Nature meets history in Carrollton, a river city and county seat
Carrollton is home to historic architecture and many natural spaces at the confluence of the Ohio and Kentucky rivers. “Generally, I’m seeing many people moving that direction from the Louisville area for price because the homes are more within reach. Many people are also there because of the recreation, and it’s just a beautiful town,” says Kyle McPeck, a Realtor with Coldwell Banker McMahan, who has 4 years of experience. A downtown historic district sprawls across the waterfront, containing various local businesses and government offices since Carrollton is the county seat of Carroll County.
Shops and restaurants from the waterfront to Kentucky Highway 227
Downtown Carrollton spans several blocks near the Ohio River bank and includes various local businesses. Abby’s Closet and The Lemon Drop Boutique are on Main Street with Papi’s Mex Grill & Bar. “Welch’s Riverside Grill sits right on the river, and you’re high up, so you can look out at the river. It has the most amazing view,” McPeck says. Carroll County Courthouse hosts the Riverview Farmers Market on the lawn on Wednesdays from mid-April to October. Additional restaurants, such as Hometown Pizza, are on Kentucky Highway 227, along with a Kroger.
Historic architecture near downtown Carrollton and newer homes nearby
Between the early 1900s and mid-century, many Minimal Traditional and Victorian homes were built on gridded streets near downtown. Larger historic homes often feature front porches or wrap-around porches. These older homes have price ranges from about $50,000 to $400,000. Beginning around the 1970s, ranch-style homes, some with brick exteriors, were constructed farther from downtown. New Traditional homes became popular additions in the early 2000s. These newer homes share a similar price range of about $180,000 to $640,000, depending on factors such as property size. Some homes sit on over 7 acres. “Many times Carrollton is attractive to people like first-time home buyers, people downsizing or retirees. Median prices tend to be around $250,000 to $300,000 for houses,” McPeck says.
Carrollton has an elevated flood risk, as the two rivers meet in the region. Homebuyers are encouraged to research flood zones and get proper insurance.
Boating, sports facilities and playgrounds from the river inland
Point Park is at the meeting point of the Ohio and Kentucky rivers, with a boat ramp and River Walk Trail. Pickleball courts, a splash pad and a skatepark are also in the park. Trees and rolling hills blanket General Butler State Resort Park, which features a lake with a fishing pier and the mountain biking-friendly Fossil Trail, which totals over 4 miles. The park grounds include a boat dock for non-motorized vessels, playgrounds and a miniature golf course. During previous floods in the area, some buildings in the park were converted into shelters. Robert Westrick Memorial Park has various sports facilities, including a basketball court, baseball fields and a swimming pool.
Instruction given at Carroll County schools and dual credit
Carroll County School District, which serves Carrollton, allows students outside the district’s boundaries to apply for its schools. Kathryn Winn Primary is a kindergarten and first-grade school, and Richard B. Cartmell Elementary educates grades 2 through 4. Fifth through eighth graders may attend Carroll County Middle School. Carroll County High School and the other zoned schools all earn C-minuses from Niche. High schoolers can take dual credit courses through Jefferson Community & Technical College, and bus transportation is offered at the school for dual enrollment students on a block schedule.
Government offices, a hospital and Interstate 71 leads to major metros
Downtown Carrollton is home to Carroll County Memorial Hospital and county government buildings, such as the Carroll County Detention Center. Interstate 71 runs through Carrollton’s southern region, connecting the area to Cincinnati to the north and Louisville to the south. Both cities are about 60 miles away and include airports. Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport has 55 nonstop flights, some international, and Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has various national direct flights. Freight trains travel through the region, crossing local highways such as Kentucky Highway 227. As a result of the presence of trains, traffic and noise may impact the surrounding area.
