Louisville KY is a land of incredible diversity, with something to offer everyone who visits. There are many great places to visit in this city, but if you are looking for the ultimate Louisville KY experience, then you need to head to one of the places below. Whichever part of Louisville KY you choose to visit, you’re sure to have an amazing time.
The Best Place to Visit in Louisville KY
Louisville Zoo
- Address: 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (9911)
- Phone: +1 502-459-2181
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMTuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMWednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMFriday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMSaturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
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Top 15 Tourist Attractions in Louisville KY
Churchill Downs
- Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (9825)
- Phone: +1 502-636-4400
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PMTuesday: ClosedWednesday: 11:30 AM – 6:15 PMThursday: 11:30 AM – 8:00 PMFriday: 11:30 AM – 10:30 PMSaturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PMSunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Reviews:
We paid $17 each for a 30 minute tour of the grounds as well as entrance to the museum. Our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and encouraged us often to ask questions. As a childhood fan with very little knowledge of the history race, I was amazed with the history our tour guide was able to share in just the 30 minutes we were there. If you know more than me, you might ask questions and be pleasantly surprised to hear her explain Churchill Downs trivia. Since it was only a 30 minute tour, we didn’t go far from the museum, but we did get to see the track and the winners circle under the twin towers! The museum is quite large and holds of a lot of interesting facts as well as interactive and informative games for some of the younger (or young at heart) crowd. 10/10, must visit!By Anna H. H. (8 months ago)One of the coolest things I’ve ever done! If you have the chance, visit Churchill Downs. It’s an experience you’ll never forget! When we visited, they had a bunch of food trucks in the vicinity. It was neat because you could walk around to a couple of food trucks, purchase some drinks, dance to the live music, and then go watch the horse races. We just sat in a general admission area which worked out perfect because we were there during the week when it wasn’t crazy busy. Overall, we had an absolute blast!By Mackenzie Feeley (9 months ago)Great experience! This was my first visit. We took a tour of the city and this was one of our stops. Enjoyed seeing the horses race and exploring the grounds, which are very beautiful. The gift shop has a good variety of items, such as derby hats, shirts, magnets, and derby collector items.By Kristi U (4 months ago)How could you not give this 5 stars! Historic, beautiful, an absolute must for everyone. If you go on any weekend other than Derby weekend, it is affordable ($10-30 seat tickets) and not crazy crowded!
Keep in mind there is a dress code (not for basic admission) but for all of the restaurants inside the facility. It can all be found on their website. But there are plenty of food stands to buy food inside not connected to a restaurant.
It can get pretty hot here, so be prepared.
We had the time of our lives and would do it again in a heartbeat. If you’re considering but not sure, just go, you will not regret it! It’s Churchill Downs!!
By Josh Kaz (6 months ago)Churchill Downs is THE American horse racing experience. Steeped in tradition and lore, reverence for ‘The Sport of Kings’ abounds. From the murals of Kentucky Derby winning jockeys and horse owners, the history of ‘The Fastest Two Minutes in Sports’ is on full display. Placards of past Derby winners adorn the paddock and entryway to Churchill Downs. Crowning Kentucky’s bourbon country, guests may sip on a mint julep from the sheltered pavilion while watching horse trainers warm up their equine charges. Of course, betting is available from numerous windows available inside the pavilion. And even if your horse doesn’t win, the spectacle of the surroundings and its pageantry make the experience memorable.By Tim Smith (5 months ago)
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Address: 800 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (8933)
- Phone: +1 877-775-8443
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMTuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMWednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMThursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMFriday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMSaturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PMSunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Reviews:
Totally awesome tour and definitely worth it. All of my kids enjoyed it. The free mini bat is a nice touch either. Keeping four boys from poking each other with them is a different story. After the tour you get to see the museum which has some nice extra items in it. We came on a holiday on the fourth of July weekend and only had to wait 10 minutes for a tour to start.By Zach Garia (5 months ago)A fascinating place for baseball fans as well as those with just a passing knowledge of the game. Watch bats being created out of blocks of wood. When we were there, they were making bats for opening day. You can also get a personalized bat. There are displays highlighting baseball greats and other unique facets of the sport. A great attraction and an easy walk from downtown.By David Nershi (7 months ago)We really enjoyed this place! Great tour and I learned so much! I’m not a baseball fan, yet the rich history of the game, the process of making the bats, and learning about the players was incredibly interesting. I definitely recommend visiting, you will not be disappointed. We also got customized bats made. Very reasonably priced and it was only about a 15-20 minute wait.By Kristi U (4 months ago)If you you baseball and its history, this is a place you must visit! The visit includes a tour inside the factory where you can see how bats are made. The exhibitions are simply amazing! You can hold a bat that belonged to Babe Ruth in 1933, you can see bats from Joe Di Magio, Roberto Clemente, Jackie Robinson, Roger Maris, Tyler Cobb, and some other legends. You can buy nice souvenirs at the gift store and even get a customized bat. I highly recommend this museum.By Francisco Cappai (7 months ago)We needed a stop on our road-trip from MN to Panama City Beach to break it up and stretch our legs and let me tell you this didn’t Disappoint!! Our teenage kids Loved stopping here and doing the tour! They were all very happy that we decided to do it! As parents that was a success! Best part is, Each person got a Mini Bat as keepsake with Tour Ticket Cost! No need to spend anymore in gift shop! 2-4-1 ⚾️By Jen&Odie Fogleson (8 months ago)
Louisville Mega Cavern
- Address: 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (6817)
- Phone: +1 877-614-6342
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PMTuesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PMWednesday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PMThursday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PMFriday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PMSaturday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PMSunday: 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM
- Reviews:
This adventure was the best idea, something different, and it did not disappoint.
