Russellville Travel Guide

Plan your ultimate trip to Russellville with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top things to do, where to stay, best time to visit, and more.


Introduction to Russellville

Located in the Caves and Lakes region of Kentucky, Russellville is a small town that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventure. From museums and historical sites to hiking trails and natural attractions, this charming town has something to offer every type of traveler.

Russellville is a great destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city, with its laid-back atmosphere and warm Southern hospitality. Whether you’re a local looking to explore your hometown or a tourist looking to discover a hidden gem, Russellville is sure to captivate you.

List of Places to Visit in Russellville

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Historic Russellville Downtown

Take a stroll through Historic Russellville Downtown to explore the town’s rich history and architecture. The area features well-preserved buildings that date back to the 19th century, including the town square and the old courthouse.

Logan County Genealogical Society & Archives

The Logan County Genealogical Society & Archives is a great resource for those interested in tracing their family history. The archive contains thousands of records and artifacts, including photographs, manuscripts, and other historical documents related to the town and the region.

Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center

The Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center offers a wide range of performances, from music concerts to plays and dance shows. The center also hosts workshops and classes, making it a great destination for those looking to learn something new.

Natural Attractions of Russellville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Malone State Park

Lake Malone State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring hiking trails, fishing spots, and a beach area for swimming. Visitors can rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake’s coves and hidden surprises.

Black Jack Ridge

For hikers and bikers, Black Jack Ridge offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside with its well-maintained trails. The trail is easy to navigate, making it a perfect destination for families with children or those new to outdoor recreation.

Chimney Rock

Chimney Rock is a towering limestone formation that stands out as an intriguing feature of Kentucky’s landscape. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock for a bird’s eye view of the town and the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Russellville

Russellville offers a range of hiking and biking trails for visitors of all skill levels. The diverse terrain of the region includes dense forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Some popular hiking and biking routes in the area include the Trail of Tears, which follows the trail that the Native Americans were removed from, and the “I’m gonna be my own boss someday” hiking loop trail which is named after a famous quote from Colonel William Whitley. Both these trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Russellville: Activities and Tours

From horseback riding to boating, there is no lack of things to do in Russellville. Here are a few of the top activities and tours the town has to offer:

Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum

Explore the underground mysteries of Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum. The tour includes a descent into the cave, where visitors can learn about the geologic history of the region and the creatures that call it home.

Novadell Golf Course

Golf enthusiasts will enjoy Novadell Golf Course, a beautifully manicured course with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can rent golf carts or clubs and enjoy a few hours on the links.

Sumner Crest Winery

Located on a scenic vineyard, Sumner Crest Winery offers tastings of their award-winning wines. Visitors can also purchase bottles to take home and enjoy later.

Week-Long Itinerary for Russellville

For those looking to spend a week in Russellville, here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1

Explore Historic Russellville Downtown and visit the old courthouse and town square.

Day 2

Hike the Trail of Tears or bike the “I’m gonna be my own boss someday” hiking loop trail.

Day 3

Visit the Southern Kentucky Performing Arts Center and take in a show or a class.

Day 4

Take a guided tour of Hidden River Cave & American Cave Museum.

Day 5

Spend the day at Lake Malone State Park, fishing, swimming, kayaking, and hiking.

Day 6

Golf at Novadell Golf Course and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 7

Take a trip to Sumner Crest Winery and enjoy a tasting of their award-winning wines.

Food and Drink Scene of Russellville

Must-Try Dishes

A visit to Russellville would not be complete without trying some of the local favorites. Some must-try dishes include:

Hot Brown

This Kentucky classic features turkey, bacon, Mornay sauce, and cheese, making it the perfect comfort food.

Fried Chicken

There is nothing like Southern fried chicken, and the restaurants in Russellville offer some of the best around.

Burgoo

This hearty stew is a Kentucky staple that features a mix of meats, vegetables, and spices.

Local Beverages

No trip to Kentucky is complete without trying some of the local beverages. Here are a few to try in Russellville:

Bourbon

The state’s famous bourbon is a must-try for whiskey lovers. Visit any of the local restaurants and bars in Russellville to try some of the best Kentucky has to offer.

Ale-8-One

This ginger ale is a Kentucky favorite and makes for the perfect refreshing beverage on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Russellville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Russellville has a range of accommodations to suit all types of travelers. From quaint bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, there is something for everyone.

Some popular options include:

The Brickyard Inn & Suites

This historic hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is located within walking distance of downtown Russellville.

Olde Towne Inn

This bed and breakfast features cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel right at home.

What to Buy in Russellville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Russellville can take home a piece of the town with them by purchasing some local products and souvenirs.

Mementos

Visit the local gift shops and souvenir stores to find unique items to remind you of your trip, including t-shirts, magnets, and locally-made crafts.

Local Products

Stop by any of the farmer’s markets in Russellville to purchase locally grown produce, homemade jams and jellies, and other locally made products to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Russellville

Southern hospitality is a hallmark of Russellville, where visitors can expect a warm welcome wherever they go. Respect for tradition and family is also essential, with many locals proud of their heritage and the history of the region.

Best Time to Visit Russellville

The best time to visit Russellville is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot, but it’s an ideal season for water activities, while winter can be chilly but offers a cozy atmosphere and holiday festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Russellville

Do:

  • Embrace Southern hospitality and be friendly to the locals.
  • Visit the local farmer’s markets and try some of the locally grown produce.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Leave your trash behind on hiking and biking trails.
  • Ignore the history and architecture of the town.
  • Be rude or dismissive to the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Russellville

Russellville is a safe and friendly town with low crime rates. Visitors should still use common sense when out and about and keep an eye on their belongings.

Health in Russellville

There are several hospitals and clinics in Russellville, offering quality care to visitors in case of illness or injury.

Getting to Russellville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Russellville

The nearest major airport to Russellville is the Nashville International Airport, which is about 75 miles away. The Bowling Green-Warren County Regional Airport is also an option and is located about 40 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Russellville

The nearest bus station to Russellville is the Greyhound station in Bowling Green, which is about 40 miles away.

Other Options

The most convenient way to get around Russellville and the surrounding areas is by car or bike. Visitors can rent a car from the airport or local rental agencies, or bring their own.

How to Get Around in Russellville

Russellville is a small town, and most attractions and places of interest are within walking or biking distance. Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi if necessary.

Where to Go Next from Russellville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Russellville can explore the surrounding areas for more sights and activities. The nearby town of Bowling Green offers several attractions, including the National Corvette Museum and Lost River Cave. The Mammoth Cave National Park, which is home to the world’s largest cave, is also a short drive from Russellville.

Conclusion

Russellville may be a small town, but it’s packed with history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can spend their days exploring the town’s museums and historical sites, hiking or biking the nearby trails, or enjoying the local food and drink scene. With its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, Russellville is the perfect destination for a relaxing and memorable trip.