Paducah, Kentucky, US

Paducah, Kentucky, offers a vibrant mix of historic charm and artistic culture. Known for its UNESCO-designated Creative City and rich railroad heritage, it also boasts lively festivals, art galleries, and beautiful outdoor spaces.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/Chicago

Local Time

09:15 AM

Population

24,500

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

68-88°F (20-31°C) - Hot and humid with thunderstorms.

Best Time

Apr-Jun, Sep-Oct

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

BNA

Nashville International Airport

Distance

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by car via I-24 E, covering around 155 miles.

Description

Nashville International Airport offers over 20 airlines and 600 daily flights, with modern amenities, including dining and shopping options. It is accessible via major highways and has various parking facilities.

Paducah, nestled in Western Kentucky, is a captivating blend of history and creativity. With its designation as a UNESCO Creative City, Paducah charms visitors with a thriving arts scene, including the popular National Quilt Museum. Explore the historic downtown with its unique boutiques and dining spots, visit the intriguing River Discovery Center, or enjoy the vibrant Lower Town Arts District. For nature enthusiasts, the tranquil waters of Kentucky Lake and scenic parks offer plenty of outdoor activities. Seasonal festivals, such as the Paducah QuiltWeek, further add to the allure, making Paducah a delightful destination for diverse and memorable experiences.

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Paducah Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Travelers should be aware of local laws regarding alcohol consumption, which is restricted in public places.

Crime Rates

Paducah has a relatively low crime rate compared to larger cities, with most incidents involving petty theft and property crimes.

Health Risks

Health risks in Paducah are minimal, with good access to healthcare facilities and services.

Natural Disasters

Paducah is located in an area that can experience severe weather, including tornadoes and flooding. It is advisable to stay informed about weather conditions.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement is visible and responsive in Paducah, contributing to the overall sense of safety in the city.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Paducah is generally safe, with limited options available such as buses and taxis.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can feel relatively safe in Paducah, but should take standard precautions.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments impacting safety in Paducah.

No data Found...

No data Found...

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Paducah Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

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Best season to visit

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Current Conditions ():

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Best Time to Visit Paducah

Summary: The best time to visit Paducah is during spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), with pleasant temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). These seasons feature beautiful foliage, outdoor events, and a variety of cultural festivals.

❄️

January

Cold and quiet, with temperatures around 32-50°F (0-10°C). Winter activities are limited, but cozy indoor events make it worthwhile.

💘

February

Similar to January, with temperatures from 34-52°F (1-11°C). It's a calm month to explore indoor attractions.

🌱

March

Warming up, with temperatures between 41-61°F (5-16°C). Spring blooms make it a picturesque time to start outdoor activities.

🌸

April

Best

Spring is in full swing, with temperatures of 50-68°F (10-20°C). A great month for festivals and enjoying the outdoors.

🌷

May

Best

Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 57-77°F (14-25°C). Ideal for festivals, outdoor dining, and sightseeing.

☀️

June

Best

Beginning of summer, with temperatures between 64-84°F (18-29°C). A good time for outdoor activities at Kentucky Lake.

🏖️

July

Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C). Perfect for water sports and summer events.

🌞

August

Continued summer heat, with temperatures staying between 68-88°F (20-31°C). Great for lake visits and cool attractions.

🍂

September

Best

Mild and pleasant, with temperatures from 61-81°F (16-27°C). Experience fall festivals and vibrant foliage.

🍁

October

Best

Cooler fall weather, with temperatures from 50-70°F (10-21°C). A perfect month for scenic drives and cultural events.

November

Cooling down, with temperatures between 41-59°F (5-15°C). A quieter time with some holiday-themed events.

🎄

December

Cold winter temperatures around 32-50°F (0-10°C). Holiday lights and events make it festive despite the chill.

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Seasonal Events in Paducah

April

Paducah QuiltWeek

A vibrant event attracting quilt enthusiasts worldwide with exhibitions, workshops, and more.

American Quilter's Society
September

Barbecue on the River

A celebrated event featuring barbecue competitions, live music, and vendors along the river.

Barbecue On The River
May

Lower Town Arts & Music Festival

A showcase of local and national artists with live music, art demonstrations, and food vendors.

Paducah Art Guild
October

Crosstoberfest

A unique cyclocross race event featuring challenging courses and festive atmosphere.

BikeWorld
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Popular Foods in Paducah

Kentucky Hot Brown

An open-faced sandwich topped with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, it's a comforting regional favorite.

Burgoo

A hearty stew made with a variety of meats and vegetables, beloved for its rich and complex flavors.

Bourbon Balls

Confections made with bourbon-soaked pecans and chocolate, offering a sweet taste of the region.

Derby Pie

A scrumptious chocolate and walnut tart, often associated with the Kentucky Derby festivities.

Catfish

Fried catfish is a staple in the region, typically served with hushpuppies and coleslaw.

