If you’ve never been to Owensboro, Kentucky, you’re in for a treat. The 2025 Select Traveler Conference takes place there March 9-11. Owensboro hugs the Ohio River in southwestern Kentucky and has become recognized internationally for its culinary and music traditions.
Although it is not as large as barbecue capitals like Kansas City, Missouri, and Memphis, Tennessee, Owensboro’s mastery of the barbecue pit has led to a worldwide following. Each May for more than 45 years, the city has hosted its International Bar-B-Q Festival, and many of the fest’s best barbecue-smoking teams are from local churches.
Select Traveler delegates will undoubtedly have the privilege of having a taste of smoked meats prepared by local experts.
Owensboro is also a good place to learn about Kentucky’s impact on music worldwide. The father of Bluegrass, Bill Monroe, first played what became known as Bluegrass music near Owensboro 70 years ago. He drew on much earlier music traditions that originated in Ireland and Scotland and described the essence of Bluegrass as a “high lonesome sound.” Visitors can learn more about Bluegrass music and its influence at Owensboro’s Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, downtown near Smothers Park on the Ohio River.
Because of its impact on music, Owensboro hosts many music events throughout the year. I have attended ROMP Music Festival, an outdoor music weekend held each June just outside town. ROMP features bluegrass and other music genres and has a loyal following. Select Traveler delegates will get to hear great music in Owensboro, probably more than once.
Smothers Park is just piece of a multimillion-dollar development on Owensboro’s riverfront. Over the past couple of decades, the city has capitalized on its riverside location, adding the Owensboro Convention Center, two adjacent hotels, elaborate playgrounds and fountains, and public art.
Make plans to join us next March in Owensboro. You’ll be glad you did.
Register for the 2025 Select Traveler Conference at selecttravelerconf.com.
