Hopkinsville Travel Guide

Discover Hopkinsville in Kentucky with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the natural attractions, historical sites, and delicious food and drinks of this charming town.


If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Kentucky’s Western Waterlands, Hopkinsville is the place to be. This charming town boasts natural attractions, rich history and a flourishing arts community. From scenic outdoor adventures to cultural hotspots, Hopkinsville has something for everyone.

Introduction to Hopkinsville

Hopkinsville is a city located in Christian County, Kentucky, in the south of the United States. It is a vibrant town that has a lot to offer, from outdoor recreation to rich culture. The city was founded in 1804 and named after Samuel Hopkins, a pioneer and revolutionary war soldier. Located in Western Waterlands, Hopkinsville is known for its beautiful natural scenery, stunning outdoor adventures, and exciting cultural attractions. With a population of over 30,000, the city serves as both a commercial hub and a tourist destination.

List of Places to Visit in Hopkinsville

Here is our list of the top places to visit in Hopkinsville.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Fort Campbell Historical Foundation – Located just a few miles from Hopkinsville, this foundation is dedicated to preserving the history of the Fort Campbell military base and its impact on the surrounding communities. Visitors can explore a museum with military-themed exhibits and artifacts, attend events, and even book group tours.
  • Jeffers Bend Environmental Center – A nature reserve and environmental center providing educational programs, workshops, and walking trails. While here, visitors can enjoy fishing, birdwatching, and picnicking.
  • Pennyroyal Area Museum – With a vast collection of exhibits, this museum aims to provide historical, cultural, and educational programming to the community. The museum is located in the old post-office building and old bank building in downtown Hopkinsville.
  • War Memorial Building – This is a beautiful historic building that serves as a monument to all who have served in the country’s military. It currently houses the Chamber of Commerce but also hosts events and activities throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Hopkinsville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Trail of Tears Commemorative Park and Heritage Center – The center honors and shares information about the history and impact of the Native American Trail of Tears’ route through Kentucky. The park has walking trails, picnic areas, and a museum of information about the tragic events in American history.
  • Lake Beshear – It is an idyllic lake located in Northern Christian County and perfect for fishing, boating, and camping.
  • Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park – A vacation destination for anyone who appreciates the natural beauty of Kentucky. The park has ample opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and camping.
  • Hopkinsville Greenway System – This is a walking and biking trail with beautiful scenic views of Hopkinsville. The trail has multiple picnic points, birdwatching opportunities, and a river running parallel.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hopkinsville

Here are some popular hiking and biking routes in Hopkinsville:

Hiking Trails

  • Lake and Hiking Trail – Located near Lake Barkley in the Pennyrile State Forest, this trail is a 6-mile-long loop hike. The trail offers lake views and is great for camping.
  • Copperhead Trail – This stunning trail is 2.5 miles long and runs through a beautiful forest area. It is great for beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful walk.
  • Trail of Tears Walkway – This trail is dedicated to the Cherokee Trail of Tears, a historic journey that crossed through Kentucky. It is a 1.5-mile walk and has several informative stops along the trail.

Biking Routes

  • North Trail System – A 5.5-mile trail for hiking and biking. The trail is great for intermediate riders and has several technical challenges.
  • Southwest Trail System – A 7.5-mile trail for mountain biking with several technical trails, great for advanced riders.
  • Hopkinsville Greenway System – A scenic multi-use trail that runs along the Little River. The trail is perfect for families with children, beginners, and anyone looking for a leisurely bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Hopkinsville: Activities and Tours

Here are some top-rated activities to do in Hopkinsville:

  • Relax on Lake Beshear – Spend the day fishing, kayaking, or swimming in this tranquil lake.
  • Visit Jeffers Bend Environmental Center – Take a guided tour or explore the beautiful nature reserve, perfect for birdwatching or a peaceful picnic.
  • Go horseback riding – Do what a cowboy does and go for a horseback ride at one of the local stables.
  • Taste local wine – Visit the Casey Jones Distillery or MB Roland Distillery for an excellent taste of local wines and spirits.
  • Join the Museums and Art Walk – every first Thursday of the month, a downtown art walk is organized along with tours of military memorabilia and exhibits.

Week-long Itinerary for Hopkinsville

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for your visit to Hopkinsville, KY:

Day Activity
1 Explore Downtown Hopkinsville, take the museum and art walk, and shop at local stores
2 Visit Lake Beshear or Jeffers Bend Environmental Center
3 Head over to Adsmore House and Gardens or Fort Campbell Historical Foundation
4 Try some horseback riding or hit the Hopkinsville Greenway System on a bike
5 Take a day trip to Pennyrile Forest State Park, relax, and hike
6 See the natural beauty and history of Hopkinsville by going to Trail of Tears Commemorative Park and Heritage Center
7 Visit a local distillery or go on a ghost tour of the historic downtown

Food and Drink Scene of Hopkinsville

After a long day of exploring, try some of the local cuisine or grab a drink at a local bar or brewery.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Burgoo – Stew with steamed vegetables, meat, and just enough spice to give it a kick.
  • BBQ – Hopkinsville has many great BBQ places to choose from. They all have their signature sauces and unique flavors of smoked meat.
  • Hot Brown – This dish is a variation of Kentucky’s famous Hot Brown sandwich. It’s a dish made with sliced turkey and ham, covered in a rich cheese sauce with a slice of toasted bread underneath.
  • Fried Chicken – Hopkinsville, like much of the South, is famous for their crispy and golden-fried chicken.

