Owensboro is a moderately-sized, all-American city. You will find all your standard amenities & some local specialties - especially BBQ. The historic downtown area of Owensboro has had enormous expansion with many additions including the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum and Convention Center. However, Rachel sticks to her favorite haunts if she's in town (though many of those have since closed down...RIP Towne Square Mall & Skates Alive) and has never actually been to either of these new and fancy places. :) Rachel's recommended Owensboro afternoon: a coffee at The Creme & walk along the river, a snack at Lic's or The Big Dipper, a stroll around the Goodwill next door, dinner at Moonlite BBQ.

and/or:

• Western KY Botanical Garden ($8/adults; $2 kids)

• Museum of Science and History ($5/person)

• Reid's Orchard (free to walk around)

For kids:

• Smothers Park (in heart of historic downtown) (includes a free spray park)

• Legion Park (includes a free spray park)

• Museum of Science and History ($5/person)

• Reidland Play Area at Reid's Orchard ($10/person)