The Belle Louise Guest House in the heart of Paducah’s Lowertown District
Looking for a distinct luxury Bed and Breakfast experience but a bit like home, this Italianate mansion built in 1879 is waiting for you. Lovingly brought back to its former glory the home maintains the splendor of the past with period décor inner twined with a classic contemporary touch. The Belle Louise Guest House is in the Historic Lower Town Arts District which is one of Paducah’s oldest neighborhoods and home of the renowned Artist Relocation Program which helped revitalize the historic architecture and develop a creative class of artists, small businesses and beautiful streetscapes. The Belle Louise is also conveniently located just a few blocks from the National Quilt Museum, the Greenway Trail, the Riverfront and Paducah’s commercial historic district which enhances your visit with unique boutiques, craft breweries, premier dining choices, art galleries and entertainment.
Belle Louise Highlights
- Five (5) distinctive luxury guest rooms in the main house.
- Three (3) King Suites and one (1) Queen Suite and one (1) double Queen available. See a description of each in the section below.
- In our dining room or on one of our outside patios, we serve a continental breakfast on weekdays from 7:30 am – 9:30 am. This consists of a selection of specialty pastries, croissants, muffins and quiche from our local artisan bakeries. In addition, we offer yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, juices, teas, and coffee.
- On weekends and holidays we prepare a delightful specialty breakfast, times and menus are posted each day in the dining room.
- The Belle Louise offers several unique spaces to accommodate small gatherings of your friends and family. For an intimate setting, sit by the fire and enjoy the romance of our private Victorian parlor. Or gather in the spacious and elegant Great Room which showcases Corinthian columns and majestic chandeliers draped with hundreds of glass teardrop crystals suspended from filigreed antique crowns. Whether it is a rehearsal dinner, corporate meeting, bridal shower, anniversary party, or any reason to celebrate, our unforgettable surroundings are the perfect atmosphere to create memorable experiences.
- All rooms offer free in-room wifi.
- Flat screen tv with cable and movie channels.
Centuries Room
First Floor Double Queen Suite
The Centuries Room is a double queen suite located on the first floor. It features a private porch, small courtyard garden and private bath with walk-in shower. This room acquired its name during our investigative phase of demolition on the project which uncovered three centuries of exposed exterior brick walls ranging from 1860 to the present. The room is the perfect mix of contemporary and historic with two black iron queen-size beds, sitting area with rosewood table and chairs, full closet and local art pieces. Looking for a room with lots of space? The Centuries Room is perfect for you. Go to Check Availability to check rates and availability.
Sallie Abigail Room
Second Floor Queen Suite
Step back into the Victorian Era, with this very special room. Located at the front of the home with full bay windows and front porch view of the gas lantern. The room is named for the wife of Lt. Colonel Daniel Fraser who built the home in 1879. Furnished in true Victorian fashion, it features delicate rose wallpaper, an antique Queen-size bed with a marble top side table, high back chairs and full armoire. This room has a private bath located just a few steps from your door, in the second floor main hall. It features a beautiful clawfoot tub with customized rain shower head. Access to the suspended balcony is available to guests. Go to Check Availability to check rates and availability.
The Queen Bee
Second Floor King Suite
Looking out over Sixth Street with a fun view of the LowerTown Neighborhood, this room features a king-size sleigh bed and sitting area. The name was chosen due to a resident bee hive located in the old capital of the front porch column outside the window. A local beekeeper gently moved the hive saving approximately 30,000 honey bees. We not only save historic architecture but our wonderful honey bee population too. This room includes a private ensuite bath with a soothing rain shower head. Access to the suspended balcony is available to guests. To check rates go to Check Availability.
The Belle Suite
Second Floor King Suite
Our Belle Suite is a private spacious unique room decorated in rich Westchester gray tones and bright white accents. It features a grand four-poster king size bed, sitting area, and a full ensuite bath with custom tile walk-in shower and stunning clawfoot tub. Guests also get to enjoy the stars and fresh air with their own private oversized 2nd floor deck complete with cozy patio furniture and gas firepit. Go to Check Availability to check rates and availability.
