Explore all the vibrant things to do in Paducah, Kentucky, a UNESCO Creative City bursting with cultural delights. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Paducah promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage and diverse artistic scene, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. Marvel at intricately crafted quilts, awe-inspiring murals, captivating performing arts, and tantalizing culinary creations all in one trip. Let me take you on a journey through Paducah’s fascinating history and highlight all the fascinating things to do in this charming Kentucky city.
Is Paducah Worth Visiting?
History of Paducah, Ky
Due to its prime location on the Ohio River, the area was very popular with Native Americans and pioneer settlers. In 1827, General William Clark bought the 32,000 acres that is modern-day Paducah for only $5. The town was then sectioned off and named after the largest nation of Native Americans that lived in North America, the Padouca Indians.
Paducah grew quickly during the Industrial Revolution due to the access of steamboats on the river. The city flourished with the establishment of a brick manufacturer and a foundry producing essential rail and locomotive components, attracting a surge of settlers seeking opportunity. However, all that growth was halted by the Civil War. In 1861, General Ulysses S. Grant orchestrated the peaceful capture of Paducah without firing a single shot, transforming the area into a crucial Union supply hub. After the war, industry picked back up. Renowned as a hub for tobacco, whiskey, iron, timber, and produce, the city thrived until the double blow of World War I and prohibition dealt a hard hit to its export enterprises.
Then, in 1937, a flood put 90% of Paducah under water and thus a flood wall was put in place to help prevent any future flooding. These flood walls are still there today.
In 1942, the Kentucky Ordinance Works enticed people from all over. In the 1950s a new uranium enrichment plant opened which brought another population surge to the area.
Things to do in Paducah, Kentucky
Wall to Wall Murals
Take a walking journey through Paducah’s rich past as you explore the iconic Wall to Wall murals, seamlessly blending artistry with historical narrative. Since its inception in 1996, this expansive mural project has served as a tribute to Paducah’s rich heritage. Each painting you walk by offers a glimpse into the city’s storied past, from overcoming the challenges of flooding, fires, and battles to emerging resilient and triumphant into the city it is today. You can spend quite a bit of time admiring each mural along the walkway.
Commissioned to breathe life into this remarkable endeavor was Dafford Murals, led by the renowned muralist, Robert Dafford. As you wander along the flood walls, overlooking the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, you’ll find yourself immersed in a visual spectacle of Paducah’s history and resilience—truly one of the must-see things to do in Paducah.
Schultz Park
The Raymond C. Schultz Park sits between the shore line of the Ohio River and the wall to wall murals. We spent a lot of time here since it’s the perfect little spot to relax. There are benches and picnic tables under shade trees where you can have a nice lunch and watch the boats go by. It is very conveniently located next to parking and all the downtown activities you could want to do.
Noble Park
I love a good park day and Bob Noble Park is a large, beautiful park with so much to offer. With a lake at its center hosting several ducks and geese, it’s a picturesque place to spend a day. There are several large playgrounds, pickleball courts, tennis courts, basketball courts, baseball fields, skatepark, picnic tables, and a public swimming pool during the summer months. Bob Noble Park also has access to the Greenway Trail. The perfect outdoor spot when you are looking for things to do in Paducah, Kentucky.
Greenway Trail
The Greenway Trail is a paved path extending a little over 5 miles through Paducah neighborhoods and parks with views of the riverfront. If you’re looking for things to do in Paducah you can enjoy the views on a leisurely walk or get in your exercise routine for the day by going on a bike or run.
National Quilt Museum
When you wrap up in a quilt do you ever think about how much work went into making it? Quilting is as much a work of art as painting or sculpting, yet it tends to be overlooked. The intricate designs and patterns are artfully pieced together to create a masterpiece. It can take years to complete a quilt and that’s something that should be appreciated.
At the National Quilt Museum you can view amazing quilts from many different artists. Each quilt tells a story; each stitch is well thought out, and some quilts even look like paintings. I was blown away by the artistry and couldn’t believe it only cost $15 to get into this museum.
