The Best Things To Do In Owensboro, Kentucky
Experience the fourth-largest city in Kentucky known for its cultural activities, festivals and food scene. We’re talking about Owensboro, on the southern banks of the Ohio River, with lots for you to see and do year-round. Fans of Bluegrass and BBQ —it’s the birthplace of mutton barbecue and home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame— should definitely make a point of visiting.
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Explore the history of Bluegrass at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Take a self-guided tour through the “River of Sound” and learn all about the city’s ties with the American art form — the International Bluegrass Music Association was founded in Owensboro in 1986 and the Father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe, grew up nearby. There’s cool memorabilia and exhibits to check out and perhaps the best part, the Hall of Fame Room, with video interviews and artifact collections.
311 West 2nd Street, Owensboro, KY | 270-926-7891
Green River Distilling Company
Do you like your bourbon? Then take a wander along the westernmost point on the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail at the Green River distillery. Choose from various tours that bring you behind the scenes of the historic distillery and see how traditional bourbon whiskey is produced. And of course, you get to sample the whiskies, including the Duke Spirits line made from John Wayne’s original 1962 recipe.
10 Distillery Road, Owensboro, KY | 270-691-9001
Smothers Park
The first city park, Smothers Park was established in 1816, and after undergoing a major expansion, it reopened in 2012. As a result, there is bigger and better fun to be had, all year. The massive riverfront park has the Lazy Dayz Playground, named the top playground in the world in 2015 (by Landscape Architects Network). From May through Labor Day, splash around at the Spray Park or play some “Giant Games” like checkers and Jenga. Enjoy regular park features like the signature fountains with a show every 15 minutes, plus picnic areas and riverfront porch-style swings.
199 West Veterans Boulevard, Owensboro, KY | 270-687-8333
Preservation Station Market and Event Center
You could spend all day at the eclectic Preservation Station Market. The retail marketplace is housed in a former elementary school that was converted into a mall to sell vintage and antique items. There’s also a beauty salon, boutique and restaurant to refuel in between browsing the unique wares from various vendors. You never know what kind of treasure you may walk away with, or leave behind for someone else, as they also buy antique and vintage goods.
9661 Highway 56, Owensboro, KY l 270-616-7007
Owensboro Museum of Fine Art
Get in touch with the artistic side of Owensboro at Kentucky’s second largest art museum. Browse different traveling exhibitions from major museums and marvel at the permanent collection of more than 4,000 objects of American, European and Asian art from the 15th century to the present. Kids and adults alike will love the Kaleidoscope Kave, an interactive digital gallery combining visual and performing arts. Admission is free.
901 Frederica Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-685-3181
Owensboro Museum of Science and History
Head downtown to the Owensboro Museum of Science and History for an educational and fun outing. The science and history part here is actually entertaining! There’s an indoor playground based on local history for kids 10 and under, a “Speedzeum” dedicated to motorsports and the city’s racing history, and an interactive Coal Mine Gallery. Here, young miners get fitted for a hard hat before heading underground (the museum’s basement) to learn about western Kentucky’s coal mining history.
122 East 2nd Street, Owensboro, KY l 270- 687-2732
Western Kentucky Botanical Garden
Even if you’re not a flower enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the relaxing surroundings of the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden. Boasting several gardens dedicated to roses, irises, herbs and other plants, discover these and other parts of the landscape through different audio tours. Take some time out by the tranquil koi pond and explore the labyrinth nearby, or admire the interesting insect and wind sculptures throughout the park. .
25 Carter Road, Owensboro, KY l 270-993-1234
Reid’s Orchard
More outdoor entertainment, this time chock-full of peaches, apples and pumpkins! The beautiful farm spanning five generations grows a variety of fruit and vegetables, many which you can pick yourself. Bring the family and go apple or strawberry-picking, and enjoy treats made from the locally-grown produce like fresh apple pie. Take one home, plus other baked goods and unique gifts. Check out these other Kentucky pumpkin patches if you are looking for more fall fun!
4818 Highway 144, Owensboro, KY l 270-685-2444
RiverPark Center
Situated on the scenic riverfront, the non-profit regional performing arts and civic center hosts a range of cultural events. Its monthly calendar is a mix of dance, music and Broadway shows, with stuff for the kids too. You can bring a group of friends for a night of karaoke at The GhostLight Lounge, a bar attached to the Center’s Atmos Courtyard, or enjoy outdoor entertainment on the patio at The BB&T Plaza.
