Arts are the driving force behind this river town. Sip bourbon at Barrel & Bond,set inside a historic building that’s over 150 years old.
The colorful murals on the city’s flood walls tell a story about its history. Explore it on a self-guided tour,or watch a performance at the indie Maiden Alley Cinema or Market House Theatre.
1. Downtown Paducah
Paducah KY,a river city with a rich culture and Unesco Creative City status,is a rivertown with a cultural heart. Discover how quilters today create art using fabric and thread at the National Quilt Museum.
Experience a variety of art forms,including music and theatre,in the downtown historic district and LowerTown Arts District. The largest performance venue,Carson Center,showcases orchestra-in-residence and touring Broadway shows while Market House Theatre offers a more intimate theatre experience with murder mysteries and ghost tours.
Get a taste of the region’s flavorful cuisine in restaurants across town. Cynthia’s Ristorante,located in the Historic Lower Town Arts District,is one of the area’s most popular eateries with a Tuscan vibe that will make you feel like you have been transported to Italy. Mellow Mushroom,which serves craft beer and stone-baked pizzas,is a great place for a casual meal. Dry Ground Brewing is next door,where you can sample classic Paducah beers as well as guest taps.
2. Stuart Nelson Park
Located in the heart of historic Lower Town Arts District,Stuart Nelson Park was named after former black mayor William Stewart Nelson and honors him for his efforts during the Civil Rights Movement. It was also a project made possible by President Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal initiatives to combat the Great Depression.
The park is a great place to enjoy nature or take in a live performance at the nationally-recognized Market House Theatre. Since over 50 years,the Market House Theatre has produced musicals as well as dramas and comedies.
If you’re looking for something to do that is a little more interactive,the National Quilt Museum is a must-see. The National Quilt Museum offers a variety of workshops,where visitors can learn about the different styles and marvel at these intricate pieces of art.
Paducah’s economy was bolstered by its location along the river and railroad. The community was able to develop a robust manufacturing and shipping sector. The city’s economy is diversified today,with many businesses.
3. Gold Rush Cafe & Catering
Classic meets creative at this favorite breakfast spot,which also serves lunch and dinner. The omelets and waffles are popular,as is the bread pudding. Paducah Brewery’s regular brews,as well as other taps from across the country,can be found at the bar. The atmosphere is energized by local and touring bands,which adds to the fun. It’s always crowded,so make a booking. The wait is worth it!
4. Paducah Riverfront
Since its founding,the river has been Paducah’s lifeblood. The mighty Ohio and Tennessee rivers brought settlement,trade and industry to the historic town,which became a steamboat port,coal barge hub and transportation center via railroad. The rivers posed a danger,however. Serious floods in 1884,1913 and 1937 resulted in significant damage. In 1946,a gray concrete floodwall was constructed. Today,murals depict the history of the city.
Discover the rich history and heritage in this place named for William Clark by visiting the National Quilt Museum and the Yeiser Art Center. Shop local in Lower Town and the nearby Historic District. Enjoy Hollywood blockbusters and independent films,documentaries and vintage films at one of the many theaters in Paducah.
The city has a public swimming pool in Noble Park as well as skateparks and dog parks,sprayparks and a Brooks Stadium. It also offers disc golf and a Brooks Stadium. The city’s Greenway Trail stretches five miles and connects with the floodwall near the Transient Boat Dock.