| BOWLING GREEN AREA |
Aviation Heritage Park
I-65, exit 22. At the Basil Griffin Park, Bowling Green
A memorial to all distinguished aviators who have called South Central Kentucky home, Aviation Heritage Park currently features a F-4D Phantom II #550, a plane with historic significance. Brigadier General Dan Cherry, a Bowling Green native, was at the controls on April 16, 1972 when he shot down a North Vietnamese Mig-21 during the Vietnam War. |
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 Ballance MotoX
I-65, exit 38 or 28. Bowling Green
270-792-RACE
Open March through November
The first state-of-the-art motocross facility in the southeast. The natural terrain 1.3 mile lighted track was designed by eight-time GNCC National Champion Bill Ballance. Riding schools for quads and dirt bikes are available for all skill levels by highly trained instructors. Call or visit website for more information, directions and schedule of events. Hours and prices vary by event.
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Barren River Imaginative Museum of Science
I-65, exit 26. 1229 Center Street, Bowling Green - 270-843-9779
Open Thursday-Saturday 10AM-3PM, Sunday 1-4pm. Groups by appointment.
Visit a unique "hands-on" science museum and experience the force of a mini-tornado with the BRIMS Blaster! Have a hair-raising experience with the van de Graff Electrostatic Generator. Operate one of the largest interactive transportation exhibits in the country featuring HO gauge trains in a model railroad. Measure air flow with the new wind tunnel. Suspend your body with the help of Magic Mirrors. These and over 50 more exhibits await your visit.
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Beech Bend Amusement Park & Splash Lagoon
1-65 exit 28. Bowling Green - 270-781-7634
Open daily Memorial Day to mid-August,
weekends only in May and September
The amusement park offers more than 40 rides including the most twisted wooden roller coaster in seven states, the Kentucky Rumbler. Other favorites include the new Sea Dragon Swinging Ship, Wild Mouse Spinning Coaster, antique cars, petting farm, a miniature golf course, games and go-carts. Amusement park admission includes Splash Lagoon Water Park featuring a giant pool, water slides and an interactive children's play pool. Click here for prices and schedules. Beech Bend Park is clean, friendly and affordable!
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Bowling Green Brewing Company
I-65, exit 20 (Natcher Parkway) to exit 7. 575B Veterans' Memorial Lane, Bowling Green. - 270-781-5800
www.DrinkingLikeAFish.com or www.BGBrewCo.com
Witness Stephen Foster Wheat Beer in the making at Western Kentucky’s only microbrewery. Tour the facility and sample the German-style mix of wheat, barley, yeast and hops. Call for tour availability and times.
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Bowling Green KOA
 I-65, exit 22. 1960 Three Springs Road, Bowling Green • 270-843-1919
Whether you just want a place close by to get away or a place with activities, the KOA is the place to go! KOA's goal is to provide an excellent camping and recreational experience. With miniature golf, paddle boats, escape fun boats, fishing and many other activities to enhance your visit.
Two acre pay-lake stocked weekly with catfish. Catch and release fishing for bass and blue gill. 1/3 acre derby lake. Saturday night fishing derbies May through September, weather permitting.
Come join the fun!
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Bowling Green Skate Park
I-65 exit 26. 200 6th Avenue at Roland Bland Park, Bowling Green
bowlinggreenskatepark.com
bgky.org/bgpr/skatepark
Open 7AM-11PM
Just over 20,000 square feet, the park consists of a street course area, 3 bowls, and a sidewalk with small moguls, staircases with handrails, hubbas, banks, multi-level blocks, two-level pyramid with blocks, roll-ins, pockets and more.
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Chaney's Dairy Barn
I-65, exit 20 (Natcher Parkway) to exit 4. 9191 Nashville Road, Bowling Green.
270-843-5567
Open Monday-Saturday 11AM-8PM, Sunday 12-5PM. Extended hours and walk-up window in the summer. Closed in January.
Rolling farmlands, Jersey cows and premium homemade ice cream are only the beginning at Chaney's. Settle in for lunch or dinner daily and enjoy homemade soup, sandwiches and desserts. Choose from a wide selection of Kentucky made products in our gift shop. Catering, parties, farm tours available - call ahead for meeting space, concession trailer and tour appointments. Enjoy our outdoor pavilion and barnyard playground.
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Corsair Artisan Distillery
400 East Main Street, #110 (entrance on College Street at Spring Alley) - 270-904-2021
Open Friday and Saturday from 10AM-2PM
Small craft spirits company distilling Gin-Head Style Gin, Wry Moon Unaged Rye Whiskey, Vanilla Bean Vodka and Spiced Rum. Free tours.
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Eloise B. Houchens Center
Open for tours Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10AM-2PM and by appointment.
1115 Adams Street - 270-842-6761
This lovely, old Greek Revival mansion was built in 1904 by Francis Kister, onetime Mayor of Bowling Green and co-builder of St. Joseph Catholic Church. In 1976 it was listed as a Historic Home to be used for the purpose of restoration, preservation and a cultural and educational center. Center available for special events and meetings at reasonable rates.
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GM Corvette Assembly Plant 
I-65, exit 28. Bowling Green.
Reservations and Information 270-745-8019
Tours are $7 per person
Public Tours Monday-/thursday at 8:30AM, 11:30AM, 12:45PM and 2PM.
Group tours by reservation only. Free for school groups 4th-8th grade, active military and GM employees & retirees. Tour times subject to change without notice, call before traveling long distances. Every Corvette made today in the world is produced in Bowling Green. Here you can see the step by step production of America’s favorite sports car. No cell phones, cameras, electronic devices, purses, backpacks or fanny packs allowed. Closed toe shoes only. Children must be seven years or older & school groups must be 4th grade or above. Tours are given on someFridays when the plant is running production; the schedule varies. Please call or visit the website for more information.
