Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Paducah, Kentucky
Year Listed: 2011
Thanks to all of your votes, Paducah is the 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations Fan Favorite. Congratulations! Learn more.
Situated where the Tennessee and Ohio rivers meet, Paducah is the heart of Kentucky’s Four Rivers region. From thriving historic districts filled with turn of the century architecture staged along tree-lined streets with brick sidewalks and one-of-a-kind restaurants and boutiques to many festivals celebrating everything from quilts to visual arts and barbecue, Paducah is a great stop for any traveler looking for an authentic experience.
From the days of early settlers to today’s lively creative environment, Paducah’s rich history is artfully celebrated along the riverfront in life-sized murals. Also downtown, the National Quilt Museum offers a glimpse into an important part of America’s story. Meanwhile, a short trolley ride away is the LowerTown Arts District where visitors can participate in hands-on creative workshops with resident artists in restored classic revival and italiante homes in this colorful neighborhood.
Named in honor of a legendary 19th century Native American chief, Paducah’s multi-cultural past is reflected in its present. Visit the River Discovery Center (the city’s oldest building) to learn the stories, folklore and history of the Four Rivers Region. Then, take the UpperTown Heritage Walking Tour to a part of town where African Americans owned homes, businesses and more during the time of Segregation, and where famous African Americans including Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Tina Turner and Jesse Owens stayed when they came through town.
Content provided by Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau
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