Midnight Rambler on the Loop

The adventures of MR5 as she cruises America's Great Loop

Ohio and Cumberland Rivers: Paducah and Grand Rivers, Kentucky

October 3 through October 6, 2026

The reward for surviving a few days navigating the mighty Mississippi River was a chance to slow down, relax, and enjoy the beautiful city of Paducah, Kentucky, followed by a little boating paradise at the spa-like Green Turtle Bay Marina in Grand Rivers, Kentucky.

Our arrival in Paducah was delayed by nearly four hours as we waited our turn to pass through the lock. Despite our best efforts to get there early, we were bumped by several large tugs pushing barges ahead of us. By the time we finally arrived, we had just a few hours in the late evening to wander Paducah’s charming streets, followed by a few precious hours the next morning before continuing on to Green Turtle Bay. It was a brief visit, but enough to leave us wanting more!

Green Turtle Bay is one of those special gathering places along the Loop where fellow Loopers come together to reconnect, share stories, and enjoy the friendships that make this journey so memorable. And that’s exactly what we did! With approximately 40–45 boats gathered here this time of year, the marina is buzzing with activity, friendly faces, and plenty of opportunities to catch up with old friends and make new ones. There’s a wonderful sense of community here, and it’s a joy to be surrounded by so many people who share the same adventures and love of life on the water.

Even better, Green Turtle Bay’s proximity to Paducah, along with the marina’s courtesy vehicle, gave us the perfect opportunity to return and explore the city more thoroughly. After our too-brief first visit, we were delighted to have another chance to soak up its charm. Between reconnecting with friends, enjoying the marina’s relaxing atmosphere, and spending more time discovering Paducah, these days have been a welcome reminder that the Great Loop is about so much more than the miles we travel. It’s about the wonderful places we discover, the people we meet along the way, and the friendships that make the journey so special.

After waiting four hours, this is one time that we were happy to be in a lock.
There are numerous beautiful old churches within close proximity to one another.
The buildings are architecturally interesting and serve well as giant canvases.
Well, we had heard about the possibility of a mayfly infestation.
Fortunately, they are easily blown away with a leaf blower — which we brought from home for this specific purpose.
It’s time to have some fun!
Patty’s 1800 Settlement Restaurant is highly recommended dining establishment.
Each room has a twist on a Christmas theme. We were in good company for dinner.
Peacocks! This was the perfect room for Captain Chris Birdman.
A rented golf cart provided the opportunity to explore the local town…and, of course, to visit the local ice cream shop.
An autumn display. (What?!! Where did the summer go?)
And we finally saw some wildlife. Although I’m not sure if these can be considered “wild”.
The deer were very comfortable around humans…
…unless the humans decide to get out of the golf cart to take a photo.
Covered docks are the trend on the river. This is ideal for extending the living space behind the boat.
We borrowed the courtesy car to take a ride back to Paducah.
The magnificent Paducah Floodwall Mural is three blocks long and captures the rich history of the city.
Paducah is home to the National Quilt Museum. Yes, this is a quilt….
…as well as this one…
…and this one.
This is the motley Paducah crew…but I think someone is missing.
Ah, here’s the last member. “Hey, thanks for letting me out.”
Docktales are held each night and are very well attended.
There’s the Rambler among friends at the dock.

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