28 Top-Rated Things to Do in Louisville, KY

Author Bryan Dearsley traveled to Kentucky and explored its cities and towns, including Louisville.

However you choose to pronounce it (it takes some practice!), Louisville is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Kentucky if you're looking for a big city weekend getaway. Kentucky's largest city, "Loo-a-ville" as it's pronounced by locals, offers no end of exciting things to do, whatever your interests.

Those who enjoy exploring a destination on foot will love Louisville's wide, leafy pavements; its pedestrian-friendly, sometimes even traffic-free streets; as well as its fun trail networks. Ready to hit the town after dark for some nightlife? You'll want to head to Fourth Street Live!, a lively pedestrian-only retail and entertainment hub that covers a few city blocks and is never dull.

Are you a sports fan? You'll want to swing by the Louisville Slugger Museum if baseball's your thing, while boxing fans can find out all about "The Greatest" at the Muhammad Ali Center. Art and history lovers, too, have plenty of excellent museums to explore, and those traveling with kids will enjoy outings to the Louisville Zoo, the Kentucky Science Center, and the Louisville Mega Cavern.

For a comprehensive look at the places to visit in this vibrant Kentucky city, be sure to read our guide to the best things to do in Louisville, KY.

Head Underground at the Louisville Mega Cavern

What began as a massive limestone quarry in the mid 19th century is now one of Louisville's top attractions. The Louisville Mega Cavern encompasses roughly 100 acres of caverns and 17 miles of tunnels directly beneath the city and offers no end of fun. Interestingly, the caverns are held up by steel girders, leading to its being classified as Kentucky's largest building.

Here, you'll find an array of adventure opportunities including Mega Zips, the world's only fully underground zipline course. This thrilling course consists of six ziplines and numerous bridges laid out in different routes. In addition to the ziplines, a ropes course tests your balance, as well as your agility.

For less adventurous souls, a guided historic tram tour runs throughout the cavern and provides fascinating historical and geological information. Visiting Louisville at Christmas? Check out the attraction's website for details of its annual festive lights displays.

Address: 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kentucky

Tour the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Who doesn't have a soft spot for baseball? The Louisville Slugger Museum is located at the downtown manufacturing plant and headquarters of this famous company. And you can't miss it: a 120-foot, 68,000-pound scale replica of Babe Ruth's Louisville Slugger bat leans against the wall of the building, towering over all who pass by.

The guided tour is well worth taking and starts with a movie detailing the company's history back to its origins in the 1880s. Once done, you'll head out onto the factory floor for a 30-minute tour to see these iconic bats being made. At the conclusion of your tour, you'll get your very own mini bat as a souvenir.

Special memorabilia and exhibits are also found at the facility, including the engraved Signature Wall and historic bats like that used by Hank Aaron to score his 700th home run. Batting cages, photo opportunities, and special seasonal events and exhibits add even more fun things to do. A large gift shop selling baseball-themed items is also located on the premises.

In need of a coffee and a tasty snack after all that baseball trivia? Head a few doors down to the excellent Blackbeard Espresso for a sit-down or take-out treat.

Address: 800 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Visit the Home of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs Racetrack

The city of Louisville's main claim to fame is the annual Kentucky Derby horse race. Held at the legendary Churchill Downs Racetrack the first Saturday in May since 1875, hundreds of thousands of visitors descend on the city each year to attend one of Kentucky's biggest tourist attractions. Racing fans can find out more about this historic race and its enduring popularity at the Kentucky Derby Museum.

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most famous horse races in the world and has one of the highest purses of any such event. The race track itself sees more than 150,000 people attend the event, with the energy of the crowd being a huge part of the overall experience.

The event is also well known as a fashion showcase, and everyone who attends is encouraged to dress up for the occasion, including wearing flamboyant hats. For those unable to attend on race day, many spots in Louisville and the surrounding area host Derby Day parties that celebrate the sport.

Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Get Your Race Fix at the Kentucky Derby Museum

Located on the grounds of Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby Museum provides historical insight and perspective on the sport of horse racing and its biggest race, the Kentucky Derby.

Two floors of exhibits at the museum include racing artifacts, interactive displays, and fine art. One of the highlights of a visit is the inspiring 18-minute movie The Greatest Race, shown in high definition on a 360-degree projection screen.

