'What's your favorite hidden gem in Barbourville?'

The Mountain Advocate’s Bryleigh Middleton took to the streets of Barbourville to ask folks to share their favorite hidden gems or places they like to visit to unwind, and why. Here’s their responses:

Justice Jody and Breanna Rose

The pair stated and agreed, “Either The Talking Donkey or Oasis Pizza.” When asked what they enjoy about the two places, they stated “the coffee is really good at The Talking Donkey, and Oasis Pizza is cheap and good too - I’d say they’re both pretty cheap and good!”

Bernard Sieracki

“It would probably be the state park (Dr. Thomas Walker State Historic Site). They have a miniature golf course - it’s probably the only miniature golf course I know of around here, that’s what makes it a hidden gem!”

John Burchette and Ethan Mills

Both would go on to agree that "Indian Springs is a great place” and “I really like Brickyard Pond and the Drive-In along with the pond next to it at the park.” “It’s a cool place and a lot of people go over and fish and visit the drive-in on the weekends. It’s nice!” stated Mills. “I feel like Indian Springs is the probably the best answer for a hidden gem,” Burchette exclaimed, “I feel like nobody outside of Knox County knows it exists.” 

Julia Weaver and Bonnie Carr

Carr first stated “Well, my favorite places are no longer around, but I would have to say the Magic Theatre. I guess I just miss old Barbourville - the 50’s and 60’s through there, because that was when I was growing up. Old Barbourville just had a lot of places I looked forward to visiting, but we do have a better and wider selection of restaurants that I really like,” in which she would express admiration for new pizza and Mexican restaurants. Secondly, Weaver recognized Countywide Produce Market & Deli, stating “they always have really nice and fresh fruits, vegetables, and fabulous sandwiches!” 

Joe Nelson

“I really enjoy The Talking Donkey and The Ugly Mug. My wife and I recently moved here and I often come to have my dogs groomed down the street, and they’re just really nice places to go when you have spare time,” stated Nelson. “I like to come in with a book and enjoy a coffee while I read and wait for my dogs, everyone is always very nice as well.”