I recently had the opportunity to spend a couple of days in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Kentucky, you ask? Yes, Kentucky! Bowling Green is already known as the place to go if you are a Corvette enthusiast, but what most people may not know is there is a ton of things to do for families. We had 48 hours of non-stop fun in this family-minded, community-oriented town. There is something for everyone in Bowling Green- just check out everything we did!
Historic Railpark & Train Museum
Hop a train and learn about the history of the rails while touring seven historic railcars. If you have a little train lover, this is a must see!
National Corvette Museum & Plant Tour
Even if you are not into Corvettes, this is a fun way to spend an afternoon. The sleek and shiny Corvettes lined up in the gigantic viewing galleries is something to see, as are the uber-cool historic models. And, remember the little sinkhole problem the museum encountered a few years back? They have really embraced their misfortune and have turned it into an attraction. There is a sinkhole experience room, videos showing the actual collapse as well as the rebuild, and, you can view the cars that were damaged in the collapse. They even left a window-covered manhole that you can peer into to see the floor of the sinkhole, over 30 feet down!
Across the street is the Corvette Plant, where you can see Corvettes being assembled from start to finish, which was surprisingly interesting to watch. Each car made here has been ordered by a customer and is customized to their specifications. If you are lucky enough to order up one of these beauties, you can arrange to watch your own car being built! (Note: children must be at least 10 years old to tour the plant).
Corsair Distillery Tour
So this one may not be for the kids but if you appreciate the finer things in life, such as smoked whiskey, smooth gin or spiced rum, then a tour of the Corsair Distillery should be on your list. We learned how small batch alcohol is made and then stayed to sample a few. YUM.
The Kentucky Museum.
We had such a good time at the Kentucky Museum- Civil War era dress-up, a tribute to Bowling Green resident Duncan Hines and general historic Americana made for an educational and fun visit!
The Bowling Green Hot Rods
We had a blast cheering on Bowling Green's Minor League Baseball Team at their beautiful ballpark in downtown Bowling Green. If you go, say hi to Roscoe the mascot for me!
Lost River Cave Underground Boat Tour
The coolest thing about this part of Kentucky? It sits over a network of cool underground caves. And, when I say cool, I mean cool. A cool 55 degrees. The tour begins with a short hike through a beautiful nature trail that leads down towards the river where the temperature drops significantly. A witty guide shares the history of the area including the tale of the blue hole and disappearing Civil War soldiers. When you arrive at the massive cave entrance for the boat tour, it is pleasantly chilly and you even have to duck your head for a moment as you glide under the "wishing rock." You can reach up and touch the cool ceiling before the passage opens into a cathedral-like cavern. This is Kentucky's only underground boat tour and this is worth the trip to Kentucky alone!
A short distance from the cave is the Lost River Cave Butterfly Habitat. Walk in and you are immediately surrounded by butterflies- always a hit with the kiddos!
Chaney's Dairy Barn Farm Tour
Baby cows, a jumbo jumping pillow, ICE CREAM, movie nights and a corn maze -Chaney's is not only FUN but is a real working dairy farm. Family owned and operated, the Chaney cows are part of the family, and family is what matters here. In a time where smaller farms are struggling to make ends meet, this farmer took it to the family and a decision was made to purchase a robotic milking system. Not only does this free up man hours, but has made a huge difference in production, allowing this farm to continue what it has been doing for several generations. Take a tour, meet the family and watch the robotic milling machine in action. You will not be disappointed (bring a tissue, you may even tear up a bit.)
Beech Bend Amusement Park
Yes, there is more fun to be had in Bowling Green! Water slides, roller coasters and ride after ride will keep your family entertained for hours. And the BEST part, the lines here are never outrageous, even in peak season! Music to any mom's ears.
Boyce's General Store
Ok. My mom's family is from the south. I spent many Friday nights at "fish fries" while visiting which makes me picky. The fish has to be perfect- a dusting of cornmeal and the fish cannot taste like fish, you know what I mean? If you do, drive 10 miles outside of Bowling Green on a Friday and you will be in heaven. Boyce's General Store is the place to be for Catfish Fridays -music and incredible food. And the pie? Well, let me tell you about the pie. Boyce's General Store is also home to The Pie Queen of Bowling Green. For Real. Coconut cream, chocolate cream, peach, pecan, oatmeal pies, the list goes on and gets better and better with every bite. I am seriously having pie withdrawal as I write. Fish fries and pies, you don't get more southern than that. Mmmmmmm...
A couple of other eateries to point out: Stop by The White Squirrel Brewery for some chicken and waffles and yummy beer. This family-friendly taproom and restaurant was a big hit. And, look no further than Mariah's for a taste of Kentucky- Chicken and Buttons, a Hot Brown or Shrimp and Grits? Good luck deciding.
Fairfield Inn and Suites - Bowling Green
We had a lovely stay at the Marriott's newest property in Bowling Green. Clean, modern rooms, complimentary breakfast, and super friendly staff- you couldn't ask for more!
For a dose of sweet southern hospitality, Bowling Green Kentucky should definitely be on your list of family destinations, as it is certainly geared for family fun!
The Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors hosted Macaroni Kid for a three day press trip. Accommodations and some meals and activities were complimentary. No other compensation was received. All opinions are my own.
