Things to do

20 Awesome Things To Do In Louisville, Kentucky

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Louisville is a vibrant city mainly renowned for its contribution to sports and arts. It is the largest city in Kentucky and provides a beautiful view of the Ohio River and its basin.

The city combines the Southern charm with a modern urban atmosphere and offers many activities for visitors. Here are 20 things to do in Louisville Kentucky:

1. Private Louisville Bourbon Tour (Groups of 2-6) Old-Fo & More

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This full-day tour will take you to three different distillery performances. You will know how bourbons are made and even learn about their history. You are free to choose the place from the given list.

On booking this trip, you will get a private vehicle, pickup service, and a knowledgeable driver. It takes almost nine hours to complete this tour with ten stops.

2. Private Tour of KMAC Contemporary Art Museum

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Immerse yourself into this immense art scene with the help of a private tour. You will meet your guide at the historic downtown, who will take you through various exhibits.

The tour begins on the first floor with gift shops and art to stop by. Learn interesting facts about each artist and get at least 25% off on drinks and a 15% discount in the KMAC shop.

3. Kentucky Derby Museum General Admission Ticket

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With $21 general admission, learn about this place that preserves one of the iconic horse races in the whole United States. The admission allows for two ways of exploring.

First, take an independent tour then a half an hour walking tour along the Churchill Down Racetrack. They also display a theater film to research more about race.

4. Bourbon Distillery & Horse Farm Tours

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The typical itinerary of this purchase is a stop at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Travelers will take a tour of the amenities of popular Bourbon Distilleries and rejoice in excellent bourbon tastings.

They provide many services with a free pick from any local location, guided transportation, and lunch. You also get to be up close with horses and feed them.

5. 3-Hour Private Food & History Guided Walking Tour in Louisville

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Make sure you come empty stomach on this tour that has starters, mains, dessert, and some alcoholic beverages. Select any three places of interest during this walking expedition.

Spend an hour in each place and have a great evening. Guides make sure you get excellent quality foods and drinks along with their particular importance. Check their website for multiple meeting points.

6. Discover the Louisville Zoo

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A family visit to Louisville Zoo is worth the dime. This zoo is home to more than thousands of animal species- kids will love exploring all the varieties of wildlife.

This state zoo of Kentucky also has lush botanical gardens- perfect for relaxing. Many exhibits, outpost playgrounds and kids-friendly adventures are designed to offer plenty of fun while learning.

7. Relax at Waterfront Park

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You can relax at Waterfront Park-an 85-acre spacious land full of green areas. The view here makes the atmosphere incomparable to other spaces nearby Louisville, imagine viewing the Ohio River stretched before you. A short distance ahead, you can see the Big Four Bridge that gracefully connects Kentucky to Indiana.

The park is pet-friendly and a great place for kids to play. You can have your own private picnic here- enjoying the breathtaking views and the soothing sounds of nature.

8. Take a Boat Ride on the Belle of Louisville

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A boat ride on the steamboat capturing the beauty of the Ohio River together with the Louisville skyline is a lifetime experience after all. The stunning views can also be made a memorable way to celebrate any special events.

Various riverboat operators including the Belle of Louisville provide this service and the ride generally lasts for one to two hours-enough to have a lovely time onboard.

9. Paddle and Explore: Downtown Louisville River Tour

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This is a fun and exciting way to see Louisville and the Ohio River. With patient and flexible instructors, even a beginner can participate. There are paddleboarding lessons to ensure comfort.

The rivers are calm which makes paddling relaxing. Moreover, the views are amazing and you will pass along landmarks including the Big Four Bridge and waterfront park.

10. Try Local Cuisine at a Louisville Restaurant

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Hot Brown-the Louisville classic and many other Southern flavors are a must-try in Louisville. There are many restaurants that come with the region's staple foods and not to forget, all of them serve bourbon in their menus.

For something casual, try food trucks, the easiest way to experience the region's flavors on the streets. To get to the core and not miss out on the hidden gems, book walking tours-they are both hectic-free and time-efficient.

11. Old Louisville Ghost Tour as Recommended by The New York Times

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The old Louisville houses many Victorian mansions that trace back to the 18th century. This walking tour is about uncovering the ghostly past of this town with eerie tales from a guide.

Moreover, the stories are filled with details of each house and the things that happened back in the 1800s and early 19th century. However, don't let the scary part stop you from taking on this trip.

12. Visit Cherokee Park

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Whenever you are near the Highlands, spending some time in Cherokee Park—amidst nature—can be a perfect way to dissolve in the calm and beauty of Louisville’s outdoor serenity.

The park is spread across rolling hills. It has different areas to spend a full day- including golfing and picnicking—so, without a doubt, it’s a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

13. Tour Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co.

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Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. produces high-quality bourbon—it's a hidden treasure that was built back in the early 1880s and continues to surprise till now with its handcrafted exceptional bourbon and rye whiskey.

Peerless gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how their bourbon is created using different techniques, and not only a tasting experience, but they also provide the opportunity to take home a customized barrel of bourbon—a souvenir that makes memories last for years to come.

14. Experience A Game At Slugger Field

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The city's minor league baseball team, the Louisville Bats call Louisville Slugger Field home. So, for sports fans, getting to experience an exciting game day comes with great views of the field.

The field is, however, not just limited to baseball; you can check for the range of events going on-concerts, fireworks shows, and many other community celebrations, a venue that is lively and entertaining for all types of visitors.

15. Explore the Highlands Neighborhood

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The Highlands has its own charm- the architecture and lively scene catches the spirit of Louisville. With the unique Victorian homes and the trendy shops scattered throughout the area, the atmosphere here is welcoming with a dynamic vibe.

There are many festivals that embrace the old-world charm of this particular place making it a lively destination that can be visited throughout the year.

16. Pour Your Own Candle Making Experience with Blending & Education

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Widely known for Bourbon, Bardstown has introduced a different set of programs that is suitable for almost anyone. This is a candle-making tour where you are given different scents and vessels to choose from.

If you are new to it, guides will teach you how to label, wick, blend, and pour into the vessel. This is a fun and educational activity, which will keep you talking about when you reach home.

17. Visit Frazier History Museum

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One of the fun things to do in Kentucky-this museum hosts a large collection of significant items dedicated to preserving the history of Kentucky. The ticket includes entry to the museum, free tours at fixed times, and film viewing of Kentucky shows.

The nine venues in this museum contain numerous exhibits, programs, and events. You can buy from more than a hundred bourbons and Kentucky-themed gifts.

18. Speed Art Museum-For Art Enthusiasts

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Founded in 1927, the Speed Art Museum is the oldest and largest art museum in Louisville. The collection of various forms of art here-ranging from European to contemporary, giving an overall view of global art history.   

The architecture of the museum is a work of art in itself. This beautiful space also conducts exhibitions of popular artists from time to time-so whenever you are in Louisville, try to check the schedule online and give it a visit.

19. Enjoy the Kentucky Kingdom Theme & Water Park

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Kentucky Kingdom Theme & Water Park is a seasonal amusement and water park—it's a must-visit if you are in Louisville anywhere between late spring and early fall.

Roller coasters-for thrilling drops and spins, water slides-for an adrenaline-pumping experience, and many other family-friendly rides will give everyone—from adrenaline junkies to water babies—the ultimate day of excitement and fun.

20. Stop By Kentucky Science Center

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The Kentucky Science Center in Louisville is for educational purposes, mainly related to scientific concepts and innovations. The exhibits focused on engagement and hands-on experience made available at the center are definitely a valuable resource for young minds.

Besides sparking curiosity, the Kentucky Science Center's service also helps kids develop problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of the world around us.