Bowling Green (BG) is not at all your stereotypical, small college town. Located 25 minutes south of Toledo in northwest Ohio and home to the Bowling Green State University Falcons, BG demonstrates an unmatched forward-thinking mindset that fosters a passionate vision for the future. Bowling Green’s quirky small-town charm coupled with its futuristic prowess has garnered positive attention from destinations across Ohio. Known for being an education town, BG is consistently invested in the educational pursuits of students of all ages. Bowling Green State University (BGSU), a public university for the public good, has ranked as the number one university in the Midwest that students would choose again for the third year in a row. According to Best College Towns in America in 2023, Bowling Green was ranked 28th out of 280 listed cities and is the second highest ranked city in Ohio.
In addition to Bowling Green’s devoted school system and nationally distinguished university, the city of Bowling Green puts on top-notch events that connect the BGSU student body and the people of BG through celebration of the Bowling Green community as a whole. Firefly Nights, Rally BG on Main, and the Bowling Green Holiday Parade are just a few of the outstanding community functions that promote collaboration and unity in BG. Firefly Nights, a non-profit organization, brings the city of BG together for summer fun as the event is run entirely by volunteers who each serve as an integral part in creating memorable evenings for members of the community. This summer festival also provides local businesses with the opportunity to market themselves and support the event by partnering with Firefly Nights as a sponsor. On the third Friday of June, July, and August, Firefly Nights are always a beloved tradition in the summer months, and that is in large part because of the volunteers’ dedication to serving the community and contributing to the success of this event!
The city of Bowling Green is also renowned for its notable historic background, which is consistently utilized to enrich the BG community today. Home to the Wood County Museum and chock-full of extraordinary architecture and sites, BG uses its intriguing past to kindle futuristic thinking among community members. Through continuous promotion of Bowling Green’s unique historical scene, the city works to educate locals and visitors on the backstory of BG. A progressive mindset is then fostered that is uncommon for most small towns in the Midwest. However, in Bowling Green, locals are galvanized to gather inspiration from the city’s background to design their future. The shared history of BG motivates the community to strive forward in a collaborative effort to continue shaping a bright outlook for the future of Bowling Green.
Bowling Green, Ohio stands out because of the phenomenal educational efforts between BGSU and Bowling Green City Schools, unforgettable events attracting both locals and tourists, facilities and services that are passionate about serving BG and putting the needs of the community first, and an abundance of city history that is still alive and valued today. Named a Best Hometown by Ohio Magazine in 2008 and 2018, Bowling Green positively stands out because of its low cost of living, beautiful parks and greenery, advanced healthcare, charming downtown, excellent eateries, and equity-driven university. Upholding values of collaboration, education, service, and innovation, BG is a stellar example that every town should strive to be like, for the sake of its inhabitants and visitors.