Trophies, photographs, riding silks, and commemorative Derby glasses are also on display. Alongside general admission to the museum, you can take part in a guided 30-minute tour of the racetrack facility. For an additional fee, more extensive private tours of Churchill Downs are available that take you behind-the-scenes into areas where visitors are not normally permitted.

If after all this touring you work up an appetite, the on-site Derby Café is a good spot to grab a bite to eat and refuel for the day. A well-stocked gift shop is also located on the premises.

Address: 704 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Meet "The Greatest" at the Muhammad Ali Center

Fans of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, also known as "The Greatest," should be sure to visit the Muhammad Ali Center. Opened in 2005, this state-of-the-art facility is an international education and cultural center inspired by the six core ideals of its founder, Muhammad Ali: respect, confidence, conviction, dedication, spirituality, and giving.

The Ali Center features captivating exhibits and multimedia presentations, including a fascinating orientation film to begin the tour of the facility. Other exhibitions contain historic Civil Rights-era media footage, video-on-demand of Ali's fights, and interactive boxing fun.

Two frequently changing exhibit galleries also enhance the space, as does the Children's Hope and Dream wall, a mosaic compiled solely of children's artwork from around the globe.

The facility also has meeting and event space and a retail store, and hosts special events throughout the year.

Address: 144 North 6th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Visit the Frazier History Museum

Located in the heart of Historic Louisville, The Frazier History Museum celebrates the history of Kentucky through numerous artifacts, displays, and live performances. Some of the notable items on display include the ceremonial sword of Founding Father Josiah Bartlett, the family bible of Daniel Boone, and the bow attributed to Apache warrior Geronimo.

Other interesting items on display include the ivory-handled Colt pistols of General George Armstrong Custer. A rare copy of Uncle Tom's cabin is also on permanent display. Be sure to also visit the museum store for Kentucky-related souvenirs.

The Frazier History Museum is situated in the downtown area known as "Museum Row" on Main Street. Convenient on-site parking makes visiting easy, and you can walk to the other prominent attractions, like the Louisville Slugger Museum and the Kentucky Science Center.

Address: 829 W Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Designed as a Richardsonian Romanesque mansion, Conrad-Caldwell House was built for Theophile Conrad, a Frenchman who made his fortune in the tanning business. Built in the 1890s, the grandest of the many heritage homes in the Old Louisville neighborhood features gargoyles, swags, massive arches, and fleur-de-lis on the outside.

The inside of the house features woodwork, stained glass, and impressive fixtures. Guided tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday and provide historical context for this three-story home. A self-guided tour option is also available at a reduced cost.

With a downtown location and decadent décor, the Conrad-Caldwell House is a popular venue to rent for special occasions. Check out their events calendar for news and details of seasonal events, including their popular afternoon teas, garden parties, and special Christmas tours.

Address: 1402 St. James Court, Louisville, Kentucky

Take a Walking Tour of Historic Old Louisville

Stretching from West Broadway down to the University of Louisville and straddling South 2nd and South 3rd Streets, Old Louisville is one of the most pleasant areas of Louisville to walk around. Covering an area of around 10 acres, Old Louisville contains one of the largest collections of attractive Victorian-era homes in the USA.

While it's perfectly easy to explore at your own pace, informative one-hour guided tours are available that provide an excellent insight into this unique and well-preserved corner of Louisville.

Tours start at the Historic Old Louisville Neighborhood & Visitors Center located in Central Park and just steps away from Conrad-Caldwell House Museum. Bookable in advance and available twice daily from Monday to Friday, your guide will point out the most notable landmarks along the way.

Even if not taking the tour, be sure to spend a little time exploring the Visitor Center and Central Park. Set in a magnificent mission-style former home, it contains interesting exhibits and displays about Old Louisville. Central Park is also pleasant to spend a little time in and features charming gardens and meandering pathways. Come summer, it's home to the longest-running Shakespeare festival in the country.

Feeling peckish? Old Louisville is also home to Ollie's Trolley, a famous burger joint serving delicious takeout hamburgers from, you guessed right...an old trolley car.

Address: 1340 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Explore Historic Downtown Louisville

Running parallel to the wide Ohio River and built up around West Main Street, Historic Downtown Louisville is well worth spending time exploring. In addition to the city's biggest attractions, including the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Frazier History Museum, there are numerous eateries and shopping opportunities here, too.

