Let's talk about Bowling Green, KY. It may not be on your family's "places to visit" list, but I hope I can change your mind. Bowling Green recently hosted a group of Macaroni Kid publishers from all over the country to show us why they are "geared for fun" and I learned to definitely not judge a book (or location) by it's cover. Let me share with you a few of the highlights that would make a perfect itinerary for a long weekend here with your family.
National Corvette Museum and GM Plant Tour--Trust me on this, you do not have to be a car enthusiast to enjoy the Corvette Museum and GM Plant tour, though if you are a car enthusiast you will absolutely love this even more. From exploring the sinkhole that destroyed 8 Corvettes in 2014 to watching a Corvette get driven off the assembly line, you'll be fascinated and have a brand new appreciation for not just Corvettes, but all cars. Plus, if you go, be sure to pick up an extra $10 raffle ticket to win a Corvette for me!
Lost River Cave--I know, I know, we have caves near us here in Roanoke, but is there a boat tour in those caves? Nope. At Lost River Cave there is. Yep, you get to take an underground boat tour. In a cave. Truly one of the coolest (literally because it's a nice 55 degrees down there) experiences I've had. And, kids of all ages will love it.
The Butterfly Habitat at Lost River Cave--This exhibit is only open late-May to mid-September so if you happen to visiting between those dates you don't want to miss it. My group got to participate in a butterfly release of adult Monarch butterflies! Pictured below is me with my butterfly before it flew off!
The Kentucky Museum--This is a great way to experience a bit of Kentucky history. For example, learning more about Bowling Green native Duncan Hines (yes, the one and only maker of those delicious cake and brownie mixes) and, my favorite, getting to play dress up with Civil War period clothes. Very hands on for kids, so not a chance kids will get bored in this museum!
Chaney's Dairy Barn. This is an active, family run dairy farm, and for a small fee you can take a wagon ride to see the cows and watch them get milked (really interesting and suprisingly high-tech with their new Robotic Milker!). We got to meet the Chaney's, the owners, and to see their passion and dedication for their work, and to their cows, was pretty remarkable. Gives you a whole new appreciation for what goes into that milk you drink and put into your cereal. Their farm is beautiful and you absolutely most stop in the restaurant for some ice-cream (for sure try the Mint Julep!)
The Pie Queen at Boyce General Store. I saved my favorite for last. We ventured out to Boyce General Store, a short drive from Bowling Green, for a catfish dinner. Hands down the best catfish and hushpuppies I've ever had. Like ever. But, the best part of the meal was dessert. From the Pie Queen. I bought a few extras to take home. They didn't make it home. (Sorry kids!) But, now I have a good excuse to go back for more pie! We also got a peek in her kitchen which can only be described as totes adorbs. Do not, and I mean do not, miss the chance to try one of the Pie Queen's amazing desserts!
The Pie Queen at Boyce General Store. I saved my favorite for last. We ventured out to Boyce General Store, a short drive from Bowling Green, for a catfish dinner. Hands down the best catfish and hushpuppies I've ever had. Like ever. But, the best part of the meal was dessert. From the Pie Queen. I bought a few extras to take home. They didn't make it home. (Sorry kids!) But, now I have a good excuse to go back for more pie! We also got a peek in her kitchen which can only be described as totes adorbs. Do not, and I mean do not, miss the chance to try one of the Pie Queen's amazing desserts!
I was definitely surprised at all Bowling Green has to offer and that most everything we did was less than a 15 minute drive from our hotel. I kept thinking how much my kids would enjoy it all and have already promised them I'd take them there. Soon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XO8h_8Fcup0
The Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau hosted Macaroni Kid for a three-day press trip. Accommodations and most meals and activities were complimentary. No other compensation was received in consideration of this article and all opinions are that of the writer.
