Places to visit in Bowling Green, KY.
Bowling Green, Kentucky, is a city that offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor recreation. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something to do in this vibrant city. From historical landmarks to beautiful parks and exciting events, there’s truly something for everyone in Bowling Green.
One popular attraction in Bowling Green is the National Corvette Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history and evolution of the Chevrolet Corvette, one of America’s most iconic sports cars. Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of classic and modern Corvettes and learn about the car’s history and impact on American culture.
Another must-visit destination in Bowling Green is the Kentucky Museum. This museum is part of Western Kentucky University and showcases the state’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can learn about Kentucky’s history, art, and culture through exhibits, displays, and interactive activities. The museum also features a variety of unique events and educational programs, making it a great place to learn and have fun at the same time.
National Corvette Museum
The National Corvette Museum is home to America’s favorite sports car in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Featuring over 70 Corvettes, the museum is open Monday through Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm. The museum also has a kid’s area where children can have fun with hands-on activities, such as building a car out of Lego-type blocks and driving a Chevy peddle car through town. The museum is also certified as a Sensory Inclusive venue.
The National Corvette Museum offers several exhibits showcasing the car’s history. One of the main attractions is a new exhibit called “Driven By Design.” This exhibit focuses on the history of the Corvette’s design process. This exhibit is also interactive, using a variety of new-age technology.
The exhibit features several vehicles, including the exterior, interior, and prove-out models. Visitors can also see sketches, renderings, and other artifacts.
Lost River Cave
Located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Lost River Cave is a seven-mile underground cave system. This underground tour is an eco-adventure for all ages. It is also an opportunity to learn more about the area’s rich history.
The cave is part of the larger Lost River Valley owned by Western Kentucky University. The cave has the most significant natural entrance in the eastern United States. In the past, the valley was used by Paleo-Indians to hunt mastodons and giant ground sloths. Kentucky’s climate was more relaxed then, and the landscape supported an evergreen forest.
The cave was donated to Western Kentucky University in 1986 and was restored. In 1997, the cave reopened to the public. Today, the cave is a tourist attraction with an underground boat tour. It is open to the public year-round. The time takes approximately an hour, depending on the water levels. The tour includes an underground boat ride, a walk along the river, a blue hole, and other features.
Kentucky Museum
Located on the campus of Western Kentucky University, the Kentucky Museum is dedicated to the history of the state and its culture. The museum features several changing and permanent exhibits. The collection contains over 8,000 square feet of exhibit space. It includes artifacts, glassware, ceramics, furniture, and art. The museum also offers educational programs for students and families.
The Museum of Art holds many notable collections. One of these is the Print Collection, which contains historical works by Karl Bodmer. It also includes a copy of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. It also houses several miniatures.
The Kentucky Museum also houses the “Instruments of American Excellence” collection. This unique exhibit showcases ordinary objects that extraordinary people have used. It includes items that belong to several people, including Helen Keller, Madeleine Albright, and Roger Ingram.
Aviation Heritage Park
Located south of Bowling Green, Kentucky, the Aviation Heritage Park is a tribute to some great men and women who have contributed to the history of aviation. This is a free-to-the-public park. The aircraft has an incredible story to tell. They also make a great family activity.
AHP’s mission is to educate future generations about the history of aviation. The park features a range of aircraft, including six restored military aircraft. This includes the UH-1 Huey Helicopter, which is on loan from the National Museum of the USAF. The plane was specially restored to honor Colonel Raymond T. Nutter, an essential member of the Navy Blue Angels. It was the most commonly used helicopter in Southeast Asia.
Aviation Heritage Park is now raising funds to build a new 12,000-square-foot museum. An anonymous donor pledged $500,000. If others match that amount, the park can construct a museum.
NCM Motorsports Park
Located in Bowling Green, Kentucky, NCM Motorsports Park is a 4-19 acre motorsport complex that offers a high-speed driving experience. In addition, it is home to an educational driving facility and offers corporate hospitality opportunities. It also provides recreational and go-kart racing.
The track comprises two circuits combined into a 3.15-mile Grand Full Course. Each circuit has challenging technical turns, straights, and elevation changes. The track is based on the La Sarthe circuit in Le Mans, France. The track is designed to be challenging yet safe for all drivers.
The track also offers C8 Corvette hot laps for passengers, where they ride in the passenger seat of a professional driver while he takes them around the track. The hot laps are available for all skill levels.