Louisville
Welcome To Louisville
A city that defies expectations!
While Louisville is the undisputed Bourbon City and the home of the Kentucky Derby; its spirit runs much deeper. Sitting on the banks of the Ohio River; Louisville blends genuine Southern hospitality with a vibrant, modern urban energy. Here, you can trace the footsteps of Muhammad Ali, explore the historic Victorian architecture of Old Louisville, and dive into a culinary scene that was named a "Top 10 Food City" by National Geographic (2023). From world-class festivals to quiet sunset walks across the Big Four Bridge; Louisville invites you to linger, taste, and explore.
Why Visit Louisville?
- Tour legendary distilleries and enjoy tastings along the Urban Bourbon Trail
- Explore historic neighborhoods, museums, and landmarks like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
- Enjoy galleries, theaters, and live performances throughout the city
- Savor hot browns, barbecue, and innovative farm-to-table dining
Latest Louisville Holiday Offers
Getting There
You’ll fly into the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), located just ten minutes from the downtown city centre. The airport offers easy one-stop connections from major international gateways like Chicago, Atlanta, New York, and Nashville.
See & Do
Food & Scene
Hot Brown, Old Fashioned cocktail!
Louisville is a treat for the palate. You must try the "Hot Brown," a world-famous open-faced sandwich created at the Brown Hotel in 1926; featuring turkey and bacon smothered in Mornay sauce. As the official cocktail of Louisville; the city takes the Old Fashioned seriously. From historic hotel bars to modern speakeasies; you’ll find unique variations of this classic drink poured to perfection citywide. It’s a culinary heritage that pairs perfectly with the city’s bourbon culture.
Outdoors
Waterfront Park
Escape the city buzz at Waterfront Park; an 85-acre green space connecting the city to Southern Indiana by spanning the Ohio River. The crown jewel is the Big Four Bridge; a retired railroad bridge turned pedestrian walkway. Walking across it gives you spectacular views of the Louisville skyline and the river below; especially at sunset when the bridge’s LED lights glow. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, a bike ride, or simply watching the boats float by.
Festivals
Louisville is a festival city!
September’s "Bourbon & Beyond” is the ultimate celebration of the Kentucky spirit and draws in rock, folk, and blues’ biggest names; combining live music, great food, and master distiller workshops. The excitement of the Derby kickstarts with the two-week Kentucky Derby Festival party; featuring North America’s largest annual fireworks show - "Thunder Over Louisville", a steamboat race, and a marathon. Don’t miss Autumn’s Jack O’ Lantern Spectacular at Iroquois Park and walk along an enchanting art gallery in the woods illuminated by 5,000 carved pumpkins.
Family Fun
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and Kentucky Science Center
Families will love the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, recognisable by the world’s largest baseball bat - standing 120 feet tall - outside the entrance. Take a factory tour to see how bats are made for Major League stars. Just down the street on Museum Row is the Kentucky Science Center; featuring three floors of hands-on, interactive exhibits that make science fun for kids of all ages. Both are located in downtown, making for an easy, walkable family day out.
HISTORY AND CIVIL RIGHTS
Muhammad Ali and U.S. Civil Rights Trail
Louisville played a pivotal role in the American Civil Rights movement. Beyond the Muhammad Ali Center, you can explore the U.S. Civil Rights Trail; which includes markers at historic sites where peaceful protests and sit-ins occurred in the 1960s. Visit Roots 101 African American Museum to dive deeper into the African American journey from Africa to the U.S. These sites offer a profound look at the struggle for equality and the city’s ongoing commitment to social justice.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Tick these places and attractions off your must-visit list!
Louisville’s downtown hosts ten distillery experiences; from bars and restaurants to tasting rooms and shops dedicated to the Bourbon spirit. Visit Churchill Downs – famed for its Twin Spires and home to the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Derby Museum. Stop by Muhammad Ali Center to delve into the boxer’s life, career, and legacy. Learn about the history and craft of America’s Native Spirit on an Evan Williams Bourbon tour. Experience trendy Nulu’s art galleries, speciality stores, antique shops, coffee shops, and eateries.
Get in touch and book your perfect holiday with Hays Travel
With so much choice out there, stop the endless searching - our experts at Hays Travel will find the perfect holiday for you. Speak with an expert now, find a branch near you, search online for great deals, or enquire today to start planning your dream getaway.
Call our experts
Contact the Hays Travel holiday experts today for personalised advice and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.
Enquire today
Submit an enquiry today and one of our experienced Hays Travel holiday experts will get back to you as soon as possible.
Visit us in branch
Visit the Hays Travel holiday experts in branch today for personalised advice, inspiration, and unbeatable deals on your next getaway.