The birthplace of bluegrass music and Western Kentucky BBQ, this rich region of Kentucky is best explored with open ears and an empty stomach.
Travel the roads of tradition in Kentucky’s Bluegrass, Blues & BBQ region, home to music legends and world-famous Kentucky cuisine. Visit the birthplace of Bill Monroe, known as the Father of Bluegrass, then head over to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum in Owensboro to hear more about his indelible creation. Continue your musical journey at the Muhlenberg Music & History Museum to see rare Everly Brothers memorabilia and learn about other musicians that have roots in the region.
Bluegrass, Blues & BBQ Region Map
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In all corners of the region, you will find distinctive museums, art galleries and unique boutiques, plus natural wonders like the Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, the Dogwood Azalea Trail, eight Wildlife Management Areas, and three Kentucky State Parks. Enjoy music festivals, Civil War re-enactments, horse racing at Ellis Park Racetrack, Broadway shows and more, all right here! The region is also home to John James Audubon State Park Museum & Nature Center, in honor of the great naturalist who once lived in Henderson.
Let the region's musical heritage be your soundtrack for exploring one of Kentucky’s most satisfying signature foods: Western Kentucky barbecue. Follow the Western Kentucky BBQ Trail to sample pit-cooked goodness at legendary ’cue joints like Old Hickory Bar-B-Que and Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn to see why Owensboro holds the title of “Barbecue Capital of the World.” Cap things off with a tour and tasting at O.Z. Tyler Distillery, Western Kentucky’s largest bourbon distillery open to the public. Enjoy a distillery tour, book a ghost tour or hop on the River City Trolley to visit historic downtown.
Regional Cuisine
Explore More Regions of Kentucky
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Kentucky Appalachians
Discover a region where inspiring natural beauty, varied outdoor recreation, rich country music heritage and fascinating folk culture beckons visitors to leave the hustle and bustle behind.
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Bluegrass, Blues & BBQ
As the birthplace of bluegrass, this region draws visitors from around the world to the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum. Come hungry, ’cause Owensboro is also the "BBQ Capital of the World."
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Bluegrass, Horses, Bourbon & Boone
In the heart of Horse Country, bluegrass landscapes melt into vibrant cities like Lexington and Berea, offering legendary horse farms, historic distilleries, handmade art, and genuine Southern hospitality.
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Bourbon, Horses & History
The thrill of the Kentucky Derby. The sizzle of Louisville’s culinary scene. The buzz of the Bourbon Capital of the World®. Iconic Kentucky experiences abound in this diverse region.
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Caves, Lakes & Corvettes
Above and below ground, discover some of Kentucky’s most magnificent natural wonders and full-throttle adventures, from Mammoth Cave National Park to the National Corvette Museum.
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Daniel Boone Country
With its dramatic scenery and unbridled adventure, frontiersman Daniel Boone may have had this ruggedly beautiful region in mind when he said "Heaven must be a Kentucky kind of place."
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Southern Shorelines
Splash into the region that’s home to the “Houseboat Capital of the World,” Lake Cumberland. You’ll also find bucolic farms and vineyards, Civil War history and all the local fried fish you can eat.
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Northern Kentucky River Region
Just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, the “Top of the South” delights with exciting cities, culinary gems and popular family attractions such as the Ark Encounter and Newport Aquarium.
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Western Waterlands
Home to Kentucky’s two largest lakes and the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, this scenic region also teems with small-town charm and a thriving arts scene in Paducah.
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