People are usually surprised to learn every Corvette in the world is made exclusively in Bowling Green, Ky., just one hour north of Nashville, Tenn. This small market destination has plenty of other surprises around its curves, and one test drive is all it takes to spark an executive or planner’s interest.
The hub of south-central Kentucky, Bowling Green is located directly on Interstate 65 between Louisville and Nashville, less than 30 minutes from Mammoth Cave National Park. Expected to double in size by 2050, work is already underway to thoughtfully navigate that growth as more visitors are discovering both the thrills and the charm of the area.
Build up momentum at the city’s natural showpiece, Lost River Cave, offering a tranquil underground boat tour. Meander down a paved pathway to the largest cave opening in the region, and then watch daylight disappear while you feel the cool “cave kisses” begin to fall.
With hiking trails, a small meeting room, an outdoor pavilion, and tons of nature therapy, this beloved attraction takes care of groups as well as they take care of the land with which they are entrusted. Consider a reception in the mouth of Lost River Cave, an experience that will undoubtedly leave an imprint on participants for years to come.
Go full throttle with Corvette driving experiences, teambuilding challenges, or high-speed karting competitions at the NCM Motorsports Park. Then settle in for a reception or dinner buffet just a few minutes away at the iconic National Corvette Museum, letting attendees wander among more than 70 Corvettes on display in entertaining and educational exhibits.
Another high-octane offering is Beech Bend Amusement Park & Splash Lagoon. Home to the Kentucky Rumbler wooden roller coaster and Michael Jackson’s Sea Dragon ride, the idyllic and nostalgic setting offers thrill-seekers a calmer alternative to major theme parks. It’s a perfect escape to reward the team or extend the trip, and planners can hold group meals in the air-conditioned Dallas Jones Pavilion for up to 600 people.
Shift into the slow lane in downtown Bowling Green with local shopping and dining excursions before touring the Historic RailPark & Train Museum and Riverview at Hobson Grove Historic House Museum. Another favorite group outing is an evening at the Bowling Green Ballpark, home to the Minor League BG Hot Rods, a Tampa Bay Rays affiliate.
When it is time to get down to business, the Sloan Convention Center and attached 218-room hotel (soon to be Crowne Plaza) offer full-service meeting capabilities. With 70,000 square feet of space, the largest ballroom offers nearly 20,000 square feet for banquets and general sessions. Additional meeting rooms and pre-function space comfortably hold conventions for up to 500 attendees or general events up to 1,000.
Other traditional meeting venues include the WKU Knicely Conference Center, Embassy Suites Bowling Green, and the National Corvette Museum’s Conference Center. Nontraditional spaces range from the hip and historic Venue at 939, One Roof overlooking the downtown square, the brand-new Purple Toad Winery Tasting Room and Event Center, storied Highland Stables, or the eclectic White Squirrel Brewery.
When you choose to meet in Bowling Green, you are not only taking care of business but also offering attendees a chance to catch their breath and tap into this collective experience. Convention centers are everywhere, but the memories a host city conjures and helps create are what fuel motivation after the closing session.
Bowling Green may be the fastest-growing city in Kentucky, but we still take our time with the details so you can rev up the fun for attendees. Best of all, Bowling Green won’t break the bank. You get a lot of value here, with top-notch amenities at much more affordable prices than you’ll find in larger metros.
|
Marissa Butler, Hospitality Services Director at Bowling Green CVB 
With more than 30 years of tourism experience, Marissa is a dedicated professional who feels right at home taking care of planners’ needs. Ask her about her recent two-week road trip.
Contact: 270-782-0800 | marissa@visitbgky.com VisitBGKY.com |
