Blog: Off The Rails

A Natural Beauty Beyond the County

2 months ago

Just a short drive from Bowling Green, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to one of the most extraordinary natural landmarks in the world. Known as the longest cave system on Earth, Mammoth Cave features more than 400 miles of…

A Hidden Gem Beneath Bowling Green

2 months ago

Want an adventure? Just beneath the surface of Bowling Green lies a place where history flows as naturally as the river itself: Lost River Cave. At first glance, it feels like a quiet escape, with shaded trails, birdsong, and peaceful…

UnSeen’s Spectacular Return to Fall 2026!

2 months ago

Let’s Get Spooky! It’s that time of year again, UnSeen BG Tours are returning this fall with two incredible experiences that bring Bowling Green’s history and mystery to life! Tickets are always in high demand, so be sure to mark…

Hop Aboard for the sHOw Modular Railroad Club Train Sale!

3 months ago

Calling all train lovers, hobbyists, collectors, families, and anyone who simply enjoys the sight of a beautifully detailed model railroad! The sHOw Modular Railroad Club is bringing the excitement to the Historic RailPark & Train Museum on August 29th for a train sale you won’t want…

RailPark Rendezvous: Singin’ on the Rails

3 months ago

Get ready to step into the golden age of Hollywood! On Saturday, October 17, the Historic RailPark & Train Museum will roll out the red carpet for its fifth annual RailPark Rendezvous: Singin’ on the Rails. Set against the historic…

The Vessel Becomes the Patient: Hospital Car Restoration

3 months ago

At the Historic RailPark & Train Museum, preserving railroad history goes far beyond a historic building; it’s bringing pieces of the past back to life. One of our projects is the restoration of the historic hospital car. This unique railcar…

Celebrate Life’s Special Moments at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum

4 months ago

Life is full of moments worth celebrating birthdays, baby showers, bridal showers, reunions, anniversary parties, graduation celebrations, corporate gatherings, and everything in between. Whatever the occasion, the Historic RailPark & Train Museum offers a one-of-a-kind setting that transforms any event…

My First Event: An Intern’s POV

4 months ago

Working as an Event Intern at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky has already been an amazing experience. I am originally from Nashville, Tennessee, and I am currently a student at Western Kentucky University, where I…

Christmas in July! Get Your Membership Today!

4 months ago

If you love the Historic RailPark, there’s no better time to become a member! Your membership is more than just a pass; it’s a meaningful investment in preserving the rich railroad that helped shape our community. Every membership directly supports…

The Railroad’s Role in 4th of July Festivities

4 months ago

The Railroad’s Role in 4th of July Festivities As we approach another Independence Day, it’s worth remembering the special role that railroads played in our celebrations of freedom, from providing transportation to being part of the festivities themselves. Railroads have…

More Than A Gift Shop: A Gifted Group Of People

5 months ago

A trip to the Historic RailPark & Train Museum is filled with stories of locomotives, railroad workers, and the rich history that helped shape our community. But before you head home, there’s one more stop you won’t want to miss,…

Trolley Bench Restoration: Take a Seat

5 months ago

The BG Trolley made its mark back in 2023 and received so much love. Between the tours and rentals, memories were made to last a lifetime. With its sleek and unique design, you can see it coming down the Square…

sHOw Club Takes NMRA Convention – From Tracks to Chatt

5 months ago

Congratulations! You have been invited to attend the NMRA Convention in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to support the sHOw Modular Railroad Club of Bowling Green, Kentucky! A quick refresher, the sHOw Modular Railroad Club is a model train club that hosts events…

Duncan Hines Days is Here

5 months ago

The flavor of Bowling Green is rolling back into town as the beloved Duncan Hines Festival returns for another week of food, fun, and hometown celebration! Long before his name appeared on grocery store shelves, Duncan Hines was America’s trusted…

Celebrate Your Event in Historic Style

6 months ago

The Historic RailPark and Train Museum is a place where every celebration becomes something truly memorable. Whether you are planning a birthday party, graduation, baby shower, wedding, or corporate gathering, the iconic Depot provides a timeless backdrop for creating lasting…

sHOw Club: On Track for a World Record

6 months ago

Our esteemed friends with the sHOw Modular Model Railroad Club are on a conquest. That would be to break a world record… well, again. Breaking their model layout back in 2016, they’re working again to break it again ten years…

Time to Pour: BG Wine Fest is Back for Its 8th Year

6 months ago

We are back and ready to pop the top! July 11th is our 8th annual BG Wine Fest held at The Historic RailPark & Train Museum. Join us for a day of sipping, shopping, and snacking. It’s a fabulous summer…

Feel Like a Kid Again: Fund a Field Trip

6 months ago

When you were a kid, and your teacher announced you were going on a field trip next week, you probably didn’t give it a second thought. All you could think about was how excited you were to get out of…

Oral History: A Glimpse into The Depot’s 100 Years

7 months ago

As part of the Historic RailPark & Train Museum’s 100th Anniversary, we recently completed an important phase of our Oral History Project made possible through support from the Kentucky Oral History Commission. Over the course of several days, we had…

Good Golly! It’s the BG Trolley!

