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Louisville City Guide
Louisville is Kentucky’s largest city and is located just south of the Indiana border, across the Ohio River. Louisville, might best be known for thoroughbred horse racing, but it offers a wealth of other attractions as well.
In addition to horseracing, Kentucky is often touted for its bourbon and bluegrass music. Area bourbon distilleries often offer guided tours of their facilities, which tell the history of Kentucky bourbon and the slow process of crafting the famous spirit. A third of the country's bourbon is made in the Louisville area including Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey, and Jim Beam. Bluegrass music is celebrated at many annual events that take place throughout the year.
The city of Louisville also offers visitors a variety of historical attractions and museums. Several historic landmarks exist in Louisville, and many are listed on the National Register of Historic Places including Thomas Edison House and Locust Grove. The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory features the world’s biggest bat and honor’s baseball’s best hitters. The Muhammad Ali Center is another “must see” attraction in Louisville paying tribute to the boxing legend that once made his home here.
If you’re looking for thrills, chills and spills you are sure to find them at one of the amusement or water parks in the area. Get wild on the family roller coaster with its unexpected twists and zigzagging turns at Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom or blast off in a space adventure motion simulator or one of the other 110 rides and attractions. Have a wet and wild adventure with winding water slides, relaxing wave pool and a kid’s area at Atlantis Water Park.
The fun doesn’t have to stop after the sun goes down! Louisville nightlife is always hopping. A variety of choices are offered in the area including the Comedy Caravan, the Corner Nightclub Complex, Stevie Ray’s Blues Bar and many more.
Whether you choose to visit Louisville for the horseracing, the history or to explore the area, you’ll find many attraction and events to keep you busy. Flip over to our other listing and let us help you plan your next trip to Louisville, Kentucky.
Commonly Searched Terms:
Louisville Hotels, Louisville City Guide, Louisville Discount Hotels, Louisville Luxury Hotels, Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, the Louisville Science Museum, the Louisville Slugger Museum, Louisville Zoo, Kentucky Bourbon Distillery
Churchill Downs
700 Central Ave.
Louisville, KY 40202
800-283-3729
Established in 1874, Churchill Downs is home to the famous Kentucky Derby. It is the oldest, continuously operating racetrack in the United States. The track itself is a one-mile oval, the facility covers 166 acres and the Kentucky Derby Museum is on site.
Farmington Historic House Museum
3033 Bardstown Rd.
Louisville, KY 40205
502-425-9920
Constructed from a plan by Thomas Jefferson, circa 1816, this exquisite historical site is filled with period furnishings.
Thomas Edison House
729-31 East Washington Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-585-5247
In the mid 1860’s this small cottage was the home of Thomas Edison and features great displays of many of his inventions such as phonographs, incandescent light bulbs and many motion picture artifacts.
Whitehall
3110 Lexington Rd.
Louisville, KY 40206
502-897-2944
Set on a grand 10-acres and featuring a Formal Florentine Garden this gorgeous mansion was built circa 1855 and was remodeled circa 1910.
Locust Grove
561 Blankenbaker Lane
Louisville, KY 40207
502-897-9845
Rich in history and consisting of an abundant 55-acres this farmland dates back to 1790 and hosted three US Presidents: Monroe, Jackson and Taylor. This was also a stopping point for Louis and Clark, when they arrived back from their Pacific expedition as well as home to many slaves that lived and worked this land.
Riverside - the Farnsley-Moremen Landing
7410 Moorman Road
Louisville, KY 40272
502-935-6809
The Ohio River comes to life as you learn of the rich history of trade that took place here during the 19th century. The centerpiece is the Farnsley-Moremen House, a restored 19th century farmhouse overlooking the river.
Waterfront Park
129 East River Rd.
Louisville, KY 40202
502-574-3768
Relax and take in the natural beauty of Louisville at this park on the Ohio River with many walking and jogging trails, plenty of green space for soccer, football or Frisbee and picnic spots.
Cathedral of the Assumption
433 S. 5th Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-582-2971
Built in 1852 this is the countries 3rd oldest cathedral, when it was built the cathedrals 287-foot spire was the tallest in North America and is Louisville’s 4th oldest building.
Frazier International History Museum
829 W. Main Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-412-2280
Take a journey back in time to a thousand years ago as you view the collection of arms, armor and historical artifacts. Take part in the interactive displays, state-of-the-art multi-media presentations and commendable performances by costumed interpreters.
Wild Turkey Distillery
1525 Tyrone Rd.
Lawrenceburg, KY 40342
800-455-5585
See how the “Genuine Thing” is handmade during your free tour and get a free sip.
Jim Beam’s American Outpost
Hwy 245
Clermont, KY 40110
502-543-9877
You don’t have to be a bourbon lover to appreciate this location. Stop in and find out how it’s made, tour the family home and take a taste test.