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Historic Railpark and Train Museum
I-65, exit 28 or exit 26. 401 Kentucky Street, Bowling Green - 270-745-7317
Open Tues-Sat 9AM-5PM, Sun 1-4PM. Closed Mondays October - March.
Take a step back in time as you explore a two-story interactive self-guided museum as you visit with former employees, listen to the sights and sounds of the railroad, enjoy a theater with old railroad movies, and experience the excitement of a the sHOw model railroad exhibit! A guided tour of vintage railcars takes you through a caboose, presidential office car, sleeper, diner and post office car. Then take home your favorite souvenir of your visit from our fabulous gift shop!
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 Hopscotch's Playplace
I-65, exit 22, 2722 Scottsville Rd., Scottsville Square, Bowling Green - 270-842-0420
Open Mon-Fri 9AM-5PM, Sat 9AM -12PM, closed Sun
Family Fun Night Fri 5:30-7:30PM - Drop off services available
Check our website calendar for additional times and events.
Pay as you play indoor facility for kids crawing thru age 6, especially perfect for when it is too rainy, windy, hot or cold outside! Infant and toddler area separate from the preschool play area. Arts & crafts and party areas. Art activities available for ages 7-10. Let us make your next party a piece of cake! Party packages available.
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Imagination Stations
I-65, exit 26, past 31W to Cambridge Square (830 Fairview Ave.), Bowling Green - 270-783-0044
Open Mon-Fri 9:30AM-1:30PM - Call for other open playtimes
South Central Kentucky's only indoor play zone with huge interactive inflatables, a horizontal climbing wall and 10,000 sq.ft. of fun! Safe, smoke-free and playful environment. Play in our obstacle course tube and slide, jump house and horizontal climbing wall.
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Jackson's Orchard and Nursery, Inc.
I-65, exit 28. 1280 Slim Island Road off Richardsville Road, KY 185, Bowling Green.
270-781-5303
Open Monday-Saturday, mid-April through August and seven days a week September-November.
The Jackson family invites you to visit their orchard and nursery to select your favorite spring plants during April and May. Try our delicious apples, peaches, honey, pumpkins, freshly made apple cider and many more in-season specialties throughout the year. We'll even mail your favorite products anywhere in the USA. Variety lists, festival dates and outing information available at JacksonOrchard.com.
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Kentucky Library & Museum
I-65, exit 26. 1906 College Heights Blvd, just off 68/80. Bowling Green
270-745-2592
Museum Galleries Open Monday-Saturday 9AM-4PM; Sunday 1-4PM
Library Open Monday-Friday 8:30AM-4:30pm, Saturday 9:30AM-4PM.
Closed on WKU holidays.
Learn about one of Kentucky's most famous personalities in the Recommended by Duncan Hines exhibit. Take a look at life during Civil War through the simulated scenes including a soldier's campsite, general store and slave cabin. View pictures, stories and artifacts of Kentucky soldiers, slaves, and civilians from this time of conflict. Tour the Felts 1800s log cabin. Visit the new Snell-Franklin Decorative Arts Gallery showcasing social culture in furniture, paintings and many decorative pieces dating from 1300 B.C. to late 1900s. Tours, camps, workshops, lectures, exhibit openings and special events are open to the public.
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Lost River Cave and Valley
I-65 exit 22, left at stoplight #9, right on Nashville Road. Bowling Green
270-393-0077 or 866-274-2283
Open seven days a week 9AM-5PM except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. Boat tours subject to weather so call ahead.
Kentucky's only Underground Boat Tour and the enchanting Butterfly Habitat await you at Lost River Cave and Valley. Daylight disappears from view as you board the boat on the river that Ripley's Believe It or Not claims is the shortest, deepest in the world. A comfortable 57 degrees year round, the boat tour offers a visit into the timeless world of a Kentucky Natural wonder. The walking tour along the river's edge will bring alive stories of Native Americans, Early European settlers, Civil War troops and the notorious Jesse James. Enjoy Treetop Bridge, nature trails, bird watching stations, picnic area, gemstone sluice, Old Mill Gifts and the rock climbing wall.
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 N-tense Sports
I-65, exit 20 (Natcher Parkway) to exit 7. 2101 Morgantown Road
270-796-4120
Open Friday 1-5PM and Saturday 10AM-5PM Sunday by appointment
Try the fastest growing sport in the world! An excellent place for the whole family to enjoy the fun. To come on a day other than Saturday or Sunday, or to schedule a group party, call our field hotline: 270-792-6246.
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National Corvette Museum
I-65, exit 28. Bowling Green
270-781-7973 or (800) 53-VETTE
Open 8AM-5PM, 7 days a week year-round except Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.
The Museum offers over 115,000 sq. ft showcasing America's sports car and features over 80 Corvettes from the past, present and future along with many hands on exhibits! The newly expanded Museum exhibits rare classics, one-of-a-kind prototypes and educational displays that tell the story of Corvette! See the history of this legendary automobile colorfully unfold as you experience the thrill through a self guided tour - photography is welcome. Dine in the Corvette Café, shop in the Corvette Store and sit behind the wheel of a Corvette and register to drive one home.
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Otte Golf & Family Fun Center
I-65, exit 22. 5800 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green - 270-781-6072
Open Daily 9AM-10PM
Truly a great place for the whole family. Otte Golf Center offers a driving range,
batting cages, miniature golf, pro-shop, golf lessons and club fittings.
