Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Louisville, KY

  • Published 2022/10/13

Did you know that Louisville, Kentucky is home to the world’s largest cast iron statue?

Or that it’s the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln?

Louisville is a city in Jefferson County with a lot of history and culture.

There are plenty of things to do in this vibrant city, no matter your interests.

Besides its rich history, what else can you find in Louisville?

From popular tourist destinations to historical landmarks, Louisville has something for everyone.

This article will explore the best things to do in Louisville.

So put on your cowboy boots and get ready to have some fun in Louisville, Kentucky!

Take a Scenic Walk through Cherokee Park

Stone bridge at Cherokee Park

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Cherokee Park is a beautiful park that features rolling hills, meadows, and forests.

It’s an excellent place for a day of fun with the family.

There are plenty of walking and biking trails and a lake where you can go fishing or take a paddleboat ride.

Trail leading to a pavilion at Cherokee Park

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The park also features rolling hills, meadows, and forests, making it the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors.

Cherokee Park is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Drop by and spend the day chilling here at the park!

Beautiful waterfall at Cherokee Park

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Spend a Fun Day Out with the Family at the Louisville Zoo

Entrance to the Louisville Zoo

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The Louisville Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country.

It’s home to various animals, including lions, tigers, and bears.

The zoo also has a children’s play area and a petting zoo.

Orangutan at Louisville Zoo

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There’s something for every member of the family at the Louisville Zoo.

Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day exploring this wonderful zoo.

You and your family are sure to have a great time!

A bongo at Louisville Zoo

Trisha Shears Ltshears from Louisville, Kentucky, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Explore the Legacy of a Boxing Legend and Visit the Muhammad Ali Center

Exterior of the Muhammad Ali Center

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If you’re a fan of Muhammad Ali or just interested in boxing history, visit the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

The center is dedicated to the life and legacy of Muhammad Ali, one of the most famous boxers of all time.

The center features interactive exhibits, films, and a boxing ring where you can learn about Ali’s life and impact on the world.

Building sign of the Muhammad Ali Center

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Some exhibits include a replica of Ali’s childhood home in Louisville, photos and memorabilia from Ali’s career, and a tribute to the many people Ali has inspired.

The Muhammad Ali Center is a must-see for boxing fans and history buffs.

It provides a unique glimpse into the life of one of the most iconic athletes of all time.

Photo of Muhammad Ali on the Muhammad Ali Center's facade

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See the World’s Largest Baseball Bat at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Exterior of the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

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The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is a must-see for baseball fans.

It’s a great place to visit for fans of all ages!

The museum tells the story of the Louisville Slugger, one of the most iconic baseball bats in history.

Baseball bat sculpture beside the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

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The museum features interactive exhibits, historical memorabilia, and a chance to tour and see how the Louisville Slugger is made.

The museum can also see some of the world’s largest baseball bats.

These bats are displayed in the “Great Bats” exhibit, which features bats from some of the greatest players in baseball history.

Interior of the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

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Enjoy Underground Adventure at the Louisville Mega Cavern

The Louisville Mega Cavern is a must-see for anyone visiting Louisville.

This artificial cavern is the largest underground commercial cavern in the United States.

The Mega Cavern is open year-round and features a variety of activities, including zip lining, rock climbing, and trampoline jumping.

The Louisville Mega Cavern is an excellent place for families to visit.

There are a variety of kid-friendly activities to choose from, and it’s a fun place for kids of all ages.

The cavern features a tram tour, an excellent way for kids to learn about the cavern’s history.

For those who want to have fun underground, the Mega Cavern is home to the world’s largest underground playground.

So if you’re looking for family-friendly fun, check out The Louisville Mega Cavern!

Revisit Louisville’s Rich and Storied Culture at the Frazier History Museum

Exterior of the Frazier History Museum

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The Frazier History Museum is great for learning about Louisville’s rich history.

The museum features exhibits on various topics in American history, including the Civil War, pioneer life, and the city’s role in the abolition of slavery.

The museum is dedicated to telling the story of Kentucky’s history through historical artifacts and interactive exhibits.

It provides a unique glimpse into the state’s past, which should educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

Barrels in front of the Frazier History Museum

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Owsley Brown Frazier founded the Frazier History Museum.

He was passionate about history and felt that it was important for all Louisvillians to have access to it.

In 2004, he shared his extensive collection of historic weapons at the museum.

With its iconic tagline, “Where the World Meets Kentucky,” the Frazier History Museum has become an institution that shares Kentucky’s rich history with the world.

Building sign of the Frazier History Museum

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Take a Tour or See a Show at the Louisville Palace

Exterior of the Louisville Palace

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The Louisville Palace is a historic theatre that has existed since 1928.

It was initially built as a vaudeville theatre and featured a 2,300-seat auditorium, a Wurlitzer organ, and a ladies’ lounge.

In the 1970s, the theatre was converted into a movie theatre.

Stage and seats in the Louisville Palace

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It closed in the early 2000s but later reopened as a live performance venue.

Today, the Louisville Palace is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Louisville.

It has hosted concerts by artists like Elvis Presley, the Rolling Stones, and the Who.

Grand lobby of the Louisville Palace

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It is the largest performing arts center in Kentucky, and it hosts various events, including concerts, ballets, operas, and more.

The theatre offers guided tours that give you a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into putting on a show.

For anyone interested in the arts, the Louisville Palace is a must-see.

Stunning interior of the Louisville Palace

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Take a Scenic Drive Down River Road

When you drive down River Road in Louisville, Kentucky, you’ll be treated to some of the most beautiful views in the city.

