Bowling Green, Kentucky: Your Next Family Adventure
If you’re on the lookout for a thrilling getaway packed with horsepower, exciting festivals, and delicious eats, look no further than Bowling Green, Kentucky. Just an hour from the Tennessee-Kentucky state line, this vibrant city is known for its connection to the classic Corvette. With the Corvette GM Assembly Plant, the NCM Motorsports Park, and the National Corvette Museum, it’s dubbed the Corvette Capital of the World. However, there’s much more to this city than just fast cars.
Speed and Thrills at the National Corvette Museum
The first stop on our whirlwind tour was the National Corvette Museum. As I approached, the unique red-spiked roof of the museum’s Skydome stood out from afar. Having visited before, I was eager to see the new and improved exhibit titled “Ground to Sky: The Sinkhole Reimagined”, which details the recovery efforts following the infamous sinkhole that occurred in 2014. It was fascinating to learn how the museum bounced back from such adversity.
Visitors can admire stunning Corvettes on display while literally walking over the spot where the sinkhole once was. Don’t forget to check out the impressive exhibit “LUSTER: Realism and Hyperrealism in Contemporary Automobile and Motorcycle Painting”, featuring 55 breathtaking pieces until January 2025. After soaking in the art, we refueled at the Stingray Grill with a tasty burger, followed by a decadent dessert of Bourbon Bread Pudding.
Exploring Nature at Lost River Cave
Next, we ventured to the Lost River Cave. Led by passionate tour guides, we were treated to tales of local lore featuring everything from Civil War history to a prohibition-era speakeasy. The 72-acre park includes stunning limestone bluffs and wetlands to enjoy along the trails. Our boat ride through the cave revealed beautiful formations, as well as the stories behind Jesse James and ancient hunting grounds.
Holiday Cheer at The Reindeer Farm
No trip to Bowling Green would be complete without a special visit to The Reindeer Farm. Just in time for the holidays, this charming spot was an absolute delight for kids and adults alike. We booked tickets for up-close encounters with reindeer and had a fantastic time exploring the petting zoo with miniature pigs, alpacas, and more. The festive atmosphere featured a bounce house, family games, and a cozy spot for hot chocolate by the fire, making it our favorite highlight of the trip.
Festivities at White Squirrel Brewery
During our stay, we also enjoyed the White Squirrel Arts Fest, a lively event held over three days. The brewery offered a perfect backdrop for local music, food trucks, and fun vibes. We couldn’t resist sampling some craft beers, particularly the highly recommended Kolsch Style Ale.
Charming Downtown Bowling Green
While exploring, we took time to stroll through Downtown Bowling Green. Fountain Square Park served as a picturesque centerpiece with a historic fountain. We visited local shops like Candle Makers on the Square, where we found locally-made gifts and even signed up for a candle-pouring event. For book enthusiasts, Capitol Books by Friends of the Library boasts a collection of literary treasures perfect for readers of any age.
Delicious Stops for Sweet Treats
With all that exploring, we were in need of a sweet pick-me-up. We headed to Mary Jane’s Chocolates for some delightful goodies, particularly enjoying the handmade truffles and bourbon balls. A visit to Chaney’s Dairy Barn for ice cream was also a must; their unique flavors helped us cool down on a warm afternoon.
A Satisfying Breakfast Experience
For breakfast, we discovered Providence Coffee and Marketplace across from the Lost River Cave. The menu featured an array of delightful options like chocolate croissants and savory sausage egg croissants. The cozy atmosphere made it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy our meals.
Dining in Style at Novo Dolce
After a busy day, we concluded our culinary journey at Novo Dolce for dinner. The friendly servers guided us through the menu, and I opted for their famous Shrimp & Grits, while my kid enjoyed a cheesy pizza. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, perfect for families looking to unwind.
Comfort at Fairfield Inn & Suites
For our stay, we chose the Fairfield Inn & Suites, which proved to be a great family-friendly hotel. With clean rooms and convenient amenities, we settled in comfortably after our adventurous days.
Plan Your Visit to Bowling Green
Bowling Green, Kentucky, is an exciting destination full of activities for families, friends, or solo travelers. From fast cars and historic sites to holiday cheer and tasty eats, there’s truly something for everyone. To learn more and plan your visit, check out VisitBGKY.com for helpful information on attractions, accommodation, and upcoming events.