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Race World
I-65, exit 22, 255 Cumberland Trace, Bowling Green - 270-781-RACE
Open March-Memorial Day and Labor Day-November Friday 5-11pm, Saturday 12-11PM and Sunday 12-9PM
Open Memorial Day-Labor Day Tuesday-Friday 5-11PM, Saturday 12-11PM and Sunday 12-9PM
Race World, a one-of-a-kind attraction featured in Southern Living as "where you don't just watch the races, you ride the races." Offering the entire family something to remember. Two race tracks with scale stock cars themed after your favorite driver. A fully complemented game room with the latest in electronic entertainment and one of the most famous Dale Earnhardt race cars on display; the actual car that had the flat tire while leading the Daytona 500 with 1/2 a lap to go. Closed all rain days.
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Riverview at Hobson Grove
I-65, exit 28. 1100 W. Main Avenue, Bowling Green - 270-843-5565
Open Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-4PM, Sunday 1-4PM. Closed holidays and during January. Last tour starts at 3PM.
Built by Atwood and Juliet VanMeter Hobson on a hill overlooking the Barren River, Bowling Green's historic landmark has been restored to its original splendor. An official site on the Civil War Discovery Trail, as it was used for storage of Confederate munitions when the Rebel forces held Bowling Green, Riverview is an elegant interpretation of a prosperous Victorian home of the 1860 to 1890 period. Come experience the life of a 19th century family and their servants. Seasonal and holiday tours are offered throughout the year to highlight celebrations of the era. Gift Shop features Victorian items.
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Russell Sims Aquatic Center at Preston Miller Park
I-65, exit 20 (Natcher Parkway) to exit 5. 2303 Tomblinson Way off Veterans Memorial Blvd. Bowling Green • 270-393-3271
Open Memorial Day to Labor Day
Largest water playground in South Central Kentucky. Features include zero-depth entry, splash playground, 50-meter pool, two water slides, diving boards and concessions.
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Southern Lanes & Southern Ice
I-65, exit 22. 2710 Scottsville Road, Bowling Green - 270-843-8741
Lanes open Monday-Saturday 9AM-2AM, Sunday 12PM-midnight
Ice open 7 days a week
At Southern Lanes there's plenty of fun for everyone! Your complete family entertainment center includes 34 lanes, 18 hole indoor mini golf, indoor fast pitch baseball and softball batting cages, 24 billiards, party rooms (3 new), game room with redemption tickets, semi-separate lounge, pro shop, synthetic ice rink, and snack bar. Join us Thursday and Friday nights at 9:30 PM for Cosmic bowling! Birthday party packages, corporate and group pricing available.
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St. Joseph Catholic Church
I-65, exit 28. 434 Church Street. Bowling Green - 270-842-2525 - Call for tours.
St. Joseph Catholic Church is at the heart of the St. Joseph Historic District. The church was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 because of its artistic and historic significance. The Parish was founded in 1859 to serve the needs of Irish Catholic immigrants, brought to Bowling Green with the construction of the railroad. The Gothic style church was constructed in three stages over a 30 year period, being dedicated finally in 1889. The first pastor, Reverend Joseph DeVries, is said to have been inspired in the church's design by the cathedral church of Cologne, Germany. Father DeVries died three months after the church's dedication, and in deference to his wishes, is interred in a vault under the old high altar. The Gothic interior has been redecorated and judiciously adapted several times since 1889 to meet the needs of a thriving Catholic community.
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| CAVE CITY AREA |
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Big Mike's Mystery House
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-5144
Feel the force of gravity in a strange and mysterious way. Another one-of-a-kind attraction is "Big Mo," our 65 million year old mosasaur fossil, and the full scale replica of the ancient beast that became Big Mo that sits at the front of our property. You'll be amazed!
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Cave Country Go-Carts
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-2299
Racing Fun… For Everyone!! Double & single seated go-carts. We have a game room with pool tables, air hockey, arcade games and more.
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Crystal Onyx Cave
Cave City, I-65 exit 53 - 270-773-2359
Once connected to the nearby highlands of the Mammoth Cave Plateau. Prewitt's Knob today stands out like an island in the surrounding farmland of the sinkhole plain. Sheltered beneath the knob's resistant cap rock, is Crystal Onyx Cave, one of south-central Kentucky's most important archeological sites and a formation rich cave. Soon after the cave's discovery in 1960, prehistoric human remains were found in the bottom of one of Crystal Onyx Cave's many vertical shafts. Archeologists have since determined that the cave was use as a "mortuary facility" where native Americans over 3,000 years ago returned the bones of their deceased to the earth. The one hour guided tour also provides viewing of the rich assortment of calcite formations found throughout the cave, including a room filled with some of the largest viewable rimestone dams in the area.
Open all year except January
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Dinosaur World
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-4345
Over 100 life-size dinosaurs in an outdoor museum setting. Search for authentic fossils at the Fossil Dig, see the indoor Prehistoric Museum, unearth a life size dinosaur in the Boneyard, mingle with mammoths in Mammoth Gardens, watch dinosaurs at the Movie Cave and enjoy the picnic area, playground and more. This outdoor museum is also about families and schools, about having fun and learning about old pals, such as T-rex, Stegosaurus and Triceratops as well as new dinosaurs discovered in recent decades. Even the dog (on a leash) can enjoy the family fun.
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Floyd Collins Museum
I-65, exit 53. Cave City • 270-773-3366
Follow the story of the entrapment of underground Explorer Floyd Collins, a legendary spelunker and Kentucky backwoods boy, in Sand Cave.
