By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Buchanan, Tenn. – State officials today opened the new 91-room Lodge at Paris Landing, an attraction which features a full-service restaurant and lounge, with indoor and outdoor dining, and conference spaces to serve both business meetings and social functions at Paris Landing State Park.
A large crowd was on hand for the ribbon-cutting, which was held on the outdoor walkway. Speakers were State Department of Environment and Conservation Commissioner David Salyers, Department of Finance Commissioner Jim Bryson, Commissioner of Tourist Development Mark Ezell, Deputy Commissioner General Services John Hull, State Parks Director of Hospitality Shannon Bowles, State Parks Director of Operations Mike Robertson, Lodge Manager Mitzi Hammonds, State Rep. John Stevens, State Rep. Tandy Darby, and State Rep. Bruce Griffey.
A sentiment echoed by most of the speakers was that the new Lodge is the “Crown Jewel of Henry County”.
Rep. Darby said, “This place is over the top.”
Robertson said, “This was a long time coming. This is a new day. A lot of new memories will be created here.”
Hammonds, who started working at the former Paris Landing Inn as a front desk clerk 23 years ago, said, “I’m humbled to be the manager of this breathtaking Lodge.”
Bowles thanked those who made it all happen, including former State Rep. Tim Wirgau who she said “was a strong advocate for this Lodge.”
Rep. Stevens said, “As you drive up to the Lodge for the first time, it just exceeds what you could imagine. I’m blown away by it.”
Bryson displayed one of the gold shovels that dignitaries used at the ground-breaking, noting, “At that time, this was just a dream. This is beyond our expectations. This will have a remendous impact on this community.”
Griffey said, “This is going to be the crown jewel in the whole state park system.”
“Tennesseans have looked forward to this opening, and the lodge delivers on every expectation,” said David Salyers, commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. “We know visitors will enjoy this destination, and we’re proud to begin the latest chapter in the history of this great park.”
The lodge offers many spaces to gather and relax, including fire pits, reading nooks, and living room areas. The design is inspired by the setting of Kentucky Lake and the commanding views of the open water. The rooms include several types of suites, all with lake views.
The lodge was designed by Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC), one of the largest architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast. The contractor was Doster, a leading provider of general contracting and construction management.
Paris Landing State Park is an 841-acre attraction on the widest part of the lake making it an outstanding location for water sports such as fishing, boating, swimming, and waterskiing. It is home to a par-72, 18-hole golf course. The park also has 10 three-bedroom cabins and features a campground with 45 sites with water and electric service, as well as 18 primitive campsites.
Room reservations are being taken now at this link: https://tnstateparks.com/lodges/paris-landing
Photo: State officials cut the ribbon at today’s grand opening of The Lodge at Paris Landing. (Shannon McFarlin photo).