7 months ago

Hop on to our BG Trolley and stay for a while! We’re open for another spectacular season during spring and summer. Whether you’re visiting Bowling Green for the first time or are a local, it’s an underrated gem for all!…

A Look Back at the VCCA in Bowling Green

7 months ago

VCCA 2014While digging through our photo archives recently, we uncovered a fantastic image that instantly transported us back in time. Taken in April 2017, the photo shows a lineup of stunning vintage automobiles posed in front of our historic L&N…

My Time at the RailPark: An Event in Itself

7 months ago

By: Molly Claire Abell The sky, with its looming presence, gives a harsh glimpse of the day’s events; the L & N trains making quick work of the rails. Children cling to their mothers while friends wait idly as the…

Drawing Your Attention to Bowling Green

7 months ago

By: Alyssa Guidugli Art is something that everyone is fond of, in one shape or another. Our historic little town is no exception to having fine artists as well. Let’s hop back to 1964 and meet Mrs. Peg Truman, a…

Keeping on Track, One Month at a Time

8 months ago

By: Jessica Warren Back in 2022 and 2023, we were incredibly fortunate to have many supporters who chose to give monthly. At the time, those monthly gifts were tied to our annual campaigns, so when a campaign ended, the…

Sip & Putt 2026: A Hole-In-Fun

8 months ago

On March 13th, we braved the Friday the 13th jitters and hosted our 6th annual Sip & Putt Mini Golf Scramble. That didn’t stop us from having our best turnout to date. The doors opened at 11:30 A.M., and we…

25 Years of Model Train Shows

8 months ago

By Grace McDowell, Bowling Green Daily NewsBy Grace McDowell, Bowling Green Daily NewsBy Grace McDowell, Bowling Green Daily NewsBy Grace McDowell, Bowling Green Daily NewsBy Grace McDowell, Bowling Green Daily NewsBy Grace McDowell, Bowling Green Daily NewsBy Grace McDowell, Bowling…

What Conference Badges Taught Me

8 months ago

By Jamie Johnson While organizing my office recently, I came across a stack of conference badges collected over the past 12 years. Some were easy to let go. Others were still hanging on my vision board. Seeing them together reminded…

Romance at the RailPark: Closing a Beautiful Chapter

9 months ago

By Jamie Johnson Twelve years ago, we hosted the very first Romance at the RailPark. We had no idea what to expect. Would anyone buy a ticket to dine in vintage railcars at the historic train depot? Would couples embrace…

From The Tracks to Treatment: Inside Hospital Cars

9 months ago

By: Alyssa Guidugli I guess I had never really given much thought about the anatomy of a hospital car, especially on a train track. What it boils down to is how much of a necessity they really are in aiding…

Sip and Putt Mini Golf Scramble 2026

9 months ago

Sip & Putt – Mini Golf Scramble 2026 We’re coming in hot for another year of fun, competition, and community support! Get ready for the 6th Annual Sip & Putt Mini Golf Scramble, happening March 13, 2026, at the Historic…

RailPark Volunteer Named Best Attraction Volunteer

9 months ago

We are proud to share that one of our dedicated volunteers has been recognized at the 4th Annual SKy Hospitality Star Awards, which celebrate outstanding hospitality and tourism professionals across the Bowling Green area. Since joining the Historic RailPark &…

Returning to Romance – A Disco Dream

10 months ago

Returning to Romance – A Disco Dream Let’s boogie on down for an enchanting evening at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum as we present the 12th Annual Romance at the RailPark event with a disco theme, serving up some…

Window Restoration Campaign Update

10 months ago

Window Restoration Campaign Update By: Jessica Warren When the L&N Depot was built in 1925, I can only imagine the heart and soul that went into every design decision. From selecting the perfect Bowling Green limestone, laying the Italian…

Bowling Green’s Heart: Canteens Across the Wars

10 months ago

Photo: Nebraska Canteen - North Platte - Community Canteen. The L&N Depot in Bowling Green, Kentucky had a canteen inside the building, but a photo does not exist. It would have looked like what is seen here.Photo: Canteen girls of…

Community Canteens During WW II

10 months ago

Photo: Some volunteers walked along the trains passing out treats to troops, while other volunteers served soldiers inside the canteen - Union pacific Railroad.Canteen Exhibit at the Historic RailPark and Train MuseumNourishing the Spirit Community Canteens during WW II As…

RailPark in Retrospect

10 months ago

RailPark In Retrospect By: Alyssa Guidugli Hi there! My name is Alyssa Guidugli, and you may not have seen my face, but you have definitely gotten an email from me! I primarily do the marketing for the RailPark, among other…

Volunteers Make Polar Express Magical

11 months ago

Volunteers Make Polar Express Magical As the last night of Polar Express Storytime falls quiet at the L&N Depot, we are reminded that this event is special not because of the decorations or the railcar itself, but because of the…

How Trains Shaped American Holidays

11 months ago

How Trains Shaped American Holidays For generations of American families, the holiday season did not begin with a packed car on the interstate or a boarding call at the airport gate. It began at a train station. Before highways spread…

Leadership BG Class of 2026 Explores the RailPark

12 months ago

Leadership BG Class of 2026 Explores the RailPark The Historic RailPark & Train Museum was proud to be one of the featured stops during the Leadership Bowling Green Class of 2026 Economy & Tourism Day. This annual program offers participants…

UnSeen BG Tours Earns Statewide KTIA Award

12 months ago

At the Historic RailPark & Train Museum, we love sharing the untold stories of Bowling Green. Our UnSeen BG Tour program takes visitors beyond the museum walls and into the city’s most mysterious, inspiring, and sometimes mischievous corners. Each tour blends history,…

A New Way to Support the RailPark: Donate Your Vehicle

1 year ago

By Jessica Warren The Historic RailPark & Train Museum is excited to share a new way you can support our mission: by donating your vehicle. Located along the key north-south corridor between Louisville and Nashville, Bowling Green has always played…

Rendezvous Silent Auction is Live!

