Metropolis blends comic culture with country living
A waterfront community along the Ohio River, Metropolis, also known as Super City, has been the official home of the comic hero Superman since 1972. Metropolis has many Superman-themed attractions, ranging from an annual Superman festival and a local museum to statues and figure cutouts all over the city. The popular tourist community also draws a growing business scene, with local eateries and memorabilia stores line around the highway corridor. In addition to having country homes with a suburban feel, residents have access to amenities like public schools and outdoor recreation areas, making the community a convenient place for small-town living.
A diverse housing mix in Metropolis
The city follows a grid layout, with houses sitting alongside narrow linear streets. Some roads have sidewalks, and mature trees cover the peaceful landscape. Single-family homes range from cottages and Craftsman bungalows to ranch-styles and split-levels. Prices go from $50,000 to approximately $200,000. Fixer-uppers are between $10,000 and $45,000, while several larger country properties with 1 acre lots sell from $250,000 to about $350,000. Houses have grassy setbacks and open lawns, and some have small gardens or detached garages. Mobile and manufactured homes go in the $15,000 to $130,000 range. Vacant lots up to 1 acre go between $2,000 and 85,000. Properties in designated flood zone may require flood insurance.
Shopping and dining options in downtown and along the highway corridor
Restaurants and businesses are concentrated along Route 45 corridor. Fat Edd's Roadhouse has Superman-themed drinks and classic pub food. Cordavino's serves traditional Italian fare, and the family-owned El Tequila Mexican Restaurant & Steakhouse offers karaoke nights, margaritas and casual Latin American cuisine. Metropolis Big John Grocery and Dollar General has daily essentials, while many collectible and antique stores dot the city.
Events and celebrations that honor the city's history and character
A long-standing tradition celebrating the beloved comic book, the Superman Celebration features a costume contest, amusement rides, live music and exhibits. Other events include the Super City Brew Fest and Harrah’s Metropolis Hometown Celebration, which has family-fun activities, fireworks and local food.
Public schools serving Metropolis
The city is part of Massac Unit School District No. 1. Students may attend Metropolis Elementary School, which gets a B-minus grade from Niche. Massac Junior High School serves seventh and eighth grade and earns a B. Massac County High School gets a B-minus and offers Advanced Placement courses and career pathway programs in health sciences, agriculture and industrial arts. University of Illinois Extension has a campus in the community.
Recreation areas include state and public parks and nature trails
The 1,500-acre Fort Massac State Park offers opportunities for disc golf, boating and fishing along the Ohio River and camping. The 2.5-mile Hickory Nut Ridge Trail lets hikers see views of the river, while the 8.7-mile multi-use George Rogers Clark Discovery Trail connects Metropolis to Brookport. Metropolis Sports Park has baseball, softball and soccer fields for games and tournaments, and the waterfront Dorothy Miller Park sits next to the Metropolis Lighthouse, with open fields and picnic areas.
Distance to Paducah and Barkley Regional Airport
U.S. Route 45 passes through the city, and Interstate 24 is east of the area. Paducah, Kentucky, a major retail hub in the Jackson Purchase region, is across the Ohio River and about 15 miles away. Barkley Regional Airport is also in Paducah, offering direct flights to and from Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Massac Memorial Hospital is in Metropolis.
