Are you ready looking for things to do in Bowling Green, Kentucky? Then you have come to the right place!
If you are planning a trip to the South and looking for things to do in Kentucky you should add visiting attractions in Bowling Green to your list! Kentucky is known as The Bluegrass State.
Activities in Bowling Green will allow you to experience the best of the state. From things to do in Bowling Green at night, free activities, food, and entertainment, we have got you covered. There are so many fun things to do in Bowling Green that are family-friendly, this list has something for everyone!
Bowling Green, is in Warren County KY. It is the third largest city in the state and has many amenities to enjoy!
Of the things to do in Bowling Green, there are several museums, venues to enjoy live music, and adventure activities. Bowling Green also has some of the most gorgeous scenery and mouthwatering food and drinks in South-Central Kentucky you don’t want to miss!
15 Best Things To Do in Bowling Green KY You Shouldn’t Miss
Lost River Cave
Lost River Cave is one of the best things to do in Bowling Green, especially for tourists. The cave is part of a seven-mile-long river system located in a large 72-acre urban park. The unique combination of a natural and man-made environment means Lost River Cave is hailed as a one of a kind eco-adventure!
Those of all ages can enjoy the historic underground riverboat tours through the cave. Tours last around 45 minutes, split into two parts. First a 20-minute walk, and then a-25 minute boat ride. Visitors are accompanied by a guide, who will teach you about the natural wonders and knowledge about the local area.
There are different admission prices for adults and children, as well as for peak pricing, but it is a reasonably priced activity and one of the best things to do in Bowling Green with kids.
It is a popular enough attraction that many tourists make repeat visits! The cave has always been a source of attraction for visitors to Bowling Green. The Lost River Cave used to be an underground nightclub in the 1930s. With over 200,000 annual visitors, exploring the Lost River Cave is one of many fun things to do in Bowling Green, Kentucky!
Beech Bend Park
If you are looking for something to do with your family, you should add Beech Bend to your list of things to do in Bowling Green! The park has been open since 1898 and is located less than 15 minutes from the city’s downtown. Beech Bend Park is one of the best things to do near Bowling Green.
When you visit Beech Bend, you will not be disappointed with all the attractions. At the amusement park, you can ride the Kentucky Rumbler, a wooden coaster, or take a trip on the Sea Dragon, a ride that used to belong to Micheal Jackson’s Neverland Ranch.
Beech Bend is open all year round, but the splash lagoon water park is the perfect family fun attraction! If you are wondering what to do in Bowling Green on a hot summer’s day, the lazy river at Beech Bend is the place to be.
The park always offers free parking, has a campground if you wish to enjoy a family getaway, and has one of the oldest continuously operating race tracks in America. Beech Bend also has loads of live entertainment for you to enjoy. It sounds like so much fun!
National Corvette Museum
Home of the Chevrolet Corvette, the true all-American sports car, the National Corvette Museum is one of a kind! Bowling Green, Kentucky, is known as the official worldwide home of the Corvette. The museum is the only of its kind, making it one of the activities in Bowling Green you do not want to miss!
One of the most exciting parts of the museum is the Corvette tours! While you may have to budget for this one, test driving one of the museum’s corvettes gives you a chance to experience the fast lane.
Make sure to call ahead to book to ensure your chance at driving either a manual or automatic sports car four laps around a regulation track!
Packed with History, the museum has been open since 1994. The showcase displays more than 80 different models of Corvettes. The national corvette museum features the world’s only General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant. It is one of the best known places to visit in Bowling Green.
The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green is a perfect activity for a weekend trip. Check out this list of other fantastic weekend getaway’s in Kentucky!
The Derby Piano and Dessert Bar
If you are looking for things to do in Bowling Green at night, then you will want to include a stop at the Derby Piano and Dessert Bar.
The Derby Piano and Dessert Bar is one of the best things to do in Bowling Green KY. This is the perfect spot for dinner and to catch a show. The Derby Piano and Dessert Bar opened in 2016 and is one of the most unforgettable dining experiences in the southern United States. It is renowned for its amazing atmosphere and delicious food.
When you visit, try the house-made pretzels with beer cheese dip or take a bite into the Derby’s bison slider; some say it is the best burger in Bowling Green!
