Bowling Green offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re a car enthusiast, history lover, or casual sightseer. The city’s rich automotive history, exemplified by the National Corvette Museum, makes it a must-visit for anyone curious about America’s iconic sports car. But it’s not just about cars: Bowling Green’s historic railroads, Victorian homes, and city streets are equally captivating. We particularly appreciate how some tours combine education with hands-on experiences, like the Historic RailPark and Train Museum, which offers a behind-the-scenes look at railroad history. Whether you’re interested in family-friendly outings or scenic city tours, Bowling Green’s diverse options won’t disappoint.
Quick Overview
Our list features nine of the best tours in Bowling Green, covering a range of interests and time commitments. From the famous Corvette Museum to interactive city trolley tours, each offers something unique. For history buffs, the Riverview at Hobson Grove provides a glimpse into Victorian elegance, while families will enjoy the Historic RailPark and Train Museum. Budget travelers can opt for the self-guided scavenger hunt, which is both fun and affordable. Below, you’ll find detailed reviews and insights to help you pick the perfect tour.
1. National Corvette Museum
At number one, the National Corvette Museum stands out for its engaging exhibits and the chance to see over 80 Corvettes, from vintage classics to cutting-edge prototypes. For just $25 per person, you’ll enjoy a tour that takes around 1 to 2 hours, making it perfect for a quick but memorable visit. The museum includes immersive displays like the “Corvette Cave-In” exhibit, which recounts the dramatic sinkhole that swallowed several vintage cars in 2014, and interactive trivia kiosks that make learning fun for all ages.
What makes this tour special is its focus on American ingenuity and craftsmanship. The museum’s rotating exhibits and the Corvette Store provide a chance to pick up a souvenir, and the Stingray Grill offers a convenient spot for a snack. Many visitors praise the museum’s lively atmosphere, and the guided tours often receive five-star reviews for their storytelling and depth of knowledge. If you’re a car lover or just curious about this iconic vehicle, this is an essential stop.
Bottom Line: A must-visit for automotive enthusiasts, offering an interactive, family-friendly experience with a great balance of education and fun.
2. Skip the Line: Historic RailPark and Train Museum Ticket with Guided Tour
For those interested in railroading history, this skip-the-line ticket provides quick access to Bowling Green’s Historic RailPark and Train Museum. Priced at $16, it’s an excellent value, especially with the added benefit of a guided tour. The museum showcases five vintage railcars dating back to 1911 and features historical buildings like the 1925 Railroad Depot.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of self-guided exploration and expert-guided stories, which bring the exhibits alive. Visitors love walking through the mail car and the presidential office car, getting a real sense of the railroad’s importance in regional development. The hands-on experience with actual train cars makes history tangible, especially for families with kids or train aficionados. The guides’ knowledge adds depth, and many reviews mention how much they learned about railroad culture and innovations.
Bottom Line: An engaging and informative experience that appeals to all ages, especially those fascinated by transportation history.
3. Bowling Green: City Sightseeing Tour by Trolley
If you want a broad overview of Bowling Green, the City Sightseeing Tour offers a fully narrated 90-minute ride through the city’s highlights. Priced at $20 per person, the trolley covers landmarks from Fountain Square to WKU’s campus, providing context for how Bowling Green grew into the city it is today.
This tour is great for first-timers who want a quick yet comprehensive introduction. The guide shares stories about the city’s Civil War past, the origin of its parks, and local legends—all delivered in a lively, engaging manner. Though some reviews note that the seating arrangement isn’t perfect, most agree it’s a fun, informative way to see the city without walking. Suitable for travelers with limited time or for those who prefer a relaxed overview.
Bottom Line: An efficient, entertaining way to get familiar with Bowling Green’s history and key sights in a short amount of time.
4. Bowling Green: Historic RailPark & Train Museum Entry & Tour
This tour offers a deep dive into the railroad heritage of Bowling Green. For $16, you get full access to the Historic RailPark and a guided exploration of five historic train cars from 1911. The Railroad Depot itself is a key landmark, built in 1925, and played a role in Civil War logistics.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed storytelling about railroad life and its impact on Bowling Green’s development. You’ll see the luxury presidential car, learn about mail delivery by train, and enjoy the personal anecdotes shared by the guides. It’s perfect for train fans, history buffs, or families interested in transportation evolution. The intimate setting and focus on authentic train cars make it a memorable experience, and the reviews highlight how informative and engaging the guides are.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history lovers wanting a comprehensive look at the city’s railroad past, with personal stories that bring history to life.