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Guntown Mountain
I-65 exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-3530
Thrill to the beauty of Cave Country's landscape from the chair lift that takes you up 1,360 feet to a Wild West town complete with live entertainment, exciting gunfights, saloon shows, magic shows, cave tours.
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Jesse James Miniature Golf
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-2560 or 800-798-0560
Unique and challenging 18-hole western theme miniature golf course.
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Jesse James Riding Stables
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-2560 or 800-798-0560
Guided trail rides over 500 acres through Kentucky's beautiful Cave Country where Jesse James and his gang once rode.
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Kentucky Action Park
I-65 exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-2560 or (800) 798-0560
Scenic chair lift climbs over 2000 ft. to top of a mountain. Take a breathtaking quarter mile ride on the Alpine Slide. Go-Carts, bumper boats, bumper cars, glass blowing, gift shop, Old Time Photos, 18-hole Western-themed miniature golf and Ice Cream Shop.
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Kentucky Hydratrek Tours
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-505-2599
If you thought ATVs were exciting, wait until you see the hills of Kentucky riding in a Hydratrek!
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Mammoth Cave National Park
I-65, exit 43
270-758-2180 (Cave Tour Information)
877-444-6777 (Cave Tour Reservations)
888-448-1474 (Cancel or Change Reservations)
With over 365 known miles of cave passageways, Mammoth Cave is the world's longest cave. Besides its spectacular size, Mammoth Cave has an almost surreal beauty. Remarkable stories of human history, 350 million-year-old rocks, and its fascinating animals adapted to life in the dark, make Mammoth Cave a place you won't want to miss. Ranger-led activities are offered daily, except Christmas Day. Join rangers for trips in the cave and on the surface, ranging from 1 1/4 hours to 6 1/2 hours. Designed with all visitors in mind, you'll find activities suiting a wide variety of needs and interests including cave trips, nature walks, campfire programs and slide presentations. Most tours are designed for a mixed audience. Some are easy, others are strenuous, several are designed exclusively for children, and one is designed for people seeking a wild cave adventure off the beaten path. All tours begin and end at the Visitor Center. Children under six are admitted free.
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Mammoth Cave Wax Museum
I-65, exit 53. Cave City • 270-773-3010
Famous men and women from throughout history are immortalized in wax and presented in historically correct settings. Come face-to-face with history, learn remarkable facts about America’s early heroes and statesmen, see some of Hollywood’s greatest stars.
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Mammoth Cave Wildlife Museum
I-65, exit 53. Cave City - 270-773-2255
Kentucky's first and largest Wildlife Museum with over 1,600 species of wildlife from all over the world. Unique museum features rustic cave-like atmosphere filled with beautiful, exotic animals and birds from around the world. An amazing, educational experience for the entire family.
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Onyx Cave
Cave City, I-65 exit 53 - 270-773-3530
Located high above the surrounding limestone sinkhole plain, Onyx Cave is a system of vertical shafts uncovered during construction of the Guntown Mountain parking lot on Huckleberry Knob. The pits and domes of Onyx Cave were protected from weathering by the knob’s sandstone cap rock and after their formation have slowly became coated by calcite crystal flowstone. The combination of crystals and seeping water makes the walls of this most unusual cave shimmer. The 30 minute tour is conveniently located at Guntown Mountain and is perfect for those travelers who are on a limited time schedule. Open March through November.
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Outlaw Cave
I-65 exit 53, Cave City - 270-773-2560 or (800) 798-0560
Lying on the side of a limestone valley just beneath the sandstone cap rock of the Mammoth Cave Plateau, Outlaw Cave offers a 35-minute non-strenuous, guided tour filled with beautiful stalactites, stalagmites, flowstones and other breath taking formations. Area legend has it that famous outlaws such as Jesse James, who roamed this part of the country in 1880, robbing stagecoaches and banks, hid out in Outlaw Cave and as well as other area caves. Jesse and his gang would have found this cave ideal as a "hideout" because the natural opening is large enough to ride a horse in. A tour in Outlaw Cave is perfect for the whole family, where it's short length, few stairs, and affordability makes it easily accessible to all. Outlaw Cave offers a lantern tour daily as well as normal tours.
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Ridgetop Lake
I-65, exit 53. West on KY 70 between Cave City and Mammoth Cave - 270-773-9940
Ridgetop lake is a clean, quiet, fishing lake with a family atmosphere. We stock with farm-raised catfish three days a week. We also stock with big catfish (10 lbs and up-on a regular basis. Kids can fish for bluegill, too! Bring the family and enjoy the fishing! Catfishing, bait, groceries, camping supplies. No license required.
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| EDMONTON • METCALFE COUNTY AREA |
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Barn Lot Theater
270-432-BARN or 270-432-5412
A large resource of local talent can be found in various art forms including music, artistry, pottery, sculpting, glas blowing and so much more. The Barn Lot Theater serves as a backdrop to showcase these talented individuals and their works, many of which can be seen on display in the lobby throughout the year.Four plays a year, plus special events and annual arts and crafts fair second Saturday in December. Downtown Edmonton
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Bowling Park
1608 W. Stockton St., Edmonton - 270-432-7204
One of the area's largest sporting facilities with two softball fields, tennis courts and both indoor and outdoor basketball courts. The park also offers a paved walking trail, playground area and picnic pavilions.
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Branstetter Park
Summer Shade - 270-428-5201 or 270-428-2853
Walking trails, picnic area, building with kitchen/bath facilities available
for rent
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Edmonton Memorial Park
205 Randolph St, Edmonton • 270-432-5000
The Edmonton Memorial Park features walking and biking trails, tennis courts, softball field, high school baseball and football fields, two little league fields and two t-ball fields.
