Victoria

Our doodle loved hiking here. And we did, too! Be aware that a few of the trails can be challenging while holding your dog on a leash, but the geological features are worth the effort. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. Be prepared by taking a picture of the map at one of the kiosks. If your dog likes adventure, these trails are great.

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a beautiful ride to a historic mining site in Kentucky. Our ride left the Stearns Depot and wound its way through the scenery along streams and through cliffs to the historic Blue Heron Mine. The National Park Service has a very informative outdoor museum and audio presentations that tell the story of life for coal miners. There is a small bookstore and a 15-minute video highlighting the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. My sister’s beagle, Margaret, and our goldendoodle, Harper, enjoyed the train ride. Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed and ride on the floor. The train depot and adjoining shops are dog friendly, and all of the displays and bookstore at Blue Heron are, as well. I highly recommend this fun and relaxing train ride if you visiting the area. It’s a unique experience.

What a wonderful pet-friendly motel! I was impressed from the moment Harper and I arrived. Andie, the owner, was warm and welcoming. She has created a quaint and cozy atmosphere in a classic motor court where I pulled right up to our door to park. Our room was very clean and decorated nicely. I had plenty of towels, and the bed was very comfy. I was excited to find a sleep noise machine next to the bed. Such a thoughtful touch to make our stay even better. There was also a small fridge and a coffee maker. Harper loved the yard area that is filled with cool retro lawn furniture. We took several walks around “the block” and one into town. I felt as if we were locals. I highly recommend Dame Fortune’s Cottage Court!

This hotel looks ok online, and the lobby is promising, but the rest is not good. The staff and housekeeping were very nice. Our room, however, was not. As soon as I opened the door, the smell of stale cigarette smoke and mustiness overcame me. The room felt as if it had been flooded and never properly dried. The carpet and laminate flooring were sticky, the furniture was very rundown, and the bed was lumpy. The small “grassy” areas for the dog to use were riddled with broken glass and pieces of trash. I could not get the lights to turn on, so I felt around in the dark until I found the one lamp that worked. The two other lamps were unplugged, and when I plugged one in, the light bulb flickered as if there was a short in the cord. Definitely not safe. This hotel needs a serious overhaul and a safety inspection. Stay at your own risk.

We chose this hotel because we had a family member having surgery at the hospital nearby. We had to arrive far earlier than we’d hoped and needed an early check-in. We expected we might be able to get in by noon. Instead we were very happy to learn that we could get in by 8 AM. The employees were very thoughtful and helpful. There was a large grassy area to walk the dog. The room was bare bones, but it was modern and very clean. Restaurants and fast food nearby. We will stay again if needed.

Our goldendoodle was warmly welcomed by the front desk staff when we checked in. The employee came around the counter to pet her and remarked that they love dogs at this hotel. The room was very comfortable, clean, and quiet.

We appreciate the Red Roof Inn in Paducah, KY! Our goldendoodle loved being able to stay with us. Very nice staff, too.