Shopping
Downtown Paducah is a hub of activity: from day to day activities to tourists visiting the area, there are numerous things to do. Amidst its charming historical streets and buildings, you’ll discover a wide variety of locally owned shops with handcrafted items, many with their own unique story and artisanal touch. From quaint boutiques showcasing handmade jewelry to cozy galleries spotlighting regional artwork, there’s something to captivate every visitor’s imagination (and pocketbook). Whether you’re seeking one-of-a-kind souvenirs or simply indulging in a leisurely stroll, downtown Paducah promises an unforgettable shopping experience full of local flavor and creativity.
Eats + Treats
Red’s Donut and Coffee Shop
This grab and go donut and coffee shop serves various flavors of delicious donuts. Red’s Donut and Coffee Shop opened in 1955 by Howard Clark, nicknamed “Red” because of his red hair. Serving up yeast and cake donuts, pop in and grab a dozen (or two!) of all the different flavors they have to offer.
Gold Rush Cafe
A must visit restaurant in Paducah is the Gold Rush Cafe. Grab a seat at this popular diner to see why they have been voted best breakfast in Paducah multiple times. I highly recommend the bread pudding waffles, a creation of their own and oh so delectable.
Pro Tip: Try the waffles BEFORE putting syrup on them (as my wonderful waitress advised me). Trust me, they don’t even need it, they’re perfect! Unlike any waffle I have ever had, the bread pudding waffles are like a thick pound cake yet pillowy soft at the same time. Everything was cooked perfectly and if I lived in Paducah you would find me here several times a week.
Artisan Kitchen
If you’re looking for a great lunch spot while exploring things to do in Paducah, Kentucky, Artisan Kitchen is a perfect choice. You have your selection of soup, salad, and sandwiches for a light lunch plus a load of confections to choose from for a delightful dessert. I had the three little pigs sandwich with tomato basil soup and the waldorf slaw. It was the perfect size portion for my late lunch and I even saved room for a pecan pie bar after. It was so hard to choose from all the amazing dessert options. I also tried the caramel banana pudding and I would have loved to try even more. They have cookies, cakes, bars, and fresh baked breads.
Broussard’s Cajun Cuisine
Located downtown near the wall to wall murals is a vibing cajun food restaurant. The fun atmosphere in Broussard’s Cajun Cuisine is great any time of day. The portions are large and absolutely delicious. We enjoyed the “half and half”, which is a combination of Etouffee surrounded by a fried meat of choice, with rice and beans, hushpuppies, and of course beignets. On a beautiful day you can sit out on the patio as well.
Flamingo Row
If you want a fun, great place to bring a group or date, Flamingo Row is perfect. They have everything from burgers, pasta, seafood, tacos, and more. Even the pickiest eater will find something on the menu. Feel like you’re on a beach vacation with palm trees, sea shells, flamingo’s, and all things Florida beach house vibes, without leaving land-locked Kentucky.
Doe’s Eat Place
Doe’s Eat Place may not look like much from the outside, but they make up for it in flavor and portions. Known for their world famous steaks; keep in mind they are designed to be shared among friends and family. I had to see if the hype was worth it and it really is. Decorating may not be their focus, but they know what they’re doing in the kitchen. I had a ribeye and it was the most flavorful, juiciest steak I have ever had. Bring a friend or two because the steaks are very large.
End of the Road
There are so many amazing things to do in Paducah, Kentucky. We had such a relaxing, informative weekend exploring this delightfully historical city. I loved walking along the brick sidewalks, along the picturesque streets of downtown, and admiring the murals along the flood walls. There were several places on my list of things to do in Paducah that we didn’t even get a chance to see, so I’m anxious to go back. Paducah is definitely worth visiting for anyone who enjoys history, the arts, and great food.
If you enjoy visiting places like Paducah you may want to visit Lexington, Kentucky as well. Check out my Date Ideas in Lexington, Kentucky post to explore another great Kentucky city.