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Gene's Skating Rink & Recreation
6880 Glasgow Rd, Edmonton - 270-432-2605
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Metcalfe County Courthouse
I-65, to the Louie B. Nunn Parkway. Parkway to the Edmonton exit.s 270-432-3222
The old, two story brick courthouse which is still in use and houses offices of county officials was constructed in 1868 and is the oldest courthouse in Kentucky. The county jail building, constructed in the 1860s, is still intact and was in use for over a century. Tody the old historic jail sits adjacent to the county's newest facility, a justice center.
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Sulphur Well Community and Park
270-565-4712 or 270-432-3222
An artesian well, referred to as "the gum" by locals, has been flowing continuously at its location in Sulphur Well since 1845. The site is rich with history, and is now part of a community park. The Sulphur Well community is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
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| GLASGOW • BARREN COUNTY AREA |
Barren River Lake State Resort Park
1149 State Park Road, Lucas, KY
Located approx. 12 miles from Glasgow, the Resort is located at 1149 State Park Road. Follow Hwy. 31-E south for 12 miles from the Nunn Parkway. At the caution light at Highway 87 and the State Park Road, turn right. Signs are posted.
Barren River Lake State Resort Park 270-646-2151; 800-325-0057
Barren River State Boat Dock 270-646-3199
Camping: www.reserveamerica.com
Barren River State Resort Park offers a vacationer's dream come true complete with a 10,050 acre lake known for its fishing and boating fun, a lodge, cottages, campgrounds, tennis courts, 18-hole golf course, pool, beach, marina, boat rentals, riding stables, picnic areas and walking trails, all nestled in a serene southern Kentucky setting. A variety of family activities is just waiting for you. A number of boat docks and campgrounds are located on Barren River Lake.
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Brigadoon State Nature Preserve
From Exit 43 on I-65, travel east on the Cumberland Parkway to Exit 11 onto 31E south. Follow US 31E south for 6.5 miles, turn left onto Dover Church-Browning School Road and travel approximately 1.5 miles. Turn left onto Mutter Road and the parking area is approximately one-half mile on the left.
Brigadoon State Nature Preserve is 181 acres of mature woods and old fields bordering the backwaters of Barren River Reservoir in Barren County. Named by the former owners for the mythical Scottish village that appears from the mists once every hundred years, the unique character of the preserve does bring to mind the sense of being someplace special. The preserve was part of a 1,000-acre land grant given to Joseph Renfro, one of Virginia's Revolutionary War veterans. The rich woodlands contain an impressive array of spring wildflowers including several species considered rare or uncommon. The preserve also provides habitat for many resident and migratory birds. One-mile foot trail through ridgetops, mature forest and scenic ravines--moderately strenuous. Activities include hiking, birding, nature photography and research.
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Fort Williams
Traveling Hwy. 31E North or South, turn onto Cross Street across from Lowe's. Turn right onto Fort Williams Way. Can also be reached by traveling through the Glasgow Municipal Cemetery.
 www.trailsrus.com
During the Civil War, Glasgow's railway and depot made it an important communication and supply post for Union troops in south central Kentucky. In December 1862, Confederate John Hunt Morgan took control of Glasgow for three days, just long enough to destroy Union rail and communication lines. Fort Williams was built in 1863 to deter future attacks of this kind. However, it didn't work as planned. On October 6, 1863, the 25th Tennessee Infantry, C.S.A., attacked Fort Williams with 120 men commanded by Col. John M. Hughes. As a result of this attack, CSA Col. Hughes reported 9 KIA, 26 wounded and 226 were taken prisoner.
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Historic Plaza Theatre
115 East Main Street, Glasgow — 270-361-2101
A 1930s movies theatre restored to its original grandeur. A center for cultural events such as
music, performing arts, movies, and more. |
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Houchens First Store
Located in Houchens Park approximately 7 miles from Glasgow. Take Hwy 31-E south to Dover Church-Browning School Road. Turn left and Houchens Park is located approximately one mile on the right. A picnic shelter and restrooms are available on site.
In 1917, Ervin Houchens established his first store in what would become a multi-store, multi-million supermarket chain scattered across south central Kentucky. The founding of Houchens Industries by Ervin G. Houchens is a quintessential American success story. One of ten children, Houchens grew up in a three-room log cabin. In 1917, at the age of 19, he opened his first grocery store in rural Barren County, Kentucky, where he grew up. It was a modest enterprise, housed in a 12-foot by 20-foot shed. Less than three years later he was able to relocate his business to Cross Roads, Kentucky, growing into a general merchandise store.
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Kenny's Farmhouse Cheese
2033 Thomerson Park Road, Austin, KY - 888-571-4029
Handmade cheeses based on the quality ingredients and methods of the old world European cheese makers. The products are made on a 200-acre farm in southeastern Barren County near the community of Austin. Tours are available.
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 South Central Kentucky Cultural Center
200 West Water, Glasgow - 270-651-9792
The Center, also known as the Museum of the Barrens, is dedicated to telling the story of the people, places and events that make up the geographic area known as the "Barrens" of south central Kentucky. Housed in the old Kentucky Pants Factory (circa 1928) near downtown Glasgow, visitors travel all the way back to 12,000 BC, view tools and firearms, log cabins, and a gristmill from the mid-1800's. Other attractions include an extensive military exhibit starting with the Civil War, a doll collection, a one-room schoolhouse, Victorian parlor and a town square as it looked at the turn of the century. An extensive genealogical library is also maintained at the Center.
