Side trip from Metropolis: Paducah, Kentucky

Since we were already in the area having a Superman adventure in Metropolis, Illinois (read all about it here), I couldn’t help but notice how close we were to Kentucky. Since we’ve never been, we thought it would be a great side trip. So off we went, over the bridge to Paducah, Kentucky.

Places to PLAY

We heard great things about The Paducah Riverfront and thought it would be perfect for a stroll. The amazing historical murals were painted by world-renowned mural artist, Robert Dafford. The murals show how the rivers have shaped Paducah‘s heritage and culture. They are quite a sight!

The kids had a fun time looking for their favorite one.

But their favorite by far seeing a train – a Steam Locomotive 1518.

After looking at the murals, we took a short stroll around the downtown area. Very cute buildings with plenty of history.

Places to EAT

Mellow Mushroom, 3121 Broadway St, Paducah

For lunch, we decided to eat at the new Mellow Mushroom located in the historic Coke Plant, a Paducah landmark. Loved looking at all the details from the past.

After checking out the building, we were ready to eat! The restaurant itself is pretty neat. Very spacious with local art everywhere you turn.

Unfortunately, we came at lunch time and it was pretty busy. It took forever to get our food. But our pizza and sandwich was good, and dare I say almost worth the wait.

After lunch we saw this. Have you ever seen a vending machine that sells bite-sized local art? This Art-O-Mat was so cool!

Ice Cream Factory, 3121 Broadway, Suite 2, Paducah

When we heard there was ice cream on the premises, we knew we couldn’t leave without trying. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to snap a pic. Believe me, it was good!

They had other tenants in the building including Pipers Tea & Coffee, Ochre Art. A really cool place!

Bottom Line:

While we only spent a few hours in Paducah, we enjoyed the charm that Paducah had to offer. Had we more time it would have been fun to check out these other places. (Thanks for the suggestions Paducah CVB.)

– River Discovery Center illustrates Paducah‘s story and significance as the hub of America’s inland waterways. Featuring interactive water-filled exhibits including a Pilothouse simulator which allows kids of all ages to try their hand at captaining watercraft on the rivers! Located in the oldest standing structure in Historic Downtown.

– The National Quilt Museum offers an inspiring, eye-opening view of quilting as a colorful contemporary artform. Currently on view in one of the rotating galleries is the annual School Block Challenge competition/exhibition featuring work by the next generation of quilters!

– MAKE Paducah is a hands-on creative space that offers an Art Bar for on-demand DIY creative expression. An excellent way for makers of all ages to connect with their own creativity and Paducah‘s renowned art scene as one of 6 Creative Cities in the U.S. designated by UNESCO! What better souvenir than a handcrafted creation?