The Master Suite
First Floor King Suite
The Master is located on the northside of the home in the original Antebellum portion of the house. It features a four-poster canopy bed with spacious sitting area, private patio and ensuite bath with custom tile walk-shower and clawfoot tub. Go to Check Availability to check rates and availability.
Having A Special Event?
Reserve The Entire House!
Come enjoy the luxury of the your own Italianate home for those special gatherings of family and friends! The Belle Louise Historic Guest House is available to groups for rental. It includes five guest rooms, four and half bathrooms, all the common spaces including the grand front porch, balconies, and private decks. The kitchen is also available to guests to use for an additional fee. Private Free parking is available. The maximum capacity is twelve. Please call to check availability and to let us assist with your special stay.
Our Online Reviews
See what our guests have to say about their stay at The Belle Louise
Wish it was possible to give them more than 5 stars! Melinda and Cary were exceptional hosts. Belle Louise is in a great location with a 10-15 minute safe walk to the local restaurants, shops, museums, etc. The house is beautifully restored, and we got to experience the delicious weekend brunches and delightful conversations with other guests. The best part was their sharing the history of the house, its previous owners, and their renovation challenges. If you're fortunate enough to stay here, be sure to get them to tell you "all" the stories associated with the house!
Oh my goodness! What a gem. Absolutely STUNNING home, rich in history and decorated so beautifully. You must see it decorated for Christmas! It is truly magical. Melinda and Cary were fantastic, personable hosts. Melinda cooked a fabulous breakfast, truly restaurant quality. I cannot say enough good things about the Belle Louise. My husband and I enjoyed our stay immensely; we cannot wait to return. Thank you for everything! ❤️Gwyn & Joel
We stayed for a night of our honeymoon. Beautiful room and outstanding service. I have food allergies that I made them aware of it before I came. They made a delicious homemade breakfast that catered to my needs. Cannot say enough about what a great experience it was.
Cary and Melinda are amazing hosts. This is a beautiful B&B close to many activities. We will be back.
My wife and I really enjoyed our stay. I wish we could of had more time for another night. We felt at home. This place is very peaceful.
We had a lovely, restful stay at Belle Louise. The mansion is truly beautiful, its rooms thoughtfully appointed. We highly recommend Belle Louise.
I always feel like I’m visiting a friend when I stay at Belle Louise! The rooms are experiential … inviting, warm, comfortable, charming, spacious and restful. The Host and Hostess are extraordinary ambassadors for their property and for the City of Paducah. They provide a level of concierge service usually only experienced at high end hotels. The weekend breakfast … wow … to put it simply …. Lovely and Delicious! This is an ideal location for an individual traveling alone or a group of sisters, looking to spend some quality time in a place that feels like a home away from home. Needless to say … FIVE STARS are not enough!
I had never stayed at a B&B before and I must say that Belle Louise was an unbelievable experience. The restored 1882 Victorian home was in mint condition. Cary and Melinda, the owners, were like family by the end of the weekend. Their easy, friendly manner made you feel like you had known them forever.I have never had such wonderful breakfasts in my entire life. It was such a special place to reconnect with all of my sisters. Cary and Melinda, thank you again for a wonderful weekend. Can't wait to see you both again.Best.Karen
Have had the privilege to stay at the Belle Louise several times. This last weekend I had a sister trip and we reserved the entire space. It is a unique experience and a step back in time. Karey & Melinda, our hosts, made us feel at home. Both our breakfasts were five star quality and homemade.
A weekend trip with my sisters became an enchanted adventure. Upon arrival Melinda and Cary greeted us with warm welcome. After brief introductions, they provided a tour of this charming house and it's history. We were captivated from the moment we passed through doors and felt the magic of this property. Each room had a decorative theme. We shared time together in the sitting room and gathered each morning in the dining area for a delightful, delicious homemade creation, by our host.The location of the Belle Louise allows for easy access to a variety of restaurants, walking distance to wall murals as well as their notable Quilt Museum.The rooms were impeccably clean and lighting dreamy. The balconies or porch areas provide seating for outside enjoyment relaxing, taking in all the natural elements. The front of the house has additional seating where we sat and reviewed the excitement of the days activities.This is a top choice for anyone visiting the area. Your hosts are friendly, warm, caring individuals, ready to address any of your needs as well as provide directions/answers to all inquiries.