1 year ago

RailPark Rendezvous Silent Auction is Live! The RailPark Rendezvous is almost here, and one of the most exciting parts of the evening has already begun! Our silent auction is now live, and you can start bidding today. You don’t have to…

100th Anniversary of the 728th Railway Operating Battalion

1 year ago

Photo: 728th with one of the trains they had responsibility for maintaining - the University of Louisville ArchivesPhoto: Little Toot - University of Louisville Archives100th Anniversary of the 728th Railway Operating Battalion Around this time last year we shared the…

Polar Express Early TICKET Access for Members

1 year ago

Polar Express Early TICKET Access for Members The most magical time of the year is almost here, and we are excited to share details about the return of our beloved Polar Express Storytime. Each winter, families from across Bowling Green…

One Month to RailPark Rendezvous

1 year ago

The countdown is on! We are officially just one month away from the 4th Annual RailPark Rendezvous, and now is the time to secure your tickets so you don’t miss out on this unforgettable evening. This year’s Rendezvous will be…

A New Era of Streamlined Speed

1 year ago

A New Era of Streamlined Speed On September 10, 1940, just 85 years ago, the Louisville and Nashville Railroad introduced something that seemed almost futuristic to passengers stepping onto the platform: the first streamlined passenger train ever to travel its…

The L&N Depot’s First Fall Season

1 year ago

September 1925: The L&N Depot’s First Fall Season As we step into the fall season and continue celebrating the 100th anniversary of the L&N Depot, it’s worth pausing to imagine what this building looked and felt like during its very…

UnSeen BG Tickets Go on Sale August 28 & 29

1 year ago

It’s that time of year again, UnSeen BG Tours are returning this fall with two incredible experiences that bring Bowling Green’s history and mystery to life! Tickets are always in high demand, so be sure to mark your calendar for…

RailPark Rendezvous Returns

1 year ago

We’re ready to rendezvous with you at the 4th Annual RailPark Rendezvous! This year’s celebration promises to be one of our best yet, featuring dueling pianos with the smooth, high-energy sounds of Howl at the Moon Productions. Their dynamic show will…

“Traqueros” The Mexican American Railroad Track Workers

1 year ago

Photo: Mexican American women workers on the Southern pacific Railroad during WW2 - Arizona Historical Society, Division of Library and Archives.“Traqueros” The Mexican American Railroad Track Workers In the vast and intricate web of railroad history, certain terms hold cultural…

Years of Transportation and the Railroad’s Enduring Legacy

1 year ago

Railroad map circa 1890Railroad map currently250 Years of Transportation and the Railroad’s Enduring Legacy By: Jamie Johnson, Executive Director As we look forward to celebrating 250 years of American independence, we reflect not only on the founding of our nation—but…

Coupled by Trains: Reconnecting with Friends at the NRHS Convention

1 year ago

Jamie Johnson along with Bill and Jim pose in front of the Pere Marquette 1225 currently under restoration at Owasso.Coupled by Trains: Reconnecting with Friends at the NRHS Convention By Jamie S. Johnson This summer I had the opportunity to…

Railfans United for the PNLX 57 Run-by

1 year ago

Railfans United for the PNLX 57 Run-byBy Jamie S. Johnson Stretched out along a rolling hill just outside Ithaca, Michigan, the line quietly formed as dozens of us stood shoulder to shoulder, cameras in hand, waiting in hushed anticipation. We…

Meeting the Engine Behind the Polar Express

1 year ago

By Jamie S. Johnson As a longtime Polar Express enthusiast, visiting the Steam Railroading Institute in Owosso, Michigan, home to the legendary Pere Marquette 1225, was nothing short of magical. The real-life steam engine that inspired the locomotive in The Polar…

One Year to #America250KY

1 year ago

One Year to #America250KY By: Jamie Johnson, Executive Director July 2025 marks a powerful moment in our nation’s story—we are now just one year away from the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. On July 4, 1776, delegates…

Your Gateway to Bowling Green

1 year ago

Every great adventure needs a starting point, and in Bowling Green that place is the Historic RailPark & Train Museum. Our story begins with movement, the arrival of the railroad that transformed our city into a hub of travel, trade, and opportunity.…

Mail & Mobility: From Railroads to Modern Logistics

1 year ago

Before email, overnight shipping, and same-day delivery, the fastest way to move mail across the country was by train. Railroads weren’t just a means of travel for passengers, they were the backbone of communication. For Bowling Green, that meant the…

Railroads Go to War: Honoring Service and Sacrifice

1 year ago

"Partners in Victory" - An insight of what it was like to be a working woman during the war season. The jobs that made them an important asset to our country."The Great War" - A synopsis of the impact the…

Duncan Hines: A Legacy of Travel & Taste

1 year ago

This week, Bowling Green is buzzing with excitement as the annual Duncan Hines Festival kicks off, celebrating one of our city’s most famous natives. Long before his name was found on grocery store shelves, Duncan Hines was a pioneer of travel…

Preserving Memory, Inspiring Action

1 year ago

The template that stands for our window restoration.Debbie and Ryan on their first night of the Shake Rag Tour with esteemed guestsOur trolley rides sure leave folks with lasting smiles.Preserving Memory, Inspiring Action By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director As…

A Historic Breakfast at the Fred Harvey Restaurant at Union Station, St. Louis

1 year ago

Interior of Station Grille at Union Station in St. Louis. Photo Courtesy: stlouisunionstation.com.Interior of Station Grille at Union Station in St. Louis. Photo Courtesy: stlouisunionstation.com.A Historic Breakfast at the Fred Harvey Restaurant at Union Station, St. Louis By Jamie Johnson…

Let the Light In: Help Restore the Windows of the L&N Depot

1 year ago

L&N Depot NowLet the Light In: Help Restore the Windows of the L&N Depot By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director For 100 years, the windows of Bowling Green’s L&N Depot have welcomed light, framed history, and quietly witnessed the journeys of…

The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters

2 years ago

Image is a feature of our exhibit in the museum (3)Image is a feature of our exhibit in the museum (4)Image is a feature of our exhibit in the museum (5)Image is a feature of our exhibit in the museum…

