Local Travel Features

For All Who Are Thirsty... Turtles Not Required

July 9, 2018 | Jamie Sears Rawlings

This year’s May and June have seen some of the highest temperatures in decades in this region, and what pairs more perfectly with hot summer nights on Kentucky Lake better than frozen drinks?

It’s why the new-and-improved Thirsty Turtle Tavern located in Grand Rivers’ Green Turtle Bay Resort & Marina features not one, not two, but three signature frozen or cold mixed drinks.

Open this year for the second season, visitors can stop into the Thirsty Turtle to beat the heat with a Frosé Jose, a combo of rosé wine and, you guessed it - Jose Quervo tequila. Manager Melanie Miller swears by the combination and says that her guests are starting to as well.

For those who prefer more traditional summer drinks, the Turtle has a signature Tipsy Turtle and a Sailor Sangria drink sure to cap off a perfect day on the lake. Signature drinks are simply the start, though, as the menu boasts a variety of on-tap and bottle beers, including a large selection of craft brews, chosen by Miller to help support other local businesses in the region and state.

“We are constantly working on new signature drinks to help us celebrate summer holidays, like the Fourth of July,” she says. “And we welcome drink suggestions, too. If someone wants us to try something out or suggest a new craft brew, we always want to hear those.”

Drinks aren’t all that are on the menu at the Thirsty Turtle Tavern. Guests can munch on wings and pretzels or order a variety of pizzas from a full-menu. Miller highly recommends the Nacho-Mama Salad.

Visitors have an overwhelming number of entertainment options at the Turtle. Friday and Saturday nights always feature live music on an outdoor stage, with acts such as Heart & Soul, Drunken Poets and Mandy Vixen and the Gas Station Chickens headlining. For those who like a little action with their imbibing, corn hole and darts are sure to hit the spot.

Question: Where can you go to test your ability to recall random facts about Saturn?
Answer: The Thirsty Turtle Thursday Trivia

Miller is excited about hosting Trivia at the Turtle every Thursday night, giving locals and visitors alike the chance to get inside and have some fun with their friends. Starting every week at 6:30 p.m., teams of up to six players need only show up armed with their minds for seven rounds of 10 questions and a chance to score sweet Turtle gift certificates as prizes.

The Turtle opened on April 12 for its second season with a brand new menu, expanded drink options and many upgrades. Even though they are located at Green Turtle Bay Resort & Marina, Miller hopes that the Tavern will become a watering hole and port for locals and visitors alike, which will accomplish her dream of being able to open year-round.

For now, though, she’s just concentrating on serving the growing crowds good food, great drinks and excellent entertainment.

The Thirsty Turtle Tavern is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday from noon to 9:00 p.m. On Friday and Saturday nights, they close up shop at 11:00 p.m. Keep up with the happenings at the Turtle on Facebook, including drink specials and live music schedules.

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