Beech Bend Park & Raceway
A historic amusement park and raceway in Bowling Green, KY, offering classic rides, a water park, and thrilling motorsports events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more rides!
Beech Bend Park & Raceway
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more rides!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic amusement park and raceway in Bowling Green, KY, offering classic rides, a water park, and thrilling motorsports events.
"Offers a unique blend of classic amusement park fun and high-octane raceway action."
🎟️ Discount Tickets Online
Save money by purchasing your park tickets online in advance; discounts are often available.
💧 Water Park Lockers
Rent a locker in the water park to secure your belongings, as they are not available in the amusement park area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kentucky Rumbler
Amusement Park
Experience the thrill of this classic wooden roller coaster, a favorite for its intense airtime and unique GCI design.
Splash Lagoon Water Park
Water Park Area
Cool off with a variety of slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool – perfect for a hot Kentucky day.
Drag Racing Events
Beech Bend Raceway
Witness high-octane action with frequent drag racing events, from local competitions to major automotive festivals.
Car Shows & Truck Jams
Beech Bend Raceway
Gearheads rejoice! Beech Bend hosts popular automotive events like truck shows and festivals, drawing enthusiasts from afar.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Rides & Racing
Park vs. Raceway: Know Your Focus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Discount Tickets Online
Save money by purchasing your park tickets online in advance; discounts are often available.
💧 Water Park Lockers
Rent a locker in the water park to secure your belongings, as they are not available in the amusement park area.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to explore both the park and the raceway.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking fees may apply, especially during major events at the raceway.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Discount Tickets Online
Save money by purchasing your park tickets online in advance; discounts are often available.
💧 Water Park Lockers
Rent a locker in the water park to secure your belongings, as they are not available in the amusement park area.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to explore both the park and the raceway.
🚗 Parking Fees
Be aware that parking fees may apply, especially during major events at the raceway.
📱 Check Event Schedule
The raceway hosts various events; check their calendar to align your visit with a car show or race you'd enjoy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Beech Bend offers a dual experience with a classic amusement park and a lively raceway. Visitors often praise the raceway events and the nostalgic charm of the park, particularly the Kentucky Rumbler. However, some reviews point to maintenance and cleanliness issues in the water park, and the extra cost for go-karts can be a drawback for some.
"Beech bend is a great place to watch some racing, attend a car show, or anything automotive related. I have never been to the park portion as that is not my thing but the racetrack is top tier. Yes, the seats are wood and the stands are "old" but they are well maintained and give a great retro racing vibe. Prices feel very reasonable depending on the event and I have never left disappointed. Sometimes it can be hard to find staff while at an event due to the size of the property but usually it is very easy to figure out where you need to go."
zach clark
"We lived the water park and Amusement rides. I wish there had been lockers in the Amusement Park instead of only in the water park. Some rides would not let me ride with my small over-the-shoulder purse and I refused to allow my purse to be left unattended. This rule NEEDS to change. The kids were frustrated over it and so was my husband. Gift shop was nice and the restaurant gave free ice water. Go cart track cost extra, which is ridiculous with the price you pay to get in. The cost depends on the height of the person, not the age."
Julie Wallace
"LS Fest East is awesome. Everything is going on all at once. I did LS Fest West last year and the weather did not cooperate. Kentucky is awesome. Having a great time."
Jerry Gibson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Beech Bend Park & Raceway is located in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car via I-65. If using GPS, input 'Beech Bend Park & Raceway, Bowling Green, KY'.
Public transportation options to Beech Bend are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for convenient access.
Parking is available on-site. Fees may apply, especially during special events. It's advisable to arrive early during busy periods to secure a good spot.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted inside the amusement park. However, the raceway may have different policies for events. Check the specific event details.
Beech Bend strives to be accessible. While some older areas might present challenges, many paths are paved. It's best to contact the park directly for specific accessibility information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary. Purchasing tickets online in advance often provides significant discounts compared to buying at the gate.
Typically, a general admission ticket grants access to both the amusement park and the water park. Always verify this when purchasing your tickets.
