3 minute read
The District: Dine, Drink, Discover
Since the summer of 2019, a new open container policy allows a portion of downtown to be considered an entertainment destination center known as “The District,” which allows alcoholic beverages on public property during certain permitted special events such as Friday After 5.
Patrons at participating businesses are permitted to leave the premise with an alcoholic beverage as long as they use a specially marked 16 oz. cup. Each cup has a list of The District guidelines printed on the side.
Hancock says the cups serve three purposes. “It allows local law enforcement to know who is carrying a drink in the downtown area. It allows businesses to know who’s participating and who’s not. And third, and most importantly, you have the rules in your hand. It tells you where you can go, what you can do with this cup, and it gives you a website as well to give you the map.”
Around a dozen downtown establishments participated in The District when it began in 2019, including the RiverPark Center, Owensboro Convention Center, Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum, and participating nearby restaurants. During the first few months of participation, Public Events Coordinator Tim Ross said most participating restaurants and bars saw an increase in sales.
The community has responded positively as well. “The feedback we’re getting from folks being able to get a drink at the patio at Friday After 5, then walk down to a food truck, or another place for dinner and not have to be contained in one spot has been positive,” Ross said. O
RULES:
Alcoholic beverages are only allowed on public property during designated special events. District cups are never permitted inside:
• Lazy Dayz Playground • Shelton Memorial in Smothers Park • Any church property
Alcoholic beverages must be purchased from a participating business inside the boundaries of The District and will be placed in specially marked cups.
Patrons cannot carry cups into another business location.
Cups must stay within the boundaries of The District (look for signs that indicate the boundaries of The District)
BREW BRIDGE // PHOTO BY JAMIE ALEXANDER BRASHER’S LIL’ NASHVILLE // PHOTO BY DANNY BEELER (HEART OF THE CITY DESIGN)
THE DOWNTOWN SCENE
Owensboro is a fun place to live, with something going on every weekend. After you take in a show at the RiverPark Center, catch a bluegrass band at the Hall of Fame or simply dine in one of the area's great restaurants, why not extend the fun and check out one of the hot spots downtown?
Whether you like locally brewed beer, a sophisticated wine bar or a quirky pub with unique choices—downtown Owensboro is the perfect place to gather with friends!
BRASHER'S LIL' NASHVILLE
Be sure to check out this intimate venue with the best sound quality this side of Nashville! The bar is fully stocked with cold beer, great spirits and hand crafted drinks...and especially, the best bourbons Kentucky has to offer! Enjoy some of the best country, rock, blues, pop and bluegrass acts around!
BREW BRIDGE
Owensboro's first brewery in over 100 years! Brew Bridge has an amazing tap selection (30+), cocktails and wine. You can enjoy a full food menu like burgers, wraps, and wings. They have weekly events like live music, trivia, and bar bingo. Cool environment—especially the outdoor space!
THE PUB ON SECOND
With 100+ craft and domestic beers, an ever expanding bourbon list, amazing signature cocktails, and martinis for every palate, you must check out The Pub. Although they do not have a kitchen, they welcome guests to order from the surrounding restaurants and have food brought in!
SIP
Owensboro's first wine bar, SIP has great space to gather, especially their patio overlooking the river. Try their extensive wines by the bottle, glass, half glass or ounce tastings. Wine isn't your thing? No worries! They also serve bourbon and craft beers. O
