Top 25 Must-Do Attractions in Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky, located on the Ohio River near the Indiana border. The city is renowned for the Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs every May. Numerous museums abound in Louisville, appealing to history enthusiasts, including the Louisville Slugger Museum.

In Louisville, numerous independent business operators coexist with prominent enterprises. The city significantly contributes to the American whiskey industry, with nearly one-third of all bourbons produced in its vicinity, notably the world-famous Brown-Forman.

If you appreciate live performances, Louisville offers an array of options to keep you entertained for an extended period. Below, we explore the top 25 attractions in Louisville.

1. Watch The Kentucky Derby At Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs is the prestigious venue for the esteemed Kentucky Derby and thoroughbred horse racing in Louisville. This expansive racetrack, encompassing 146 acres, boasts an oval racetrack, a one-mile dirt track, and a seven-furlong race course. The Kentucky Derby has been hosted here since 1875, establishing itself as one of the world’s most anticipated races. On Derby day, over 165,000 racing enthusiasts gather to support their favored contenders. Should you find yourself far from the racing action, the facility features the world’s largest 4K video screen to ensure you do not miss any excitement.

2. Learn The History Of The Louisville Slugger

The Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory is situated along “Museum Row” in downtown Louisville. The museum showcases the Hillerich & Bradsby Baseball bats, popularly known as the Louisville Slugger. This establishment spans 16,000 square feet of exhibition space and features a section dedicated to the bat production process. Among the many historical artifacts is the bat used by Babe Ruth during his final home run with the New York Yankees. Interactive exhibits abound, allowing visitors to experience what it feels like to face a 90 mph pitch.

3. Understand What Makes A Thoroughbred At The Kentucky Derby

After experiencing the Kentucky Derby, visitors may wish to explore what constitutes an exceptional racehorse. The Kentucky Derby Museum provides insights into the various stages of a horse’s life, from birth to race day. Moreover, there exists a segment dedicated to the history of this prestigious race and the evolution of its many traditions. The museum comprises over 20,000 items, including relics generously donated by jockeys and breeders.

4. Be Inspired For Greatness At The Muhammad Ali Center

The Muhammad Ali Center is dedicated to sharing the history of this legendary boxer along with the ideals he espoused. While many are familiar with Ali’s remarkable achievements in the ring, few are aware of the 22 million meals he provided to the world’s most impoverished and the medical supplies he contributed to Cuba. The center recounts remarkable stories, including Ali’s pivotal role in freeing 15 hostages in Iraq during the Gulf War. Muhammad Ali has been designated a Messenger of Peace by the United Nations, and his remarkable legacy is brought to life within the center.

5. Remember Those Who Died For The United States

Cave Hill Cemetery, the largest cemetery in Louisville, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This tranquil location serves as a serene setting to reflect upon the heroes who have fought for their country. More than 200 Confederate soldiers are interred in section “O” of the cemetery. Additionally, the grounds host over 500 species of trees, including 24 state champion trees. A picturesque stream traverses the cemetery, providing a natural division between the east and west sides.

6. Have Fun At The Largest Science Museum in Kentucky

The Kentucky Science Center stands as the largest hands-on science museum in Kentucky, nestled in downtown Louisville’s Museum Row. Established in 1871 originally as a natural history museum, it has evolved into the institution it is today. The center features a state-of-the-art four-story digital theater, renovated in 2014. A newly launched exhibit titled Science in Play has garnered significant popularity, allowing children to engage in learning through play, including building roller coasters and developing climbing skills.

7. Cruise Up The Ohio River

For those seeking a water-based adventure, embark on a stylish cruise along the Ohio River. Experience the Belle of Louisville, the world’s oldest operating Mississippi River-style steamboat, built in 1914 in Pennsylvania. Originally designed as a ferry, this fully paddle-driven vessel is capable of navigating nearly every inland waterway. A variety of tours are available, and depending on the time of day, guests can enjoy lunch or dinner. Special events such as the Valentine Cruise are also noteworthy opportunities.