5. Bowling Green: Riverview at Hobson Grove Historic House
For an elegant step back into the Victorian era, the Riverview at Hobson Grove offers a beautifully restored Italianate mansion. Priced at just $12, it provides a 1-hour guided tour through a house filled with period antiques and stories of the Hobson family.
This tour is perfect for those interested in architecture, interior design, or Civil War-era stories. Highlights include hand-painted ceilings and the Victorian cupola with views over Bowling Green. The guides share captivating tales about the family’s history and the house’s preservation. Visitors often comment on the quality of the restoration and the interesting insights into 19th-century life.
Bottom Line: A charming, affordable way to experience Victorian architecture and learn about local Civil War history.
6. Guided Historic Home Tour
Another excellent historic house option, the Guided Historic Home Tour focuses on the 1872 home of Atwood and Julia Hobson, located in Hobson Grove Park. For $12, the tour lasts around 40 minutes to an hour and showcases restored parlor ceilings, walls, and original furnishings.
This tour emphasizes civil war stories and how the house was saved from an invading army, highlighting local resilience. Visitors enjoy the detailed restoration work and the panoramic views from the house’s cupola. The stories enrich the experience, making history feel immediate and personal. It’s well-suited for those interested in restoration, Civil War history, or Victorian architecture.
Bottom Line: Affordable and informative, perfect for history buffs wanting a close look at 19th-century domestic life.
7. Bowling Green Historic City Trolley Tours
The City Trolley Tours offers a 90-minute narrated journey through downtown Bowling Green. For $20, you’ll learn about historic sites like Fountain Square, Fort C.F. Smith, and WKU’s campus along with stories about the city’s evolution.
Though reviews mention the limited viewing from some seats and a few complaints about the advertising screen, most find it a worthwhile and affordable way to get oriented. The tour covers a broad range of sites, including the former “Murder Mansion” and the Automotive District. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want to see the city comfortably.
Bottom Line: A cost-effective, narrated overview that’s especially suited for first-timers and those curious about local legends.
$20.00 per person
8. Bowling Green: South Union Shaker Village Entry Ticket
Step back in time at the South Union Shaker Village, which operated from 1807 to 1922. For $15, you explore the original and restored buildings, learning about Shaker life, folklore, and the culture of simplicity and craftsmanship.
This tour appeals to those interested in religious communities, folk art, and traditional crafts. The tranquil grounds feature artifacts and restored structures that tell stories of equality and artistry. The guided tour explains the daily routines, folklore, and ideals of the Shakers, making it a peaceful but educational experience. Visitors often comment on the well-preserved buildings and the authenticity of the artifacts.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history, religious studies, or folk art enthusiasts seeking an immersive cultural experience.
$15 per person
9. Self-Guided Bowling Green Scavenger Hunt: The Hills Are Alive!
Finally, for an interactive experience, the Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt offers a fun way to explore city landmarks at your own pace. Costing about $12.31, this 2-hour adventure involves answering trivia and solving challenges across famous and hidden spots.
It’s ideal for groups, families, or couples who want a personalized adventure without strict schedules. The mobile app guides you through local landmarks, trivia, and photo challenges, making it perfect for active explorers. Since it’s self-guided, it offers flexibility; however, it requires some planning and an internet connection. No reviews are available, but the format appeals to those wanting to turn sightseeing into a game.
Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible option for tech-savvy travelers who enjoy interactive exploration.
$12.31 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Bowling Green
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re passionate about cars, the Corvette Museum is an obvious choice. For history lovers, the RailPark or Victorian house tours offer immersive stories. Families or casual visitors may prefer the city trolley, while the Shaker Village provides a unique cultural experience.
For those on a tight schedule or seeking active fun, the self-guided scavenger hunt offers flexibility and entertainment. Booking early is recommended for popular tours like the Corvette Museum or RailPark, especially during peak seasons.
Bowling Green’s variety of tours means there’s something for nearly every interest. Whether you want to learn about automotive history, explore railroad heritage, tour elegant Victorian homes, or enjoy a self-guided adventure, you’ll find a worthwhile option. We suggest picking a tour matching your schedule, interests, and budget, and then booking ahead to ensure a smooth visit. Whatever your choice, Bowling Green is ready to give you a memorable experience.
Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to check each tour’s details for hours and availability before booking!