West Main is a wide, shady one-way street, meaning it's safe, which is a good thing as there's so much to gawk at here. From interesting outdoor artworks like the tall, golden Statue of David to the appealing façades of the old store fronts, there's also lots to take photos of here, too.

And keep an eye out for little Fort Nelson Park. Though small, it's significant, as it was the site of the very first settlement here, founded in 1781.

Cross the Big Four Bridge

Taking the time to cross the Big Four Bridge into the state of Indiana is one of the top free things to do in Louisville. This pedestrian and cyclist bridge crosses the Ohio River from the city's Waterfront Park area and can be easily accessed by those following the Louisville Loop trail network.

Built in 1895, this six-span steel edifice originally served the railroad before becoming a foot- and bike-only river crossing in 2014. Stretching a mile across the river, the two-mile trek is well worth it for the spectacular views back over Louisville.

Three other notable bridges close by that make for a good photo include the Abraham Lincoln Bridge, a six-lane affair that only opened in 2015; the John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge, also six lanes and built in 1963; and the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge, a four-lane highway bridge constructed in 1929.

Address: 1101 River Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Take the Kids to Louisville Zoo

Spread out over 134 acres and one of the city's top family attractions ever since it opened in 1969, the Louisville Zoo today features more than 1,500 exotic animals and a variety of award-winning exhibits.

Formally known as the Louisville Zoological Gardens, resident animals include gorillas, lions, tigers, polar bears, penguins, and birds in various indoor and outdoor habitats. Animal interaction is available, from camel or pony rides right through to giraffe and parakeet feeding.

Seven exhibit zones are represented in the park, including areas dedicated to Africa, South America, and Australia. The zoo is a great family destination, with many rides and tourist attractions for all ages, such as the Papa John's Splash Park, a butterfly garden, and two full-size playgrounds.

The Louisville Zoo has recently opened a brand new sloth exhibit for their two resident Linnaeus sloths, Sebastian and Sunni. They also have a four-year-old elephant named Fitz, who was born and raised at the zoo. A vintage restored carousel is also fun to check out, and when your kids get hot, turn them loose in the zoo's splash park.

Address: 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, Kentucky

Explore the Grounds of the Cave Hill Cemetery & Arboretum

Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville was established in 1848 and serves as both a cemetery and arboretum. In addition to its more than 16,000 graves, this beautiful green space features more than 500 different trees and shrubs, including over a dozen trees that are the largest of their species in the state.

Covering an area of 296 acres, the grounds have benches, lakes, fountains, and monuments to enjoy. A good way of getting a feel for the place is via a fun guided walking tour available at various times throughout the year. The cemetery is open to the public during daily operating hours; though not a public park, visitors are welcome but should exercise an awareness of their surroundings

Notable graves here are those of Louisville boxing star Muhammad Ali; Colonel Harland Sanders, founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken; and soldiers from both sides of the American Civil War.

Address: 701 Baxter Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky

Feel the Vibes at Fourth Street Live!

Since it opened in 2004, the massive Fourth Street Live! complex has been keeping visitors and locals alike busy with its fun mix of retail and entertainment experiences. Covering somewhere in the region of 350,000-square-feet in the heart of Louisville, it's named for the now pedestrian-only section of 4th Street that it occupies.

In addition to its many stores, 4th Street Live! is also home to a wide variety of dining options worth checking out, including many well-known brand-name eateries. Concerts are regularly scheduled here, with big names including Justin Bieber and Jake Owen being among past performers. Performances are also projected onto the attraction's many large TV screens.

Address: 411 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

See the Historic Locust Grove Farmestead

Locust Grove is a historic property containing a circa-1792 house set on the grounds of the original William and Lucy Clark Croghan estate.

Three US presidents, Monroe, Jackson, and Taylor, were just a few of the distinguished visitors at the farm. It was also a stopping point for famed explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.

The mansion has been restored and furnished to its original appearance and is open to the public. Special events occur throughout the year including an Independence Day celebration, history camps, and other community events.

Address: 561 Blankenbaker Lane, Louisville, Kentucky

Take in a Show at Louisville Palace Theatre

The Louisville Palace Theatre was designed by John Eberson, a prominent architect who was known for his atmospheric theaters. The Palace opened in 1928 as a movie theater and has been restored to highlight the ornate plasterwork and Baroque décor. These days, it hosts a variety of live entertainment, including local, national, and world-touring acts.

