arts, culture, and heritage destination. If you're hungry, you'll find tasty soups, salads, and sandwiches at the Artisan Center Café. Make sure you leave 20 minutes before you absolutely have to eat, because that's how far it is from Isom.

Visit the Appalachian Artisan Center

Elk viewing on a reclaimed mine site

Outdoor enthusiasts can view elk at the old Starfire Mine site, about 40 minutes away in Knott County. Talk to SWAP staff about specific directions to this site, or contact LKLP, a local service organization, at 1-866-202-2067 to arrange a guided elk tour.

Bad Branch Falls

Bad Branch Falls is medium-level 45 minute (one-way) hike through rhododendron groves to a very pleasant waterfall. It's a frequent destination for SWAP volunteers and is about 40 minutes by car from SWAP Isom. Hikers need to be on the trail by 3 pm. Hikers who are interested in the Bad Branch route should also consider hiking opportunities on Pine Mountain and also in nearby Kingdom Come State Park.

Kingdom Come State Park

Kingdom Come State Park is a popular option for Wednesday afternoon activities. Picnic areas and scenic overlooks abound in this beautiful park about 50 minutes from Isom. For those who enjoy throwing 'a few shoes,' there are several horseshoe pits at the picnic areas.

Swimming at Carr Creek Lake

Many groups cool down with a swim at Carr Creek Lake on Wednesday afternoon. The lake is a short drive down highway 15, about 15 minutes from our SWAP location in Isom.

Lilly Cornett Woods

Located about a half-hour from Isom, Lilly Cornett Woods is a wonderful area for hiking. This 554 acre tract of old growth forest is a National Natural Landmark, and is home to over 60 tree species. Those who wish to hike in Lilly Cornett must call (606)633-5828 to make an appointment.