8. Pitch Up At A Louisville Bats Game

The Louisville Bats host their home games at Louisville Slugger Field, widely regarded as one of the most attractive and vibrant venues in minor league baseball. Named after the legendary Slugger Baseball bat originating from Louisville, the stadium boasts a retro-classic design favored by local fans. Stadium tours, lasting one hour and offered twice daily, can be arranged, provided a home game is not in progress. The tour is affordably priced at just $1.

9. Spend The Night At The 21C Hotel

Located in the historic downtown area, the 21c Museum Hotel is an extraordinary boutique establishment featuring 91 uniquely designed rooms. In addition to accommodations, it houses a contemporary art museum, a cultural civic center, and an award-winning restaurant. This hotel is committed to providing its guests with unparalleled experiences, earning numerous accolades in the process, making it a must-see destination in the city.

10. Get Some Oxygen At Louisville Waterfront Park

If you enjoy expansive green areas, Louisville Waterfront Park is a delightful urban space situated along the banks of the Ohio River. This park serves as the “front door” to Kentucky, welcoming visitors of all ages to relax and explore. Guests can enjoy spectacular river views, attend concerts, have picnics, or leisurely read. The park hosts the renowned Thunder Over Louisville event, attracting crowds of 350,000. Spanning over 85 acres, the park has recently completed its final phase, which includes a pedestrian and bicycle section.

11. Meet The Animals At Louisville Zoo

Founded in 1969, the Louisville Zoo spans 169 acres and is home to approximately 1,700 animals. The zoo features six geographical settings, including the Asian Plains, African Veldt, The Islands, Australian Outback, and North and South America Panorama. The Gorilla Forest is particularly popular among visitors, hosting western lowland gorillas and patas monkeys. For those who enjoy polar bears, the Glacier Run exhibit provides a delightful experience and includes a splash park for children.

12. Watch A Live Performance At The KFC Yum! Center

Since its opening in 2010, the KFC Yum! Center has gained immense popularity among the residents of Louisville. This venue regularly hosts performances by some of the world’s biggest stars, including Katy Perry, Justin Timberlake, and Lionel Richie. Additionally, the center serves as the home arena for the University of Louisville’s men’s and women’s basketball teams. A diverse array of food and drink vendors can be found within the center, eliminating the need to dine before attending an event; instead, guests can arrive early, enjoy a meal, and take their seats in time for the show.

13. See Fast Art At The Speed Art Museum

Located near the University of Louisville Belknap Campus, the Speed Art Museum is the oldest and largest art museum in Kentucky. The museum houses an extensive collection of ancient, modern, and classical art, with a primary focus on Western art. Recently renovated, the museum’s floor space has doubled, incorporating a theater, café, shop, and pavilion into its offerings. Notable highlights include works by Rembrandt and Monet.

14. The Kentucky Museum Of Art And Craft

The KMAC museum operates under the tagline: “Art is the Big Idea, and Craft is the Process.” Visitors will gain insightful perspectives into the connection between art and craft. Established in 1981, the museum has fostered local interest in Kentucky’s rich craft heritage. Over the years, the museum has relocated and expanded, now occupying a four-story building in downtown Louisville.

15. Watch Performing Arts At The Kentucky Center

For enthusiasts of performing arts, a visit to The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts is essential. Home to the Louisville Ballet, Louisville Orchestra, Broadway Across America, and the Kentucky Opera, the center offers a plethora of performances year-round. Moreover, it places a strong emphasis on education by dispatching staff throughout Kentucky to enhance performing arts skills among children and adults alike.

16. Ride The Rides At Kentucky Kingdom

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay together form a sprawling amusement and water park that spans 63 acres. Visitors can experience an array of thrilling rides, including numerous roller coasters. The newly introduced 5-D cinema allows guests to engage in a cinematic experience that feels quite immersive. Overall, the park promises enjoyment for visitors of all ages.