I registered, purchased tickets, and signed wavers all online and via digital delivery. It was so easy. I pulled up and drove around and found the location. There was not anyone else really around and even though there were signs I didn’t know what to do. I think those main tour doors needed to be construction orange or green with a big clear enter sign enter sign . There are lots of signs and info but needed to be a little more clear and simple..
After entering through the side and walking down a creepy hall, I walk into this massive room and there was the tram, and across the giant room was a town façade and waiting area. I made my way over and when walking into the underground welcome center was warmly greeting by seven or so staff. There was a gift shop, snack area, very nice restrooms, and an open indoor ropes course to the side.
My tour was the first of the day of a Thursday so that was probably why there was no crowd to follow but it added to the adventure for me! The price was $21.94 and the tour lasted a little over an hour. It was awesome to see the inside and understanding the history and purpose of the cavern and it’s evolution.
Shout out my tour guide Skeeter! He was the best! Great guide, extremely funny, and delivering an up beat, educational tour with a side of humor.
I won’t give away all the history and stories so there will not be any real spoilers from the tour but I will say this was a great experience and so glad a booked the tram tour. It was definitely something different and fun to do.
By Wm. Les Roberts, II (9 months ago)Excellent tour with our tour guide Skeeter. Skeeter did a good job of providing us with laughs while also giving us the history of the caverns.My family and I chose the Tram tour since we have a small child. It is cool in the cavern but not cold. We were fine with a light jacket.
It’s not really a lot to see if you don’t Zipline or do more of the exciting attractions. Kids might get a little bored on the tram.
It is a huge place, I think about 17 miles and the tram is about 2 miles long. It’s a unique experience and one I’d definitely say to give a try.
By E Blount (7 months ago)Started the day will Teresa on a walking tour. Very informative and learned a few new things that I was previously unaware of. She was a great guide!Finished the day with Chip, Charlie and Jess on the Zip Lines. Unbelievably great time! Extremely fun and unique!
Both of these are must do activities if you are visiting Louisville or if you live in the area.
By Jason McMichael (6 months ago)It was a nice short day trip. We did the tram and the tour was about an hour. Our guides were fun and it was something different to try. Definitely worth checking out. Not alot of walking so easy for those with small kids or difficulties.By Theresa Cerveira (3 months ago)We had an awesome time! The zip line tour was safe, beautiful, and very exciting. Jordan and Aiden (our guides) were funny, attentive, and made the experience awesome. I never thought something like this existed. It’s a must see!By Jeffrey R (5 months ago)
Waterfront Park
- Address: 129 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (5102)
- Phone: +1 502-574-3768
- Website: Link
- Opening hours:
Monday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMTuesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMWednesday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMThursday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMFriday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMSaturday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PMSunday: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Reviews:
Love this park by the river. Playground areas are awesome for the kiddo. Varying size playthings for big kids and toddlers. Fun to walk around by the river and watch the boats, maybe see an abandoned scooter lying in a field. Perhaps swing on a bench under the trees and pick up a tick on your leg. All good fun in Kentucky!By Brett Stakelin (4 months ago)Nice riverfront area where events happen. There are walking paths, multiple playgrounds, and a splash pad. Some of the parking under the bridge seemed to have some sketchy individuals (a lady staring at us and erratically talking either to herself or to us), so we found parking that we felt more comfortable with. Cute swing seats lined the walking paths and what looked to be a dock to get closer to the river was there but not accessible at the time my family and I visited because of an event setting up for the day. There was a cool little dock/pier that we were able to access and get a clear, open view of the river and bridges.By Hazel LePage (5 months ago)The different options of playground equipment for the kiddos; benches for a picnic; splash water will add double fun. You can Walk through a waterway that has a Nice paved riverside path for a sweet stroll. Be prepared; Hard to find a free parking lot on weekends. Hungry while having fun?” Snack Box” is located by the parking lot with a concession clerk and a large menu posted for a wide variety of snack choices at a reasonable price. You can hike along with dogs across the bridge that connects Kentucky and Indiana. Want more exploring? Just rent Electric Bike, electric scooters, a double Surrey, and more from under the bridge.By Deepak Thapa (4 months ago)Great park. Plenty of walking paths and a walking bridge over the River to Indiana. There are bike rentals, even with options for two and four people. Lots of restrooms, playground and in the summer there’s a splash park. Or you can relax on numerous fixed or swinging benches and enjoy the river. You might even see a barge or if you’re lucky a paddle steamer.By Anthony Blaszak (a month ago)Nice quiet spot to walk around. There were geese everywhere so it was hard not to step on the droppings. But I highly recommend on visiting if you’re looking for a nearby place to get away from the hustle & bustle of city life & just enjoy the peaceful scenery cause I know my dog & I did.By Maggie P. (9 months ago)