My sister reserved these rooms for five of us to enjoy a sisters weekend. It was truly a magical three days. The rooms are enchanting and the owners are so friendly and accommodating. It was a perfect get away. Delightful sitting rooms and quaint little patios to enjoy morning coffee and visit. And if you're lucky enough to book on a weekend for the homemade breakfast you are in for a real treat. Melinda is an awesome cook and her husband Cary will keep you coming back for the delicious bacon. If you are passing through Paducah definitely check out the Bella Louise for availability. ❤️❤️
We just returned from a 4 night stay in The Belle Suite. Paducah was good but the Belle Louise was the absolute best part of our stay. The house has been so meticulously restored and is beautiful and luxurious. My favorite parts of the suite were the claw foot tub and the comfy bed. We enjoyed the Continental breakfast one morning and brunch on 2 mornings and absolutely everything we ate there was delicious! We loved staying here and hope to come back again some day!
Absolutely beautiful! 5 stars is not enough for how much I loved The Belle Louise. We held a friends retirement tea there and the owners went above & beyond. Everything was perfect! HIGHLY recommend 🙂
We stayed in the Queen Bee room. It was very clean, comfortable and inviting. Everything was perfect in the room. The location was walkable to Broadway and many restaurants, lounges and shops. Kudos to Melinda for our Saturday morning breakfast-it was sooo good. Cary and Melinda are great hosts. They shared a lot of interesting history and stories about the home and the renovation process. They were also extremely helpful in recommending restaurants and things to do. Thank you so much for your hospitality and the bourbon happy hour :)! We will definitely visit again.Michael and Mary Craddock
This was our first trip to Paducah and we were fortunate to find the Belle. Without question this was the nicest B and B that we have ever experienced. The house is immaculate, the hosts very knowledgeable and friendly. They go out of their way to make your stay memorable.If we are ever in the area again our first choice will be the Belle Louise!
Melinda and Carey are hospitable, gracious and generous hosts. The home is lovely, with many interesting pieces of Victorian furniture and furnishings. The home and rooms are very clean and cheerful. Our bed was quite comfortable, and the shower was so plush and modern! We highly recommend the Belle Louise as the place to stay in Paducah.
The Belle Louise and it's owners are both wonderful. I highly recommend it.
Absolutely beautiful and so clean. Best place we ever stayed. The breakfast was amazing also. Cary and Melinda were wonderful host!
Our room was lovely. It put us within blocks of everything we came to Paducah for and Cary and Melinda were wonderful hosts even going out of their way to grab us a bottle of bbq sauce from one of the places we weren't able to make it to. We look forward to staying here again in the future.
I booked the Belle Suite (Second Floor King Suite) for the WRONG date. Showed up a week early and Melinda and Cary couldn't have been more gracious. It was just my luck that the room I had booked had a cancellation and the previous guests checked out that morning. The room needed to be cleaned but they (along with their children) cleaned the room for us and we checked in an hour later. Cary even carried my HEAVY luggage up the stairs for me. The minute I stepped into the house my jaw just dropped wide open. I couldn't believe how GORGEOUS and IMMACULATELY clean this house was. Everything was SO well appointed and everywhere you looked were these fabulous antiques that were so well maintained you would have thought you were back in the 1800's. When they showed me to my room it looked EXACTLY like the photo - now how often does that even happen? The sheets were ultra luxurious and the shower was to die for. We even had our own private patio which we used at night to sip on a glass of wine. Breakfast Sunday morning was also unbelievable. 8 other guests and us sat at this beautifully dressed dining room table where Melinda brought out a homemade delicious sort of quiche and this FABULOUS french toast souffle with fresh strawberries. I thought I died and went to heaven. The conversation just flowed and the true definition of southern hospitality hit this Los Angeles, California girl like a wave of sunshine. The hosts shared their restoration of the guest house and made you fully appreciate what a labor of love it was. I can't recommend this place enough - AND it's walking distance to old town Paducah too and they have some GREAT restaurants to offer. I wish I could give them more than 5 stars. We truly can't wait to come back. Thanks again to Melinda and Cary for turning my fiasco into one of the nicest places I've every stayed in. They made our trip complete.
