Classes are starting up again?? I swear it’s like it was just May! Whether it’s your first year on the hill (welcome to Bowling Green!) or your last semester, here’s some things you can do with the fam during move in weekend or some friends when you have a break from classes!
Did your family help you move in? Seem a little silly for them to just drop you and go? Eat some lunch at the Lunch Box Cafe located just a mile from campus after an early move-in. Have some extra time? Stop by the WKU bookstore and pick up some Hilltopper swag, or shop around downtown at Candle Makers on the Square for some BG-themed gifts and Kentucky-made products. Staying the whole day? Finish the night off with Mellow Mushroom and share a pizza or some wings.
A staple of WKU student shopping is hands down Vette City Vintage. With a whole shop’s worth of second-hand 90s and vintage gear, you’re sure to find a new favorite piece within the walls of this store located on the square. Vette City Vintage also supports campus life with pop-ups at various WKU shopping events like Market on the Square or sorority events, and booths at some events held at some of the student apartments located just off campus. If you’re super into their wares, check out their booth at Consignment Corner off of US 31W for even more pieces and some exclusive deals.
Need a late night snack? Que Pasa Tacos is your 24-hour stop for yummy (and affordable!) Mexican food like tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, and a great place to get a break from your studies and hang out with some friends. Still hungry? Stop by the Great American Donut Shop anytime (and yes, I mean any time!) for a midnight, afternoon, or morning donut.

Opened just before the 2024 academic year by a WKU alum, Topper Social serves as a perfect place to hang out, drink, and take in the night life that Bowling Green has to offer. From 11am to 10pm, Topper Social serves all your sports bar food classics like pizza, wings, and burgers. After 10pm to 2am, Topper becomes 21+ and is host to several local musicians and DJs, such as pictured WKU Alum DJ Colby, to enjoy while you take advantage of their great deals on beer and cocktails.

After all that studying and walking up and down the hill, what better way to spend your free time with some friends at some of the fun attractions in BG? If your group is competitive, check out Southern Lanes just nine minutes from campus for your one-stop-spot for all things fun including bowling, laser tag, arcade games, bumper cars, and pool tables. If the weather’s nice, head over to Jackson’s Orchard and pick some fresh fruit with your pals and enjoy a homemade bite at their concession stands. Jackson’s is absolutely a must-go spot during the fall season with their fall festival and pumpkin picking activities, so if you go just once, definitely go then!
Need a pick-me-up from a night of studying? Spencer’s Coffee is the go-to for WKU students with their several convenient locations (including one on campus at the Commons!) and great coffee and food offerings to keep you going throughout the busy day.
We’re so excited for what the year has to bring and there’s so many events to check out around Bowling Green while you’re on campus. Try some new experiences when you’ve got the chance at any of the attractions or eateries around town… maybe you’ll find a new favorite spot! If you’re interested in hearing about all the happenings around town, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter. Welcome back, Hilltoppers!



