Owensboro Kentucky

Arts and Culture in Owensboro

Whether you’re a bluegrass fanatic or a casual listener, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum is a must-visit when in Owensboro. Through interactive exhibits, galleries and one-of-a-kind memorabilia, learn all about the history and artists of this toe-tapping style of music native to the region. There’s even a “pickin’ parlor” where you can try out different bluegrass instruments. Be sure to check the museum’s event calendar to catch a live bluegrass show. The Woodward Theatre was built specifically for acoustic music, while the outdoor stage hosts musical acts at a riverside venue. Nearby, the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art is home to a sculpture park, 19th century German stained glass, American folk art and a permanent collection with pieces dating to the 15th century, plus two buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Sites.

Bourbon, Barbecue and Southern Comforts

If there’s one type of food that Owensboro is known for, it’s barbecue. Mutton barbecue — the slow-cooked meat of adult sheep — was born here, and the place to taste it is Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn. Voted the Best Barbecue in Kentucky, Moonlite’s lunch and dinner buffet of endless barbecued meats and traditional side dishes brings in hungry diners from around the world. Other local barbecue favorites include Old Hickory Bar-B-Que and Ole South Bar-B-Q; no Owensboro trip is complete without trying all three hot spots. Of course, you’ll want to wash it all down afterward with some traditional Kentucky bourbon. See how it’s made and try samples of rye, honey and straight bourbon whiskey at O.Z. Tyler Distillery, the only distillery in Owensboro open to the public. Want to celebrate a special occasion? The Miller House Restaurant is the go-to for refined dining and make-your-own bourbon flights. The restaurant boasts western Kentucky’s largest bourbon bar — about 600 different bourbons adorn their Wall of Whiskey.

Attractions for the Family

Owensboro was made for family-friendly travel. Named the top playground in the world by the Landscape Architects Network, Smothers Park boasts not only its massive playground, but also a splash park, “dancing” water fountains and a soothing waterfall feature that cascades into the river. Enjoy a waterfront stroll and picturesque views of the Owensboro Bridge that connects to Indiana across the river. If your crew loves the outdoors, go for a walk amid meticulously maintained gardens at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden or try apple, peach or strawberry picking at Reid’s Orchard. Preservation Station, one of Owensboro’s top attractions, is a former elementary school turned marketplace, restaurant and event center. Local retailers sell everything from Amish furniture to country antiques; it’s the perfect place to pick up a unique keepsake.