Yes, tickets for specific raceway events, such as truck shows or drag races, are usually sold separately from general park admission. +1
Operating hours vary seasonally and by day. The amusement park and water park have different hours than the raceway. It's essential to check the official Beech Bend website for the most current schedule.
Refund policies can vary. In cases of severe weather closures, Beech Bend may offer rain checks or reschedule options. Contact their customer service for details.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The Kentucky Rumbler wooden roller coaster is a highlight. Other popular rides include the Sea Dragon and various family-friendly attractions.
The Splash Lagoon Water Park features a lazy river, wave pool, and several water slides. Lockers are available for rent. +1
Yes, Beech Bend offers a go-kart track, but it typically costs extra and is not included with general admission.
The raceway hosts a variety of events including drag racing, car shows, truck jams, and motorsports festivals like LSFest.
Absolutely! Beech Bend is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Beech Bend offers typical amusement park fare, including funnel cakes, burgers, and snacks. Some reviews mention the food being surprisingly good.
Yes, the restaurant at Beech Bend provides free ice water, which is a welcome amenity on hot days.
While classic theme park treats are abundant, options for healthier meals might be limited. It's advisable to check menus or pack some healthy snacks if possible.
Food prices are comparable to other amusement parks. Bringing your own snacks or planning for a meal outside the park can help manage costs.
Reviews suggest the food quality is generally good, with funnel cakes being a popular treat. Exploring different stands might yield your favorite.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic Kentucky Rumbler, the vibrant water park slides, and the action-packed raceway events. The classic park atmosphere also offers great photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at amusement parks and raceways for safety and privacy reasons. Always check Beech Bend's official policy before flying.
Generally, personal cameras and phones are allowed for capturing memories. However, professional photography or videography may require special permits.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting for both the park and the raceway. Midday can be harsh but is great for capturing the energy of the rides.
The Sea Dragon ride, formerly owned by Michael Jackson, offers a unique historical photo op. The retro vibe of the raceway also provides distinctive shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Pro-tip: Consider purchasing tickets online for discounts and be prepared for the possibility of needing to rent a locker in the water park for your belongings, as they aren't available in the main amusement area.
🚗 Automotive Enthusiasts
+1Don't miss: Check the event schedule in advance to align your visit with a specific race or show that interests you. The atmosphere at these events is often described as electric and authentic, offering a genuine taste of motorsports culture.
🎢 Roller Coaster Aficionados
+1While Beech Bend might not have a vast collection of coasters, the Rumbler alone is often considered worth the trip for dedicated coaster fans. The park's unique charm adds to the overall experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Beech Bend
Its transformation over the decades reflects changing entertainment trends. The addition of the raceway brought a new dimension, attracting a different but equally passionate audience. This dual nature allows Beech Bend to cater to a wide range of interests, from thrill-seekers on roller coasters to speed enthusiasts at the track.
Many visitors appreciate the park's family-owned feel and the sense of history that permeates the grounds. While some facilities may show their age, this often contributes to the park's authentic, retro charm, differentiating it from larger, more commercialized theme parks.
Navigating the Raceway Experience
+1Visitors often praise the raceway's atmosphere, describing it as having a 'top-tier' and 'retro racing vibe.' While the seating might be wooden and the stands 'old,' they are generally well-maintained and contribute to the authentic racing feel. It's important to note that some events, like LS Fest, are massive, multi-faceted gatherings that can be overwhelming but incredibly rewarding.
For those attending a race, consider arriving early to soak in the pre-event atmosphere and find good vantage points. The sheer power and speed on display are exhilarating, making it a memorable experience for both seasoned fans and newcomers.
Water Park Woes and Wins
Recent reviews have pointed out issues such as algae growth on slides and in the water, non-functional water features, and a lack of lockers in the amusement park area. These concerns suggest that maintenance and upkeep could be a priority for the park management.
Despite these potential drawbacks, many families still find the water park enjoyable, particularly the lazy river and wave pool. The key is to manage expectations and perhaps focus on the parts of the water park that are consistently well-received, while hoping for ongoing improvements.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit