I've been to Paducah several times so I would love to see MSQC.

It is 6 h 36 min (429.1 mi) via US-36 E and I-64 E from Hamilton to Paducah. Can you do both.

Paducah, for sure. Between the show, Hancock's, the museum, the walkable downtown area, there's so much to do and see. There's nothing in Hamilton, MO besides Missouri Star and it only took me a couple of hours to be done with it.

Thanks for that clarification! I always think in terms of Rob and I both I think. Sorry I got that wrong.

PamS, it only took me a couple of hours to do MissouriStar too, and we just moseyed. But then I'm not a shopper although I did have a little list. And I do use my big mug every day! Good memory.

With all due respect ma'm, you must have really fast eyes. We went to Hamilton about 4 years ago on a trip to Missouri. That was before they bought the last 2-3 stores, and we spent the day looking at fabrics and quilts. There is a nice Amish settlement just a few miles out of Hamilton. I guess it just depends on what one is looking for. I have been to Paducah also, and while it was great with all of the quilts and vendors, it was a bit exhausting.

If you want to sew, go to MSQC. If you want to shop, go to Paducah.

Pro MSQC: Can shop, can visit with friends, can sew
Pro Paducah: Get to buy new shoes! Haha

What a predicament! Both offer advantages and both would leave me happy . . . and exhausted.

Paducah would offer beautiful and fantastic quilts, beyond my ability . . . and there would probably be crowds. Missouri Star would offer a more relaxed environment and lots of opportunity for window shopping and buying. My feet would hurt after a few hours in both places but MSQC offers lots of places to sit and ponder and dream. I am also fascinated how one company can bring new life to a town.

If you need some additional excitement, there are many attractions an hour or so away - St. Joseph (old Missouri River town) to the west, Kansas City to the south (with a variety of attractions), Jamesport (Amish and art communities) and Hannibal (the home of Mark Twain and river town) to the east. And if you haven't got enough fabrics and shopping in Hamilton, there's some wonderful small quilt shops within an hour's drive.

Wow! What a decision you have!

LOL My type of girl!

If you want to do an AQS show, why not Grand Rapids, MI in Aug.? I have gone 3 of the last 4 yrs. & will be going again this yr. I did live there for 40 yrs & all my family is there so it's a combo trip but there are also a lot of other things to do & see in West Mich.

MSQC, there are tons of quilt shows but only one MSQC. I'm not fond of crowds, long lines, etc. My past experience is the hotels during Paducah are pricey and are booked a year in advance. Last year many ladies got a hotel 30-45 minutes away.