Events at the palace range from Broadway performances to stand-up comedians and include contemporary gospel, R&B, and country artists. Whatever performance you see, the unique architectural style of the 2,800-seat auditorium really adds to the experience.

Notable past performers include an eclectic mix of talent including Frank Sinatra; James Taylor; Alison Krauss; and British new-wavers, A Flock of Seagulls.

Address: 625 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

See International Artworks at The Speed Art Museum

Since it opened in 1927, the Speed Art Museum has undergone significant changes including a major addition to the building. It is one of Louisville's most popular museums. The collections include 17th-century Dutch and Flemish painting, 18th-century French art, Renaissance and Baroque tapestries, and American painting and sculpture.

New temporary exhibits are unveiled frequently at the museum. Admission is free for members and they also receive discounts at the Speed Cinema and other events and programs, including summer camps.

Address: 2035 South Third Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Visit the Home of Abe's Best Friend at Farmington

Farmington is a restored brick Federalist-style mansion on 18 acres of land that once served as a hemp plantation in the early 1800s. The now-historic mansion was completed in 1816 and housed members of the Speed family.

It was the childhood home of Joshua Fry Speed, who was considered to be Abraham Lincoln's closest friend. There is even evidence to suggest that the house was built with plans from Thomas Jefferson. Open daily for self-guided tours, Farmington also offers docent-led tours throughout the winter.

Address: 3033 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Get Smart at the Kentucky Science Center

Another popular downtown Louisville attraction, the Louisville Science Center is housed in a restored 19th-century warehouse with three floors of hands-on exhibits and a four-story movie screen. Displays are intended for all ages, making it a great facility for children, and regular events for teens and adults make it fun for the whole family.

The seven permanent exhibits are: Science in Play, Who Forted, The Makerplace, Uniquely Human, The World we Create, Discovery Gallery, The World Around Us, and One World by Air Cargo. It also hosts a regular program of visitings exhibits.

The movie theater features both documentary films and Hollywood blockbusters. Special programming at the Kentucky Science Center includes family camps, overnight adventures, and adult-oriented science seminars and discussions.

Address: 727 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

The Home of the USA's Top Inventor: Thomas Edison House

Thomas Edison House was once home to the inventor during his brief stay as a Western Union telegrapher after the Civil War. On display in the home are a collection of his inventions including phonographs, incandescent light bulbs, and the first home motion picture projector.

The building, located in the Butchertown area of Louisville, was constructed in the 1850s and is one of the last remaining shotgun-style duplexes in the area. Guided tours are available mid-day Tuesday through Saturday, and it is recommended to book in advance.

Address: 729 East Washington Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft (KMAC)

Located beside the Kentucky Science Center, the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft (KMAC) deserves an add-on visit, if not the entire day. Founded in 1981 to highlight the state's rich craft heritage, KMAC hosts changing exhibitions throughout the year in three galleries.

The work of approximately 200 artists is displayed, featuring everything from folk art to furniture. Signature and regular events at KMAC include yoga sessions, weekly poetry slams, and the annual KMAC Couture, a wearable art runway show that supports the efforts of the museum.

Address: 715 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville Metro Hall

Formerly called the Jefferson County Courthouse, Louisville Metro Hall was built in the late 1830s and designed by Kentucky native, Gideon Shryock. Of particular interest are two statues: one of Thomas Jefferson by Moses Ezekiel in the front of the Metro Hall and one of Henry Clay by Joel T. Hart located in the rotunda.

The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On the first Thursday of each month, the Mayor's Music and Art Series takes place on the West Lawn of Metro Hall and features local music performances.

See the Kentucky Medal of Honor Monument on its east side. Erected in 2001, it honors Kentucky residents who received this important medal since the Civil War.

If visiting near lunch time, the excellent Potbelly sandwich joint is just a block away on South 4th Street. Dine-in and takeout options are available.

Address: 527 W. Jefferson Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Hop aboard the Belle of Louisville

The Belle of Louisville is the oldest of its kind, built in 1914 with steam engines made in the 1880s. Still running on steam power, the historic Belle is a National Historic Landmark that the public can still enjoy in its full glory.

