things to do in hopkinsville

Celebrate World UFO Day the Hoptown Way!

July 2nd has been designated World UFO Day by the World UFO Day Organization, which was founded to “raise awareness about the undoubted existence of UFO’s and with that intelligent beings from outer space.”

Here in Christian County, we have our own UFO history with the “Little Green Men” Encounter! In 1955, the Sutton family had an all night battle with aliens at their home in Kelly, Kentucky. Legend has it that between the hours of 11pm and 2am, the Sutton family has a shoot-out with a dozen aliens who were terrorizing, taunting, and scaring the family. The visitors were impervious to the bullets fired at them, and seemed to grow stronger through the fighting.

Lucky Sutton finally escaped the home and ran to Hopkinsville to contact the police for assistance. Despite the the police being on the scene for two hours, the extra terrestrial visitors were not seen again. It’s a mystery that has captivated truth-seekers around the world.

Each year in August, you can celebrate and learn all about these visitors at the Kelly “Little Green Men” Days!

8 Great Summer activities in Hopkinsville!



Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center

If you are looking to make a splash with your kids this summer, head over to Tie Breaker Family Aquatic Center! With the Rip tide Express, Hurricane Alley, and a concession stand, there is gallons of fun to be had! The facilities are available for after-hours rentals and Wet & Wild Birthday Parties. The season begins May 24th, and the park is open daily through the summer.  For more information, please visit the Tie Breaker Park Website.

The Christian County Cattlemen’s Association Lonestar Championship Rodeo

Voted a Top 10 Event in Kentucky by the Kentucky Travel Industry Association, the Cattlemen’s Rodeo is great fun for everyone! Contest Events include: Bareback Riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Calf Roping, Cowgirl’s Breakaway Roping, Steer Wrestling, Team Roping, Cowgirl’s Barrel Racing, and Brahma Bull Riding. Box seats are available. For more information, check out the event information.

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park

With hiking and horse trails, a newly refurbished beach, and camping, there is so much to do at Pennyrile Forest. Head out for any of the special events including the Beginning of Summer Beach Blast and Moonlight Canoe Trips. For more information, contact the Park at (270)797-3421.

Jeffers’ Bend Environmental Center

Featuring a lake, walking trails and gardens, Jeffers’ Bend is a great place to take the family to explore the outdoors. Enjoy Take Kids Fishing Day or Dinner by the River as a special treat!

Christian Way Farm & Mini Golf

Christian Way Farm and Mini Golf offers family farm tours, mini golf, a farm store, and Summer Day camps! For more information about any of the activities, or the many summer day camps, visit their website.

Trail of Tears Park

This historic park is one of the few documented sites of actual trail and campsites used during the forced removal of the Cherokee people to “Indian Territory”. It’s a great spot to learn about local history in the Heritage Center museum and explore the beautiful grounds. For more information about the park or the Annual Pow Wow in September.

Copper Canyon Ranch

In October, Copper Canyon is a ghost town, but in the summer, you’re invited to take tours of the recreated Western Town and watch the live Gun Show! This space is also available for private events and has been featured in several films. For more information and hours, visit their website.

Pickin’ on the Porch at MB Roland Distillery

Pickin’ on the Porch is a live music event out at MB Roland Distillery that is fun for the whole family! At this party in Pembroke, you can enjoy bottomless snow cones, purchase your favorite MB Roland products and have delicious food. Starting May 24th, and happening every other week until November, Pickin’ on the Porch is an event you don’t want to miss.

For a full listing of events and attractions for you to discover, use the Play and Find and Event tabs!