Shake Rag & Scandals: Spring with UnSeen BG

2 years ago

Shake Rag Historic Walking Tour in Downtown Bowling GreenThe REAL Housewives of BG TourShake Rag TourRails and Revelations: What I Learned Aboard a Moving Meeting By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director Shake Rag & Scandals: Spring with UnSeen BG The stories…

Railroad Canteen Opening in Bowling Green1945

2 years ago

Women Waving GoodbyeRailroad Canteen Opening in Bowling Green 1945 Amid the chaos and challenges of World War II, communities across the United States rallied together to support the troops. Bowling Green, Kentucky, was no exception, as revealed in a heartwarming…

Rails and Revelations: What I Learned Aboard a Moving Meeting

2 years ago

Rails and Revelations: What I Learned Aboard a Moving Meeting By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director This past week, I had the privilege of attending a Rail Committee meeting hosted by Kentuckians for Better Transportation (KBT)—a nonprofit organization committed to improving…

Looking Back: The Streamlined Spark That Changed Passenger Rail Forever

2 years ago

The GG1 electric locomotive became an icon of rail efficiency and innovation along the Northeast Corridor.Looking Back: The Streamlined Spark That Changed Passenger Rail Forever By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director On this day—April 11, 1938—the Pennsylvania Railroad introduced a train…

Tall Tales from the Tracks: Celebrating Railroad Legends on April Fools’ Day

2 years ago

The legend of John Henry reminds us of the human power behind our railroads.Tall Tales from the Tracks: Celebrating Railroad Legends on April Fools’ Day By Jamie Johnson, Executive Director April 1st has long been a day for jokes, pranks,…

Sip, Putt, Repeat – Reliving the Fun from Sip & Putt 2025!

2 years ago

RailPark Sip and PuttThe most challenging hole of the course was located in our Giftshop!Located in our Railcar, players shared drinks and laughs as they putted.On the second floor of the museum, another complex putting green challenges participants.A player attempts…

Railcar Restoration Underway

2 years ago

A RailCar and Military Equipment Painting crew member mends the Presidential Car.Duncan Hines Dine Car under repair in preparation for full repainting.Towering Pine Sleeper Car under repair in preparation for full repainting.Towering Pine Sleeper Car under repair in preparation for…

Women in Railroading the Wheels Turning

2 years ago

Photo: Women railroad workers (1917 - 1918) at Lincoln Park Station working for te Buffalo, Rochester, and Pittsburgh Railway Company - World War Centennial.Photo: WW1 era engine cleaners on the Southwestern.Photo: Women railroad laborers (1918) in front of the engine…

Sip & Putt – Mini Golf Scramble 2025

2 years ago

Sip & Putt – Mini Golf Scramble 2025 We’re back for another year of fun, competition, and community support! Get ready for the 5th Annual Sip & Putt Mini Golf Scramble, happening March 14, 2025, at the Historic RailPark &…

Elvis Has Left the Building: A Look Back at Romance at the RailPark 2025

2 years ago

An Elvis impersonator from Memphis, Tennessee brought the room to life with music.A couple dances along to the music as they enjoy the evening.The music brought everyone to life with smiles and laughter.The inside of the Railcar was transformed for…

War Letters from the Frontlines

2 years ago

Women Waving GoodbyeLetters from the Frontlines Amid World War II, as soldiers were stationed far from home, separated by vast oceans and continents, a connection was maintained through the written word. For the employees of the Louisville & Nashville Railroad,…

L&N Depot’s 100th Anniversary Launches Window Restoration Campaign

2 years ago

L&N Depot’s 100th Anniversary Launches Window Restoration Campaign For 100 years, the L&N Depot has been a cornerstone of history, travel, and community. As we celebrate this centennial milestone, we are embarking on a critical restoration project to preserve one…

Love Me Tender: A Special Lunch with Elvis Presley’s Private Nurse at Romance at the RailPark

2 years ago

Taking Care of Elvis written by Letetia Henley Kirk.Love Me Tender: A Special Lunch with Elvis Presley’s Private Nurse at Romance at the RailPark The Historic RailPark & Train Museum is bringing something truly special to its 11th Annual Romance…

A Forgotten Era: The Rise and Fall of the American Trolley

2 years ago

Passengers ride idly while some engrossed in conversation, pass through Charleston, South Carolina.A young women hoping off the trolley after arriving to her destination in Toronto.Two men stand alongside a trolley in downtown Yorkville, Illinois.The Tolley by Stephen Low. Photo…

Romance at the RailPark – A Night with Elvis

2 years ago

Romance at the RailPark – A Night with Elvis Get ready for an enchanting evening at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum as we present the 11th Annual Romance at the RailPark event with an exciting Elvis-inspired twist! This year,…

Explore the Legacy of John Carpenter with Bowling Green Trolley Tours

2 years ago

Michael Myers at the BG Capitol. Photo credit: BG CVB.John Carpenter Lives! will show Carpenter's iconic movies in January, 2025. Photo credit: BG CVB.Explore the Legacy of John Carpenter with Bowling Green Trolley Tours Bowling Green, KY, is rolling out…

Christmas Eve Magic with the Historic RailPark

2 years ago

Light Up the Depot brings the BG community together to kick off the holiday season with lights and colors.Christmas Eve Magic with the Historic RailPark As Christmas Eve settles in and the twinkling lights of the season cast a warm…

Toy Trains Under the Christmas Tree

2 years ago

Polar Express themed ornaments and train toys ready for sale at the RailPark gift shop.As the holiday season rolls in, many families pull out an assortment of cherished decorations: ornaments, wreaths, lights, and for some, a beloved toy train to…

Hot Rod Meets Train

2 years ago

A vintage truck transformed into a train truck at the Orange Empire Railroad Museum. Photo credit: LGB Trains @lgb_trains, X.Car builder Ian Roussel works on transforming a vintage truck into a train truck at the Orange Empire Railroad Museum. Photo…

The Arkansas Missouri Railroad maintains its rich history with the display and use of historic railcars.

