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)