July 11, 2025

Kentucky Tourism Industry Sees Significant Growth in Bowling Green

News Summary

During a recent presentation in Bowling Green, Nancy Turner from the Kentucky Department of Tourism showcased the state’s booming tourism sector, highlighting a record $479.8 million economic impact. Local contributions reached $358.75 million, creating nearly 4,000 jobs in Warren County. The Mustang Club, a new venue embracing local history, is set to enhance community engagement. New initiatives like the Bluegrass Train Experience aim to deepen visitor connections to the region’s rich cultural heritage, further solidifying Bowling Green as a key travel destination.

Bowling Green, Kentucky – Nancy Turner, deputy commissioner for the Kentucky Department of Tourism, highlighted the state’s growing tourism industry during her recent visit to Bowling Green. The presentation, organized by the South Central Kentucky Hospitality Association, focused on current travel trends, economic impacts, and strategies designed to elevate tourism in Kentucky.

Turner shared that Kentucky’s tourism sector has made significant strides, generating an economic impact of $479.8 million in 2024. The contributions from Bowling Green and Warren County were particularly noteworthy, accounting for $358.75 million in visitor spending—marking a record high that eclipsed 2023 figures. Furthermore, this surge in tourism has been instrumental in creating nearly 4,000 jobs within Warren County.

During her presentation, Turner expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration witnessed among local businesses and organizations to promote Kentucky as a vibrant travel destination. She noted that community efforts have been central to capitalizing on tourism opportunities, fostering a supportive environment for visitors.

The event took place at The Mustang Club, a newly opened venue located at 200 State St. in downtown Bowling Green. The Mustang Club combines a wine bar, speakeasy, and full-service restaurant, providing a unique ambiance featuring live music and cocktails. The establishment holds historical significance, having been transformed from the original gymnasium of Bowling Green’s first African-American school by local entrepreneur Derrick Huff, who aimed to preserve its historical value. The venue is set to officially open to the public on July 25.

Notably, Bowling Green is gaining recognition as a must-visit destination in Kentucky. The recent economic impact survey conducted by Tourism Economics, a research partner of the Kentucky Department of Tourism, reinforces this sentiment by illustrating a growing enthusiasm for the city among travelers. To further entice visitors, the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau promotes the city as a hub for leisure, sports, and meetings.

In line with this growth, the introduction of the Bluegrass Train Experience aims to enhance visitor engagement with local history and culture. This new initiative, launched on the same day as the presentation, encompasses five communities and features a range of train-related attractions, including train rides and a museum on wheels. Participants will also have the opportunity to collect stickers at attractions, with prize chances to motivate exploration.

Industry leaders like Sherry Murphy, executive director of the Bowling Green Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, emphasize that the tourism growth is a direct result of robust community partnerships. Jamie Johnson, executive director of the Historic RailPark & Train Museum, remarked that the new attractions in the area not only promote tourism but also foster a stronger connection to Bowling Green’s rich history.

Overall, the insights shared by Nancy Turner and the initiatives reflected in the community demonstrate a strong trajectory for Bowling Green as a viable tourism destination, enhancing its appeal to both domestic and international visitors. As the tourism sector continues to rebound, local leaders remain optimistic about the potential benefits for the community and the economy at large.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER

The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

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