Campbellsville
Main Street
Here for campbellsville university’s homecoming?
Here are some things to do if it’s your first time in Campbellsville!
Homecoming weekend is a good excuse to really see the town your student has been living in.
Campbellsville is a small city in the heart of central Kentucky — and it's a good one. The kind of place where people still know their neighbors, where the downtown has been anchored by locally owned businesses for generations, and where the landscape (rolling hills, hardwood forests, a reservoir lake just south of town) is genuinely beautiful, especially in the fall.
If this is your first time here, here's what's worth knowing.
homecoming Guide to campbellsville
From Campbellsville University to Campbellsville Main Street
Eat on Main Street
Downtown has locally owned spots that are physically closer to campus than the fast food chains on the bypass — and you're supporting people who actually live here.
We recommend starting at Harden Coffee in the morning, Brothers Barbecue at lunch and then Bella Picolla for Italian in the evening. For those times when you just need a burger, no place is better than Druthers. For even more, check out our Dining directory.
Pro tip: Most downtown restaurants are closed on Sundays and have limited evening hours — plan accordingly, especially around midterms and finals when you're tempted to order out.
Get Outside: Trace Pitman Trail
Walk the Trace Pitman Trail
One of the nicest green spaces in the city is Miller Park, connected to a paved multi-use trail along Pitman Creek. It's an easy walk with the whole family — and in November, the trees along the creek are worth seeing. Short drive from campus.
drive down to Green River Lake
About six miles south of downtown on KY-55, Green River Lake State Park is one of central Kentucky's best-kept secrets. The lake sits among limestone bluffs and hardwood hills, and the fall foliage this time of year is excellent. Even a short drive around the lake is worth the twenty minutes. If you have a full free day, the park has hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
start holiday shopping a little early
The shops on Main Street aren't what you'd expect from a small Kentucky town. A few worth knowing:
Stationery, art supplies, hand-illustrated greeting cards, and small gifts. Good place to find something for home or to send back to family. Run by a local illustrator; the store reflects it.
Specialty running and walking store with gait analysis and professional fitting. If you run, race, or are just on your feet all day and your back is starting to notice, this is worth a visit. They work with local physical therapists and sponsor races in the area.
You might be surprised that one of the best music stores in Central Kentucky is in downtown Campbellsville. Even if you’re not a guitar player, you should check out the shop and the very cool old school vibe.
good to know
Green River Lake State Park is approximately 6 miles south of Campbellsville University via KY-55.
Parking is free throughout the downtown district — street parking and surface lots are available. Electric vehicle charging stations are available at the surface lot one street south of Main Street.
Campbellsville University’s campus is adjacent to the downtown district and worth a short walk if you’ve moved to Campbellsville without a car!
Most downtown businesses are open Monday through Saturday. Hours vary by location — check our directory for individual business information.