Maker’s Mark Distillery
3350 Burks Spring Rd.
Loretto, KY 40037
270-865-2099
Take a free tour at this historic location and see how bourbon is made.
Caesars Indiana
11999 Avenue of the Emperors
Elizabeth, IN 47117
877-237-6626
Just a short drive from Louisville is Caesars boasting more than 2,000 slots, more than 100 table games, great live entertainment, scrumptious restaurants, and more.
Muhammad Ali Center
144 N. Sixth Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-584-9254
Named after the great boxer this center features excellent learning facilities, retail store, exceptional café, and abundant art galleries.
Mellwood Arts & Entertainment Center
1860 Mellwood Ave.
Louisville, KY 40206
502-895-3650
This center comes alive with working artist studios, fantastic restaurants, amazing galleries and many other specialty retail stores.
Indian Springs Golf Club
3408 Indian Lake Dr.
Louisville, KY 40241
502-426-7111
Tee-time! Enjoy this 18-hole golf course set on rolling hills and several tree-lined holes. No matter your skill level this course offers a challenge.
Jefferson Mall
4801 Outer Loop
Louisville, KY 40219
502-968-4103
Shop till you drop at the Jefferson Mall featuring more than 90 stores such as Dillard’s, Lazarus, Bath and Body Works, Gadzooks and more.
Louisville Antique Mall
900 Goss Ave.
Louisville, KY 40217
502-635-2852
With over 200 dealers this extensive showcase area offers classic Victorian antiques and 70’s retro antiques.
The Speed Art Museum
2035 S. Third Street
Louisville, KY 40208
502-634-2700
Dance you way to a master piece as this museum offers interactive art options, more than 6000 exquisite pieces of art from the 17th and 18th century such as painting, furniture and sculptures.
Louisville Science Center
727 West Main Street
Louisville, KY 40202
800-591-2203
Challenge your mind with great hands-on activities, exceptional exhibits, IMAX films and more education and entertainment.
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
800 West Main Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-588-7228
Batter Up! The official bat for Major League Baseball, this museum showcases 114 years of the history of the game, an impressive collection of bats from famous players and how America’s favorite bat is made.
Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom
937 Phillips Lane
Louisville, KY 40209
502-366-7508
You’ll experience thrills, chills and spills on the family roller coaster with its unexpected twists and zigzagging turns. Blast off in a space adventure motion simulator or one of the other 110 rides and attractions.
Louisville Zoo
1100 Trevilian Way
Louisville, KY 40233
502-459-2181
Test your skill on the 25-foot rock-climbing wall with four degrees of difficulty, and view a wide range of creatures such as gorillas, bears, giraffes, elephants and more.
Gheens Science Hall & Rauch Planetarium
University of Louisville
Louisville, KY 40292
502-852-6664
Immerse yourself in the sun, moon and stars. This Planetarium has many educational, yet fun interactive activities so you can explore the universe.
Renaissance Fun Park
201 Park Place Drive
Louisville, KY 40243
502-253-9700
Relish in the Renaissance Fun Park with Grand Prix go-carts, miniature golf courses, intoxicating laser tag and awesome arcade games.
Puzzle’s Fun Dome
11530 Bluegrass Pkwy.
Louisville, KY 40299
502-261-7144
No matter the time of the year the whole family can appreciate this pleasing indoor park with inflatable fun area, challenging rock climbing wall, merry mini golf, cosmic hoops and a pizzeria.
Wheel Fun Rentals by bike Louisville
135 River Rd.
Louisville, KY 40202
502-589-BIKE
Roll around Louisville with unique bike and scooter rentals.
Kentucky Derby Museum
704 Central Avenue
Louisville, KY 40208
502-637-1111
Riders mount up! Mount the model horse and get the experience of a lifetime as find out what it’s like to be in the middle of a horse race out in front of the other riders.
Muhammad Ali Center
144 N. Sixth Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-584-9254
Named after the great boxer this center features excellent learning facilities, retail store, exceptional café, and abundant art galleries.
Jefferson Mall
4801 Outer Loop
Louisville, KY 40219
502-968-4103
Shop till you drop at the Jefferson Mall featuring more than 90 stores such as Dillard’s, Lazarus, Bath and Body Works, Gadzooks and more.
Atlantis Water Park
515 Marriot Drive
Clarksville, IN 47129
812-283-1618
Wet and wild adventure with winding water slides, relaxing wave pool and a kid’s area.
Dinosaur World
711 Mammoth Cave Rd.
Cave City, IN 42127
270-773-4345
Dig for Fossils! If you find one you can even take it home. If you like museums you’ll love this prehistoric treat.
January
Dinner Works at Louisville Visual Art Association
502-896-2146
Hosting a fancy dinner or enjoy the finer things in life? This event has wonderful exhibit displays of handmade dinnerware and unique table designs.
