Envision an exceptional meeting, convention or business seminar—what comes to mind? Well, for starters, you’ll need plenty of flexible and adaptable meeting space to host not only your attendees but also vendors. Comfortable, close-by lodging is another necessity, as are incredible catering and dining options that range from casual to elegant. A trendy, walkable downtown full of one-of-a-kind restaurants and shops and a vibrant nightlife are nice bonuses too. Plus, hands-on cultural experiences provide plenty for attendees to immerse themselves in between keynote addresses and breakout sessions.
Paducah, KY, checks all those boxes with unique characters and rich, cultural experiences that inspire attendees. Set in Western Kentucky in the heart of America’s inland waterways, this visionary river community is brimming with a remarkable history and thriving heritage setting the stage for an unforgettable gathering. Bursting with its iconic Southern charm, Paducah has been recognized as a premier meeting destination by national publications like Convention South and PCMA Convene, both highlighting the city’s unexpected, hidden value defined by its world-class amenities and enchanting culture.
The crown jewel of Paducah’s meeting facilities, the Paducah-McCracken County Convention & Expo Center, features a spacious 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting and floor space overlooking the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers. Featured within this massive complex are the Julian Carroll Convention Center — a 52,000-square-foot facility with breakout, pre-function and ballroom space—and the Bill & Meredith Schroeder Expo Center, which includes a 40,000-square-foot exposition floor. For more intimate environs, Paducah is home to several facilities ideal for small and mid-size events with venues ranging from repurposed, historic spaces to high-tech performing arts centers.
Of course, an engaged and energized audience needs a quiet place to recharge. More than 2,000 rooms spread across Paducah provide ample group- and meeting-friendly lodging opportunities. Guests can choose from charming short-term rentals or nationally recognized brands operating under familiar roofs, ensuring a good night’s sleep before another productive day. And when it’s time to break for lunch, keep guests on-site with local catering services bringing the world-class flavors of Paducah right to you.
But meetings aren’t all work in Paducah—this Creative City offers an incredible selection of enthralling attractions to explore before, after and between meeting-related functions. A historic downtown hosts a vast menu of dining options for all palates. Sample refreshing farm-to-table dishes or go for Paducah’s brand of Western Kentucky BBQ at numerous joints offering a taste of all things sweet, tangy and smoky. And for the perfect keepsake, urban boutiques and eclectic antique shops occupy generations-old storefronts on walkable, tree-lined, brick streets. After sunset, the party gets going as award-winning brewers, distillers and vintners capture the essence of Paducah in locally made beers, spirits and wines—plus two Great Bourbon Bars of America paying homage to the Bluegrass State’s bourbon heritage.
Historic venues across a happening downtown host live music as nationally touring artists and local favorites fill the air with dulcet melodies while live stage performances, visual art exhibitions, independent film screenings and stand-up comedy round out an exciting nightlife.
A legendary past lives on in Paducah through fantastically preserved historic sites and museums allowing guests to get up close and personal with the stories that define the city’s creative culture. The National Quilt Museum features three amazing galleries across 27,000 square feet highlighting fiber masterpieces by artisans from around the world. The nearby Lower Town Arts District is home to artists, students and entrepreneurs contributing to the rich tapestry of artistic expression on display throughout Paducah. Speaking of, the famed “Wall-to-Wall” Floodwall Murals, masterfully painted by famed artist Robert Dafford and his team, showcase the extraordinary history of Paducah in vibrant displays adorning the city’s floodwall. Playing modern renditions of classical compositions, the Paducah Symphony Orchestra fills the state-of-the-art Carson Center with superb and rousing performances.
Meanwhile, the nationally recognized and award-winning Market House Theatre has captivated audiences with musicals, dramas and comedies for more than five decades—along with its thrilling and chilling fall ghost tours and murder mystery dinners.
With so many opportunities to enjoy the visual and performing arts, attendees will see why Paducah was named one of nine UNESCO Creative Cities in the United States. Art goes beyond something to appreciate in Paducah—it’s a way of life.
Outstanding venues capable of accommodating meetings and conferences of all sizes and an impressive range of lodging opportunities provide the framework for an exceptional meeting—but unparalleled downtown shopping, dining, history and entertainment add the character that truly makes Paducah a one-of-a-kind destination for your next business gathering. Come see how Paducah can add that special something to your next conference or meeting.
More Reasons to Meet in Paducah
- 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting space under one roof—including a drive-in capable exhibit hall
- Thriving downtown and nightlife scene perfect for attendees and families
- Access to exclusive hands-on Signature Experiences that bring local art, culture and history to life
- A variety of lodging styles and choices; 2,000-plus rooms
Contact Lynda Peters-Jones, Director of Sales at lynda@paducah.travel
Sponsored by Paducah Convention & Visitors Bureau 
