Clinton KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Clinton, Kentucky.
1. Rotary Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR SPACE
Rotary Park in Clinton is a great place for the entire family featuring a modern fenced-in playground, walking sidewalks, and a picnic area. The park includes a pond that has been stocked by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife with trout, catfish, and red-eared sunfish, making it a favorite spot for fishermen of all ages. Located on Highway 51, this park opened in 2017 and has quickly become a community gathering place.
2. Rotary Park Farmer's Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND GOODS
The Rotary Park Farmer's Market is an open-air market located just off Highway 51 in Clinton where visitors can find locally grown fruits and vegetables. Operating every Saturday from 8am to 2pm and Wednesdays from 2pm to 5pm during May through October, the market offers a wide variety of fresh produce and other great locally-made items. Visitors can experience the authentic flavors of Kentucky while supporting local farmers and artisans.
3. Hickman County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND ARTIFACTS
The Hickman County Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Clinton and the surrounding area through exhibits and historical artifacts. Visitors can explore displays that highlight the region's cultural heritage, agricultural background, and significant historical events. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past of this Western Kentucky community.
4. Columbus-Belmont State Park
CIVIL WAR HISTORICAL SITE
Columbus-Belmont State Park is a 156-acre historical site situated on bluffs overlooking the Mississippi River in Hickman County. The park displays important Civil War artifacts, including artillery and a six-ton anchor that once held a great chain stretching across the river, along with the remains of 'Lady Polk,' a giant experimental cannon. Park activities include boating, camping, hiking, miniature golf, a museum, picnicking, and bird watching, making it a perfect blend of history and outdoor recreation.
5. Dale Hollow Lake
PREMIER FISHING AND RECREATION
Dale Hollow Lake is a pristine reservoir known for its crystal-clear waters and excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for smallmouth bass. Spanning parts of Kentucky and Tennessee, this lake offers visitors a wide range of recreational activities including boating, swimming, camping, and hiking along its scenic shorelines. The lake's natural beauty is complemented by its numerous coves and inlets that provide peaceful spots for relaxation and wildlife observation.
6. Lake Cumberland
HOUSEBOAT CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
Lake Cumberland, often referred to as the 'Houseboat Capital of the World,' is one of Kentucky's largest and most popular recreational lakes. With over 1,200 miles of shoreline, the lake provides endless opportunities for water sports, fishing, boating, and relaxing getaways on houseboats. Visitors can enjoy the lake's numerous marinas, resorts, and campgrounds that offer various amenities for a perfect lake vacation experience.
7. Hidden Tranquility Trail and Rescue
ANIMAL SANCTUARY AND HIKING
Hidden Tranquility Trail and Rescue offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature and rescued animals in a peaceful setting. This sanctuary combines hiking trails through beautiful Kentucky landscape with the chance to see and learn about various rescued animals. Visitors can enjoy both outdoor recreation and an educational experience about animal conservation and care.
8. Clinton County Farmer's Market
FRESH LOCAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
The Clinton County Farmer's Market brings together local farmers and artisans offering fresh produce, homemade goods, and handcrafted items. Visitors can browse through seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, jams, jellies, and unique crafts that showcase local talent. The market provides a genuine taste of Kentucky's agricultural bounty while supporting the local farming community.
9. Boonies Rental Adventure
OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT AND EXCURSIONS
Boonies Rental Adventure offers equipment rentals and guided excursions for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Clinton County's natural beauty. Visitors can rent equipment for various activities including boating, fishing, camping, and hiking to enhance their outdoor adventure experience. Their knowledgeable staff provides recommendations and assistance to ensure guests make the most of their recreational activities in Kentucky's beautiful landscapes.
10. Mountain View Park
SCENIC VIEWS AND RECREATION
Mountain View Park offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the rolling hills and valleys that characterize this region of Kentucky. The park features recreational facilities including walking trails, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for family outings and community gatherings. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in the natural beauty that surrounds this charming county park.
11. National Quilt Museum
FIBER ARTS AND HERITAGE
The National Quilt Museum in Paducah showcases extraordinary quilting artistry through its collection of nearly 600 exceptional quilts. Founded in 1991, the museum features changing exhibits of contemporary quilts alongside antique treasures, displaying the evolution and diversity of this traditional craft. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship that elevate quilting from a practical craft to a recognized art form.
12. River Discovery Center
MISSISSIPPI RIVER HERITAGE
The River Discovery Center in Paducah celebrates the cultural and economic importance of the Mississippi River through interactive exhibits and educational displays. Visitors can experience a state-of-the-art boat simulator that allows them to pilot various vessels on the challenging waters of America's greatest river. The center provides fascinating insights into river ecology, history, and commerce while highlighting Paducah's significant relationship with the waterways.
13. Badgett Playhouse
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Badgett Playhouse in Grand Rivers offers high-quality live entertainment featuring music shows, comedies, and theatrical productions throughout the year. This popular venue is known for its professional performers, excellent acoustics, and family-friendly atmosphere that appeals to audiences of all ages. Visitors can enjoy a variety of shows ranging from classic country and gospel to Broadway hits and seasonal specials in this charming theater in the Western Waterlands region.
14. Land Between the Lakes
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area spans 170,000 acres between Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, offering outdoor enthusiasts a wealth of recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore more than 300 miles of undeveloped shoreline, 200 miles of hiking trails, and specialized attractions including the Elk & Bison Prairie, Nature Station, and Homeplace 1850s Working Farm. This vast outdoor playground provides camping, boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and stargazing in one of Kentucky's most pristine natural environments.
15. Kentucky Amish Community
TRADITIONAL CRAFTS AND LIFESTYLE
Kentucky's largest Amish community in the Western Waterlands region offers visitors a glimpse into a simpler way of life through its craft shops, bakeries, and furniture stores. Visitors can purchase handcrafted furniture, quilts, baked goods, and other items made using traditional methods passed down through generations. The area provides a unique cultural experience where travelers can observe and appreciate the Amish dedication to craftsmanship and community values.