February
National Farm Machinery Show
502-367-5000
The newest and best farm equipment on the market will be demonstrated at this interesting event.
March
Mid-America Trucking Show
502-899-3892
Truck lover will delight at this event featuring the newest technology and developments in the wide world of trucks.
Humana Festival of New American Plays
502-584-1205
Get the first peek at these outstanding new plays before they hit the mainstream.
April
Kentucky Derby Festival
502-584-6383
You don’t have to be a horse lover to participate in this electrifying event. Over 70 accessible events, such as a great balloon race, great steamboat race, parade and more will be held at venues throughout the city.
Thunder Over Louisville
On the Riverfront, 502-584-6383
Celebrate the Thunder Over Louisville on both sides of the river, which licks off the Kentucky Derby Festival with amazing hot air balloons, a dazzling fireworks show and food vendors.
May
Kentucky Derby
502-636-4400
You can’t miss this! Dating back to 1875 this race featuring the top-rated thoroughbred racehorses is amazing and a must see for visitors.
Kentucky Reggae Festival
502-583-0333
You don’t have to have dreadlocks to love great reggae music. You will adore the live music, variety of vendors and fantastic food.
Abbey Road on the River
800-THE-GALT
The largest of its kind in America this event is a tribute to the legendary Beatles.
June
Shakespeare Festival
502-637-4933
Join in the festivities and see unique and visually captivating stage productions.
Greek Festival
800-626-5646
You don’t have to go to Greece to experience its influence and culture. This festival features authentic food and pastries, beer, dancing, live music, art, books and loads more.
Waterside Festival
800-626-5646
Join the locals at the Water Tower for this full-scale art and music festival
July
Kentucky Music Weekend
502-348-5237
Take a trip back in time with storytelling, old-time street dances, musical workshops and fantastic live bluegrass and folk music performed by regional, national and international artist.
Waterfront Independence Festival
502-574-3768
Congregate on the Great Lawn and celebrate the 4th of July with great music, fabulous food, and spectacular fireworks.
August
National Street Rod Association
502-584-2121
These antiques will amaze you with more than 11,000 pre-1949 street rods displayed for your viewing pleasure.
World Champion Horse Show
888-568-4784
Gorgeous American Saddlebred, Hackney Ponies and Road Horses all compete to be the best in class and take home the next crown.
Kentucky State Fair
502-367-5180
This state fair dates all the way back to the 1700’s, so you know they have had plenty of time to make it the best one around with livestock shows, interesting exhibits, thrilling rides, midway area and great food vendors.
Strassenfest
502-561-3440
Help celebrate Louisville’s German heritage with lots of food, great entertainment, juried arts festival, regional fine arts performances, craft demonstrations and much more.
September
Adam Matthews Balloon Glow
800-359-8118 or 502-499-2253
Float into this annual balloon extravaganza and see three balloon races and two glow events, take the kids to the fun center, see the classic car show, watch the awesome fireworks, listen to the concert series and get some grub all at this event.
Strictly Bluegrass Festival
502-922-0493
Bluegrass lovers hit the road and head to Louisville for this Labor Day weekend event featuring local, regional and nationally known artist.
Rock the Water Tower
502-583-0333
Rock n’ Roll your way down to the water tower for this outdoor festival featuring local and regional musical performances, food and fun.
Irish Family Festival
800-626-5646
Grab something green and make you way to this cultural event with ethnic food, local bands, pipers and cultural exhibits.
Corn Island Storytelling Festival
502-245-0643
Sit, relax and let you imagination soar as more than 50 storytellers delight you with their tall tales.
Heritage Festival
502-625-1244
It’s important to remember where we came from and this is a great opportunity to do so as you explore demonstrations such as soap making, weaving, spinning and blacksmithing.
Captain’s Quarters Regatta
502-895-5054
Do you like the water, do you like to sail? This event attracts sailboats from all over the United States and features several classes.
October
Louisville’s Jaycee’s Oktoberfest
800-626-5646
Oktoberfest is a German festival and highlights specially brewed beer; first-rate live music and you can find more under the tent in the Bluegrass Brewing Company parking lot.
World’s Largest Halloween Party
502-459-2181
Hop aboard the Halloween Express Train, see the great costumed characters and crazy clowns and trick-or-treat at more than 15 stations.
St. James Court Art Show
502-635-1842
This event is sure to amaze you with over 650 artists from across the United States present their fine art and creative crafts.
November
Light Up Louisville International Festival
800-626-5646
Thousands of twinkling light will astonish you as you stand downtown and breath in the crisp November air.
December
Christmas Gift and Décor Show
800-626-5646
Get ready for the Christmas holiday as you are surrounded by the biggest Christmas show in the nation with craft items, great gift items and much more.