A Day on the Arkansas Missouri Railroad

2 years ago

The Arkansas Missouri Railroad maintains its rich history with the display and use of historic railcars.Many visitors and train enthusiasts have fun exploring the Arkansas Missouri Railroad Transportation Museum.A Day on the Arkansas Missouri Railroad By Jamie Johnson There’s something…

BG Trolley Tours presents “Christmas Presents of a Christmas Past”

2 years ago

Trolley Christmas Presents of Christmas PastBG Trolley presents "Christmas Presents of a Christmas Past".BG TrolleyBG Trolley Tours presents “Christmas Presents of a Christmas Past” This December, immerse yourself in a nostalgic Christmas experience with BG Trolley Tours’ newest holiday offering,…

Join Us to Light Up the Depot!

2 years ago

Light Up the Depot brings the BG community together to kick off the holiday season with lights and colors.A decorated Christmas tree adds warmth to the Grand Lobby during the 2023 Light Up the Depot.Join Us to Light Up the…

World War I: Troop and Passenger Movement by Railroads

2 years ago

First Contingent of soldiers at the University of Kentucky , University of Kentucky ArchivesMurray State University, Special Collections and Exhibits, , Murray Calloway County CollectionWorld War I: Troop and Passenger Movement by Railroads As the world plunged into the chaos…

Double Your Impact: $50,000 Matching Fund Gift

2 years ago

Duncan Hines Dining Car platform side damaged exterior.Duncan Hines Dining Car track side exterior in progress of repair.Towering Pine Sleeper Car unpainted track side exterior.Towering Pine Sleeper Car platform side damaged exterior.Double Your Impact: $50,000 Matching Fund Gift By: Jamie…

The Haunting of the L&N Line: The Legend of the Ghost Train

2 years ago

Only on the foggiest nights can the Ghost Train be seen, many theories help explain the folklore.The Haunting of the L&N Line: The Legend of the Ghost Train For decades, train enthusiasts and locals alike have shared eerie tales of…

Polar Express Storytime 2024

2 years ago

Polar Express Storytime: Early Ticket Access for Members The holiday season is approaching, and so is one of Bowling Green’s most beloved traditions: Polar Express Storytime at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum. This enchanting event, running from December 2-12, 2024, brings the…

Exploring the Ozarks on the Branson Scenic Railway

2 years ago

A young man waits with other train enthusiasts to travel the White River Railway.Liam, the train's conductor, shares stories explaining the history of the Branson Scenic Railway.Branson Scenic Railway greeted guests of the Heritage Rail Alliance with a customized place…

Canteens Offer Trackside Compassion During WWII Pt 2.

2 years ago

Photo: Display a heartfelt letter of appreciation from soldiers who stopped at Troy, Ohio.Photo: Canteen hut in Crestline, Ohio was built with pennies donated by school children.Photo: Some volunteers walked along the trains passing out treats to troops, while other…

Canteens Offer Trackside Compassion During WWII Pt 1.

2 years ago

Photo: The War Department's transportation map shows the main routes across the United States for the movement of troops. Canteens were strategically established along these routes, with states like Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and new York witnessing the highest traffic…

728th Railway Operating Battalion

2 years ago

Photo: 728th with one of the trains they had responsibility for maintaining - the University of Louisville ArchivesPhoto: Little Toot - University of Louisville ArchivesWW2 Exhibit 728th Railway Operating Battalion - Doug Lathrem728th Railway Operating Battalion As World War II…

Exploring Train-Themed Hotels: A Journey from the Saint Louis Union Station Hotel

2 years ago

The Grand Hall Lounge at the St. Louis Union Station Hotel. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia CommonsSt. Louis Union Station Hotel, St. Louis, Missouri. Photo Courtesy: Wikimedia CommonsExploring Train-Themed Hotels: A Journey from the Saint Louis Union Station Hotel By Jamie Johnson…

Exploring Pennsylvania’s Rail Heritage: NRHS Conference in Harrisburg, PA

2 years ago

Jamie Johnson poses with Jim and Bill at the Strasburg railroad.The exquisite interior of Rockhill Trolley.Volunteer trolley conductor Joey posses next to the Rockhill Trolley ready to go for a ride.Train enthusiast Bill poses in front of the Leetonia Railway…

WWII & the L&N Railroad

2 years ago

Map of RailroadsWW2 Exhibit at the Historic RailPark and Train MuseumWWII & the L&N Railroad The echoes of World War II resonated far beyond the battlefields, reaching every corner of society, including the railways that crisscrossed the nation. The Louisville…

African American Women Railroaders

2 years ago

Photo: WW2 (1943) Women working on a railroad crew, track maintenance - Alamy.com.Photo: WW2 - Track Cleaners - B&O Railroad - Alamy.com.African American Women Railroaders World War II brought about unprecedented changes to the workforce as the nation faced a…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark by Abigail Markel

2 years ago

Travel Critique Assignment: A Student’s View of the RailPark By Abigail Markel Welcome back to another edition of “A Student’s View” series, where I share insights from my recent journey to the RailPark. As a student at Western Kentucky University,…

World War I: L&N Railroad Birth to the Battlefronts

2 years ago

Photo of a Louisville & Nashville Railcar.World War I: L&N Railroad Birth to the Battlefronts The Louisville & Nashville Railroad, affectionately known as the ‘Old Reliable,’ stands as a testament to the evolution and endurance of America’s railroads. Established in…

Preserving History on A Journey through the RailPark

2 years ago

Preserving History on A Journey through the RailPark Stepping into the RailPark is like stepping back in time. The L&N Depot, meticulously restored by the dedicated volunteers of the Friends of L&N Depot, stands proudly as one of Bowling Green’s…