Belle Louise… WOW!My husband surprised me with reservations at the Belle Louise for our seventh wedding anniversary! It was our first time staying at a bed and breakfast! It definitely won’t be our last. Melinda and Cary have set the bar exceptionally high. The Belle Louise is truly their passion. You feel the love they put into the upkeep and renovations. I felt honored that they would share such a gem with us. They also serve brunch on the weekends. And Melinda prepares the most elegant breakfast/brunch in town. I’m typically a no dairy, no sugar, no gluten, low carb kind of girl. However, when I observed the care and presentation Melinda put into brunch, I immediately had a change of heart. It’s was just that fabulous! The egg Benedict casserole, avocado mash, fresh picked strawberries and the strawberry streusel were at another level. Everything was delicious! As my husband and I now consider ourselves spoiled, we will definitely be visiting the Belle Louise again! Speaking of my husband, he hit it off so well with Cary that you would think they were brothers from different mothers. Bottom line: It was truly a special treat to stay at the Belle Louise with two very special people, Melinda and Cary. So do yourself a favor and reserve a suite soonest. You will have ZERO regrets.
My husband and I stayed for 1 night. Wish it could have been longer, but hope to return sometime. The house is absolutely gorgeous and the attention to detail is stunning. My husband is a remodeler and he was blown away by all the work they did. They spared no expense to do it right. The room was wonderful and we enjoyed coffee on our private deck with fire pit. What could be better? The breakfast was delicious, and the host and hostess are very welcoming and friendly.
Stayed here on a Friday night in February, absolutely loved it. We were in the Centuries room, which has its own bathroom and its own private outdoor patio. The bathroom is immaculately built, one of the best showers I’ve ever used. Since we were there for Saturday morning breakfast, we got a plated meal from Melinda and Cary. The breakfast was great, and the conversation was amazing too. They are incredible hosts and I’ll be looking to stay here anytime I come through Paducah.
My husband and I stayed for our Valentine’s Day get away and I honestly can’t say enough good things! The house itself is absolutely gorgeous, from the room to the brunch the whole experience was amazing. The host was a delight. She shared some very cool stories of Paducah with us. We can not wait for our next stay!
Where do I begin?It was absolutely perfect. The room was fantastic, the place is clean, historic, it tells a story, and so do the owners. They took a faded gem and have made her shine again. Took my father and sister here to get away for the night and it did not disappoint. The owners were gracious, had a coffee pot ready to enjoy, made a delightful breakfast the next day. Was considerate of my sister's celiac and need for gluten free, showed me around and answered all questions. My father got cold in the night, and there were plenty of spare blankets as well as a little heater. They literally thought of everything. I look forward to coming back again soon.
My husband and I stayed at the Belle Louise in mid December when we traveled to Paducah to visit a particular local restaurant. Where we stayed was a secondary thought but wanted it to be quaint and close to everything. It turned out that Melinda and Kerry's beautiful bed and breakfast was alone worth the trip. It is stunningly gorgeous on the outside and inside, warm, and beautifully decorated top to bottom. But what truly put it over the top was the attention to every single detail that those two put into making our stay and that of the other 8 or so guests unforgettable. From their constant availability to their scratch made breakfasts and the special little touches in the rooms--they could not have done a better job to make us feel welcome and like part of their family. I obviously 1000 percent recommend this as your home away from home when you visit Paducah.
This was my second stay at The Belle Louise. This was a weekend getaway for myself and two friends of 25 years. Every inch of this historic home is beautiful. We stayed on a weekend so were served 2 delicious homemade breakfasts. Owners Melinda & Cary have the gift of hospitality! Downtown is walkable. Highly recommend if you are visiting Paducah, or visit Paducah just to enjoy a stay at the Bell Louise.
I have stayed at the Belle a total of 5 times now…and I am never disappointed! I feel like I am coming home when I step into this beautiful historic mansion.Melinda and Cary are the perfect hosts.(The breakfasts on the weekend are something you don’t want to miss!)
