Paducah Travel Guide


Introduction to Paducah

Paducah is a charming riverfront city located in Western Waterlands, in Kentucky, United States of America. The city has a rich cultural heritage with a blend of old and new architecture, local art displays, culinary delights, and breathtaking parks. Whether you are an adventure seeker or a history buff, Paducah is the perfect travel destination to unwind and explore. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Paducah, including the must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Paducah

Paducah has a variety of exciting and intriguing places to explore, ranging from historical monuments to outdoor recreational areas. Here are our top picks to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. National Quilt Museum: This museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers in Paducah, showcasing more than 600 contemporary and quilt artwork exhibits.

  2. Paducah Railroad Museum: Located in the restored 1925 Illinois Central Freight Depot, this museum is a treasure trove of railway history artifacts and exhibitions.

  3. Market House Museum: Housed in a 1905 restored building, this museum explores the history of Paducah and Western Kentucky from the past to the present.

  4. Lloyd Tilghman House and Civil War Museum: This historic house offers a glimpse of life during the Civil War days, as well as housing a museum displaying an array of Civil War artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Paducah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Kentucky Lake: The Kentucky Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in the eastern USA, offering an array of water sports, fishing activities, bird-watching, and scenic views.

  2. The Paducah Riverwalk: Stroll down the Paducah Riverwalk to enjoy the scenic views of the Ohio River, spot the colorful barges, and indulge in picnics by the water.

  3. Noble Park: Nestled in the heart of Paducah, Noble Park offers a range of leisure activities, including golf, tennis, fishing, and playgrounds for kids.

  4. Bob Noble Park Greenway Trail: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, hike or cycle along the 4.5-mile paved trail that winds through the scenic Bob Noble Park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paducah

Paducah has many hiking and biking routes that weave through the parks, natural areas, and scenic locations. Here are a few recommendations:

  1. Paducah Greenway Trail: The Paducah Greenway Trail is a 5.45-mile long trail that follows the Ohio River and offers scenic views throughout the trail.

  2. Bob Noble Park Greenway Trail: This paved trail weaves through the scenic Bob Noble Park, offering a perfect retreat for nature lovers.

  3. Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area Trail: Located in Shawnee National Forest, this 3.6-mile loop trail is a perfect hiking spot with scenic sandstone bluffs, waterfalls, and canyons.

Best Things to Do in Paducah: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting museums and exploring natural attractions, Paducah has much to offer to its visitors. Here are our top picks of things to do in Paducah:

  1. Paducah Riverwalk Food Tour: Indulge in a culinary tour of Paducah’s finest restaurants, cafes, and bakeries by taking the Paducah Riverwalk Food Tour.

  2. Bike the Trail of Tears: Follow the historic Trail of Tears on the 5-day self-guided bike tour and visit the landmarks that mark the passage of the Cherokee Indian migration.

  3. Explore the Artist Relocation Program Murals: Paducah’s historic downtown is adorned with more than 50 murals that showcase the creativity and talent of local artists.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paducah

If you have a week to spend in Paducah, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your stay:

Day Place to Visit
Day 1 National Quilt Museum, Yeiser Art Center, and Riverwalk
Day 2 Paducah Railroad Museum, Market House Museum, and Lloyd Tilghman House and Civil War Museum
Day 3 Kentucky Lake, Wallace Park, and Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
Day 4 Noble Park, Carson Park, and Trail of Tears State Park
Day 5 Paducah Riverwalk Food Tour, Floodwall Murals, and Artist Relocation Program Murals
Day 6 Bob Noble Park Greenway Trail, Paducah Dogwood Trail, and Garden of the Gods (day trip)
Day 7 Paducah Antique Malls, Kirchhoff’s Bakery, and Farmer’s Market

Food and Drink Scene of Paducah

The Paducah food scene offers a wide variety of options for food lovers. From southern soul food to international cuisine, the city has something for everyone.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Hot Brown: This Kentucky classic dish is prepared with roasted turkey, sliced tomatoes, and sauce Mornay on toast, topped with crispy bacon.

  2. BBQ: Paducah is known for its mouth-watering BBQ ribs, brisket, and pulled pork. For a taste of the local firewood smoked BBQ, visit Doe’s Eat Place.

  3. Catfish: A regional specialty, Paducah catfish is battered, deep-fried, and served with classic southern side dishes like coleslaw, hushpuppies, and potatoes.

