Paducah, located in west Kentucky, is one of nine recognized as a UNESCO Creative City. The hub for creativity and innovation remains committed to arts and culture as a pillar of its development plans through several avenues, like its art district, floodwall murals and renowned National Quilt Museum.
The city, located just more than than three hours from downtown Louisville on the Ohio River, was named Kentucky’s “most charming small town” by HGTV in 2023. The publication featured one spot from each state, with the commonwealth city said to have a “blossoming culinary scene” and several workshops, galleries and studios.
Here’s what we know about Paducah and tourist attractions to visit.
Restaurants and bars
Paducah is home to several restaurants, museums, galleries, green spaces and boutiques and stores for shopping. Some restaurants to consider include the Freight House, Flamingo Row, Cynthia’s Ristorante and Max’s Brick Oven Cafe. The city is also home to a few breweries and bars such as Dry Ground Brewing Company, Paducah Beer Werks, Purple Toad Winery & Distillery and The Foxbriar Cocktail Bar.
Shopping, art and museums
Museums and galleries include The National Quilt Museum, the William Clark Market House Museum, the Paducah Railroad Museum, the Yeiser Art Center and the PAPA Gallery. There are plenty of shopping locations near downtown as well such as With Love from Kentucky, Raven & Moth, Lepa Jewelry and Muppin’s Sewing Emporium.
More: Worth the Drive: National Quilt Museum in Paducah is home to America’s finest quilts
Outdoor attractions
Those who prefer to be outdoors can visit one of more than two dozen parks and facilities free to the public or the Shawnee National Forest, about half an hour from Paducah. Other options include the River Discovery Center museum near the city’s historic riverfront and several walking and hiking trails in the area.
Reach Marina Johnson at Marina.Johnson@courier-journal.com.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Things to do in Paducah, KY: Restaurants, museums, hiking