We all know that there is plenty of fun to be had in Kentucky and that it's a difficult task to narrow our state's attractions down to even a top ten. But recently, USA Today took on this task and asked readers to vote for their favorite attraction in Kentucky. They did, indeed, come up with a top ten list and number one on the list was the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green. This one-of-a-kind museum has always been a car-lover's dream come true, but it turns out there is something there for everyone in the Bluegrass State. Curious to learn more about the National Corvette Museum, one of the best museums in Kentucky? Read on!
The National Corvette Museum is a sprawling property in Bowling Green that if you haven't visited before, you've probably still noticed from the highway.
It's difficult to miss its distinctive features and you'll almost always notice an influx of Corvettes on the road leading to this iconic museum. As a tribute to America's Sports Car, the National Corvette Museum obviously attracts visitors from all over the world who have a fascination with the history and future of one of the most popular vehicles in the country. But even if you're not a huge Corvette fan, you'll still enjoy a trip to this interactive and intriguing museum.
Of course the main thing you'll find when you walk through the doors of the museum is cars. Lots and lots and lots of cars—Corvettes to be exact. And you'll see ones that come from every past generation.
The museum does a great job of showcasing the historic models of the Corvette by placing them in era-specific displays that allow you to imagine these cars in action. It's not just a history of the Corvette, but a walk through our country's own past. There are also many rare models and colors on display and you can choose to tour on your own or even take advantage of the audio tour that's available. Exhibits do rotate, so each visit to the museum is unique.
The National Corvette Museum made international news in 2014 when a giant sink hole swallowed a part of the museum and several Corvettes. Repairs have long since been completed, but this infamous time is now an interactive exhibit you can experience at the museum.
The photo above shows the sinkhole when it first happened and then you can see the outside of the exhibit, which goes through the details of this scary experience. You can see, thanks to a tape on the floor, where the sink hole happened and also witness the damaged cars that were saved from the hole. They also have a spot set up on the floor where you can peak down and see 30 feet below into the former hole.
Aside from the exhibits, there are many other features of the museum that will keep you entertained.
The Corvette Store has any type of souvenir you may want and is just an interesting place to browse during your visit.
Save time for a meal at the Corvette Cafe and enjoy a classic burger, fries and milkshake, which just seem to go perfectly with a classic car museum.
And there's plenty for the kids to do, as well, with a dedicated area just for them. It's interactive and fun and they'll also enjoy the entire museum with something to look at throughout the entire space.
If you're not satisfied with just looking at these iconic cars, then check out one of the opportunities to take one for a spin.
Within the museum, you can ride in a simulator and drive your own Corvette around a virtual speedway. And just one mile from the museum is the NCM Motorsports Park, where you can view and even race a Corvette around a track.
With all there is to do at the National Corvette Museum and its ties to Kentucky and American history, it is no wonder it topped the list of best attractions in Kentucky.
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Whether you take a Corvette, minivan, or pickup truck, make plans to drive to this one-of-a-kind museum in Kentucky that's surely one of the best destinations in the state.
The National Corvette Museum is indeed one of the best attractions in Kentucky and a fun and interesting destination for locals and visitors, alike. What do you think about this museum topping the list? If you don't agree, we'd love to know what you think should be the number one attraction in Kentucky! Share with us in the comments!
And for more worth-the-drive attractions in the Bluegrass State, check out our roundup of the best day trips in Kentucky.
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