Celebrating Independence Day with the Railroad

2 years ago

The Historic RailPark & Train Museum administrative team decor the depot with the US flag for July 4, 2024 celebration.Celebrating Independence Day with the Railroad: A Journey Through History Independence Day is a time to honor our nation’s past, celebrate…

Keep an Open Mind When Visiting the Historic RailPark

2 years ago

Men pose in front of a train during WW II. Photo courtesy: Doug Lanthrem.Men working on railroads during WW II. Photo courtesy: Doug Lanthrem. Keep an Open Mind When Visiting the Historic RailPark Visiting a train museum may not be…

Kathryn Brown Gilbert: A Trailblazing L&N Railroad Woman Employee from Bowling Green, KY

2 years ago

Photo: Kathryn Brown Gilbert - Courtesy of Glenda WhiteKathryn Brown Gilbert: A Trailblazing L&N Railroad Woman Employee from Bowling Green, KY In the rich tapestry of railroad history, certain individuals stand out as trailblazers, defying gender norms and leaving an…

Summer Reading From L&N Magazine

2 years ago

Summer Reading Suggestions from the L&N Magazine 1974Blog Image- Summer Reading Suggestions from the L&N Magazine 1974 article_Page_1Blog Image- Summer Reading Suggestions from the L&N Magazine 1974 article_Page_2Front of L&N MagazineBack of L&N Magazine SUMMERBOOKFAIR May of us today still…

Rosie the Riveter: Women at the Forefront of World War II Industry

2 years ago

Photo: American female workers/riveters - Library of Congress.Photo: A glimpse into the engine department of North America's Inglewood, CA plant, where American female riveters assemble part of the cowling for a B-25 bomber. This reflects the diversity of roles women…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark by Meg Bevil

2 years ago

Travel Critique Assignment: A Student’s View of the RailPark By Meg Bevil Welcome back to another edition of the “A Student’s View” series, featuring insights from my recent visit to the Bowling Green Historic Rail Park Museum. As a student…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark by Ian White

2 years ago

A Students View: Travel Critique of the RailPark By Ian White Welcome back to our ongoing series, “A Student’s View,” where we delve into firsthand experiences and critiques of various attractions. Today, we’re excited to share Ian White’s journey through…

L&N Magazine Farewell Edition

3 years ago

Front of L&N MagazineBack of L&N MagazineL&N Magazine Farewell Edition – No. 578 May-June 1974 We often receive handwritten requests for literature about our attraction and the famed L&N rail line. Our most recent request was from a youth from Illinois,…

Kentucky Derby 150th Anniversary

3 years ago

Amid newsmen and cheering crowds, proud groom and trainer lead 1960 Derby winner, Venetian Way, to winner's circle, Jokey Bill Hartack is aboard. Photo by Bob Ludwig.From the horse's mouthAmong the dozens of cars and trains handled into L&N's Station…

Caboose Get’s a Renovation

3 years ago

Caboose #6497 aftter restoration in 2023.Caboose Dishman -Lane Yard 7-01 (3)interior of caboose looking left 08 07 23Caboose crew 08 07 23crew of the caboose display 08 07 23interior display case right side 08 07 23lantern on top display case…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark by Haley Wigginton Part 2

3 years ago

A Students View: Travel Critique of the RailPark By Haley Wigginton Part 2 of 2 Welcome back to the second part of our “A Student’s View” series featuring Haley Wigginton’s insightful critique of the RailPark. Haley, a dedicated student at…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark by Haley Wigginton

3 years ago

A Students View: Travel Critique of the RailPark By Haley Wigginton Part 1 of 2 Welcome back to another edition of our “A Student’s View” series! This week, we’re sharing Haley Wigginton’s firsthand experience and critique of the RailPark. Haley,…

Bowling Green Hot Rods’ Opening Weekend

3 years ago

bg hotrods stadiumbg-hot-rods-logo⚾ All Aboard the Excitement Express: Bowling Green Hot Rods’ Unmissable Weekend Games! Gear up for a triple play of fun with the Bowling Green Hot Rods as they gear up to showcase their talent in a series…

See Bowling Green on the Historic City Trolley Tour

3 years ago

trolley toursTrolleyrent for your eventhop on hop offspecialty toursDiscover Bowling Green’s Rich History with the Historic City Trolley Tour! Spring break is upon us, and if you’re looking for an exciting way to explore the vibrant city of Bowling Green,…

Women in Railroading During World War II Pt 2.

3 years ago

Photo: Women baggageman (1943) on the Reading Railroad. A striking image captures a women in the of a Baggageman on the Reading Railroad, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating the evolving landscape of employment opportunities for women.Photo: WW2 (1942) women railroad workers…

Pie Day the Duncan Hines Way

3 years ago

Jeff Moore as Duncan Hines by historical markerDHD 2024Celebrate Pi Day with a Slice of History: Duncan Hines-Inspired Pie Recipe Pi Day is a fun time when we mix math and baking. It happens on March 14th, because the date…

Women in Railroading During World War II Pt 1.