River Road is a beautiful 5.1 miles stretch that winds along the Ohio River.

The views are breathtaking, with local landmarks such as the old water tower and the Patriots Peace Memorial.

Plus, there are plenty of places to stop and take photos.

You can take a kayak or canoe down the river if you’re feeling adventurous.

Bring your camera to capture the stunning scenery, including the beautiful houses and fields winding down the road.

Discover Louisville’s Horseracing History at the Kentucky Derby Museum

Exterior of the Kentucky Derby Museum

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The Kentucky Derby Museum is the go-to destination for horse racing fans.

The museum tells the story of the Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races in the world.

It’s the perfect place for horse racing fans to know more about the sport.

Statue on Kentucky Derby Museum grounds

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Guests can explore the museum’s exhibits, which include artifacts and memorabilia from the Kentucky Derby.

The museum features interactive exhibits, films, and a chance to see the Kentucky Derby trophy up close.

The Kentucky Derby Museum is also home to the Kentucky Derby Hall of Fame, which honors horses and people who have made significant contributions to the sport.

Trophy displayed in Kentucky Derby Museum

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Explore the Kentucky Science Center

Exterior of the Kentucky Science Center

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The Kentucky Science Center is great for learning about science and technology.

The center features interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a simulator ride.

The Kentucky Science Center is also home to the world’s largest open-air dinosaur exhibit.

Entrance to the Kentucky Science Center

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There’s something for the curious scientific mind at the Kentucky Science Center.

That’s why it’s a great place to take the family for a day of fun and learning.

Spend the Day with the Family at the Louisville Waterfront Park

A couple walking along Louisville Waterfront Park

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At Louisville Waterfront Park, you can enjoy a variety of activities.

The park features a walking and biking trail, a playground, and an amphitheater.

You can also take in the view of the Ohio River and the city skyline from the park.

A park bench at Louisville Waterfront Park

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Louisville Waterfront Park is a great place to spend a day with your family.

It’s the perfect destination to unwind, relax, and enjoy the outdoors.

A concert at Louisville Waterfront Park's amphitheater

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Take a Look at Contemporary Art at the KMAC Museum

Located right along West Main Street in Louisville, Kentucky, the KMAC Museum is a great place to see contemporary art.

The museum features a variety of seasonal exhibits from renowned contemporary artists.

KMAC museum has an interactive Mobile Guide that lets visitors learn more about the art on display and see it through the artist’s lens.

The museum has a cafe so you can unwind after touring.

It also has a gift shop that sells unique KMAC merchandise with prominent prints that feature the slogan, “Art is a Big Idea.”

The KMAC Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in art or culture.

Visit Cave Hill Cemetery

Exterior of the Cave Hill Cemetery

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Cave Hill Cemetery is the final resting place of many famous people, including President Abraham Lincoln’s uncle.

The cemetery is a beautiful place to visit, with various monuments and sculptures on display.

It’s also an excellent place for a walk.

Headstones at Cave Hill Cemetery

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You can enjoy the outdoors while paying respects to some of history’s most influential figures.

If you want to spend a chill afternoon stroll in Louisville, Kentucky, why not do it at Cave Hill Cemetery?

A memorial at Cave Hill Cemetery

Sailko, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Learn Some of Louisville’s History at the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Exterior of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

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The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is one of Louisville’s most important historical landmarks.

The museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into Louisville’s history.

Exhibits at the museum include various topics, from the Civil War to pioneer life.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the collection of firearms.

This exhibit provides a fascinating look at how guns have been used throughout history.

The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in Louisville’s history.

With its wide range of exhibits, it offers something for everyone.

You can even take a virtual museum tour online, which features an immersive 3D model of the whole museum.

Explore Spooky Gothic Architecture at the Waverly Hills Sanatorium

Exterior of the Waverly Hills Sanatorium

Royasfoto73, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Waverly Hills Sanatorium is a historic building now home to a museum.

The sanatorium once treated patients with tuberculosis.

Today, it has become a popular spot for ghost tours.

Waverly Hills Sanatorium is haunted by the ghosts of the patients who died there.

The architecture of the building is Gothic, which adds another layer of mystery to the place.

If you are looking for a spooky place to explore or are simply interested in Louisville’s Gothic architecture, the Waverly Hills Sanatorium should be on your list.

Take a Look at the Legendary Horse Racing Track at Churchill Downs

Exterior of Churchill Downs

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Churchill Downs is a legendary horse racing track home to the Kentucky Derby.

The track offers tours that take you behind the scenes and give you a glimpse of what goes into putting on the world-famous race.

The Churchill Downs racetrack is more than just a place for horse racing.

The track also offers a variety of other attractions and activities.

For example, you can visit the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn about the history of the Kentucky Derby.

Aerial view of Churchill Downs

Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock.com

The museum features exhibits on the race’s winners, the jockeys, and the horses.

You can also visit the track’s gift shop, which sells a variety of souvenirs such as hats, T-shirts, and posters.

If you’re feeling hungry, you can also stop by one of the track’s restaurants for a bite to eat.

No matter your interests, there’s something for you at Churchill Downs.

Check out this iconic Louisville attraction.

A horse race participant at Churchill Downs

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Final Thoughts

There are several great things to do in Louisville, Kentucky.

The city is home to various museums, historic landmarks, and parks.

Whether interested in history, art, baseball, or horse racing, Louisville has something to offer everyone.

Start exploring the best things to do in Louisville!

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