Western Kentucky

Travel Guide

Photo provided by www.kentuckytourism.com
Photo provided by www.kentuckytourism.com
Photo provided by www.kentuckytourism.com
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Photo provided by Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Tap your toes to the rhythms of musical Western Kentucky, a region with a rich character, historic communities and atmospheric natural beauty.

Listen for the twang of banjoes and the strains of blues riffs in Western Kentucky, a soulful region that has inspired many musical greats. Roam the waterlands around the Mississippi and Ohio rivers to discover what makes this region so special or visit simply for a vacation relaxing by picturesque lakes and rivers. The welcoming locals will greet you with a friendly smile and a full plate of delicious, barbecued food.

Wonder at the mysteries of Western Kentucky’s past at the Wickliffe Mounds. Native Americans of the Mississippian culture built a village here and farmed the land, before abandoning the site for unknown reasons in the 14th century. For further regional history, explore the Wrather West Kentucky Museum in Murray.

Embark on a musical pilgrimage throughout Western Kentucky, which was the birthplace of famed musicians such as the Everly Brothers and W.C. Handy. The International Bluegrass Music Museum in Owensboro charts the rise of the state’s favorite genre and often hosts concerts by popular Kentucky acts.

Stroll around historic downtown districts in cities such as Paducah and Henderson. Paducah features the National Quilt Museum, dedicated to the traditional craft of quilt making, and the family-friendly River Discovery Center. Follow in the footsteps of naturalist John James Audubon in the Audubon Museum and Nature Center, located in Henderson.

See more of the naturalist’s influence in John James Audubon State Park, which features hiking trails through scenic woods. Bring your binoculars to watch the trees for rare birds or rent a boat to paddle around the park’s lake.

Splash about in the fun parks and beaches of the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. Embrace the outdoors on walking trails or find a place to relax on its 300 miles (483 kilometers) of undeveloped shores.

The nearest international airport to Western Kentucky is located in Nashville, Tennessee. Board a flight in Chicago to land at Barkley Regional Airport, in Paducah. Western Kentucky stays warm throughout the year. Visit in summer and cool off from the heat by swimming in the lakes and rivers of the region.

Where to stay in Western Kentucky

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Kentucky Bend

Visitors to Kentucky Bend like its restaurants and shopping, and Mississippi River is a sight worth a stop.

Kentucky Bend
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
3 out of 5
113 Administration Drive, Gilbertsville, KY
The price is S$122 per night from 11 May to 12 May
S$122
includes taxes & fees
11 May - 12 May
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Gilbertsville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,012 reviews)
"Beautiful location!!"

Reviewed on 18 Apr, 2025

Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park
Auburn Place Hotel & Suites - Paducah
Auburn Place Hotel & Suites - Paducah
2.5 out of 5
3994 Hinkleville Rd, Paducah, KY
The price is S$147 per night from 15 May to 16 May
S$147
includes taxes & fees
15 May - 16 May
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Paducah. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,262 reviews)
"Nice hotel."

Reviewed on 16 Apr, 2025

Auburn Place Hotel & Suites - Paducah
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Paducah
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Paducah
2.5 out of 5
3960 Coleman Crossing Cir, Paducah, KY
The price is S$157 per night from 11 May to 12 May
S$157
includes taxes & fees
11 May - 12 May
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Paducah. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,000 reviews)
"The facility was clean and bright. The lady working the breakfast was charming and hard-working! It was disappointing that the hot tub wasn't working as I was looking forward to soaking after driving all day..."

Reviewed on 14 Apr, 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Paducah
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
3.5 out of 5
2135 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY
Stay at this 3.5-star cabin in Slade. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,527 reviews)
VACA
"VERY CLOSE TO THINGS TO DO."

Reviewed on 16 Apr, 2025

Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Hancock House
Hancock House
3 out of 5
601 East Jefferson Street, Louisville, KY
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and rainfall showerheads. Popular attractions KFC Yum Center and Fourth Street ...
8/10 Very Good! (231 reviews)
"Thank you for a good stay"

Reviewed on 15 Apr, 2025

Hancock House
Newly renovated 4BR CozySuites
Newly renovated 4BR CozySuites
4 out of 5
923 S Jackson St, Louisville, KY
Stay at this 4-star vacation home in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Fourth Street Live! and KFC Yum Center ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Excellent"

Reviewed on 27 Jun, 2024

Newly renovated 4BR CozySuites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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