Discover the charm of Paducah, Kentucky on this fun-filled day trip! Nestled on the banks of the Ohio River, Paducah is a UNESCO Creative City known for its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and small-town hospitality.

Start your day with a cozy cup of locally roasted coffee at Etcetera Coffeehouse, a beloved neighborhood spot known for its creative drinks and artsy vibe. Then head downtown, where historic architecture meets colorful murals and unique boutiques.

Explore the world-renowned National Quilt Museum, home to stunning contemporary fiber art from around the globe. Stroll along the Floodwall Murals, an open-air gallery that brings Paducah’s past to life through vivid imagery.

When it’s time for lunch, choose between two local favorites: Doe’s Eat Place, known for hearty Southern classics and famous steaks, or Broussard’s Cajun Cuisine, serving up spicy Louisiana-style dishes with plenty of flavor and flair. Afterward, browse the galleries and artisan studios in the Lower Town Arts District, or relax with a frozen treat at Craving the Curls.

Before you head home, treat yourself to something sweet from Kirchhoff’s Bakery, a Paducah institution since 1873. Their fresh-baked pastries, cookies, and breads are the perfect way to end your day on a delicious note.

With scenic views, friendly locals, and plenty of creative energy, Paducah offers a refreshing getaway packed with inspiration, culture, and a little Southern charm.

Bus departs from Main Campus at 7:30am : return by 6:30pm 

Learn the fundamentals of word processing using Microsoft Word. Discover how to use the menu system and toolbars; open, reopen, print, save and close documents; insert/delete text, reverse an edit operation, apply font attributes to text, and move text blocks. Be trained on how to use Spelling/Grammar Checker, Thesaurus, the Help menu, and how to  customize the AutoCorrect Dictionary.

Try your hand at painting while having fun! Not creative? Never painted before? That’s okay! No painting or drawing experience needed. The instructor will guide you step-by-step to create your own masterpiece to take home. You will be painting with acrylics on a stretched canvas. All supplies are provided.

AGES 12+

Cost: $15 (plus $10 supply fee)

Dive into the world of chocolate with a focus on tempering - the essential skill for creating glossy, professional quality treats. Whether you're a budding chocolatier or just love working with chocolate, this hands-on class will give you the confidence to create stunning confections!

Join us for a relaxing evening of creativity at Community Craft Night! This special event features a guest speaker on Art Therapy, who will share how creative expression can support mental health and emotional well-being. Bring your own project to work on or try something new with the supplies we’ll have available. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just looking to unwind, come enjoy hands-on activities, great company, and meaningful conversation. All are welcome!

Delve into the world of artificial intelligence with a concise course designed to teach you the art of effective prompt engineering, unlocking the potential of A.I. tools for creative and productive solutions.

Location: Southern Illinois Manufacturing Academy at the Mt. Vernon Marketplace

New to cooking? Let’s start with the most important meal of the day! This class covers easy, go-to breakfast recipes like eggs, pancakes, and more. No experience needed—just come ready to learn and eat. Perfect for beginners who want to build kitchen confidence one bite at a time!

Ages 16+

$15 (Plus a $20 supply fee paid to the instructor)

Dive into the world of chocolate with a focus on tempering - the essential skill for creating glossy, professional quality treats. Whether you're a budding chocolatier or just love working with chocolate, this hands-on class will give you the confidence to create stunning confections!