Hopkinsville has a long list of attractions and activities to lure visitors to Christian County. To begin with, the town benefits from year-round mild weather which is perfectly conducive to outdoor recreation. I enjoyed walking and hiking along the Hopkinsville Greenway System. Jeffers Bend Recreation area is another great idea. There are various play areas for children and plenty of unique shopping opportunities.
Hopkinsville, KY Highlights:
- For Families: Stroll through Downtown Hopkinsville
- For Outdoor Enthusiasts: Paddle or hike at Jeffers Bend Environmental Center
- For Kids: Visit Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center
- For an Adventure: Explore the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park
- For History Buffs: Tour the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville
Best Time to Visit Hopkinsville, KY
The best time to visit Hopkinsville is in the spring and fall (April–May, September–October). Winter is quieter but still cozy.
How to Get to Hopkinsville, KY
- If you are traveling by car: Hopkinsville is at the junction of US-41 and US-68, about 1 hour from Nashville and 30 minutes from Clarksville, TN.
- By Air: The closest major airport is Nashville International Airport (BNA), approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away by car.
- By Bus: Greyhound and other regional bus services stop in nearby towns with local taxi or rideshare options to Hopkinsville.
Where to Stay in Hopkinsville, KY
- La Quinta Inn & Suites – Pet-friendly
- Holiday Inn Hopkinsville – Convention Center – Has a pool
- Little River Guest House – A charming B&B
Best Things to Do in Hopkinsville, KY
1. Stroll through the Jeffers Bend Environmental Center and Botanical Gardens
Rating: ★★★★★
Located in the Hopkinsville Water Treatment Plant, the Jeffers Bend Environmental Center and Botanical Gardens offers so many different opportunities and experiences! I planned my visit so that I got here first thing in the morning (it's open 24/7 !) Students, teachers, and any other guests who are interested in learning about the importance and impact of the environment can find a very informative, hands-on opportunity to do so in the center. The center— together with its 41 acres of woodlands— can give visitors a great insight into topics such as water quality, soil science, soil conservation, agriculture, wildlife, and recycling. For more recreational activities, the grounds also include a beautiful botanical garden originally planted in 2002 in partnership with the Christian County Jail. There are also scenic gravel walking trails, a wildlife observatory, butterfly garden, woodland amphitheater, and lake that hosts a number of community events. 1170 Metcalfe Lane, Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42241, Phone: 270-885-5600
2. Visit the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park and Heritage Center
Described as an act of genocide by many sources, the Trail of Tears was the forced removal and relocation of Native Americans from the south east of America to the Indian Territory in Oklahoma. Many thousands died along the route. The Trail of Tears Park was established to honor the memory of these Native Americans who suffered remarkable hardships along the trail. Visitors to the park can join a guided tour of the Heritage Center (from March to October) and join the annual Pow Wow in September, a deeply moving educational experience which demonstrates Native American Indian culture through music, drumming, dance and traditional food. Trail of Tears Commemorative Park, 100 Trail of Tears Dr, Hopkinsville, KY 42240, Phone: 270-886-8033
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Taste unique brews at the Hopkinsville Brewing Company
Although Bourbon is by far the most famous Kentucky beverage, beer is pretty popular too. Especially when it is an artisanal craft beer from the Hopkinsville Brewing Company. The brewing company was established by two veterans with the community in mind and now serves as a popular meeting place for Hopkinsville locals – it also attracts craft-beer enthusiasts from further afield. The tap room offers a selection of at least 8 freshly brewed beers ranging from stout and IPL’s to ales to IPA’s. On most nights you will find a food truck parked outside where you can buy some tasty food to accompany your choice of craft brew. Hopkinsville Brewing Company, 102 E. 5th St, Hopkinsville, KY 42240, Phone: 270-987-3115
4. Spend a rainy afternoon at the Hopkinsville Christian County Public Library
There has been some form of public library available to the Hopkinsville community since 1874. In the early days the library was located on the 2nd floor of the local bookstore. After several improvements and relocations the current library opened to the public in December 1976. Apart from offering the community a wide variety of reading matter, the library also hosts many activities for all ages including story time for younger children and a variety of craft workshops for older children and adults. Interestingly, this library also offers Book-a-Bike bike rentals and “seed rentals” to encourage the community to plant flowers and vegetables. Hopkinsville Christian County Public Library, 1101 Bethel St, Hopkinsville, KY 42240, Phone: 270-887-4262