Don’t forget dessert! It is the perfect accompaniment to go with a night of free live music. So don’t be afraid to splurge on a few desserts like the Derby Tart Salted Chocolate Bourbon Cake, the perfect sweet taste of Kentucky.
Fountain Square Park
If you are wondering what to do in Bowling Green on a sunny afternoon, you should sit down for a picnic at Fountain Square Park. The picturesque park is one of Bowling Green KY’s most important and memorable landmarks. It is easily locatable in the city’s downtown square, so you can’t miss it!
Fountain Square Park has a vibrant history that dates back to the civil war. Today it serves as a central outdoor hub for locals and visitors. It is a great place to enjoy the golden Kentucky sun and is a pet and family friendly atmosphere.
On weekend evenings in the summer Fountain Square Park is one of the best places to visit in Bowling Green to enjoy live outdoor concerts!
If you want to extend your day after strolling through the park and looking at the many statues. Fountain Square Park is near loads of cute local boutiques and restaurants that you will love! Grab a bite, do some shopping or enjoy other amenities nearby! Make sure to check out our list of the Best Restaurants In Bowling Green!
Be Happy Yoga and Salt Cave
Are you looking for some R&R on your visit to Bowling Green? If so, head over to the Be Happy Yoga and Salt cave to unwind in a unique rejuvenation and relaxation experience.
Visiting the special salt cave is one of the best things to do in Bowling Green for adults when it comes to self care!
The man-made cave is made from over 6 tons of Himalayan salt. The cave in Bowling Green is modelled after ones found naturally in Europe that are known for their healing properties. Breathing the air of the salt cave is a form of therapy that has physical and mental health benefits. The powerful treatment of the salt can help alleviate anxiety, and respiratory issues, as well as resolve skin conditions. Salt caves are a one of a kind spa experience.
Be Happy Yoga and Salt Cave is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Bowling Green. There has a variety of things to choose from that let you experience the magic of the salt cave and leave you feeling pampered! From yoga classes 7 days a week, massages, body spa treatments, guided therapy sessions and more, there are no shortage of soothing options to help you feel relaxed.
Gasper Brewing Company
Another place with occasional live music and a great atmosphere is Gasper Brewing Company. This brewery has some of the best tasting beer in the city and is one of the best things to do in Bowling Green for adults!
Gasper Brewing Company reflects the laid-back, inviting culture of Bowling Green. The company is influenced by beer and yoga styles from all around the world, creating a friendly vibe. If you are looking for fun things to do in Bowling Green, consider a Brewery tour!
You can book a tour of the brewery that includes a beer tasting as well as some history of the building and learning about their barrel aging process.
From caramel malts to hoppy citrus brews and something fresh is always in the works. Make sure you put Gasper Brewing Company on your list if you love local beer! You may also be interested in visiting one of the many beautiful Kentucky wineries or vineyards on your visit!
SKyPAC
Bowling Green has an amazing, theatre, art and music scene. One of the best places to enjoy performances in the city is the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Centre. There are so many Bowling Green activities held here, with a performance almost every weekend.
SKyPac is a creative centre formed in the year 2000 that showcases the talents of southern Kentucky performers. Musicals, stage plays, and orchestra concerts are some of the events you can see at the centre.
The modern architecture of the interior and exterior makes SKyPac one of the nicest venues in Warren County. This is one of the things to do in Bowling Green that is truly an unforgettable experience!
Baker Arboretum & Downing Museum
If you are looking for free things to do in Bowling Green, Kentucky, you should check out the Baker Arboretum & Downing Museum. The site does not charge a fee for admission, but a donation to the Jerry E. Baker Foundation is highly appreciated.
The Arboretum was founded in 1992 by Jerry Baker. It is a southern oasis filled with beautiful plants on a ridge that overlooks Bowling Green, KY. Visitors can enjoy the arboretum year round with blossoms in the spring and coloured foliage in the fall. The Arboretum is best known for its diversity of Japanese maple trees.
The Downing Museum opened its doors in 2008. The museum serves as the home for much of the work and celebrates the life of artist Joseph Dudley Downing. The space also serves as a place to showcase the work of local, state, national and internationally recognized artists.
Do not forget to add the Baker Arboretum & Downing Museum to your list of things to do in Bowling Green. You can experience nature, history, art and culture wrapped up into one visit!
Mammoth Cave National Park
Home of deep river valleys, lush green rolling hills, and the world’s longest known cave system. You must check out Mammoth Cave National Park! The area is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve, you will not be disappointed!
Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the many great things to do near Bowling Green. It is located about half an hour northwest of the city’s downtown. The park is one of the most popular activities in Bowling green. There is no doubt you will have a fun and memorable visit!
There are a variety of different trails and guided tours making it easy to customize your visit. Mammoth Cave is a sizeable National Park. There are over 85 miles of biking, hiking and equestrian tours for you to explore. The park is also the perfect location for kayaking or fishing.
Scenic hiking trails in Kentucky make it one of the best states in the south for outdoor activities! If you want to adventure in nature, then Mammoth Cave National Park is one of the attractions in Bowling Green you will love!
Barren River Lake State Park Resort
After enjoying a day exploring the magnificent caves at Mammoth State park; you can head over to Barren River Lake State Park and Resort to continue taking in the beautiful nature in Kentucky.
Barren River Lake State Park Resort is one of the best things to do near Bowling Green. The state park is less than 45 minutes outside of the city. The resort features many great options for accommodations if you are looking for a summer family staycation!
The winding Barren River Lake is the perfect site for visitors to enjoy the outdoors. The state park and resort have so many amenities. You can enjoy the golf course and eat food sourced with local ingredients at the onsite restaurant during your stay. There is also miles of bike trails, a basketball court, great bird watching and fishing!
Do not forget to catch a beautiful sunset over the lake. There is always something to do at Barren River Lake State Park Resort. It is one of the places to visit in Bowling Green you do not want to miss!
Riverview at Hobsons Grove
Are you looking to experience history on your next trip to Bowling Green, visit Riverview at Hobsons Grove. This is one of the places to visit in Bowling Green to learn about Civil War history!
Riverview at Hobsons Grove is referred to by different monikers. Hobson Grove Park is home to Hobson House. The house, which now serves as a history museum, was built in the 1850s on a hill overlooking Bowling Green’s Barren River.
Hobson House is an elegant Victorian home with Italian architecture. Tours of the property are available by reservation. During your visit, you will be transported, experiencing the same views as 18th-century aristocrats.
Riverview at Hobsons Grove also features an amazing 18-hole disk golf course. This is one of the best activities in Bowling Green if you are looking to try something new!
Novo Dolce Gastro Pub
If you are looking for great food, head to Novo Dolce Gastro Pub, located in the heart of Bowling Green Kentucky.
Novo Dolce is known for its fine selection of draft craft beers, signature coffee and tasty homemade gelato. The Gastro Pub features some of the best pizza and pasta in the city. Try the classic dolce pizza or cajun voodoo chicken pasta.
Novo Dolce Gastro Pub is perfect if you are looking for things to do in Bowling Green at night. In addition to serving lunch, brunch, and dinner, they also serve amazing late-night cocktails.
The outstanding service and welcoming atmosphere will leave you wanting to visit Novo Dolce Gastro Pub more than once on your visit to Bowling Green, KY.
Travelers Cellar Winery
Suppose you are looking for the best things to do in Bowling Green for adults. In that case, visiting a wine vineyard is a perfect activity. Look no further than the award-winning Travelers Cellar Winery, where you can experience Kentucky Wine at its finest!
One of the best things to do near Bowling Green is to take a visit to Travelers Cellar Winery. It is a quaint boutique farm that produces excellent company and even better wines.
While sitting in the scenic tasting room, you can experience full-bodied reds or light and bright white wines. There is something for everybody at Travelers Cellar Winery!
On your visit to the winery, enjoy a wine tasting while overlooking the vineyard. Shop the collection of wines and buy your favourite to take home as a memory of your fantastic trip to Bowling Green.
Historic Railpark & Train Museum
Visiting the Historic Railpark and train museum in Bowling Green, KY is a must! This is a historic national landmark that allows visitors to take in the important regional heritage of the railroad.
If you are looking for things to do in Bowling Green with kids, they will love the magic of the trains at the Railpark. On your visit, take a guided tour of the museum and a full-size railcar.
The Historic Railpark & Train Museum is near other great attractions in Bowling Green like Fountain Square Park and many great restaurants.
In the fall, one of the best things to do at night in Bowling Green is to take a haunted tour of the Railpark. It is the perfect spooky family activity. There are so many great places to experience fall in Kentucky. It is the perfect place to see beautiful autumn colors!