Downtown landmark hits auction block, 440 Main and Micki’s on Main to remain open

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – A piece of downtown Bowling Green history is preparing to change hands, as the Getty Building is set to go up for auction after nearly three decades under the same ownership.

Despite the upcoming sale, the businesses inside say it will remain business as usual.

The historic building, which dates back to the 1870s, has been owned by Tom Holmes for nearly 30 years. During that time, it’s become home to well-known local establishments including 440 Main and Micki’s on Main—restaurants that have become staples in the downtown community.

Holmes says the decision to sell the building comes with mixed emotions.

“It’s a heavy heart because I’ve had it for so long… I mean my kids were raised in this restaurant,” Holmes said.

He first became involved with 440 Main in the 1990s before expanding operations and eventually purchasing the building itself. Over the years, he says the space has been more than just a business—it’s been a place where generations of employees and customers have grown up together.

“They would come in… and then they became cocktail waitresses… then bartenders… or they became servers, or cooks,” Holmes said.

As news of the auction spreads, Holmes says there’s been some concern about what it could mean for the future of the building and the businesses inside. But he emphasizes that the restaurants are not part of the sale.

“We’re selling our structure. We’re not selling the restaurant. The restaurant is sold and it’s in a contract,” he said.

The Getty Building itself features multiple levels, including basement storage, office space, and even a little-known former skating rink on the third floor—elements that could play a role in how future owners choose to redevelop or preserve the property.

Holmes says there’s already interest from potential buyers, with some exploring redevelopment options while others are considering preserving the building’s historic character.

Holmes says from what he understands, the restaurants are expected to remain in place following the sale.

“From what I understand where we stand… no, I don’t see that happening,” he said when asked about the possibility of them leaving.

For now, Holmes says he hopes whoever purchases the building will continue its legacy—preserving a space that has played a major role in downtown Bowling Green for generations.