5. Have dinner at Da Vinci’s Little Italian
The menu features all your Italian favorites, perfectly prepared with fresh seasonal ingredients. Because Chef Pavil believes that Italian food is meant to be served with wine you will also find a great selection of wines served by the glass or the bottle - food and wine pairing is available. Da Vinci’s Little Italian, 304 N. Drive, Hopkinsville, KY 42240, Phone: 270-874-2853
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
6. Take the kids to the Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf
Experience the rural charm of Hopkinsville at the Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf. Here you will find a unique countryside farming experience combined with all the fun that can be expected from a classic theme park. Families can go on rides like a hayride or lawn mower train, or take part in some friendly competition through a game of miniature golf, giant scrabble, and more. The farm is also filled with animals that visitors may feed and pet, as well as loads of wide open spaces to run, play, and lounge about. There’s also a cafe which offers delicious meals including pizza and chicken wings. Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf is open Monday to Saturday. 19590 Linville Road, Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42240, Phone: 270-269-2434
Unique Attractions:
7. See a performance at the Alhambra Theater
A true gem in Hopkinsville, the Alhambra Theatre is a treasured historical landmark that continues to showcase the performing arts to and for its community. The 650-seat theatre was originally created in 1928 and still carries many of its original architectural features including its archway entrance, tile floor and chandelier. The building’s main lobby, theatre auditorium, and second floor lobby also find its beginnings early on in the theatre’s history. Alhambra Theatre has hosted several noteworthy acts such as Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Marty Stuart, and many more. Currently managed by the Pennyroyal Art Council, the theatre is an adorned and celebrated entertainment venue, and is open Tuesdays to Thursdays. 507 South Main Street, Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42240, Phone: 270-887-4295
8. Spend an evening at Southern Lanes Bowling Alley
Whether you’re looking for some fun with friends or an opportunity for the entire family to bond, Southern Lanes Bowling Alley is sure to offer a memorable experience for every visitor. Challenge each other to a competitively enjoyable game of bowling in their massive 16-lane alley. If you play in the evening, you’ll be able to catch the alley’s nightly Cosmic Bowling where you’ll feel like you’re in a disco at the same time. If bowling isn’t your game, you can goof around in their bumper cars, test your swing in their miniature golf course, or try out any of the games in their redemption arcade. After playing your game of choice, you can lounge and grab a bite to eat in their full service snack bar. Party packages, group rates, and special deals are also available. 3001 Canton Pie, Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42240, Phone: 270-874-2265
9. Have fun at Bluegrass Splash Family Aquatic Center
Splash around with the whole family in Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center. The giant waterpark is a favorite amongst locals with its numerous water rides and ample lounging spaces. Grab a float and hop into the Ripple River which will gently carry you along an easy stream around the park. For a bit more excitement, twist and turn your way through Hurricane Alley or jump aboard an inflatable tube and speed down the Riptide Express. And if you prefer to stay dry while your family swims around, sit back and relax in your pick of any of the park’s hundreds of lounge chairs. For snacks, stop by their pool-side cafe named Snack Attack and enjoy a number of deliciously filling snacks and beverages. 9503 Eagle Way Bypass, Hopkinsville, Kentucky 42240, Phone: 270-890-0730
10. Taste some pure Kentucky moonshine at the Casey Jones Distillery
Named in honor of the Prohibition-era master still-maker Casey Jones, the Casey Jones Distillery continues a family tradition. Arlon Casey Jones is the grandson of the legendary Casey and has faithfully copied the brilliant copper stills made by his grandfather to build his own moonshine and bourbon distillery right in the heart of The Land between the Lakes. Today visitors are invited to visit the distillery for a tour and/or a tasting and to spend some time enjoying a stroll through their 73-acre country property. There is a lounge area where guests can enjoy a drink and a shop where you can buy some gifts to take back home with you. The distillery produces straight KY Bourbon, small-batch Bourbon and Moonshine. Casey Jones Distillery, 2815 Whitty Lane, Hopkinsville, KY 42240, Phone: 270-839-9987
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