When you think of traveling through Kentucky, a full marina with a working lighthouse is probably the last thing that comes to mind. Believe it or not, it’s true.
Geography and Location
Grand Rivers, a tiny town with only 349 full-time residents, sits on a narrow strip of land between Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake in the southwestern corner of the state of Kentucky. It is easily accessible via Interstate 24 and is located halfway between Paducah, KY and Nashville, TN.
Summer Tourism
Grand Rivers’ proximity to the two large recreational lakes, the Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area, and the historic town of Paducah, make it a popular summer destination. Tourism drives the economy of the town, with populations nearly tripling as summer residents arrive.
With its natural beauty, quiet atmosphere, and small-town friendliness, Grand Rivers is popular with retirees and RV owners. There is a sense of community, even among visitors. No matter who you encounter, you’ll be greeted with a friendly wave.
On warm evenings pedestrians, golf carts, and bicycle traffic move throughout the 1.6 acre village to take in the sights and visit the local businesses.
It is not unusual to see a line of 20 or more people at the ice cream stand. Diners enjoy the outdoor seating at Patti’s, and sightseers walk to the end of the jetty to view the sunset from a bench by the water.
Things to Do
Outdoor Recreation
Water Activities
With over 3000 feet of shoreline and over 218,000 acres of water, it is no surprise that recreational boating is one of the most popular activities on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley.
The wide expanse of water in the main body of each lake provides a perfect playground for water skiers, tow-tubes, and jet skis. Breezy afternoons bring out the sailing sloops and schooners with their brightly colored billowing sheets.
You’ll see fishing boats of all sizes since both lakes are known for their fish population. Bass anglers compete every year to find out who can pull in the biggest lunkers, but crappie, catfish, and panfish are also plentiful in these fresh-water reservoirs.
Other favorite water activities include sunset pontoon boat cruises, swimming at one of the natural beaches, and kayaking the many coves and inlets.
Lighthouse Landing Marina and Resort is worth the stop, even if you don’t own a boat. A paved path leads to the small lighthouse that overlooks Kentucky Lake, and the marina has 190 slips that house sailboats and cabin cruisers.
An evening walk to the jetty is great exercise and the bench at the end offers a fantastic view of the sunset reflecting off the lake.
Golf
Golfing is another popular past-time among visitors to the area. Two 18 hole golf courses are within a few miles driving distance from Grand Rivers.
Calvert City Golf and Country Club- This par 72, 18-hole course undulates through farmland and woodland on the gentle hills and slopes of western Kentucky. Several water effects and sand bunkers break up the greenery, and a natural stream runs through the landscape. This course is reported to be challenging, but well worth the trip.
The Village Green Kentucky Dam Golf Course- This par 72, 18-hole course is located along the shores of beautiful Kentucky Lake. The course lies in the midst of the natural scenery of the area and features many twists and turns that make it PGA worthy. Avid golfers can purchase a golf and stay package that includes accomodations at the resort.
Hiking and Wildlife Viewing
Grand Rivers is located at the northern border of Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. This large park spans across the Kentucky-Tennessee border and offers hundreds of miles of hiking trails. A natural prairie houses elk and bison that call the park home. A wildlife education center allows visitors to learn about owls, eagles, foxes, bobcats, and snakes that live in the park.
Cultural Attractions
Patti’s 1880s Settlement
Patti’s is a landmark in Grand Rivers. What started as a small diner has grown into a massive venture. Patti’s now offers an upscale restaurant, a boutique shopping plaza, a mini gold course, and beautiful strolling gardens.
There is even a small wedding chapel on site.
The newest addition to Patti’s is Calvin Swine’s Moonshine shop.
Other Restaurants
T. Lawson’s Grill is a homey place with plenty of seating for family groups looking for breakfast, lunch, or a homestyle dinner at a moderate price. Family favorites like burgers, chicken wings, steaks, and salads are popular menu items. For bar patrons, the restaurant offers a full array of spirits, beer, and moonshine. Their flights are popular with those wanting to taste a variety of flavors.
The Tiki Turtle at Green Turtle Bay Resort offers full service all day long. Enjoy your breakfast watching fishing boats go out onto the lake. Enjoy lunch after an afternoon of swimming or tubing. Bring the kids by for a family friendly dinner menu.
Quick Bites and Old Favorites
There are a number of pizza and barbecue restaurants close to Grand Rivers. At the interchange with Interstate 24, visitors can find a Cracker Barrel and a McDonalds.
Entertainment and Events
This live-show music theatre offers a variety of shows throughout the year with a range of musical styles. Some of the more popular are the 50s Doo-Wop, A Tribute to Dolly Parton, and Salute to the Stars. The shows offer all the entertainment of similar shows in Branson or Vegas, at a fraction of the cost. Tickets for most shows cost between $20 and $40. The shows are held every Friday and Saturday night, year round.
Grand Rivers has events throughout the year including art shows, fishing tournaments, 5K runs and bike races, a quilt show, barbecue cook-offs, and live music. To see a current list of events and dates, visit the Kentucky Lake event calendar.
Conclusion
Grand Rivers may be small in size, but it offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures on the lakes, a relaxing retreat, or a taste of genuine Kentucky hospitality, this charming village between two lakes keeps visitors returning year after year. With its unique location, abundance of recreational opportunities, and small-town charm, Grand Rivers showcases the natural beauty and welcoming spirit of western Kentucky.