Kentucky Derby Museum
- Address: 704 Central Ave, Louisville, KY 40208, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (3702)
Muhammad Ali Center
- Address: 144 N 6th St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (3043)
Kentucky Science Center
- Address: 727 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (3008)
Cherokee Park
- Address: 745 Cochran Hill Rd, Louisville, KY 40206, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (2903)
The Waverly Hills Sanatorium
- Address: 4400 Paralee Dr, Louisville, KY 40272, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.6 (2759)
Beckley Creek Park
- Address: 1411 Beckley Creek Pkwy, Louisville, KY 40245, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (2392)
Speed Art Museum
- Address: 2035 S 3rd St, Louisville, KY 40208, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.7 (1502)
Frazier History Museum
- Address: 829 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (1347)
Big Four Bridge
- Address: 1101 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (1161)
Belvedere
- Address: 141 N 6th St, Louisville, KY 40202, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.5 (484)
Locust Grove
- Address: 561 Blankenbaker Ln, Louisville, KY 40207, United States
- Map: Click here
- Rating: 4.8 (447)
Louisville KY is a world-famous tourist destination, and it’s no wonder why. Here is our list of the top 15 best place to visit in Louisville KY – based on expert opinions and customer reviews. Did your favorite spot make the cut? Let us know in the comments above!
We went for the Wild Lights night walk and it was amazing! It lasted about 2 hours, and we were able to get in a little ahead of our scheduled time and there was no feeling of being rushed or pushed along. A very go with the glow kind of walk.
Every turn you take is a new light up display you weren’t expecting! There are so many animals, plants, and fun facts about each section! It’s also got several interactive installments that make the experience even more fun. And there is relaxing music playing throughout the Zoo as well.
A great experience for kids, adults, and the whole family! It is a bit of a trek, but Louisville Zoo has restrooms, benches, and concessions throughout the campus to allow for any needed breaks.
I’ve posted just a few pictures because I don’t want to spoil the experience, but these are a couple of my favorites from the night. We are going back to the zoo in the day because this is our first visit to this one!
Edit: added a few pictures from our trip the next day, and it was still so fun, even got to see baby Fitz! Would recommend sunscreen and water bottles for sure!
My daughters first trip to the Zoo for her 3rd birthday. We had a blast! I will say there were quite a few exhibits that were closed or looked rough, and we honestly didn’t really see all that many animals. Idk if it was the time if day (late afternoon) or just an off weekend but I definitely expected more to be going on with the animals. But they can’t be up and out constantly so I think we just caught them at nap time ?
Nice zoo, good exhibits and the ladies doing the Tiger talk did a good job with education. Wish the polar bear enclosure was bigger and he had his on pool of water and the snakes and other reptiles need bigger water dishes. Snakes will completely get in a water bowl that is large enough if they need to cool off, they don’t have that opportunity. Lots for young kids to do and the kids seemed to be really enjoying the splash pad.
There were very few people there, so a lot of things were closed. But we had a great time, everything was well maintained, and the staff we saw were very friendly and informative. We were able to walk through an exhibit with loose wallabies, three of which had babies. The giraffes were so beautiful. We saw a baby zebra, a baby elephant, among others. The zoo is working to save endangered species. The lorakeet exhibit was amazing. I had two land on me to drink nectar from my cup. Most animals that were inside to get out of the drizzling rain, we could still see or get glimpses of through the clever viewing angles and variety of viewing spots. I’m giving them the benefit of the doubt with the five stars, because I feel that if everything was open the experience would have been even better! We sit at the African Outpost. The food wasn’t amazing, but was much better than I’d expect from a tourist site. They actually had gluten-free buns. We had a burger and fries, and it was certainly better than fast food.
I had a great time. Lots of baby animals born here. That’s exciting. They even have it where you can ride a camel and pet a wallaby. Loved Wanda she was so soft. Wished they would’ve had the splash part open cause it was a hot day and there’s no air conditioning in any of the attraction areas. Just to let you know. Dress right for the weather otherwise you will be miserable as I was the day we went. Wasn’t expecting it to be that hot and assumed some attractions would have some sort of air conditioning but nope no luck there. I’ve included some of the pics I took while I was there.