Local Beverages

  1. Bourbon: Kentucky is home to some of the world’s best bourbon. Visit the Paducah Distilled Spirits District to sip and savor the local bourbon.

  2. Wine: Paducah is a part of the Western Kentucky Wine Trail, where visitors can enjoy the wineries and vineyards of the surrounding region.

Where to Stay in Paducah: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Paducah offers a variety of lodging options to cater to different budgets and tastes. Here are our top picks for accommodation in Paducah:

  1. 21c Museum Hotel: This modern art museum hotel is located in Paducah’s historic downtown, offering luxury accommodations and fine dining facilities.

  2. The Book Rack Inn: This cozy bed and breakfast offers an intimate experience in an 1860s Victorian mansion, featuring antique furnishing, modern amenities, and delicious homemade breakfast.

  3. Auburn Place Hotel & Suites: This hotel offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities such as a fitness center, an indoor pool, and free breakfast.

What to Buy in Paducah: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Paducah has an array of shops and markets that offer unique, locally made products. Here are some must-buy souvenirs to bring home:

  1. Quilts: As the Quilt Capital of the World, Paducah has a wide variety of unique handmade quilts that make a perfect gift or home decor.

  2. Bourbon: Bring home a bottle of bourbon from any of the local distilleries as a reminder of the local flavors of Kentucky.

  3. Local crafts: Paducah has many shops selling locally made pottery, jewelry, and woodwork items.

Local Culture and Customs of Paducah

Paducah has a distinct culture, shaped by its history and local traditions. Here are some customs and etiquettes to keep in mind while exploring the city:

  1. Respect locals’ privacy and avoid being intrusive.

  2. Southern hospitality is prevalent in Paducah, and it is customary to greet people with a smile and a warm hello.

  3. Dress modestly for religious or cultural sites and events, such as the wall murals tours.

Best Time to Visit Paducah

The best time to visit Paducah is from April to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The city has a variety of annual festivals, such as the Dogwood Trail and the Lower Town Arts and Music Festival, that take place during the spring and summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paducah

Do:

  1. Try Southern cuisine, local wine and bourbon, and the famous barbecue.

  2. Explore the local art scene, including the murals and galleries.

  3. Attend annual festivals and events, such as the Lower Town Arts and Music Festival.

Don’t:

  1. Smoke in public spaces, including parks and trails.

  2. Litter or damage the natural or historical attractions.

  3. Disrespect the local culture, customs, and religious beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paducah

Paducah is a safe city to travel to, but it is always important to take basic safety precautions, such as:

  1. Avoid unlit and secluded areas at night.

  2. Keep your valuables and belongings, such as phones, wallets, and passports, safe and secure.

  3. Always lock your hotel room and car when not in use.

Health in Paducah

Paducah has a well-maintained healthcare system, including many clinics and hospitals. If you require any medical assistance, you can visit the Baptist Health Paducah or Mercy Health Paducah.

Getting to Paducah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paducah

The nearest airport to Paducah is the Barkley Regional Airport, located 20 minutes from the city center and offering daily flights to and from St. Louis.

Bus Stations Near Paducah

Greyhound bus station is located in Paducah and offers intercity bus services.

Other Options

Renting a car is the most convenient option to explore Paducah and its surroundings. There are several rental car agencies at the Barkley Regional Airport.

How to Get Around in Paducah

Paducah has a well-connected public transportation system, including buses and taxis. However, renting a car or bicycle is the most popular and convenient option.

Where to Go Next from Paducah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. The Shawnee National Forest offers scenic hikes, waterfalls, and natural attractions.

  2. Land Between The Lakes is a national recreation area with endless opportunities for camping, hiking, water sports, and wildlife viewing.

  3. Nashville, TN, is a short 2-hour drive from Paducah and a popular destination for music lovers, foodies, and history buffs.

Conclusion

Paducah is a charming and vibrant city with a mix of cultural and natural attractions that cater to different interests and tastes. From the local cuisine to the art scene, from the historic sites to the outdoor adventures, Paducah offers something for everyone. Use this comprehensive guide to exploring the city and creating unforgettable memories.

Restaurants and shops line both sides of the old Market House in downtown Paducah Restaurants and shops line both sides of the old Market House in downtown Paducah Flood Wall Murals Flood Wall Murals