One of the world's best-traveled steamboats, this fun riverboat has certainly led an eventful life. After starting off as a cargo ship named the Idlewild in Pittsburgh, she spent the 1930s in Louisville before traveling as far as the Gulf of Mexico and even north to Canada. In the 1940s, it hosted USO concerts, and in 1963, she was part of the first Great Steamboat Race.

Cruises run from April through October, including narrated sightseeing cruises, as well as themed excursions, kid-centered family cruises, and dining cruises. If the Belle is booked up, consider a cruise on the Mary M. Miller, her sister ship named after the first licensed female American steamboat captain.

Address: 401 West River Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Take a Stroll along Louisville Waterfront Park

Louisville's Waterfront Park occupies 85 acres along the Ohio River, with the Big Four Bridge dominating as its biggest landmark. Joining Louisville with the city of Jeffersonville, Indiana, this former railroad bridge is now open to pedestrians and cyclists and is a beacon at night, with its iron frame lit with colorful LEDs.

The park has several public picnic areas and offers two playgrounds, as well as a large spray and splash area, with plenty of trees throughout for shade. It is also home to a Lincoln Memorial and a selection of public art, and all walkways are ADA accessible.

The dock for the Belle of Louisville is located within the park, and it also offers public docks, as well as a boat launch with kayak, canoe, and rowing rentals. During the warmer months, the park hosts a variety of special events, and visitors will find plenty of food trucks and vendors with cool treats in the evenings and on weekends.

Address: 129 River Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Walk or Bike the Louisville Loop

The Louisville Loop is an ambitious plan currently underway to connect the city's many parks and green spaces. Known simply as the "Loop" to locals, once complete, this impressive trail network will stretch for over 100 miles around the city and will provide walkers and cyclists with a year-round route to explore and enjoy.

While not yet finished, a large section is currently usable and connects already existing trails including the popular RiverWalk and the Ohio River Levee Trail. Around 30 percent complete, that means you already have an impressive 25 miles of paths to explore that take in the downtown core and riverside.

Take a Drive to Waverly Hills Sanatorium

Although located a 25-minute drive from downtown Louisville, the old Waverly Hills Sanatorium is well worth a visit. Built in 1910 as a tuberculous hospital, it was later abandoned prior to its current owners taking over in the hopes of restoring this architecturally important building.

While restorations are ongoing and the property is not open to the general public, interesting tours are available, including their popular ghost-themed offerings. Lasting between two to six hours, these paranormal and history tours do often sell out, so plan ahead accordingly.

Address: 4400 Paralee Drive, Louisville, Kentucky

The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts

Located in the downtown core close to many of the city's top hotels and restaurants, The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts has played an important role in cementing Louisville's reputation as Kentucky's leading cultural center. Built in 1983, this large, 2,377-seat multipurpose venue serves as home to the Kentucky Opera, the Louisville Orchestra, as well as Louisville Ballet, to name but a few.

In addition to concerts by the likes of Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, and James Taylor, the center has seen everything from ex-presidents to comedians to writers grace its stages. Check the venue's website for news of future events and festivals.

Address: 501 W Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

The Cathedral of the Assumption

One of the most important Catholic churches in the southern USA, the Cathedral of the Assumption is a picturesque landmark on 5th Street that's worthy of a visit. While the church itself was founded in 1811, the current building was constructed on the site of an earlier church in 1852.

It was here, in 1856, that the city's notorious "Bloody Monday" occurred. During a riot against immigrant Irish and German laborers, most of them of the Catholic faith, the cathedral was very nearly destroyed, with 22 unfortunates killed.

One of the most important works is currently on display at the Speed Art Museum: The Dead Christ Mourned by Matthew Harris Jouett hung above the cathedral organ for many decades before being fully restored.

Address: 433 S 5th St # 101, Louisville, Kentucky

See a Game at the KFC Yum! Center

Located near the Ohio River and the city's waterfront parks, the KFC Yum! Center opened to great fanfare in 2010 and serves the University of Louisville's women's and men's basketball teams. Boasting seating for over 22,000 ticketholders, it's the USA's largest basketball arena. It's also used for lacrosse and volleyball tournaments.

The arena also serves as a state-of-the-art concert venue, with past shows featuring such music stars as Phil Collins, Kiss, and Celine Dion. Visit the Yum! Center website for details of future concerts, events, and games. Ample on-site parking is available.

Address: 1 Arena Plaza, Louisville, Kentucky

Map of Things to Do in Louisville, KY

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