Bowling Green KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bowling Green, Kentucky.
1. National Corvette Museum
CELEBRATING AMERICAN SPORTS CARS
The National Corvette Museum showcases the fascinating history of America's iconic sports car with dozens of Corvettes on display, interactive exhibits, and rotating special collections. Visitors can immerse themselves in the legendary brand's culture, explore the nostalgic nostalgia of classic models, and even watch new Corvettes being delivered to their owners. The museum's engaging experience appeals to car enthusiasts and families alike.
2. Lost River Cave
UNDERGROUND RIVER ADVENTURE
Lost River Cave offers a unique underground boat tour through a historic seven-mile cave system, featuring fascinating rock formations and stories ranging from Native American history to Civil War encampments. Above ground, guests can explore scenic woodland trails, observe butterflies in a lush habitat, and try the thrilling zipline. This natural wonder captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike.
3. Beech Bend Amusement Park & Raceway
CLASSIC FAMILY FUN
Beech Bend Amusement Park & Raceway delights families with over 40 rides, a water park featuring wave pools and slides, and live entertainment throughout the summer. The adjacent Raceway hosts thrilling drag racing events and car shows, making it a favorite spot for motorsports fans. Guests of all ages can experience classic amusement park excitement mixed with the adrenaline of racing.
4. NCM Motorsports Park
HIGH-SPEED TRACK EXPERIENCE
NCM Motorsports Park offers visitors the chance to drive or ride in high-performance vehicles on a professional-level road course next to the National Corvette Museum. The park features track days, kart racing at the Kartplex, and special events for both novices and seasoned drivers. Guests can enjoy a high-octane adventure in a safe, well-designed environment.
5. Historic RailPark & Train Museum
RAILROAD HERITAGE MUSEUM
The Historic RailPark & Train Museum preserves Bowling Green's rich railroad history with engaging exhibits housed in the former Louisville & Nashville Railroad Depot. Visitors can tour restored railcars, learn about the golden age of rail travel, and discover the role trains played in the area's economic development. Interactive displays and guided tours make it a great stop for families and history buffs.
6. Mammoth Cave National Park
WORLD'S LONGEST CAVE SYSTEM
Mammoth Cave National Park, just northeast of Bowling Green, boasts the world's longest known cave system with over 400 miles of explored passageways. Visitors can join guided tours that range from easy walks to adventurous crawls, including wheelchair-accessible and lantern-lit experiences. Above ground, the park offers hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching amid rolling Kentucky hills.
7. Chaney's Dairy Barn
FARM-TO-TABLE ICE CREAM
Chaney's Dairy Barn is a working family farm serving up homemade ice cream, farm-fresh meals, and a variety of family-friendly activities. Visitors can tour the dairy, meet the cows, and savor unique ice cream flavors while learning about sustainable agriculture. The barn also hosts events like outdoor movie nights and seasonal festivals.
8. Riverview at Hobson Grove
VICTORIAN MANSION MUSEUM
Riverview at Hobson Grove is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion that reflects the elegance and history of post-Civil War Kentucky. Guests can tour period-furnished rooms, admire the unique architecture, and hear stories of the Hobson family's life. The mansion sits atop a hill overlooking the Barren River, offering picturesque views and guided historical tours.
9. Fountain Square Park
DOWNTOWN GATHERING PLACE
Fountain Square Park is the historic heart of downtown Bowling Green, known for its ornate fountain, lush gardens, and vibrant community atmosphere. The park is a favorite spot for locals and visitors to relax, people-watch, and enjoy nearby shops and eateries. Frequent events, markets, and concerts fill the square with energy throughout the year.
10. Aviation Heritage Park
HONORING AVIATION HEROES
Aviation Heritage Park celebrates local aviators and military history with an impressive outdoor display of restored aircraft and informative plaques. Each plane tells the story of a South-Central Kentucky native who soared to national or international acclaim. The park invites guests to explore up close and learn about the region's contributions to flight.
11. Basil Griffin Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION SPOT
Basil Griffin Park offers 111 acres of outdoor recreation, featuring a picturesque lake for fishing and paddle boating, sports fields, and playgrounds. Families flock here for picnicking, walking trails, and feeding ducks in a tranquil setting. The park's combination of natural beauty and amenities makes it a top choice for outdoor fun.
12. Kentucky Museum
CULTURAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Kentucky Museum, located on the Western Kentucky University campus, showcases the state's rich cultural history through diverse exhibits and collections. Visitors can explore artifacts related to Kentucky life, folk art, and rotating special exhibitions. The museum is an educational experience for all ages and a window into the Commonwealth's past.
13. Rockn B Horse Carriage Farm
HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE TOURS
Rockn B Horse Carriage Farm offers scenic horse-drawn carriage rides through beautiful countryside just outside Bowling Green. Guests can enjoy leisure tours by day or choose romantic sunset rides for a memorable experience. The farm provides a unique way to connect with Kentucky's equestrian traditions.
14. Barren River Lake State Resort Park
OUTDOOR LAKE ACTIVITIES
Barren River Lake State Resort Park, southeast of Bowling Green, features a sprawling 10,000-acre lake ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. The park also provides hiking trails, a golf course, and a lakeside lodge for overnight stays. It's a favorite getaway for nature lovers and families seeking adventure.
15. Shaker Museum at South Union
HISTORIC SHAKER VILLAGE
The Shaker Museum at South Union, just outside Bowling Green, preserves the history and artifacts of the Shaker community that thrived here from 1807 to 1922. Visitors can tour original buildings, admire Shaker craftsmanship, and learn about their unique religious and cultural traditions. The tranquil grounds and interpretive programs offer a fascinating glimpse into early Kentucky life.
16. Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC)
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center (SKyPAC) is Bowling Green's premier venue for concerts, theater productions, dance performances, and community events. The modern facility features a grand main hall and hosts national touring acts as well as local performers. Its central location makes it a cultural hub for visitors seeking a night out in the city.