BLUEGRASS, BLUES & BBQ Drift on down the River of Sound . . . at Owensboro’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum , with exhibits paying homage to the pioneers who played a role in bringing a uniquely American sound to the world and showcasing musical instruments held in the hands of the masters. Journey to Jerusalem Ridge in Rosine, where it all began at the Bill Monroe Homeplace and other sites connected to the singer/songwriter who described his music as “Scottish bagpipes and ole-time fiddling.” Stops include Uncle Pen’s Cabin , the home of one of Monroe’s greatest musical influences, fiddle player Pendleton Vandiver, and the Bill Monroe Museum , steward of the legacy. Owensboro celebrates two Kentucky traditions over two days in May. Savor the flavor with BBQ & Barrels , pairing barbecue booths and food trucks with bourbon tastings and classes, plus a side of live music, car shows and more. Barbecue also plays a role in one of the nation’s largest free music festivals during the W.C. Handy Blues & Barbecue Festival . Held on Henderson’s scenic riverfront, the June celebration honors the life and legacy of the Father of the Blues who spent a decade here. Love the outdoors ? So does this region, with opportunities for birding and fishing at Rockford’s Peabody Wildlife Management Area , a stretch of reclaimed coal-mined land that contains a waterfowl refuge, and a chance to stop and smell the roses, herbs and other plants at the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden in Owensboro. Got wheels ? Head to Madisonville’s Grapevine Lake Mountain Bike Trails and pedal the loop over bridges, along the lake and around obstacles. In Central City, the Kentucky Motorsports Hall of Fame & Museum honors the inspirations of Kentucky motorsports history, like 2022 inductee “ace driver” Billy Menser, who raced go-karts and motorcycles. At Morganfield’s James D. Veatch Camp Breckinridge Museum & Arts Center , see a 20-by-30-foot mural of the Castle of Werneck, located in the Franconia region of Germany. Kentucky’s version was painted during the museum’s Prisoner of War and Army camp days during WWII. 100 #TravelKY
The Official Kentucky Visitor's Guide The Official Kentucky Visitor's Guide 2024: Page 100
