western waterlands best-kept local secrets VICEROY BUTTERFLY GARDEN , Oak Grove MANTLE ROCK PRESERVE , Smithland Be in the moment amid showstopping sunflowers and butterflies alighting on milkweed and cone-flowers in the Viceroy Butterfly Garden, a certified Monarch Waystation. Then, take a stroll through the peaceful Oak Grove War Memorial Walking Trail Park. Thousands of members of the Cherokee Nation trudged through Mantle Rock Preserve along the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, passing Mantle Rock, the largest freestanding arch east of the Mississippi River. FULTON RAILROADERS , Fulton NINE PINES RETREATS , Cadiz GOLDEN POND PLANETARIUM & OBSERVATORY , Golden Pond Take me out to the ballgame to see the Fulton Railroaders. This wood-bat league team plays a 40-game summer season, with home games at Lohaus Field, featuring open-air patio decks, grandstand seating, family-friendly theme nights and major league-level fun and excitement. Wi-Fi, Jacuzzi tub and coffee machine in a tent? Yes! Nine Pines Retreats' luxury safari tents and geo domes present nature with all the queen-size comforts: private decks, barrel saunas, pizza ovens and other amenities. Sea monsters among the stars, weekend laser shows (some featuring hits from superstar Taylor Swift!), close-ups of the universe and Observatory Star Parties — all thanks to the high-powered telescope at the Golden Pond Planetarium & Observatory. SHARON GROVE COMMUNITY PARK , Elkton Among the picnic pavilion, playground, basketball court and paved walking trail at Sharon Grove Community Park is an unexpected find: a natural cave where bands once played. Learn the history on a guided tour. Photo: "Wall To Wall" Floodwall Murals, Paducah 104 #TravelKY
The Official Kentucky Visitor's Guide The Official Kentucky Visitor's Guide 2026: Page 104
