OUR FAMILY STAYCATION
There’s nothing quite like having a vacation itinerary in the works, am I right? Mario and I instantly bonded over our love for travel when we met and have been checking places off our bucket list ever since. Between the 2020 pause on travel and having rambunctious little ones, booking our next trip hasn’t really been at the top of our to-do list. With the travel itch sneaking up on us, we figured there was no better time to book a staycation in our hometown! Trust me, if you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or a place to unplug with family, Owensboro is it.
STOP AT SMOTHERS PARK
Smothers Park is the incentive we use for absolutely everything with our busy toddlers. Eat all your dinner? Let’s go to the park! Being nice to your brother? Trip to the park! Smothers Park was actually named Top Playground in the World, so we are extra spoiled when it comes to tiring out the boys with a play date. Between playtime for the kids, swinging by the river and walking through the display of fountains, this is the best destination for families looking to entertain little ones.
TOUR OF THE BLUEGRASS HALL OF FAME
Is there anything more Kentucky than Bluegrass music? It’s only fitting that Owensboro is home to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum. The boys had the best time walking through the museum, listening to the interactive displays and getting the hands-on experience with traditional bluegrass instruments. Regardless of your musical preference, you need to stop in! You’d be so surprised as to how many artists and genres have been touched by bluegrass.
STROLL THROUGH THE BOTANICAL GARDEN
You’ve heard me rave about the gorgeous Western Kentucky Botanical Gardens before, but I was floored at how beautiful the spring blooms were already! Coming off of a cold Kentucky winter, it’s so refreshing to see pops of purples, pinks and vibrant yellow across the gardens. If you’re planning a visit, stop in for the “First Saturday Free Admission” and see what our hometown gem has to offer!
LUNCH BREAK DOWNTOWN
Exploring Owensboro easily works up an appetite, especially for the Vizuet boys. Downtown has lots of spots to grab a quick eat or have a sit-down meal, so we popped into Mellow Mushroom for a lunch spread. This has been my favorite spot since they opened their Owensboro location! They have such a variety of options – salads, pizzas, burgers and sandwiches – with the most relaxed vibe. Mario loves trying unique beers and they have such a vast selection you won’t find anywhere else. Pro tip: always opt for the beer cheese and pretzel bites appetizer. It never disappoints!
SWIMMING AND NAP TIME AT THE HAMPTON INN
Braxton and Beckham are water babies through and through. From splashing down the house during bath time to pruning up in the swimming pool all summer long, these boys might have been fish in their past lives. Even with nap time looming, they lit up like a Christmas tree when we mentioned going swimming! The team at Hampton Inn saw their excitement and had us checked in and on our way within a few minutes. Between pillow fights, swim sessions and our beautiful balcony views, I couldn’t think of a better place to send anyone visiting Owensboro.
BOURBON TOUR AND TASTING
Alright, I consider myself a major rookie when it comes to bourbon. Growing up in Kentucky, it’s kind of a sin not to be a bourbon lover. I’ve been an outspoken dry red wine gal for years, but the Green River Distilling Company might have converted me to a bourbon sipper. Bourbon tasting is actually one of the most interesting experiences. There are so many flavors to search for within a batch, so small sips at the tasting with background on the product really gave me insights on which I’d love. The tour offered onsite is so interesting and really reminds you what a gem we have right here in Owensboro.
DINNER AT THE BISTRO
There’s something about Famous Bistro that just feels like home. From the open kitchen to the original wallpaper, there’s a small-town charm that pairs perfectly with the scratch-made menu. I’m a sucker for their Greek veggie wrap, the cheese plate and the creamy spinach dip. If you’re ready to go into a carb coma, don’t pass up the homemade pizza and end with a slice of cheesecake. Chefs kiss.
CONCERT AT THE BLUEGRASS MUSEUM
Anyone else craving a concert? We took to The Bluegrass Museum for a live performance for the first time in over a year and it was long overdue! Dan Tyminski and his band did not disappoint. If you aren’t big into bluegrass, you probably still recognize his name from the Avicii hit “Hey Brother” as the lead vocalist. Much like Owensboro as a whole, the Bluegrass Museum concerts give you the experience of a huge performance without compromising the small town charm.
We woke up Sunday morning with a whole new appreciation for our charming town. Pinpointing a favorite part of the day felt impossible, but rest assured our pit stops for food were top of the list. Ready to plan your visit to Owensboro? We’re here to welcome you with all the bourbon, bluegrass and world-famous BBQ your heart desires. See you soon!