My husband and I had an absolutely wonderful stay at the Belle for our anniversary. From the decor, to the location, and to the hospitality and graciousness of our hosts, everything was perfect. I 100% recommend the Belle.
Had a wonderful ladies night / Friendsgiving at the Belle Louise ! The Bed & Breakfast was beautifully decorated for Christmas and the Host was simply awesome.
So pretty and historically preserved! Thank you to the hosts for such a great experience!!
This is a great location to have a great Christmas party. The bed and breakfast is beautiful and the hosts are so nice.
This was a lovely place to stay, and I highly recommend it. My father and I stayed here for two nights in November. He was in the Master Suite, and I was in the Belle. The house was beautiful - historic and very well maintained. They decorate early for Christmas here, and it felt like I was in a Hallmark movie. My suite was quite large while still being cozy, and I felt lucky to sleep in such elegant surroundings. The hosts are so kind and friendly. They are proud of what they’ve done with the place, and rightfully so. The breakfasts they prepared were delicious. It’s clear that great care has been put into delivering a wonderful experience for the individuals who are fortunate enough to stay here. We will definitely go back, should we visit Paducah again.
This home is absolutely beautiful!!Melinda and Cary are great hosts and are very welcoming. The rooms are well appointed and comfortable. They are knowledgeable about the area. Melinda creates the most delicious breakfast! It’s walkable to fine dining, shops, brewery and bars. We can’t wait to come back!
The home is exquisite and very tastefully decorated using period pieces. Yet the amenities are all modern. What makes it extra special is the gracious extra attention provided by consummate hosts Cary, Melinda, and Colt. Absolutely delightful and welcoming!! They have perfected the art of being owners, managers, and friends simultaneously. Warning! ... staying here will spoil you and make other B&Bs pale by comparison. If you own a B&B (or plan to), you need to book a stay at the Belle Louise and pay very close attention!!! We look forward to our next visit!
Absolute hidden gem of a place! Beautiful. Cozy. Hospitality was amazing. Highly recommend!
We spent a long weekend at the Belle Louise. The location to historic downtown Paducah is very convenient. The house has been lovingly and beautifully restored and our room was so comfortable. The food was outstanding and we loved the opportunity to visit with Melinda & Cary and hear their story.
Belle Louise is Fabulous ! hosts are great !! Beautiful, clean and perfect for our trip.
This is the nicest B&B we've ever stayed in. Clean. Beautifully restored. Comfortable bed. Spacious room. Breakfast was fabulous. Can't say enough good things
Wonderful bed breakfast. Located just a few blocks from the Paducah flood wall murals, the national quilt museum, and dining. The bed and breakfast room was spacious, quiet, and comfortable. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Next time I'm in Paducah, I'll stay there.
We stayed in the Master and it was absolutely lovely. Location was also excellent. Would definitely stay again if we make it back to Paducah.
Melinda and Cary are great hosts, and the house is gorgeous inside and out! It's redone so well and the history so interesting, and no detail left undone. It's extremely clean and comfortable. Can't say enough! Don't miss an opportunity to stay here and meet your gracious hosts.... And terrific food!!! Great location too!
We stayed at the Belle twice...once on our way to see family and once on our return trip. Let me just say that we were so impressed with our outbound visit that we changed our return date just so we could stay the second time.We stayed in two different rooms and both were exceptionally clean, comfortable and beautifully appointed...the beds are so comfortable and the bathrooms luxurious.The owners are also a delight. In addition to the great work on the Belle, they're both warm and loving people and made us both feel completely welcome. They tell delightful stories about the Belle and their experiences in restoring the property.We have already made plans to stay with them next May and are also considering a visit over the holidays. If it was this beautiful in the spring we can't imagine what it might look like at Christmas!
My wife and I stayed in The Belle Suite, we both loved it!!...I've chalked up some brownie points! This room is amazing! The hosts Cary and Melinda are absolutely wonderful, it's easy to tell they love what they do! I'm so looking forward to going back for another stay. Downtown Paducah offers lots to do and eat all within an easy walk.