3 years ago

Photo: Women railroad mechanic (1940's) at the Long Island Railroad.Photo: Mach 1943 - Seligam, Arizona. Teletype operatr in the telegraph office of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad - Shorpy Old Photos.Women in Railroading During World War II Pt…

Sip & Putt – Mini Golf Scramble March 15, 2024

3 years ago

Sip & Putt – Mini Golf Scramble We’re thrilled to announce the return of one of Bowling Green’s most anticipated events: the 4th Annual Sip & Putt Mini Golf Scramble! Mark your calendars for March 15, 2024, as we invite…

The Thrill of Engineering: My Journey with a Vintage Locomotive

3 years ago

The Thrill of Engineering: My Journey with a Vintage Locomotive By Cory Ramsey I engineered a train locomotive last year. It was a highlight of my life, akin to driving a Corvette C8 sports car around a race track, or…

The Ingenious Dance of the Railway Mail Service Crane

3 years ago

The Ingenious Dance of the Railway Mail Service Crane In the intricate ballet of the American postal system, the Railway Mail Service (RMS) crane played a pivotal role, orchestrating a seamless exchange of mail between moving trains and towns. This…

Romance at the RailPark – Goes Mardi Gras

3 years ago

Romance at the RailPark – Goes Mardi Gras Get ready for an enchanting evening at the Historic RailPark & Train Museum as we present the 10th Annual Romance at the RailPark event with an exciting Mardi Gras twist! This year,…

200th Anniversary of Kentucky’s First Railroad: Lexington & Ohio

3 years ago

1859 Kentucky Railway Map: The section of track between Lexington and Frankfort was later expanded on to Louisville as this 1859 railway map shows. Courtesy of the Kentucky Historical Society. 200th Anniversary of Kentucky’s First Railroad: Lexington & Ohio The…

A Journey into Model Railroading Part 2

3 years ago

A Journey into Model Railroading Part 2 By Cory Ramsey My model railroad, 2022-23 version, started out costing a couple hundred dollars, which quickly became a couple thousand dollars before I could say “Chattanooga Choo-Choo.” Because it never becomes just…

A Journey into Model Railroading Part 1

3 years ago

A Journey into Model Railroading Part 1 By Cory Ramsey Running a railroad is expensive. Most of the time they failed as soon as the freight was exhausted, such as a forest logged out or coal mine picked clean. That’s…

The Great Bristow Train Robbery of 1866

3 years ago

By Cory Ramsey It seems the focus these days of Kentucky and Warren County are the goings on out at the industrial Kentucky Transpark off exit 30 of the Interstate. Sandwiched between the two old railroad station stops of Sunnyside…

Happy New Year: Here’s Our 2024 Events

3 years ago

Welcome to 2024! We hope you had a GREAT 2023 and will continue to have great experiences throughout this calendar year. At the RailPark, we have a year FULL of excitement with great events throughout the months. Check out some…

I’ll Be Home for Christmas

3 years ago

Everyone has their personal favorite when it comes to Christmas songs, but ever since 1943, Americans have held a special place in their heart for Bing Crosby’s “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Upon release, the song immediately became a holiday…

The Nutcracker at SkyPAC!

3 years ago

One of the most timeless Christmas traditions people celebrate is seeing the Nutcracker. The Nutcracker is a ballet filled with fairy tales set on Christmas Eve. The story is centered around a nutcracker that has come to life and befriended…

Lionel: History of the Train Around the Tree

3 years ago

Lionel: History of the Train Around the Tree When people think of classic Christmas decorations, they can envision a warm, cozy setting with a full Christmas tree decorated with bright lights, a star-topper, sparkly ornaments… and a train chugging around…

The RailPark’s Christmas Shopping Guide

3 years ago

As we near the Christmas season, many of us find ourselves scratching our heads trying to come up with the perfect gift for our friends and family. For those who struggle with coming up with the best gifts- fret not!…

Thanksgiving- The Duncan Hines Way!

3 years ago

Happy Thanksgiving Folks! One thing we are thankful for this coming Turkey Day is Duncan Hines’ Bowling Green Heritage. Thanksgiving is all about coming together and showing gratitude to the things in your life over a great meal… and what…

Light Up the Depot: Celebrating Christmas and 30 Years of Restoration at the RailPark

3 years ago

The Historic RailPark & Train Museum will host a celebratory Christmas event at the L&N Depot, where we will “Light Up the Depot” for Christmas for the very first time! November 30th, the RailPark invites the community to join in…

Grandma Got Run Over by BG!

3 years ago

Some of the most popular pastimes many families enjoy together during the holiday season are runs, races, marathons, and 5Ks! The “Turkey Trot” became a staple American Thanksgiving tradition in 1896 that has now spread across the country. Running USA…

Polar Express Storytime 2023

3 years ago

While many people think it is too early for Christmas music on the radio, many would agree it is NEVER too early to prepare for Polar Express Storytime! One of the most beloved Bowling Green Christmas traditions is visiting the…

Happy Halloween from Derek the Depot Dog!

3 years ago

Happy Halloween folks! This year for Halloween, “Derek the Depot Dog” went trick-or-treating amongst the vintage railcars dressed as the infamous postal dog, Owney! For those who don’t know the story of Owney, here is the tale of the postal…

Three Springs Hospitality: The Perfect Place for Your BG Stay!

3 years ago

Traveling to Bowling Green can include all types of exciting plans, from a guided tour throughout the vintage L&N railcars here at the RailPark to a boat tour through Lost River Cave to peering into the sinkhole beneath the Skydome…

Haunted Lantern Tours 2023

3 years ago

Wake up… Haunted Lantern Tours have returned! When the spooky season comes around, you are sure to find a fright during the Haunted Lantern Tours. Haunted Lantern Tours are seasonal tours put on annually by a cast of characters portraying…

“Fire and Ice” Rendezvous Recap

3 years ago

Rendezvous Recap September 14, the Historic RailPark & Train Museum hosted the 3rd annual RailPark Rendezvous. The signature fundraising event was themed “Fire and Ice,” with hot decor, cool drinks, and amazing live entertainment. Over 180 guests joined us in celebrating the museum’s history,…

Racehorses on the Railway

3 years ago

Racehorses on the Railway Happy Keeneland season folks! Here at the RailPark, you learn all about locomotive horsepower and how transportation evolved from horse-drawn carriages to passenger railcars. But that is not all that is interesting about horses and trains……

Curated Wine Collection

3 years ago

Curated Wine Collection The Historic RailPark and Train Museum is thrilled to announce the Curated Wine Collection, a collaboration with Carriage House Vineyards! The Curated Wine Collection is two specialty wines bottled and produced by Carriage House Vineyards to fundraise…

See the UnSeen!