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Winn School & Antique Farm Equipment
Located in Houchens Park approximately 7 miles from Glasgow. Take Hwy 31-E south to Dover Church-Browning School Road. Turn left and Houchens Park is located approximately one mile on the right. A picnic shelter and restrooms are available on site.
The Winn School was originally located one mile west of its present location, where from 1891 to 1947 area youngsters were educated in this one-room schoolhouse. Bench desks, teacher's table/desk, books, photos and other artifacts celebrate the rural learning processes. A collection of antique farm implements and equipment are housed in a pole barn located on site.
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| RUSSELLVILLE • LOGAN COUNTY |
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 Russellville Historic District
Visitor Center at 280 East 4th Street - Call 270-726-4181 to schedule tours
The Historic District of Russellville has been listed on the National Register for Historic Places for almost 40 years. Homes and buildings which are in the heart of the city go back to the early 1800's. Some of the property is connected to the Revolutionary War, Civil War, Governors, a President, influential people and bank robbers! The property pictured is Mockingbird/Oak Hill C. 1850. Also located in the Historic District are three unique and historic structures which house Museums. They are open for scheduled tours. The Bibb House Museum located on West 8th Street, The Saddle Factory located on East 4th street across from the Visitor Center, and The Payne-Dunnigan-Cooksey Complex is located on East 6th Street.
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1817 Saddle Factory Museum
Russellville - 270-726-4181 - Call for hours.
The 1817 Saddle Factory Museum owned and operated by Historic Russellville, Inc. is a four-story brick building that may be Kentucky's oldest industrial building. Exhibits include early saddles and leather goods which demonstrate the use of natural resources to produce goods which were sold regionally and as far away as New Orleans. One focus of the Museum is the indentured servants who provided much of the skilled labor and who lived on-site. The fourth-floor living quarters are available for touring and display preserved pre-1835 writings on the walls. Other exhibits include the original fish weather vane from Logan County's 1820 Courthouse on which three bullet holes are easily seen, photographs and artifcacts from Russellville's rich educational heritage, and the works of local artist Roberta McClean (1882 - 1975).
 
Also on the property are the Alice Dunnigan Museum and the Cooksey House Museum. Both buildings are filled with artifacts from the slavery era before and during the Civil War era. They are staged to show the difficulties faced by the slaves.
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Bibb House
183 W. 8th Street, Russellville - 270-726-4181 - Call for hours.
Historic Russellville, Inc. maintains the Bibb House, a House Museum built in 1820 as the townhouse of Revolutionary War Major Richard Bibb, Revolutionary War officer and abolitionist, who freed twenty-nine of his slaves in 1829 and paid for their passage to Liberia and who then provided for the liberation of his remaining slaves by his will at his death in 1839. The Palladian style home is an excellent example of the fine, early architecture of Kentucky and is furnished with perios antiques. It demonstrates the lifestyle and customs of the landed gentry who migrated to Kentucky.
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 Auburn Historic District
Call 270-542-4677 to schedule tours.
The Auburn Historical District encompasses 136 properties located along eight streets at the center of town. Structure types range from southern plantation to early art deco.
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 Auburn Museum
Auburn (located just a few blocks west of the center of town on the old 68/80) - 270-542-4677 - Open 1-4:30PM Mon-Fry; by appointment on Sat-Sun
The museum is now open on a regular basis to serve the public, with over 1,000 artifacts on display. This little museum is available for school tours in the archives area as well as on the grounds of the living history area. Children are fascinated by the two cell jail house and the one room school house.Download pdf brochure here.
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 Greenwood One-Room School House
Auburn - 270-542-4677
Open 1-4:30PM Mon-Fry; by appointment on Sat-Sun
The Green Wood Schoolhouse was moved in May 2001 from its location just over the line in Simpson County, KY to a location directly behind the Auburn Museum. This will eventually be part of the village that the Auburn Historical Society is constructing. This village will be reminiscent of life in Auburn many years ago. Houses over 700 artifacts from this historic Kentucky town.
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 The Jail
The jail cells at the museum were part of the former Auburn City Jail. These cells which had been in storage by the City were transferred to the Auburn Historical Society in 2001. Jim Moore erected the building, to resemble the Jail house of the day, where the two cells were reassembled. This now forms part of the future “Living History Village.”
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 Red River Meeting House and Cemetery
10 miles south of Russellville (take Hwy. 431 south 9.7 mi. turn left on Hwy. 663 go 3.0 mi. to the Meeting House); Directions from Adairville, Ky. - (town square) - take Hwy. 431 north 2.7 mi. turn right onto Hwy. 663 go 3.0 mi. to the Meeting House
270-726-2206 or 270-539-6528
Perhaps the most historic site in Logan County, the place where the Second Awakening, a revival of religious faith, occurred in 1800. Download pdf brochure here.
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 Schochoh Rosenwald One-Room
School House Museum
Russellville-Logan County High School Campus,
US 68 / KY 80
270-726-2206 • Open by appointment.
Built in 1929, the building houses a display of educational progress from 1792 through the closing of the last rural school in the county.
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.jpg) Shaker Museum at South Union
850 Shaker Museum Road, Just off US 68/KY 80, Auburn - 800-0811-8379
March through November, Monday-Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 1-5PM
December through February, Tuesday-Saturday 10AM-4PM, Closed Sunday and Monday.
Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve & Day, New Year's Eve & Day.
A short drive west of Bowling Green takes you to the historic site of the South Union Shaker Village. The Shaker society, an innovative, hard-working religious group, was established in 1807 and closed in 1922. The village site is now on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum is filled with original furniture, crafts, textiles and manuscripts. Nearby Shaker Tavern, built in 1869, provides bed and breakfast accommodations. Dowload brochure here.