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Closest Airports to Paducah

Regional Airport

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Barkley Regional Airport (PAH)

Barkley Regional Airport offers commercial flights, general aviation services, and free parking, serving the Paducah area.

About 15 minutes by car, approximately 10 miles via U.S. Route 60 W.

Arrive early to avoid lines and enjoy free parking. Use the airport website to check flight statuses.

PAH Website

International Airport

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Nashville International Airport (BNA)

Nashville International Airport offers over 20 airlines and 600 daily flights, with modern amenities, including dining and shopping options. It is accessible via major highways and has various parking facilities.

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes by car via I-24 E, covering around 155 miles.

Consider using the valet parking service for convenience. For a quicker airport experience, enroll in TSA PreCheck.

BNA Website

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Popular Trip Types

Cultural Exploration Icon

Cultural Exploration

Paducah, a UNESCO Creative City of Crafts & Folk Art, is perfect for cultural exploration. Visitors can explore the National Quilt Museum, renowned for its textile art, and the Lower Town Arts District, which hosts several galleries and art studios. Immersing oneself in the local crafts and historic architecture makes Paducah an enriching destination for culture enthusiasts.

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Couples Retreat

With its charming historic district and serene riverfront views, Paducah is an ideal place for a romantic getaway. Couples can enjoy leisurely walks along the Ohio River, dine at intimate local restaurants, and stay in cozy bed and breakfasts or historic inns that offer a unique and intimate atmosphere perfect for a romantic retreat.

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Family Vacation

Paducah provides a family-friendly environment with attractions suitable for all ages. Families can explore the River Discovery Center to learn about the Ohio River's role in the region, enjoy the Paducah Railroad Museum, and partake in outdoor activities at nearby parks. Its welcoming community and engaging activities make it great for family vacations.

Art Enthusiast Journey

Home to numerous art festivals and a vibrant creative community, Paducah is perfect for art enthusiasts. The city's flourishing arts scene includes events such as the Paducah Craft Beer Fest and the Riverfront Concert Series. The International Quilt Museum also draws art lovers from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate both contemporary and traditional art forms.

History Buff Tour

Paducah’s rich history as a river town and its well-preserved historic architecture make it a haven for history buffs. Visitors can explore the Historic Riverfront and Market House Museum to gain insight into the area’s past. Additionally, the murals along the floodwall depict significant moments in Paducah's history, providing an immersive historical experience.

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Custom Language

Y'all

You all

Common Southern term used to address a group of people, reflects friendly culture.

Bless Your Heart

Sympathy or Sarcasm

Used to express sympathy or subtle criticism, depending on the context.

Fixin' to

About to

Means preparing or planning to do something soon.

Piddlin'

Wasting time

Refers to doing small or trivial tasks, often used in a leisurely context.

Holler

Call out

Means to shout or call out to someone, commonly used in rural areas.

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Popular Sports & Teams in Paducah

Paducah Tilghman High School Football

A prominent high school football team known for its competitive spirit and strong community support in Paducah.

Paducah Tilghman High School

Paducah Chiefs

A local baseball team participating in the Ohio Valley League, offering entertainment to the community.

Paducah Chiefs Baseball

West Kentucky Archery Complex

A popular destination for archery enthusiasts offering facilities for both beginners and experienced archers.

West Kentucky Archery Complex

Paducah Swim Team

A competitive swim team offering training and competition opportunities for swimmers of various ages.

Paducah Swim Team

Paducah BMX

A BMX racing group that organizes events and provides a venue for BMX enthusiasts in Paducah.

Paducah BMX

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Unique customs/traditions

Quilt Festival

Celebration of quilting, showcasing intricate quilts and promoting quilting as an art form.

Riverboat Tours

Experiencing the mighty Ohio River through leisurely riverboat excursions.

BBQ Competitions

Local tradition of hosting barbecue contests where grilling skills are tested.

Southern Hospitality

Warm and welcoming local culture deeply rooted in friendliness and neighborliness.

Church Socials

Community gatherings often centered around faith, food, and fellowship.

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Recommended Activities by Group Type

Paducah Riverfront

Take a Riverboat Cruise

Tour (1-2 hours)

Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Ohio River, offering a relaxing experience for families to bond and enjoy the views.

National Quilt Museum

Visit the National Quilt Museum

Museum (1-2 hours)

With fascinating exhibits showcasing quilt art, families can appreciate cultural heritage together.

Lower Town

Explore the Lower Town Arts District

Arts & Culture (2-3 hours)

This vibrant district offers family-friendly events and art, providing a great atmosphere for exploration and discovery.

Cairo Park

Enjoy a Family Picnic

Outdoor (Half-day)

This park features picnic areas and recreational facilities, an ideal spot for family gatherings and outdoor fun.

Various Locations

Attend the Paducah Summer Festival

Festival (Full-day)

This annual festival offers various family-friendly entertainment options, including concerts, food, and activities.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

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