101 Daviess Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-687-2770
Sassafras Tree
You’ll notice this tree is special judging by the people who stop for a photo in front of its mighty trunk. Owensboro happens to be home to the oldest sassafras tree in the world. The natural landmark is between 250 and 300 years old and has a circumference of 16 feet. As you gaze upwards at its height of more than 100 feet, keep in mind how impressive this is, as most sassafras trees grow up to only 50 feet.
2100 Frederica Street, Owensboro, KY
Best Places to Eat and Drink in Owensboro, Kentucky
Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn
Many people come to Owensboro for one reason: BBQ. The most well-known is mutton barbecue, and the Moonlite has been doing it in the old fashioned Kentucky tradition since 1963. The meat is cooked slowly over custom-built hickory-fired pits, allowing for that distinctive hickory flavor, not to mention aroma. They’re also famous for their lunch and dinner buffets that include other southern favorites like catfish fiddlers. Not to be missed are the amazing blue ribbon pies.
2840 West Parrish Avenue, Owensboro, KY l 270-684-8143
Old Hickory BBQ
Another popular spot for Owensboro barbecued mutton is the Old Hickory BBQ, going back six generations to 1918. They cook their mutton with hickory wood too for that traditional taste and offer other delicious barbecued meat: pork ribs, beef, ham and chicken. Also on the menu are the sides you’d expect like macaroni and cheese, BBQ beans and mashed potatoes with gravy.
338 Washington Avenue, Owensboro, KY l 270-926-9000
The Miller House
Perfect for a special evening out, The Miller House is an award-winning restaurant located in a historic house built in 1905. The family-owned venue serves traditional dishes with a southern influence, using vegetables grown in their own garden. After dinner, head downstairs to Spirits, the cozy bar in the The Miller House basement. Choose from more than 600 bourbons, making this little place the largest bourbon bar in Western Kentucky.
301 East 5th Street, Owensboro KY l 270-685-5878
Lure Seafood and Grille
Seafood lovers can enjoy a sustainably-sourced meal with a pleasant view of the Ohio River at Lure. The seasonal menu focuses on Continental seafood dishes combined with American regional specialties. Go for a classic Lobster Béarnaise or Salmon Oscar, topped with fresh crab meat. If you’re in the mood for some meat with your shellfish, they also do steak with a variety of add-ons such as classic garlic butter shrimp or scallops.
401 West 2nd Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-240-4556
City Walk of Owensboro
Good comfort food in a casual setting makes City Walk a popular spot for lunch or dinner downtown. The service is friendly and the menu has simple but hearty options, whether it’s old-fashioned meatloaf with sweet potato mash or bourbon glazed pork loin. Add a bourbon flight before or after your meal and choose any four 1-oz bourbons at half the menu price.
222 Allen Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-478-4958
Famous Bistro
Famous Bistro has been a local favorite for years, known for its generous portions and great service. Enjoy a bite on the sidewalk patio for a dose of people-watching on Allen and Second Streets or have your meal in the warmly-decorated dining room. You’ll notice some artwork with Grecian themes, a nod to the Greek owners, so expect some classic Greek entrees on the dinner menu, and deli-style soups and sandwiches for lunch.
102 West 2nd Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-686-8202
Dee’s Diner
A top pick for the one of best breakfasts in town, Dee’s Diner is the place to go when you like your pancakes huge and covered in whipped cream and berries. It has the classic feel of a diner, with no-fuss food and cheerful service. Dee’s is also known for its plate lunch special from Monday to Friday, featuring their in-demand liver and onions, and other home-style dishes.
1362 East 4th Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-686-0022
Colby’s Fine Food & Spirits
Colby’s is also a diner-style affair, complete with an attractive interior of shiny red booths and checkered flooring. They’ve been serving classic American meals since 1987 and developed a following for their no-frills, friendly setting. The delicious food is also a draw, of course, including tempting burgers and juicy rib-eye.
204 West Third Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-685-4239
Windy Hollow Restaurant
Home to the famed Sunday Morning Country Ham Breakfast Buffet since 1968, Windy Hollow is a restaurant doubling as a museum of sorts. Cowboy movie posters line the walls and there’s a room dedicated to cowboy memorabilia, WWII items and other curios. But you came for the buffet, and you won’t be disappointed, as it’s packed with southern treats. Dig into baked cheese grits, fried chicken, hickory-smoked bacon, and make sure you leave room for the sugary homemade donuts.