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 Lake Malone
331 State Route Road 8001, Dunmore - 270-657-2111
The 788-acre lake is enclosed by dramatic 50-foot sandstone bluffs rising above the water's edge and surrounded by hardwood forests. Discover the beautiful landscape of Lake Malone State Park on the 1.5-mile Laurel Trail or the .25-mile Wildflower Trail. These easy-rated hiking trails provide picturesque views of many rock walls, once used as shelters by Native Americans. Mountain laurel, holly, dogwood and wildflowers provide a rich tapestry of native flora. Natural wonders abound in this secluded wilderness! Thick with tall pines and magnificent cliffs, this waterway has many scenic and historical views such as a natural rock bridge and a cave reputed to have sheltered the Jesse James gang. Boat rentals, dock and facilities, swimming area and accommodations are available on and around the lake. It is a great lake for fishing, offering bass, bluegill, rockfish, crappie and catfish.
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 Baker Nature Preserve
Located on the northwest side of Russellville at the intersection off US 68/80 Bypass and Sportsman Club Lane
Baker Nature Preserve is the 62 acre land which the Logan County Conservation District and the Kentucky Heritage Land Conservation Fund established as a habitat for rare and endangered species.It is important for migratory birds and is available for outdoor recreation and environmental education. There are miles of trails, observation stations and benches available for the public.
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 The Logan County Glade State Nature Preserve
Located on the east side of Russellville near the intersection of US 100, 79 and old 68/80
The 41 acre Glade, hidden in the wooded area behind the old hospital and the public health department on Franklin Street, was dedicated in 1990 and open to the public for recreation that same year. The access road to the Glade runs between each place and takes the visitor up to the parking lot and the entrance into the Glade. The trail can be a bit difficult if you are not in good condition, but you can have an enjoyable afternoon and not even feel that you are even within the city limits. Rare plants are often found including the Carolina Larkspur and Flame Flowers.
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Agri-tourism trails in Logan Co.
When driving West on US 79 or South on US 431 and venturing onto the side roads, the visitor will notice that many farms are utilizing their land to produce a new type of "attraction" for the public to enjoy. The farms are producing bees wax to make candles, wool from farm animals to produce shawls and sweaters, milk from their milk cows to make ice cream, fruit for canned items and the list goes on. They attract people from around the state for a day’s outing or a family fun day to pick out the perfect pumpkin. Logan County, Kentucky is no exception. Look for the Barn Art Quilts dotting the landscape in the Adairville and South Logan area!
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West Kentucky African-American Center
Corner of S. Morgan and 5th St. 270-726-4181
The Heritage Center includes a Research Facility, which is home to an extensive collection of local papers and documents which attracts researchers from around the US. It is within walking distance of the three houses - KP Hall, Payne- Dunnigan House (1940's frame, shot-gun style house), and the Cooksey House (built in the 1880's by Solomon Cooksey, a slave freed in 1850) - which will be considered the educational centers for this community.
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 Duncan Ridge Road and Scenic By-Way
This eight mile trail takes you up on the top of the highest ridge in Logan Co. where birds soar and the air smells fresh and clear. Spring and Autumn are especially beautiful. Trees close over the road and form a green canopy. There are also spots you can see far into other counties prior to dropping you down into a flat valley.
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 Iron Mountain Road and Scenic By-Way
This road in North Logan County is perfect for bird watching, especially when the Purple Martins make North Logan their private reserve, during Spring and Summer. Most of Logan County has Purple Martins but more heavily concentrated in North Logan Co. and the Iron Mountain area. This 10 mile drive will provide you with many chances to see these beautiful little birds and see the unique birdhouse apartments they live in. While driving this road you will be in Amish Country so watch for the carriages along the way!
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| SCOTTSVILLE • ALLEN COUNTY |
Barren River Lake State Resort Park
1149 State Park Road, Lucas, KY
Located approx. 12 miles from Glasgow, the Resort is located at 1149 State Park Road. Follow Hwy. 31-E south for 12 miles from the Nunn Parkway. At the caution light at Highway 87 and the State Park Road, turn right. Signs are posted.
Barren River Lake State Resort Park 270-646-2151; 800-325-0057
Barren River State Boat Dock 270-646-3199
Camping: www.reserveamerica.com
Barren River State Resort Park offers a vacationer's dream come true complete with a 10,050 acre lake known for its fishing and boating fun, a lodge, cottages, campgrounds, tennis courts, 18-hole golf course, pool, beach, marina, boat rentals, riding stables, picnic areas and walking trails, all nestled in a serene southern Kentucky setting. A variety of family activities is just waiting for you. A number of boat docks and campgrounds are located on Barren River Lake.
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| Popular public access sites on Barren River Lake
Walnut Creek Marina
KY 1855 - For Walnut Creek camping reservations call 270-622-5858
Picnic area, camping, boat ramp and dock
Browns Ford - KY 98
Picnic area, boat ramp
Bailey's Point - KY 517
KY 517 - For Bailey's Point camping reservations call toll free 877-444-6777
Picnic area, boat ramp, camping, swimming, historical graveyard
Dam and Tailwater
Picnic area, river boat ramp, camping, fishing, sightseeing
Port Oliver Boat Ramp
Barren River Dam Road, Ky. 252 -- Across from Ranger Bob's Inc.
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 G-Pa's Paylake & Deli
452 Old Gainesville Road, Scottsville - 270-622-6495
Hours of Operation: 6AM - 11PM Mon-Thurs. All night fishing Fri and Sat.
