Tourist Attraction- Places To Visit In Owensboro, Kentucky
Owensboro kentucky is the perfect place for anyone who wants to live and work in an exciting city that has plenty of opportunities for new career options, affordable housing, an abundance of parks and outdoor activities, and plenty of things to do with kids! With a strong education foundation, great job training programs, and a welcoming community, moving to Owensboro can be one of the best decisions you ever make.
When it comes to food, Owensboro kentucky is known for its signature hickory smoked barbecue mutton and flavorful burgoo, as well as for a wide variety of excellent local restaurants. In fact, we are often referred to as the “Bar-B-Q Capital of the World.”
A stroll through downtown Owensboro is always an enjoyable way to discover a variety of artisan gifts and foods from local merchants. Each shop is independently owned and operated, so the inventory is unique and reflects the tastes of each owner.
A visit to a salon in downtown Owensboro is the perfect way to give your nails a little love and attention, or to get a fresh color. Many downtown salons also offer lash extensions, eyebrow tinting and other services that can help you feel your best.
Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum #1
The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum is an institution dedicated to celebrating the history of this musical genre. Located on the riverfront in Owensboro, it shines a light on Kentucky’s rich music heritage. The museum houses interactive exhibits, posters, costumes, and the International Bluegrass Music Association’s Hall of Fame.
Founded in 1991, the Hall of Fame is the music industry’s tribute to pioneers and innovators. Its inductees are chosen from a panel of music industry leaders. A state-of-the-art facility, the museum boasts two floors of exhibits and a 450-seat theatre. It’s a popular destination for those who love music and culture.
Tickets cost $80 per person and include one specialty bourbon cocktail, access to all experiences throughout the museum, and heavy hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants.
The museum also has a special offer for Daviess County residents. On Wednesdays, anyone with a valid county ID can visit the museum for free.
Riverpark Center #2
The Riverpark Center is the heart of the city’s vibrant culture and entertainment scene. The building features world-class music and performing arts performances, conventions and meetings, restaurants and shops, and a wide variety of events and activities.
The Owensboro Symphony is a longtime partner of Riverpark Center and delivers high-quality concerts that feature the best in music from around the world. Single tickets and season subscriptions are available. Experience the magic of symphonic music with a concert featuring Kentucky native and world-renowned flutist Jim Walker.
Don’t miss the romantic and adventure-filled new musical ANASTASIA. Originally created in Paris and now on tour to Owensboro, this spectacular musical journey brings Anya’s story to life! The Rocky Horror Picture Show is back this Halloween season. Get dressed up, use the goodie bag and shout/sing along as the Shadow Cast Crew performs alongside the film in Cannon Hall!
Owensboro Sports Center #3
The Owensboro Sports Center is a world-class venue for top-notch live entertainment. It is located in the heart of Owensboro kentucky and features a 5000-seat arena. It is known for hosting a variety of concerts, sporting events, trade shows, conventions, and receptions.
It is also home to many renowned basketball teams. The arena is open for events throughout the year and hosts a wide range of visitors who want to enjoy a game or concert. In addition to its 5,000-seat capacity, the venue offers a variety of amenities to its customers.
Moreover, it is easy to find tickets to upcoming events at the Owensboro Sports Center through TicketSmarter. You can browse all upcoming concerts, sports events, and more.
If you’re planning a trip to the Owensboro Sports Center, make sure to check out our interactive seat charts and seating maps. They’ll help you find the best seats at the right prices. You can even compare different sections and prices to ensure that you are getting the best deal.
Owensboro Museum of Fine Art #4
Located in Owensboro, the Owensboro Museum of Fine Art is home to a diverse collection of American and European paintings, drawings, sculpture and decorative arts. Established in 1977, it has grown into a major resource for education, economic development and tourism within the region.
In addition to the museum’s permanent collection, changing exhibits and traveling exhibitions occur throughout the year. The museum is a member of the American Association of Museums and operates as an affiliate of the Kentucky Arts Council.
The museum is located in two historic structures: a former Carnegie library and a restored pre-Civil War home. The museum’s collection includes 19th- and 20th-century American and European paintings, sculpture, drawings, stained glass and decorative arts.
The museum’s permanent collection includes major works by French Impressionist master Edgar Degas, a portrait of George IV by Sir Thomas Lawrence and an important landscape by Martin Johnson Heade. It also holds works by major American painters Frank Duveneck, Carl Christian Brenner and Harvey Joiner.
Western Kentucky Botanical Garden #5
The Western Kentucky Botanical Garden is an enchanting spot to explore plants, flowers and trees. It’s a tri-state attraction and features a variety of gardens, an historic country doctor’s office, reception and meeting rooms, catering and more.
The botanical garden is situated on 9 acres and was established in 1993. The garden is dedicated to the discovery and observation of nature and to providing priceless education in order to foster an awareness of our relationship with the natural world.
It is home to 13 themed gardens with an extensive collection of daylilies, roses, irises and ornamental grasses. A symbolic Japanese memorial garden and an early 20th-century doctor’s building complete the grounds.
Executive Director Laurna Strehl says that the garden is embarking on a 3-phase project to expand the garden and make it more thriving. The first phase was completed in March and included a new entrance and gift shop.
Reid’s Orchard #6
If you’re looking for a fun place to take the family during your Owensboro kentucky vacation, Reid’s Orchard has plenty to offer. This family-run orchard offers U-pick fruits and a store where you can browse through homemade jams, jellies, relishes and apple slushies.
During the fall, Reid’s Orchard becomes a bustling destination. They have acres of pear and apple trees ready for picking, plus pumpkins too. The family-friendly orchard also offers a fun play area for kids. They have wooden tractors, slides and other fun attractions to make your trip more enjoyable.
Billy and Kathy Reid have hosted the Apple Festival at Reid’s Orchard since 1986. The Reids announced Monday that they are handing off the event to the Daviess County Lions Club beginning in 2023.
In addition to the fun activities at Reid’s Orchard, visitors can take a tour of the orchard and enjoy the view. You can also sample some delicious apple cider and fried pies. You can also visit the Miller House restaurant, which serves up fresh, farm-to-table food.
The Miller House Restaurant #7
If you love Southern-tinged American cuisine, The Miller House Restaurant is a must-visit. It’s located inside a historic home in downtown Owensboro. The Miller House was built in 1905 by entrepreneur Elmer Miller as his private residence. It’s a model of beauty and elegance, and features 1,800 bricks that were hand-made by Miller.
In 2006, owners Larry and Jeanne Kirk purchased the house and restored it to its former glory. Today, you can dine on three levels in an elegant yet casual setting. This local institution also features one of the largest bourbon bars in Kentucky with over 600 different bourbons to sample! Don’t forget to try a flight!
When the weather is beautiful, enjoy a walk along the riverfront. You’ll pass by a variety of murals that will make you smile! We especially love the blue musical instruments mural, which homages Bluegrass music’s humble beginnings.
FAQs: Owensboro, Kentucky
What is Owensboro Kentucky Known For?
Owensboro is a beautiful and heavenly city that is home to remarkable museums, outstanding art galleries, picturesque parks, stunning gardens, excellent bourbon, mesmerizing lakes, charming creeks, lush foliage and vibrant festivals.
The city is also a hub of bluegrass music and is home to the world’s only dedicated bluegrass museum. Moreover, the riverfront has been renovated to provide a scenic setting for a number of restaurants, bars, coffee shops and live music venues.
What is the Crime Rate in Owensboro Kentucky?
Crime rates are higher in impoverished areas, where people have less access to education and job opportunities.
Property crimes are more common in these areas than in other parts of the country.
