7 Fun Things To Do in Paducah, Ky

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Paducah is one of the underrated cities in Kentucky. Yet, this town has so much to offer for holiday goers and those travelling the area looking for something different to do in Kentucky.

Paducah was founded in 1827 by William Clark. It is named after Chief Paduke, who welcomed travellers and gave hospitality to the Settlers. It is the largest city in Jackson and is situated on the banks of the Ohio River.

If you’re wondering what to do in Paducah, KY, don’t worry because this guide has you covered. There are many fun things to do in Paducah that will add a new and unique experience to your travel catalogue.

What To Do in Paducah

Paducah is a creative town with many great attractions and activities to enjoy. From museums to parks, old towns, and great restaurants, Paducah will add unforgettable experiences to your travel memories.

Here are seven fun things to do on your holiday to Paducah:

Visit the National Quilt Museum

Paducah is nicknamed the “Quilt City” for a reason, as the National Quilt Museum attracts over 100 000 patrons each year. The museum is located in Downtown Paducah (see below) and has made big efforts to advocate and educate people about quilting.

The museum is a 13 000-square feet building, featuring an interior lined with quilts and other beautiful fibre artworks attracting crowds from all over the world. You’ll discover its rotating galleries with new displays each week, ensuring each visit is unique.

The museum offers a guided tour, hands-on quilting activities, art workshops, junior quilting clubs, and retreats focused on educating and inspiring creativity.

Entrance to the museum is free for children under 12, $5 for students, $11 for seniors, and $12 for adults.

national-quilt-museum

See the Old Floodwall Murals

The iconic Floodwall Murals separate the Tennessee and Ohio rivers. The Floodwall features  more details than any other water barrier you’ll come across.

It was built as a barrier to protect the city from flooding. Today there are over 50 murals spread across the structure, representing Paducah’s rich history. Created by artist Richard Dafford, some of the mural’s features include richly-detailed art pieces that make for an impressive display next to the river banks.

You can enjoy a beautiful lunch waterside during the summertime with the murals and water in perfect view. Find the River Discovery Centre across the street for a double-day of activities.

floodwall-muralExplore Historical Downtown

Downtown Paducah is one of the most exciting places to explore while in Paducah. There are incredible sights and activities to see and do in the area. Downtown is separated by the Floodwall Murals and is popular for locals and tourists alike.

While in Downtown Paducah, you should spend the entire day walking around the area.  You’ll see classic 19th-century buildings and get to explore the local eateries. Its rich history and many attractions mean you’ll never be short of things to do in the area.

If you haven’t had the chance to visit the Old Floodwall Murals and the National Quilt Museum, they’re also located near Downtown so are excellent options while in the area.

donwtown-paducah

Visit the Paducah Farmer’s Market

The Market is located near the Paducah Quilt Museum and within sight of the famous Floodwall Murals. It’s a great option if you want to spend a day outdoors.

The open-air market has no admission fee and sells various products, including fresh fruit and vegetables, farm-fresh meats, and eggs. You can treat yourself to delicious homemade breakfast and lunch too.

Among the fabulous foods, the market also has plenty of other things to offer. There are live music performances, face painting for kids, and the market has a special “Celebration Saturdays” making it enjoyable for the whole family.

paducah-farmers-marketStop at the Whitehaven Welcome Centre

The Whitehaven Welcome Centre has been named the Gateway to the South. The historic mansion now serves as an interstate tourist stop.

There is a lot to do at the mansion. Some features include an exciting historical display and viewing classic period furniture. Attendees can enjoy a picnic at the designated grounds, so bring a picnic basket for a relaxing day out.

The mansion has guided tours, which must be scheduled with the centre. You’ll be able to witness many of the artefacts on the tour. The centre is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm from Monday to Saturday and closed on Sundays.

whitehaven-furniture

Adventure around the Bob Noble Park

The Bob Noble Park is one of Paducah’s many nature parks. It was named after one of Paducah’s long-time residents, Captain Robert Noble.

The 135-acre park has many fun activities for you to do including swimming, skating, tennis, basketball, and fishing. You can also walk along the trails that link to the Clyde F. Boyles Greenway Trail.

The park is a perfect outdoor paradise to enjoy the fresh air and a day in the sun. It is for day-use only and is open from sunrise to sunset.

bob-noble-park

Eat at a local restaurant.

Enjoying the delicious foods and drinks a town offers is an essential part of any vacation. Apart from enjoying a meal at one of Paducah’s local markets, there is an excellent range of commercial and local restaurants.

Paducah’s dining experience reflects the diversity and authentic hospitality that the city is known for. The local restaurants specialise in crafting an authentic food and drinks experience.

Enjoy one of Paducah’s famous downtown food joints or tuck into a diverse range of restaurants that perfectly depict Paducah’s western brand of Kentucky BBQ.

kentucky-bbq

Final Thoughts on Things To Do in Paducah, Ky

With so many things to do in Paducah Kentucky, planning your trips and daily activities is the only thing left to do. Planning activities based on the weather of the day is advised.

With so many things to do in Paducah, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this town. Paducah’s rich history and unique culture make it the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing vacation away from your busy home life.

Were you planning on doing a complete road trip? Paducah is just over 300 miles away from Peoria, Illinois.

Matt Davison
Matt has done marketing for travel and tourism for over a decade. His first love is SEO, with entrepreneurship hotter on its heels than a girlfriend. When he is not looking up flights back to his next destination, you can find him in the garden, making excuses to walk Rusty, strategizing with the team and tinkering on sites until the early morning.