The Unique Town In Kentucky That’s Anything But Ordinary
Kentucky has a lot of interesting and unique towns. Louisville and Lexington always have plenty to offer as the state’s two largest cities. Berea is is the Folk Arts and Craft Capital of Kentucky, and Bardstown is often called the best small town in the country.However, Paducah is a town in Kentucky that is anything but ordinary and often doesn’t get enough credit. Wondering what Paducah, Kentucky, is famous for? Read on!
Paducah is located in western Kentucky, right on the banks of the Ohio River. It is the largest city in the Jackson Purchase region of Kentucky.
Whitehaven Welcome Center is the only historic home to serve as an interstate welcome center. The mansion has an abundance of items to commemorate Alben Barkley, a Paducah native who served as vice president under Harry Truman.
Paducah is located on the Ohio River and is known for being a community full of history and art.
In 1937, the Ohio River crested at 60.8 feet, and there are many buildings downtown that have flood markers to show how high the water actually got. In true Paducah fashion, they decorated their flood walls with beautiful murals.
One of the most popular activities to do in Paducah is the Riverwalk. Walk along the banks and watch barges or steamboats chug past, and visit some local stores.
Unfortunately, many of the original buildings in Lower Town were destroyed by the Civil War. Some buildings were restored, and the neighborhood had a period of elegance before falling into decline. However, in 1982, the neighborhood was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In recent years, Paducah's Artist Relocation Program has helped bring Lower Town back to its former glory. More buildings have been restored, new ones have been built, and the neighborhood is now bustling with art galleries and has become a desirable place to live.
Another site in Paducah to check out is the William Clark Market House Museum.
Every year, QuiltWeek Paducah attracts thousands of people. It is one of the largest quilt shows in North America, and in 2013, the town was named a City of Crafts and Folk Art by UNESCO. Paducah is only the seventh city in the world to gain that title.
If you're more of the outdoorsy type, check out Bob Noble Park. It's home to a FIN (Fishing In Neighborhoods) lake, so you can watch fishermen throughout the park or cast a line yourself.
Located within Bob Noble Park is the Wacinton Sculpture. Created by sculptor Peter "Wolf" Toth in 1985, it is meant to be a dedication to the Chickasaw tribe who used to inhabit the area around Paducah.
We mentioned it briefly above, but, in recent years, Paducah has emerged as one of the top culinary destinations in Kentucky. Of course, the same can be said for the Bluegrass State in general; from its iconic dishes like hot browns and burgoo to farm-to-table fare and unique global fusions, Kentucky is a formidable foodie force to be reckoned with. And this is epitomized in Paducah, a small town that’s emerging as one of the most diverse and incredible culinary destinations not only in Kentucky but in the entire country. Recently, Paducah’s bourgeoning food scene has exploded, attracting the national spotlight for its diversity, unique culinary culture, and incredibly delicious fare.
The Freight House is one of the newest restaurants in Paducah and it has caused quite a stir. This restaurant is owned and operated by Bluegrass chef (and “Top Chef Kentucky” runner-up) Sara Bradley. At The Freight House, you’ll dine on down-home Kentucky cuisine that’s truly inspired, and the entire experience will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about our state’s fare. In town, Cynthia’s Ristorante is a long-time favorite, dishing up Californian-influenced Italian fare made with farm-fresh ingredients served amid walls of local art. The food is fresh and locally grown, and really highlights the bounty of the Bluegrass. These restaurants are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of amazing food in Paducah — you’ll also find excellent pizza, fried chicken, and classic diner fare as well!
Address: 215 Jefferson Street, Paducah, KY 42001
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I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. I have lived elsewhere twice, but keep coming back. I'm a video editor and freelance writer who enjoys watching people wearing University of Louisville uniforms excel at sports, scaling the faces of large rocks, and hanging out with my border collie/laborador/cattle dog mutt thingy that I have.
