Natural choice

A 2 day tour of Kentucky
from our Southeastern issue,
Spring 2012.

	Photo: Murray CVB
	Murray enjoys a location close to both Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.

Once winter finally gives way to spring, many heed the call to spend more time outside. 

Murray and its vast outdoor spaces are found in between Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes.

Whether groups stop over for a day or are looking for a base to explore western Kentucky, this college town of 17,000 is a great destination. The home of Murray State University matches its rich cultural assets with natural beauty beckoning you to get out and explore.

Day One

Morning

7:30 a.m. — A big breakfast starts the day off with a bang! Martha’s Restaurant has a breakfast menu that will satisfy the hungriest outdoor warriors.

8:15 a.m. — Head to Kentucky Lake for some fishing. Known as “Crappie Capital of the World,” Kentucky Lake is also known for its bass, and catching these fish reaching five pounds or larger is not uncommon.

11:30 a.m. — It’s a short drive back to Murray for lunch at Burrito Shack, which serves up burritos and tacos with a beach-themed atmosphere.

Afternoon

Noon — Whether a competitive or recreational golfer, Frances E. Miller Memorial Golf Course can challenge any group’s skills with its 18-hole layout. Before getting started, practice makes perfect on large greens, a two-level practice tee and a 315-yard driving range. 

4 p.m. — Toss that Frisbee and play some disc golf at Central Park, which has a 5,200-foot course.

Evening

6:30 p.m. — Feast on dinner at Mugsy’s, which specializes in Chicago-style pizza. 

8 p.m. — Head to The Keg to play darts, pool, listen to a band or just relax. For a late-night snack, try its char-grilled oysters or hot wings.

Day Two

It’s a whole new day to explore.

After a hearty breakfast, visit Murray’s downtown and historic square.

Discover charming cafes and shops. The Saturday farmer’s market is another favorite. 

Murray State, with about 10,400 students, offers plenty of options — academic, cultural, entertainment and athletic. 

On campus, University Book & Bean serves up coffee and souvenirs, and Wrather West Kentucky Museum highlights the university and the region. Clara M. Eagle Art Gallery exhibits student art and juried shows on a rotating basis throughout the year.  

Or if your group would rather stay outside, visit Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.  

With programs, demonstrations and a group planner, the National Forest Service-operated area offers 170,000 acres between 160,300-acre Kentucky Lake and 57,000-acre Lake Barkley in western Kentucky and Tennessee. There’s plenty of room for hiking, kayaking, fishing and other outdoor adventures. 

Its Brandon Spring Group Center offers a host of programs, along with meals and overnight lodgings in its dormitory-style cabins. Golden Pond Visitor Center offers an 84-seat planetarium. The Homeplace living history farm, Woodlands Nature Station and Elk & Bison Prairie are other prime features. Call (270) 924-2020 for details or to make reservations at Land Between the Lakes.

Murray CVB
(800) 651-1603
(270) 759-2199
www.tourmurray.com

Offer your Kentucky itineraries to the editor.
Mail: 2465 112th Ave.
Holland, MI 49424
Fax: (616) 393-0085
Phone: 1-800-767-3489 between 8am - 5pm, EST.