Local Beverages

  • MB Roland Distillery – You can try local Kentucky bourbon and whiskey.
  • Casey Jones Distillery – Gin, whiskey, and other spirits made from locally sourced grains.
  • Ebonite Brewery – Craft beer with a rotating selection of styles, all made on site.
  • Stoby’s Wine and Liquor – A large selection of domestic and imported wines for connoisseurs to choose from.

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

Hopkinsville has many accommodation options for visitors to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Comfort Suites – A budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Best Western Hopkinsville – Located in the heart of downtown, this hotel offers spacious rooms with beautiful views and excellent amenities.
  • Pennyroyal Retreat – A perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway by offering pampering spa services.
  • The Saddle and Surrey Motel – The motel rooms feel like cabins, and the ambiance is serene. Ideal for nature lovers.

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

Take a piece of Hopkinsville back home with you by purchasing some handcrafted items, liquor, antiques, and local products. Here are some options:

  • Jeff’s Country Store – Offering homemade jams, jellies, relishes, and gift boxes with a taste of Kentucky.
  • Jefferson Street Antique and Boutique – A hub for vintage and antique lovers and has an old world charm feeling to it.
  • Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park Gift Shop – The ideal place to buy souvenirs. They have a beautiful selection of clothing, homeware, postcards, and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Hopkinsville

Southern hospitality is alive and well in Hopkinsville, and people here are welcoming and warm. The citizens have a strong sense of community and are proud to support local arts and businesses. Hopkinsville takes pride in its religious heritage, and local churches are an essential part of the community’s fabric.

Best Time to Visit Hopkinsville

The best time to visit Hopkinsville is from March to November as the weather is mild. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and boating or explore the museums and art galleries downtown.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hopkinsville

Do:

  • Attend local events and festivals to experience the camaraderie and unity of the local community.
  • Try the local wines and spirits.
  • Respect the town’s historic architecture and respect private property and local customs.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter the natural areas, leave them as they are found.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in quiet residential areas.
  • Don’t tolerate disrespectful behavior to others.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hopkinsville

Hopkinsville is an overall safe place to visit, but visitors should practice standard safety measures as they would in any unfamiliar area. Visitors should be vigilant while exploring and keep an eye on personal belongings.

Health in Hopkinsville

There are several clinics and hospitals in the area offering standard medical care. Visitors can always obtain over-the-counter medication necessities from nearby pharmacies. Upon arrival at the airport, visitors who are not vaccinated against COVID-19 have the option of getting vaccinated as well.

Getting to Hopkinsville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hopkinsville

The city of Hopkinsville is easily accessible from several airports located near it. Some of the notable ones include:

  • Nashville International Airport – an hour away, and has many domestic, and international airlines operating from here.
  • Bowling Green-Warren County Regional Airport – An hour and a half away, mainly for regional flights.

Bus Stations Near Hopkinsville

  • Greyhound Station – Located in Nashville, visitors can take a Greyhound bus into Hopkinsville.

Other Options

  • Driving – Hopkinsville is located on the Pennyrile Parkway, making it an easy drive from larger cities like Louisville and Nashville.
  • Ride-sharing or Taxis – Visitors can take advantage of ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft and taxi services within the town.

How to Get Around in Hopkinsville

The best way to get around Hopkinsville is by renting a vehicle. However, visitors can use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. The city also has a bus service called the Pennyroyal Regional Transit Authority that covers destinations within Christian, Caldwell, Hopkins, and Todd Counties.

Where to Go Next from Hopkinsville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore nearby attractions like:

  • National Corvette Museum – This museum showcases some of the world’s best car models and is located in Bowling Green.
  • Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area – This is a 170,000-acre recreation area located on the border of Kentucky and Tennessee, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports.
  • Mammoth Cave National Park – A sprawling underground network of caves that covers thousands of acres that is located in western Kentucky.

Conclusion

Hopkinsville is a charming destination ideal for exploring and discovering. The city is steeped in rich history and natural beauty, and visitors will leave with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re here to explore the museums and art galleries, hike the scenic trails, or sample the local cuisine, Hopkinsville has something for every traveler. Follow this travel guide for a fun and memorable trip to the Western Waterlands.