I visited the Belle Louise and was blown away by the charm of the hotel. This was my first real taste of Southern Hospitality --and I'm hooked! I can't wait to go back! The rooms were gorgeous, the food and conversation was delightful. Our hosts Melinda and Carey were fantastic. Our stay there was one of the highlights of our trip! I hope to visit again regularly.
My husband and I stayed in the Centuries Room and I cannot say enough wonderful things about our stay. The room and entire space was spotless. The owners were so friendly and kind and made sure we were comfortable, for the duration of our stay. It is in a perfect downtown location. On our stay, it started to snow a little, and our room is connected to a little outdoor patio, where it looked like an old winter wonderland cityscape scene. It was absolutely beautiful!! ❄️ the location is perfect, close to many great restaurants, and activities. My husband and I will 100% make this an annual tradition to stay here even though we live very close to the hotel. We love it for a weekend getaway. I drink out of my belle louis coffee mug often, and appreciate their outstanding hospitality. Five stars ⭐️
Our stays at The Belle Louise have been great ! We have stayed in the Master King Suite which is beautiful but also a Queen Suite which is so charming. Melinda and Cary are the best hosts and really make you feel welcome and special. Melinda cooks the best breakfasts. You can see the love and passion in both Melinda and Cary's eyes when they tell you how they restored The Belle. This is an amazing story and truly a labor of love. Thank you for all you did and continue to do so we and others can enjoy. We love you so !
We were so excited to stay in the Belle Louise and it didn’t disappoint. Melinda and Cary are incredible hosts. They have addressed every detail. We were there at Christmas and the house was decorated festively. The master suite with its en-suite bathroom was an ideal retreat. On top of it all the food was delicious. We highly recommend The Belle if you are in Paducah.
The Belle Louise Historic Guest House was absolutely lovely. Melinda and Cary couldn't have been warmer and more welcoming. We loved hearing about the history of the house and the renovations. The entire house was tastefully decorated and spotless. The Christmas decorations were spectacular. Our rooms were large and comfortable. Breakfasts were tasty and filling. I highly recommend a stay at The Belle Louise if you are in Paducah.
The history and charm of the Bella Louise is made possible by Melinda and Cary. Their passion to host and bring this beautiful property back to life is the gift of good stewards for us all to appreciate and enjoy. Rooms are lovely. The whole atmosphere is exquisite. We booked another stay before we left.
The Belle Louise is a charmer. From the beautifully maintained house and rooms, original windows and crystal chandeliers, it is a wonderful piece of history. The rooms are large, the bed so comfortable and a grand bathroom in our suite.Since we were there during the week day, a "continental" breakfast was served. It consisted of coffee, a yummy quiche, a scone and fresh fruit.The owners are warm and obviously love the Belle Louise. If you are interested in architecture and history, like we are, see if you can carve out a little time to talk about the house.Visit Frenchtown Station and Slim's Mercantile and have dinner at the Freight House. A wonderful visit!!
Our room was beautiful and comfortable. Our hosts were wonderful and went above and beyond to make sure our stay was enjoyable. Breakfast was delicious. And we were within walking distance of historic downtown Paducah. Just a really great weekend!
This historic house, with it's very welcoming hosts is a destination in itself! The rooms are beautifully appointed with comfortable beds, ceiling fans, sitting spaces and porches. The bathrooms are a treat with tiled showers and soaking tubs. Breakfast is delicious and plentiful, and, the hosts keep homemade cookies available for an afternoon/evening treat.The location is central to the Quilt Museum and market area, as well as, the mural wall and wonderful restaurants. We will be back!
If You Have Stayed With Us, We Invite You To Leave A Review
General Particulars & Policies
- For the comfort of guests, the house is non-smoking.
- Advance reservations are recommended.
- Check-in time is after 4:30 p.m. Central Standard Time. For check-ins after 9:00 PM please be courteous to our other guests.
- Check-out time is 11 a.m. on the morning of departure.
- Room rates are based on double occupancy per night. Kentucky Sales tax, hotel occupancy tax and cleaning fee will be added to the room rates. A 3.5% financial processing fee will be charged for all credit card transactions.
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