8260 State Route 81, Owensboro, KY l 270-785-4088
Fetta Specialty Pizza
Pizzas come overflowing with creative toppings to make your mouth water at Fetta, Italian for “slice” (not the Greek cheese). They do enticing combinations like Gorgonzola and Pear, Jalapeno Popper, or Mashed Potato, Bacon and Scallion. Less daring taste buds can still have their Pepperoni or Hawaiian pizzas, plus warm garlic knots and a variety of salads.
118 Saint Ann Street, Owensboro, KY l 270-926-0005
Best Places to Stay in Owensboro, Kentucky
Holiday Inn Owensboro Riverfront
This Holiday Inn is a good choice if you’re in town for an event at the Owensboro Convention Center, as it’s located next door. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and the heated indoor saltwater pool provides just what you need after a long day touring the nearby downtown area.
701 West 1st Street, Owensboro, KY | 270-683-1111
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Hampton Inn & Suites Downtown Owensboro/Waterfront
Just off Highway 60 and near the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, you get great views of the Ohio River with your stay here. The hotel is close to the Owensboro Museum of Science and Smothers Park, so there’s lots to see and do in the area. Enjoy a daily free hot breakfast and complimentary parking.
401 West 2nd Street, Owensboro, KY | 270-685-2005
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Best Western Plus Owensboro
The Best Western Plus has brightly-decorated rooms with ample space for you to unwind and relax after a day exploring the sights in Owensboro. The hotel is within walking distance of many dining and shopping spots and is located near the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. There’s a handy sundry shop on site for snacks and a 24-hr fitness center to burn off the calories.
1018 Goetz Drive, Owensboro, KY | 270-689-0939
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TownePlace Suites by Marriott
TownePlace Suites by Marriott offers “neighborhood-style living” with rooms featuring a separate living and sleeping area and fully equipped kitchen. Choose from a King Bed Studio or Queen Bed Suite, each with a sofa bed. A good pick for an extended stay in the area, the hotel also has an inviting outdoor grill and patio with fire pit, outdoor pool, and a convenience store.
3365 Hayden Road, Owensboro, KY | 270-231-8222
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Fairfield Inn Owensboro
This contemporary hotel is conveniently located near the Owensboro Convention Center and Reid’s Orchard. Cool off with a swim in the large indoor pool after a hearty, free breakfast of fresh fruit, waffles, eggs, sausage and more buffet items. You can also bring Fido along as the hotel is pet-friendly.
800 Salem Drive, Owensboro, KY | 270-688-8887
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Wingfield Inn & Suites
Just one mile from the Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport, Wingfield Inn & Suites is ideal for travelers with an early morning flight. It’s also three miles from downtown, putting you near the area attractions. Comfortable rooms come with everything you need for a short stay, and a refrigerator and microwave for added convenience.
3220 West Parrish Avenue, Owensboro, KY | 270-685-2433
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Sleep Inn
Sleep Inn, off Highway 60 and close to the Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport, was designed with nature-inspired elements to offer guests “a happy night’s rest”. See for yourself during your stay in guest rooms complemented with soft lighting and warm color schemes. Add to the experience with complimentary access to the hotel’s sleep and relaxation app to help you really unwind.
51 Bon Harbor Hills, Owensboro, KY |270-691-6200
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Super 8 by Wyndham Owensboro
With easy access to Frederica Street to check out the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art and the world’s largest sassafras tree, this Super 8 has a good location off Highways 60 and 431. The hotel was recently renovated, adding to a comfortable stay, with a free light breakfast. If you’re feeling peckish, complimentary Dunkin’ Donuts and hot coffee are available around the clock!
1027 Goetz Drive, Owensboro, KY | 270-685-3388
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Comfort Suites
If you’ve come to town to try the famous barbecued mutton at Moonlite BBQ, the hotel is just a short drive away, as is the other Owensboro attraction, the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. There’s plenty of other dining options close by for your convenience, along with handy hotel amenities like a fitness room and outdoor parking.
230 Salem Drive, Owensboro, KY | 270-926-7675
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Diamond Lake Resort
Forgo the hotels and go the camping route! Have some fun where you rest your head at this resort equipped with 270 campsites with full hookups. If you don’t feel like totally roughing it, there’s also motel rooms and cottages on site. You may not want to leave after you see the go-karts, pedal boats and mini golf on offer, not to mention the pizza and ice cream parlor. If you’re tuckered out from all the excitement, feel free to rent a golf cart to get back to your campsite.
7301 Hobbs Road, Owensboro, KY | 270-229-4900
