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Living in Bowling Green Ohio
Situated in the rural heartland of Ohio, Bowling Green is the county seat, and largest city, of Wood County, Ohio. Built on the edge of the Great Black Swamp, Bowling Green has grown into a thriving community. The population has increased by 4.59% since the most recent census, with a 2020 population of 31,406.
Get Around BG
Downtown Bowling Green is a historic district that is charming and walkable. Parking is available along both sides of the street and directly behind the Main Street buildings. The University provides a free shuttle bus service for students and community members with both on-campus and off-campus shuttle bus routes. A map of those routes can be found at Parking Services Shuttle Services.
By car, Bowling Green is a quick 30-minute drive south from Toledo, Ohio, a 2-hour drive north from Dayton, Ohio, and a 1- hour drive south from Detroit, Michigan.
By air, I-75 provides quick access to both Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) and Toledo Express Airport (TOL).
Cyclists can easily bike through most of the city, the Bowling Green State University (BGSU) campus, and the city parks. The Slippery Elm Trail runs 13 miles south to North Baltimore. The trail is asphalt and features several rest stops and water fountains. Bicycle Route Map (PDF)
Recreation & Parks in BG
In Bowling Green, Ohio we have a vast number of parks. Parks are vitally important to establishing and maintaining the quality of life in a community. Access to parks ensures the health of all residents while contributing to the economic and environmental well-being of our community. We pride ourselves on our extensive parks systems and believe they are a tangible reflection of the quality of life in this community.