Old Louisville Holiday House Tour
800-626-5646
Adored with Holiday flair these beautiful historic homes are sure to enchant you.
Mayor’s Midnight Special on New Year’s Eve
800-626-5646
Bring the entire family to ring in the New Year downtown in Theatre Square with party favors, great live music and more.
Population:
700,000+
Time Zone:
Eastern
Climate:
Louisville enjoys four distinct seasons, each bringing with it a range of temperatures and colors. Summer highs top out in the mid to upper 80s, with lows in the mid to upper 60s. Winter high temperatures are in the 40s, with lows in the 20s. A few inches to more than a foot of snow is common between December and March.
Airport:
Louisville International Airport (SDF)
600 Terminal Drive
Louisville, KY 40209
(502) 368-6524 or 367-INFO (4636)
Getting Around Town:
Transit Authority of River City (TARC)
City bus
502-213-3217
Taxis:
Ready Cab
502-417-4406
Yellow Cab
502-636-5511
Visitor Information:
Greater Louisville CVB
401 W. Main St.
Louisville, KY 40202
(888) LOUISVILLE or (800) 626-5646
Dining:
The English Grill
335 W. Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
502-736-2996
Slip into something nice and make you way to this fine dining venue serving exquisite meals such as grilled loin of lamb or breast of duck. The fabulous soups, salads and dessert choices complement each entrée perfectly.
Café Metro
1700 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40205
502-458-4830
Café Metro’s atmosphere is one of fresh flowers and soft music. Delicious menu selections include seafood in puff pastries and baked quail, and an exceptional wine list.
Uptown Café
1624 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40205
(502) 458-4212
This pleasing café serves a variety of foods ranging from seafood to potpie and duck ravioli to veal pockets and has a host of chocolate desserts that are to die for.
Mark’s Feed Store
11422 Shelbyville Rd.
Louisville, KY 40243
502-244-0140
For finger licking good food with a slight twist try Mark’s Feed Store BBQ. The mustard-based sauce is served over hickory smoked chicken and pork. Local favorites include baby back pork ribs, honey wings and onion straws.
HomeTown Buffet
1700 Alliant Ave.
Louisville, KY 40299
800-388-6506
With over 100 fresh items to choose from there is something for everyone serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Azalea
3612 Brownsboro Rd.
Louisville, KY 40207
502-895-5493
This trendy eatery has a fine menu of Asian, Southwestern and Italian influenced dishes that are sure to make the taste buds dance.
Blue Dog Bakery and Café
2868 Frankfort Ave.
Louisville, KY 40206
502-899-9800
This bakery will tempt your taste buds with bread of many kinds, sandwiches and pastries.
D’Nalley’s
970 S. 3rd St.
Louisville, KY 40203
502-583-8015
Looking for fast food prices with a not-so-fast-food taste? With low meal cost these hamburgers and french fries are sure to delight you.
Café Kilimanjaro
649 S. 4th St.
Louisville, KY 40202
502-583-4332
Let your taste buds travel south as you fill up on African and South American dishes such as jerk chicken, chicken in spicy tomato stew and many yummy vegetarian dishes.
Nightlife:
Comedy Caravan
1250 Bardstown Rd.
Louisville, KY 40204
502-459-0022
Tickle your funny bone at this 250-seat club featuring hilarious touring comedians.
The Corner Nightclub Complex
133 W. Liberty St.
Louisville, KY 40202
502-589-3866
Not sure what to do after dark? This club features 5 unique nightclubs including Coyote’s Authentic Honky Tonk, The Coy-O-Kee Saloon boasting karaoke with kick and Club E dance club.
The Jazz Factory
815 West Market Street
Louisville, KY 40202
0502-992-3242
Premier location for the best live Jazz music 5 days a week and offering a full bar and menu.
Stevie Ray’s Blues Bar
230 East Main
Louisville, KY 40202
502-582-9945
You will never be so glad you got the blues at this local spot boasting local regional and nationally known musicians 6 night s a week.
Louisville Ballet
315 E. Main Street
Louisville, KY 40202
502-583-3150
With more than 60 world-premier ballets and over 5 decades of dance one of their many performances is sure to allure you.
Louisville Orchestra
300 W. Main Street, Ste. 100
Louisville, KY 40202
502-587-8681
Beautiful orchestra sounds fill the auditorium as you listen to more than 70 musicians highlight their talents.
Headliners
1386 Lexington Rd.
Louisville, KY 40206
502-584-8088
New to Louisville this is quickly becoming one of the top spots to frequent. There is a full bar and seating for 600 people. Your enjoyment is provided by regional and nationally known entertainers.
Phoenix Hill Tavern
644 Baxter Ave.
Louisville, KY 40204
502-589-4957
This bar features music anyone can enjoy with different genres such as alternative rock, blues, new age rock, reggae and more.