Been there-done that--got the t-shirt--AND WOULD DO IT OVER AND OVER AGAIN!
One bit of info I can add is that February is when cancelations must be made at the motels, etc, sooo there ARE usually some accommodations that become available then. I got a list of "approved" lodging sites from the Paducah visitors board (on line) and I just kept calling and chatting with various places and I ended up with a pretty decent place in town and on the shuttle bus route!
One mistake I made was signing up for too many classes--talk about getting worn out!
And don't forget your rain gear :thumbup: :thumbup: