Everyone knows Bowling Green, Kentucky is the Corvette capitol of the world but if you’re going to make the trip you might as well partake in all the other things Bowling Green, Kentucky has to offer. There’s tons of fun to be had in Bowling Green that it would take several days to cover it all. Explore trains, caves, and automobiles galore. Eat at some of the many wonderful locally owned restaurants, and have a fabulous time in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Historic Rail Park and Train Museum
Have you ever wondered about the impact that trains had on the growth of America? At the Historic Railpark and Train Museum you can see how trains played a major role in American life. Climb aboard a mail car, get an inside look at how mail was distributed via train, get the first class, or presidential experience, or step into the tiny kitchens to see what working on a train was like. Play with the model train display inside the museum before you explore the many interesting facts about trains throughout. It only takes about hour to tour the museum and it’s a great place to take the whole family.
Lost River Cave
Would you like to take a boat ride through a cave? You can! At Lost River Cave the only way to explore the cave is by boat. You can also enjoy the great outdoors on their hiking trails. Be aware that heavy rainfall may cause tour cancellations.
Riverview at Hobson Grove
A beautifully restored Victorian home, Riverview at Hobson Grove, sits in the middle of a park in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The Hobson family lived here for many years and are still involved in the home. Many of the furnishings are original to the home making it feel like you’re just there to call on the Hobson’s in 1875. The home served as a munitions cash during the Civil War, and was later housing for tenant farmers. Not only is the home of interest but the family is interesting as well. Georgana Hobson was a decorated trap shooter, an unusual title for a woman of her time. Discover more about the land, home, and family that built this home by taking a tour next time you’re in town. If you’re looking for historic things to do in Bowling Green, Kentucky then this short 45 minute tour is perfect to start your Civil War tour experience.
Festivals and Events in Bowling Green, Kentucky
International Festival
The coming together of many cultures is a beautiful thing. The International Festival is a wonderful display of the variety of people that call each other neighbors. You will have the opportunity to hear music, see dancing, and try foods from various different cultures. This is an annual festival in September so make plans to stop by and enjoy.
Eat’s + Treats
Spencer’s Coffee
All things coffee and more can be found at Spencer’s Coffee. They have coffee from around the world and offer a variety of other drinks. Since I am not a coffee drinker but my husband is, I appreciate any place that has specialty drinks other than coffee and of course some great pastries. I love the Rosella, a combination of green tea and lemonade with hibiscus syrup, it’s the perfect refreshment. Pair your coffee with a cinnamon roll or blueberry muffin. With a view of Fountain Square Spencer’s Coffee is a great place to relax, catch up with friends, or do some work.
Great American Donuts
A staple in Bowling Green, Kentucky is Great American Donuts. Open 24/7 and serving some of the best donuts. Stop by anytime for a treat! Known as GADs to the locals this is a college students favorite spot for a late night snack.
Pub by Novo
Pub by Novo has something for everyone, even the pickiest eater will find something they love. The variety on the menu makes it perfect for a large group, or maybe a work lunch. I love the Diavolo pasta, but there are so many wonderful items on the menu it can be hard to choose.
Novo Dulce
If you’re like me you’ll have a hard time deciding on just one menu item at Novo Dulce. My favorite would have to be the chicken sliders, they’re perfectly sweet with a hint of spice. The smell of dishes rolling out of the kitchen will have your mouth watering. Save room for dessert. They had a churro cheesecake when we were there and it was the perfect end to a wonderful meal.
Burger and Bowl
If you want a good burger with speedy service Burger and Bowl is the place to go. I had a great black bean burger, with onion rings that had a light crispy breading. I recommend getting the fries loaded it’s definitely worth it. For a fast casual meal this is the place to go.
Mill House Cafe
Mill House Cafe originated in Franklin, Kentucky and when I heard they opened a second location in Bowling Green, Kentucky I had to pay it a visit. They have a great selection of sandwiches and pastries, those giant cookies are wonderful! While visiting I saw friends hanging out, a grandmother enjoying time with her granddaughter, and a student working on classwork. Mill House Cafe is a place for everyone to enjoy.
Taqueria Y Birrieria Jalisco
Authentic street tacos at its finest. Taqueria Y Birrieria Jalisco is serving some if the best food north of the border. It can be so hard to find good quality Hispanic foods but this is it. A very unassuming location that puts all the work into the food, and the wonderful people that serve it.
Gerard’s 1907 Tavern
Gerard’s 1907 Tavern is great for a date night. The low lights, exposed brick, and delectable dishes are the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the company you’re with. With moderate prices you can feel like you’re getting a bargain.
Toro
Toro is a Latin restaurant with some of the best nachos I’ve ever had. There was the right amount of each topping and the chips were still crisp. Toro is a great spot for a date night or going out with friends and family.
Groovy Gus Donut Bus
Head on down to Groovy Gus Donut Bus where the hot sign is always on. Get a box of 15 mini donuts made order with the topping of your choice. These donuts will send you straight to the fair with their funnel cake like flavor. Bring a box to the office, birthday party or have it for a treat after a big win.
30 Bird
When you want to eat healthy or have dietary restrictions it can be hard to go out to eat. 30 Bird has you covered with delicious acai bowls, gluten free bakery items, and daily lunch specials that will keep that waistline happy. They are Whole30 approved and serve vegan, vegetarian, paleo, and gluten free meals, snacks, and more. Check out their weekly menu items or pop in for a treat from the bakery. This is one of the few places in Bowling Green, Kentucky that you don’t have to worry about the ingredients for your dietary needs.
Empanadas BG
Empanadas BG is a food truck that serves the Bowling Green, Kentucky area. I tried one of each empanada and let me tell you it was delicious! Grab a Fresca to wash it all down with. This is perfect for a quick bite that will satisfy all those cravings.
Meltdown Ice Cream and Soda Fountain
Step back into the soda fountain era to get a hand crafted treat from Meltdown Ice Cream and Soda Fountain. The 1950s green is on point with the old fashioned vibe of this cute little ice cream shop. Check out new flavors every time since they make small batch ice creams, and sorbets among other treats. I had a classic cookies and cream ice cream sundae with a brownie and hot fudge, the best I’ve ever had!
Riley’s Bakery
Open since 1947, Riley’s Bakery has lots of treats to choose from. Whole or mini pies, cookies, cupcakes and more. While visiting Bowling Green, Kentucky you should pop in to grab some treats for all the activities you’ll be doing.
Speeza
Speeza has good food fast. If you want Mediterranean this is for you. It can be difficult to find good Mediterranean cuisine in Kentucky but Bowling Green has one amazing spot to grab some.
End of the Road
There’s so much to explore and eat in Bowling Green, Kentucky. I will of course be adding more as I continue to explore the area so be sure to subscribe to stay updated on the latest news. If you need even more reason to visit Bowling Green, Kentucky then you may want to hop over to Mammoth Cave National Park which is only a short thirty minutes down the road. Check out my Mammoth Cave Guide to plan your visit. You can also explore some of the small towns near Mammoth Cave while you’re in the area.
