Travel South USA, known as one of the largest tourism organizations in the United States, has named Owensboro a must-experience city in the South. From our festivals, food, parks and music, it's no wonder our beautiful city has earned this awesome honor.

Dave Spencer/Townsquare Media
Dave Spencer/Townsquare Media
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It's always exciting when the City of Owensboro gets love and respect for all that the city has to offer. It helps our tourism thrive and grow, which brings more money to local businesses. Some of the reasons why Owensboro has been mentioned as a top place to visit in the south shouldn't be a surprise.

bhofack2 via Canva
bhofack2 via Canva
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Travel South USA made mention of Moonlite BBQ for their good old-fashioned comfort food. All of the homestyle deserts are delicious on the buffet, but they specifically mentioned the cherry cobbler. I love the banana pudding because it's like my Momma used to make. Let's not forget all of the mouth-watering barbeque served up at Old Hickory BBQ and Ole South Barbeque too! We have so many options where we can sample some delicious styles of barbecue in Owensboro.

Photo by Paul Gilmore on Unsplash
Photo by Paul Gilmore on Unsplash
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All of our beautiful parks were also on display in the article. We really are blessed to be home to some of the best recreational areas in the country. From Smothers Park in Downtown Owensboro and Legion Park in the heart of the city, we have some great options. Travel South USA recommended that you take the short drive down Hwy 144 and visit Yellow Creek Park for its beautiful trails and photo opportunities. I also like to spend time at Ben Hawes Park. There are so many great places to hike, bike and enjoy nature in Daviess County.

Dave Spencer/Townsquare Media
Dave Spencer/Townsquare Media
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Owensboro being the Bluegrass Capital of the world, it's no surprise that the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum and Rompfest were also named in the article. The City of Owensboro really does offer great family-friendly events all year long. I was actually surprised that Friday After 5 and the International Bar-B-Q Festival weren't mentioned. Both are a summer staple that draws people from all over the region! There's nothing better then live music, food trucks, fellowship and fun, up and down the riverfront in Downtown Owensboro.

There are so many reasons why Owensboro is one of the top places to visit in the South. From the culture, food & drink options, beautiful hotels, great parks, sports, camping, music, and our friendly residents, we thank Travel South USA for recognizing all of this and more!

Owensboro has everything you could want from a smaller city, and then some. We are blessed to have so much to see and do right here in our backyard! Now, it's time to get out and enjoy it all.

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