Day Trips
Music on the Banks of the Ohio
Friday After 5 began a decade ago to breathe new life into the riverfront area of the historic business district in downtown Owensboro. Free music begins the third Friday in May and continues every Friday through the middle of September. Friday After 5 is located at the beautiful RiverPark Center, with its spectacular, open-air terrace overlooking the Ohio River. One stage is set up at the east end of the BB&T Plaza and features a variety of musical styles. Around the corner, between the International Bluegrass Music Museum and the RiverPark Center, there is always a bluegrass band in the open-air courtyard. The music moves into Woodward’s in the event of rain.
As the name suggests, the music of “Friday After 5” begins after 5 p.m. and wraps up at 10 p.m. Arts and crafts and food vendors are set up along the riverfront, under the generous canopy of mature shade trees that line the park-like setting. The event is family-friendly with games and a play structure for children. The warm breeze off the Ohio is delightful, as is the music. On most Fridays, you’ll see small boats anchored in the river with passengers kicked back and enjoying the entertainment. If you find yourself not wanting the evening to end, you can always book a room and stay overnight. In the morning, spend time at the International Bluegrass Music Museum perusing the exhibits and watching the incredible Video Oral History Project (link to programs page), the museum’s signature project, which captures on film those first generation bluegrass artists as they recount their stories, struggles, and successes through the burgeoning time period of the 1940s and 50s all the way to the present day. Many of the oral histories also include musical footage or a recorded concert. Take a break for lunch.
There are several outstanding restaurants within walking distance. Great, historic architecture abounds. Take a stroll along the riverfront area, or wander into the Executive Inn Rivermont Owensboro’s largest hotel, for shopping and more nightlife options.
Or, venture out and visit several other local museums and attractions in the area.
You can always look up the friendly folks at the Owensboro Daviess County Tourist Commission or stop by the visitor center and local Hall of Fame located at 215 East Second Street, or call them at 1 (800) 489-1131 to order a visitors guide.
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