Nicknamed ‘The Quilt City’, artsy Paducah sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers, in north-western Kentucky. Small and historic, this is a wonderful destination for creatives and culture buffs eager to explore galleries, take heritage walking tours and unwind in idyllic surroundings. Accommodation options range from cosy B&Bs to industrial-chic riverside conversions, with space for the whole family. Many of the best places to stay in Paducah are close to both the downtown area and the riverfront — perfect for daytime or evening strolls.

One of the USA’s nine UNESCO-recognised ‘Creative Cities’, Paducah brims with opportunities for immersion in the arts, local craft and creative performances. Visit the National Quilt Museum, the Yeiser Art Centre, the Clemens Fine Art Centre, Maiden Alley Cinema & Gallery, or catch a superb show at the Paducah Symphony Orchestra and Market House Theatre. There are small-scale galleries and artists’ collectives dotted throughout the city, with regular exhibitions and open studio evenings, too. An emerging crop of student artists are honing their skills at the Paducah School of Art & Design — their work is also wonderful to see.

The city’s most famous art-focused attraction, however, are the fifty-odd riverside “Wall to Wall” murals, depicting Paducah’s intriguing history. Heritage enthusiasts will also enjoy guided walking tours of the city, delving into memorials from the Civil War to the Civil Rights movement, as well as visits to the striking Whitehaven Welcome Centre. The River Visitor Centre is a family-friendly highlight.

Finally, the Paducah area also offers excellent kayaking, walking and cycling as well as fishing and birdwatching around Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.

The best places to stay in Paducah are all centrally located so close to all the city's highlights and within easy reach of wonderful bars and eateries aplenty!

The Best Places to Stay in Paducah

For an Intimate B&B

• Respite B&B is an intimate residence with five guestrooms featuring big beds topped with cosy quilts, attractive communal spaces with hardwood floors and a grand piano. A smart B&B for couples or business travellers near central Paducah.

For Industrial Chic

• The 1857 has a hip, industrial feel with exposed brick walls and beamed ceilings. The ten suites are airy and spacious, whilst the self-catering apartments are ideal for long-stay travellers, families or groups. Expect crisp, minimalist design in a great location close to the riverfront and excellent restaurants. For families, couples, friends or business travellers.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Want to fly to Paducah?

• Fly to Barkley Regional Airport, just 16 miles by bus or taxi from Paducah. Alternatively, travel to Nashville International Airport in Tennessee, just over 2 hours' drive away.
• Kentucky is a wonderful state for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 26°C and 30°C, or come in the spring or autumn for cooler weather. The annual Kentucky Derby, in May, marks the busiest time of year — book well in advance if you're visiting for the race and festival.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our pick of all the best places to stay in Louisville.
• Broaden your search to include the best places to stay in Kentucky.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.