Directions: 101 North from Scottsville, 4.10 miles from Scottsville, turn right on old Gainsville Road, go about 3/4 mile, turn right onto Shockleys farm - sign at driveway.
Two acres of shaded fishing, picnic tables, horseshoes, area for family picnics and church meetings, restrooms. Restaurant serving home cooking. |
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Allen County Historical Museum
301 North 4th Street - 270-237-3026
Open Mon-Thurs 11AM-4PM and by appt.
The museum, built in the early 1900s, currently houses many interesting items from the past and an abundance of genealogical references, artifacts and a gift shop. |
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Mennonite Community
KY 100/585 and KY 1332
Visit a gentle, simple people who lead a full productive life with no electricity or gas-powered machines. See molasses made the old-fashioned way in the fall; shop for fine fresh produce in the summer; and purchase handmade leather items. Recently, a General Store, with everything from hardware to baked goods has been added. |
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Naturally Inviting
As you tour the area, you will enjoy visiting many of Allen County’s other attractions including the home of Dollar General Corporation. Visit Scottsville. One stop and you’ll know why we say our area is... Naturally Inviting. |
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Historic Public Spring
Located on Locust Street and one block from KY 100 South
Scottsville became the county seat of Allen County because of the spring. It was not only the source of fresh water for the area but the hub of commerce. The spring also provides a seasonal supply of fresh water cress, an early spring salad green. |
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The Tabernacle
KY 100 east on Holland Rd.
The Tabernacle grew out of two tent revivals held by Dr. H. C. Morrison, a Methodist minister. Built in 1897 by Jim Guthrie. and seat of early revivals and gospel singing held in Allen County, the first meeting was held in October of that year. The early days of the old Tabernacle with its sawdust floors and handheld fans formed the foundation for Allen County deep gospel roots. The Allen County Singing Convention is held at The Tabernacle in September. |
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| TOMPKINSVILLE • MONROE COUNTY AREA |
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Cumberland River Ferry
Turkey Neck Bend area, Monroe County
270-487-1314
Connecting two segments of KY 214, this is the only ferry owned and operated by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
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Dale Hollow Lake
270-433-7431 (Dale Hollow State Resort Park)
Dale Hollow Lake covers 4,300 acres and is considered one of the nation's best lakes for smallmouth bass. There are also rainbow trout and occasional muskie and walleye catches. Dale Hollow Lake can be reached via I-65 to Louie B. Nunn Parkway, KY 90 to KY 163 through Tompkinsville.
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 Old Mulkey Meeting House State Historic Site
270-487-8481
Two miles south of Tompkinsville on KY 1446
The oldest log church west of the Alleghenies. Daniel Boone's sister, Hannah Boone Pennington, and several Revolutionary War veterans are buried in the church cemetery. First available church records are dated 1798, but tradition claims the church was established much earlier. The park offers a peaceful setting for a journey into the past with the uniquely shaped rustic log building and pioneer graveyard. Visitors will also find tranquil picnic areas and a gift shop featuring traditional arts and crafts.
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Mt. Vernon Church
Located 1.5 miles from Gamaliel on KY 100, this ancient log building once served as both a church and school building for the African-American community of Freetown. It was built before the Civil War by the freed slaves of William Howard.
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Civil War
Numerous skirmishes between Union and Confederate forces took places in Monroe County, and as in much of Kentucky, loyalties of residents were divided. Monroe was the site of Col. John Hunt Morgan's first raid into Kentucky, and the county courthouse at Tompkinsville was later burned by Confederates.
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Rolley Hole Marbles
A unique game of marbles, passed down for generations, is played in this area, mainly by adult men using handmade flint marbles. Local marble players have won national and international honors with their skills. Rolley-Hole Marble Tournaments are part of both the Watermelon Festival and the County Fair.
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Amish & Mennonite Communities
Monroe County is home to several Amish and Menonite communities where their traditional way of life is still practiced. In most of these areas, crafts and home-grown produce are marketed on site.
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Hunting & Fishing
Opportunities for fisherment abound in Monroe County in Tompkinsville's City Lake as well as in the Cumberland and Barren Rivers. Both Dale Hollow Lake and Barren River Lake are located nearby, offering a wide variety of water sports. Area woodlands are a hunter's paradise, with deer, squirrels, rabbits, doves and turkeys among the abundant game.
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About Monroe County
The geographic center of southern Kentucky, Monroe County offers the natural beauty of the Upper Cumberland hills, as well as the hospitality and slower-paced lifestyle typical of rural Kentucky. Each of the four seasons here has its own distinctive attractions, although temperatures are moderate year-round. Monroe County's rolling countryside provides acres of green pastureland for dairy and beef cattle, in addition to tree-covered hills that supply hardwood timber for local lumber and pallet industries. The scenic Cumberland River winds through the south-eastern part of the county, while Barren River meanders through the southwest section, and numerous smaller streams flow throughout the county.
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Tompkinsville
Monroe is the only county in the nation named for a president (James Monroe) with the county seat, Tompkinsville, named for the contemporary vice president (Daniel Tompkins). Located near the center of the county, Tompkinsville was first settled about 1790.
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Gamaliel
First settled in the late 1700s and later named for a Biblical physician, Gamaliel, is located near the headwaters of Barren River, one mile from the Kentucky-Tennessee border.
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Fountain Run
Settled about 1800, Fountain Run is the "crossroads of three counties." Located in westernmost Monroe County, near the borders of Barren and Allen counties.
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Kentucky Downs Race Course
Octagon Hall Museum
Old Stone Jail
American Cave Museum and Hidden River Cave
