National Trust for Historic Preservation Announces Paducah, KY as “Fan Favorite” Winner of 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations

Sheridan, WY and New Bedford, MA Round out the Top Three Fan Favorites

Posted March 16, 2011 | Contact pr@savingplaces.org or 202-588-6141

Washington, D.C. (March 16, 2011)—Today, the National Trust for Historic Preservation announced that Paducah, Kentucky is the winner of the 2011 Dozen Distinctive Destinations “Fan Favorite” award – chosen by the public via an online vote that took place from February 15 to March 15. For 12 years the National Trust has annually selected 12 communities across America that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from those found at the typical vacation destination. For the second year, the National Trust asked the public to voice their opinions by voting for their favorite destination among the 12. Garnering more than 30 percent of the online votes, Paducah dominated the votes to win “Fan Favorite.”

“While the Dozen Distinctive Destinations program highlights authentic heritage travel experiences in destinations committed to historic preservation and revitalization, the title of ‘Fan Favorite’ celebrates the community that does an outstanding job of bringing these unique places to life,” said Stephanie Meeks, president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “We are proud to recognize the city of Paducah, and the larger community that rallied around this dynamic and culturally-rich destination.”

Situated at the confluence of the Tennessee and Ohio rivers, Paducah is the heart of Kentucky’s Four Rivers region. From thriving historic districts filled with turn of the century architecture and unique restaurants and shops to the many festivals, Paducah offers travelers 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.  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.

When it came to the “Fan Favorite” competition, Paducah engaged many of these community hot spots to help secure their new title. The local convention and visitors bureau also promoted the voting in their e-newsletters, as did other local organizations such as the Paducah Renaissance Alliance, the Paducah Hospitality Association, the Paducah Symphony and the National Quilt Museum. Even Coach John Calipari, the basketball coach for University of Kentucky, encouraged people to vote while waiting for a recent game to start.

This year’s destinations range from a waterfront city that George Washington called home and an Old West town that was once the unofficial capital of Indian Territory to a laid-back wine country destination and a charming seaport town with a rich seafaring tradition.

FAN FAVORITE DETAILS

The public determined which of the 12 destinations would be the 2011 Fan Favorite. From February 15 to March 15, any legal resident of the U.S., 18 years of age or older, could vote as often as they liked for their favorite city or town on this year’s list. Voters were automatically entered to win a complimentary two night stay at any Historic Hotel of America. No purchase necessary.  Offer void where prohibited.  Visit www.PreservationNation.org/ddd for official rules, information about Historic Hotels of America, and to learn more about this year’s destinations. To see the final results of this year’s vote, go to: http://www.preservationnation.org/travel-and-sites/travel/dozen-distinctive-destinations/ddd-results.html

As the winner of the Fan Favorite, Paducah will receive a complimentary one-year Gozaic partnership. Gozaic.com is the new online community for travelers interested in heritage destinations, sites and events that define the nation's past and enrich Americans' lives. Easy to use and filled with information, Gozaic provides visitors with a powerful travel planning resource and an online community for finding and sharing travel experiences.

The 2011 list of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations includes:

Alexandria, Va. – Located across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the country – and not just because it was home to the nation’s founding father, George Washington. An extraordinary blend of early America and modern chic, the city offers an eclectic mix of neighborhoods, historic sites, dining and shopping.

Chapel Hill, N.C. – From its well-preserved historic districts to its quiet winding streets and its bustling downtown area, Chapel Hill certainly lives up to its nickname as the ‘Southern Part of Heaven.’

Colorado Springs, Colo.– Nestled at the base of the Rocky Mountains, visitors to Colorado Springs can enjoy commanding views of Pikes Peak from just about any part of this vibrant, historic town.

Dandridge, Tenn. – With its idyllic natural setting in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, a welcoming small town spirit and a charming historic downtown, Dandridge epitomizes the quintessential Southern Appalachian town.

Eureka, Calif. – Located on the Northern California coast, Eureka is a beautifully preserved Victorian seaport that features a lively Old Town, the Carson Mansion - one of the most photographed homes in America - and nearby forests of majestic old growth redwoods.

Muskogee, Okla. – Once the unofficial capital of Indian Territory, Muskogee’s storied past and Native American, African American and Euro American influences are well-preserved and the vibrant town has many unique festivals, museums, restaurants and more.

New Bedford, Mass.– Once one of the world’s largest whaling ports, New Bedford is awash in maritime history, as well as scenic beaches, abundant architectural and historical riches, diverse neighborhoods and a burgeoning arts community.

Paducah, Ky. – The heart of Kentucky’s Four Rivers region, visitors to Paducah will find thriving historic districts filled with turn of the century architecture and one-of-a-kind shops and eateries as well as a community that creatively celebrates its cultural and artistic heritage.

San Angelo, Texas – A frontier city with a rich past, San Angelo offers visitors an authentic Old West experience, a bustling downtown historic district and vibrant cultural offerings.

Saint Paul, Minn. – Known for some of Minnesota’s most famous historic buildings—including the Cass Gilbert-designed State Capitol and the home of F. Scott Fitzgerald—visitors to St. Paul can browse the quaint shops of Grand Avenue, dine in the strikingly restored warehouse district, or be awed by the stately mansions along Summit Avenue.

Sheridan, Wyo. – Set in “the shadow of the Big Horns,” Sheridan offers a vibrant Main Street commercial district, abundant recreational opportunities, and an authentic Western experience.

Sonoma, Calif. – Dating back to the early 19th and set amidst winding country roads and family-owned vineyards, Sonoma offers all the perks of being in the heart of wine country, with the added benefit of a laid back vibe that complements the award-winning wine and food.

To download high resolution images and video of this year’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations, visit www.PreservationNation.org/press.

2011 marks the twelfth announcement of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations annual list. To date, there are 144 Distinctive Destinations located in 46 states throughout the country. To see a complete list and to vote for the 2011 Fan Favorite Destination, visit www.PreservationNation.org/ddd. The title of Distinctive Destination is presented to cities and towns that offer an authentic visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural diversity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes and a strong commitment to historic preservation, sustainability and revitalization. In each community, residents have taken forceful action to protect their town’s character and sense of place.