17. Prepare To Be Scared At Waverly Hills Sanatorium

Constructed in response to the tuberculosis epidemic in early 20th century Louisville, Waverly Hills Sanatorium was designed to accommodate 40 to 50 patients. This facility was secluded from the outside world, housing both patients and medical personnel. Following the discovery of a cure in the 1960s, the hospital was gradually abandoned, leading to its deterioration. The building has since gained notoriety as one of the “most haunted” hospitals in the Eastern United States, as classified by the TV program Ghost Hunters. Guided tours are available, offering visitors insights into the history of this once-operational facility.

18. Stay A Night At The Historic Brown Hotel

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Brown Hotel is also a proud member of the Historic Hotels of America. It boasts 600 rooms, ballrooms, dining establishments, and shops. Over the years, many illustrious figures, such as David Lloyd George (Former Prime Minister of the UK) and Queen Marie of Romania, have graced this hotel. The facilities have historically served as temporary shelter for those displaced during the floods of 1973. Recently, the hotel underwent comprehensive renovations, making a stay at this historic landmark highly recommended for visitors.

19. Enjoy A Performance At The Actors Theatre of Louisville

Since its establishment in 1964, the Actors Theatre has become a cherished cultural institution in Louisville, resulting from the merger of two local theater companies. The theatre draws approximately 150,000 attendees each year and hosts around 400 performances annually, alongside workshops and various theatrical events. The educational department plays a significant role, engaging over 17,000 students statewide to stimulate interest in acting and the performing arts.

20. Take A Tour Of An Old Hemp Plantation

Farmington, a federal-style home with 14 rooms, is situated on an 18-acre site. Built in 1816, this single-story property features a raised basement and once served as the nucleus of a 550-acre hemp plantation, operated by 60 enslaved Americans residing in log cabins on the grounds. The building has been meticulously restored to reflect the aesthetics of a 19th-century plantation and is now open for tours, with the primary building available for private events.

21. Get Active At E.P “Tom” Sawyer State Park

E.P “Tom” Sawyer State Park encompasses a vast 550 acres, originally opened in 1974 on land formerly housing Kentucky’s Central State Hospital. This park offers ample opportunities for exercise and fresh air. Visitors can utilize an activity center complete with a gymnasium, badminton courts, basketball and tennis courts, a weight room, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Additionally, numerous picnic areas, dog-friendly paths, and nature trails can be explored.

22. Enjoy A Performance At The Louisville Palace

Opened in 1928, the Louisville Palace features a seating capacity of 2,700 and was designed by architect John Eberson, showcasing intricate decorations throughout. The theatre boasts a vaulted ceiling adorned with 139 sculptures of historical figures. Inside, a breathtaking night sky painted on the ceiling adds to the aesthetic along with a variety of exquisite artworks. A diverse range of shows and performances are hosted at the Louisville Palace, making it advisable to check schedules in advance.

23. See The Inventions Of Thomas Edison

Thomas Edison House is a simple shotgun duplex constructed around 1850. At the age of 19, Edison came to Louisville for a job opportunity with Western Union, deciding to travel to Brazil instead. That plan was thwarted, however, and he returned to Louisville, renting this property, which is now a museum. Edison’s stay in Louisville lasted only one year, as he was dismissed the following day after accidentally spilling sulfuric acid on his employer’s desk.

24. See The Historical Cathedral Of The Assumption

The Cathedral of the Assumption boasts a rich and complex history, nearly facing destruction shortly after its construction due to attacks from anti-Catholic and anti-immigrant activists. Daily masses are held at the cathedral, which can seat 966 individuals through a configuration of individual chairs with kneelers rather than traditional pews. Although the interior has undergone several renovations since its inception, it continues to retain its intricate beauty.

25. Admire The Ronald-Brennan House

Originally owned by tobacco merchant Francis Ronald and later sold to Thomas Brennan in 1884, the Ronald-Brennan House is the last surviving Victorian mansion on the block, preserving its original lighting and furnishings. This Italianate-style townhouse is spread over three levels, showcasing charming rooms complete with stained glass windows, hand-carved marble, and crystal chandeliers. The entire structure is a stunning example of architectural beauty and merits a visit.