Since Kentucky’s northern border is formed by a river, it only makes sense that there are many cities and towns that have a close relationship with this body of water. The Ohio River and its tributaries were a big reason many of these communities were founded, including the charming Kentucky town of Paducah. So, what river runs through Paducah, Kentucky? Situated in the western part of the state, this city marks the point where the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers join in a fascinating confluence. Paducah also happens to be a wonderful place to visit for its river history, artistic flair, welcoming people, and all-around charm. Come along as we delve further into this fascinating river confluence history and town:

Paducah is a beautiful and charming Kentucky town that sits right on the Ohio River where the Tennessee Rivers flows into it.
Paducah Creative City Facebook Page
The city was founded in 1827 by William Clark, who you better know as half of the well-known explorer duo Lewis and Clark. Much of the city's history connects to its riverfront location and you can learn more about it by visiting this lively city. Get started by checking out the Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau.
A visit to Paducah should be centered around its historic downtown, which is scenically situated along the river.
Paducah Creative City Facebook Page
Here you'll find wonderful restaurants, shops, and historic sites, as well as the opportunity to be near the water. Many don't realize this, but Paducah is also home to more historic markers per capita than any other city in Kentucky, so you'll have plenty of exploring to do!
One thing that even many Kentuckians may not realize is that Paducah is the ending location for the Tennessee River, which flows into the Ohio River.
Paducah Creative City Facebook Page
This confluence where the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers meet is fascinating for many reasons, one of which is the difference in the rivers themselves. Since the Ohio flows all the way from Pittsburgh, it carries much more with it than the Tennessee, which winds through its namesake state, Alabama, and then ends in Kentucky.

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The Tennessee River is the largest tributary of the Ohio, so Paducah has long been a great location for all sorts of traffic along the water.
Leh-Wen Yau/Google Maps
You can imagine that this river access was what made this area so appealing to earlier settlers, and it's what makes Paducah such a charming and significant city in Kentucky to this day.
Over time, the use of the river access may have changed, but the connection between the river and the city remains strong.
Paducah Creative City Facebook Page
Whether you live in the area or would like to visit, you'll likely want to spend time near the water as you explore the historic sites and modern day favorites.
Must-see spots in Paducah are the amazing, colorful, and expressive murals., like the one pictured below.
Paducah Creative City Facebook Page
You can find them all over town, however the Wall-to-Wall murals, have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kentucky. Here, more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals by renowned artist Robert Dafford and the Dafford Murals Team span three blocks and are a memorable depiction of the history of Paducah. Once there you'll learn how the confluence of the rivers shaped the growth and character of this town and of course you can also appreciate the incredible artwork, which fits in perfectly in this creative city.
Kentucky has many river towns that were founded and shaped by the water and Paducah is one of the most charming.
Paducah Creative City Facebook Page
It's managed to maintain its history and significance while beautifully growing with the times. If you have yet to visit this western Kentucky destination, consider making the trip for a memorable experience in The Bluegrass State.

Paducah is a charming Kentucky town that has so much to offer both locals and visitors. Its ties to the river are on display throughout the city and you can experience it for yourself by spending time in this historic river town in the Bluegrass State.

Have you been to Paducah or do you live there now? Did you know about the confluence of the two rivers? Let us know in the comments section!

For more information on what Paducah has to offer its visitors, follow along with the Visitor’s Bureau on Facebook and take a look at their website.

And for more on the beautiful murals that span three blocks, check out our previous article.

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More to Explore

Enjoy the Great Outdoors in Kentucky

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | December 23, 2022

What are some fun things to do outdoors in Paducah?

There are loads of fun things to do outdoors in Paducah! Yes, there is spending time along the river areas but there’s a lot more. Check out some of the following on your next visit or, if you’re a resident, when you want to try something new:

 

What are some of the best places to go hiking in Kentucky?

What are some of the best places to go hiking in Kentucky? Well, everywhere! You will find scores of trails from the relatively easy to the more difficult, each offering beautiful views that are so much a part of the landscape of The Bluegrass State.  Here are a few to get you started:

  • Raven's Run in Lexington
  • The Eagles Fall Trail within the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
  • The Rock Bridge Arch Trail in Pine Ridge
  • The Towering Sycamore Trail in Shakertown

 

We’re looking for great fishing spots in Kentucky.

If you love to throw a line in every now and then, you’ll find that there are some really great fishing spots in Kentucky. Check out a few of these for your next fishing adventures:

 

Are there any mountains in Kentucky?

Yes! And not only are there mountains in Kentucky, but there are some very charming mountain towns in Kentucky as well. Here are a few that are sure to delight and inspire:

  • Pineville – Located about 2 hours and 15 minutes south of Lexington
  • Cumberland – Located a little under 2 hours southeast of London
  • Elkhorn City – Located 2-1/2 hours south of Morehead

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Paducah, KY, USA