3 years ago

See the UnSeen The 2023 UnSeen season has commenced! For those who haven’t seen UnSeen, UnSeen is a seasonal set of walking, evening tours that share the history of Bowling Green and some of the infamous individuals who left…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark #4

3 years ago

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark #4 By: Keelin Davis We’re back with the 4th and final installment of our “A Students View” series. In this week’s blog post, we have shared some insight from Keelin Davis…

Miss Nellie: The Smiths Grove Woman Protecting the L&N Trains

3 years ago

Here at the Historic Railpark and Train Museum, some of the most noteworthy impact history of the railroad is the rails’ involvement in the evolution of the postal industry. While on our guided railcar tour, guests can learn about the…

Why is Rendezvous So COOL?

3 years ago

All of the Rendezvous events are HOT… but at the end of the day, a super cool evening isn’t what the RailPark Rendezvous is all about. The Rendezvous is an event we put on to fundraise for many different aspects…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark #3

3 years ago

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark #3 By: Tyler Wheatley We’re back with the 3rd installment of our “A Students View” series. In this week’s blog post, we have shared some insight from Tyler Wheatley from his…

On Exhibit For the First Time…

3 years ago

Here at the Historic RailPark and Train Museum, our goal is to restore and preserve the history of the L&N rail line and its impact on Bowling Green’s development. By going through tedious measures to find, restore, preserve, and display…

Trolley Downtown Circulator

3 years ago

The Bowling Green Trolley will be available through mid-September on Friday evenings as a complimentary service to transport “Concerts in the Park” goers from free downtown parking. This program is a new Trolley service designed to help those exploring summer…

Day Of Caring 2023

3 years ago

United Way of Southern Kentucky facilitated the annual “Day of Caring” this past Tuesday. The Day of Caring is an event dedicated to matching individuals looking to volunteer in the community with 501C3 nonprofits tackling projects. This program has been…

Are You Fired Up… Rendezvous 2023!

3 years ago

Are You Fired Up for Rendezvous 2023?! Stay Cool… because we are too! We have been burning with anticipation to announce the third annual Railpark Rendezvous! This upcoming September 14th, the “Fire & Ice” Rendezvous will take place at the…

An Ode to Steam Locomotives

3 years ago

Ode to Steam Locomotives By Cory Ramsey It was a “Dirty Job” before Mike Rowe was there to narrate it. Steam power and the iron horse era was, in all honesty, a hot mess. Volatile. Temperamental. Dangerous in the face…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark #2

3 years ago

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark #2 By Ann Marie Finley We’re back with the 2nd installment of our “A Students View” series. In this week’s blog post we have shared some insight from Ann Marie Finley…

Summer BG Wine Fest…That’s a Wrap!

3 years ago

Summer BG Wine Fest: Let’s Recap! We sipped, we shopped, and we snacked at the 5th Annual BG Wine Fest, presented by Bluegrass Clinics. It was a fabulous summer festival held on Saturday, July 8th at the Historic RailPark! The…

2023 BG Wine Fest… This Saturday!

3 years ago

2023 BG Wine Fest… This Saturday! We Are Ready! The second Saturday in July is our Annual BG Wine Fest held inside the Historic L&N Depot and on our front lawn. Join us for a day of sipping, shopping, and…

Portage Railway

3 years ago

Portage Railway By Cory Ramsey Freight was money. Moving it from the point of manufacture or growth to the point of sale was the challenge that spurred technological advancement in this country. These days, the question is, which locale has…

L&N #109 Segregated Passenger Car – Restoration Celebration

3 years ago

L&N #109 Segregated Passenger Car – Restoration Celebration The Historic RailPark & Train Museum recently celebrated the progress of the restoration of the #109 Segregated Passenger Car! Due to its rarity, our #109 enhances our museum’s mission of education and…

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark

3 years ago

A Students View – Travel Critique of the RailPark By Louis C. Waddle III We never get better if we are not willing to allow others to critique who we are and what we do. A few months ago, Western…

Duncan Hines Days – A Weeklong Festival

3 years ago

Duncan Hines Days – Join us to Dine with Duncan! The Historic RailPark & Train Museum will take part in celebrating Duncan Hines Days as a part of the city festival being held in Bowling Green, Kentucky. On select dates…

Women In Railroading – Rosie the Riveter

3 years ago

Women In Railroading – Rosie the Riveter On May 29, 1943, the Norman Rockwell Rosie illustration was published on the cover of The Saturday Evening Post. Today, perhaps the most famous of all the Rosie imagery is “We Can Do…

American Railroad Legend – Tiny Cayce

3 years ago

American Railroad Legend – Tiny Cayce By Cory Ramsey Folks knew him by his whistle. In the night, down in the dripping, drooping humidity of 1890s Mississippi, folks in bed, tossing in the heat, could hear what sounded like a…

L&N #353 Presidential Office Car – Restoration Celebration

3 years ago

L&N #353 Presidential Office Car – Restoration Celebration Recently, we celebrated the completion of several interior restoration projects in the L&N #353 Presidential Office Car. The Historic RailPark & Train Museum’s objective is to preserve and promote the history of…

Lady of the Garden-The Ruth Rabold Story

4 years ago

Lady of the Garden-The Ruth Rabold Story The RailPark is home to Bowling Green Trolley Tours & Rentals. While this new attraction is only five months old, we’ve hit the pavement rolling. You will hear more about the trolley in…

Off The Rails…And Now We Have Blog

4 years ago

Off The Rails…And Now We Have a Blog For some time, we have wanted to start a blog. But when to start, what to write about, and how to be consistent? All considered roadblocks for a very small museum staff.…