Louisville

A view of Main Street in downtown Louisville

Main Street in downtown Louisville
Photo courtesy Visit Louisville

Welcome to Louisville

History, bourbon, sports, and Southern hospitality – Louisville has it all.

Louisville blends rich American history with a vibrant modern culture. From world-class museums and iconic sports landmarks to legendary bourbon distilleries and a thriving arts scene, the city offers plenty to explore before and after convention hours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to a favorite destination, Louisville delivers memorable experiences just steps from downtown.

Must-See Attractions and Museums

The Frazier History Museum
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Muhammad Ali Center

Frazier History Museum

Often described as where "the world meets Kentucky," the Frazier History Museum brings regional and global history to life through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and engaging storytelling. It also serves as the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

One of Louisville’s most iconic attractions, this museum lets visitors watch the famous Louisville Slugger bats being made—and leave with a mini bat of their own. See the world’s largest baseball bat, historic memorabilia, and game-used bats from legends across generations.

Muhammad Ali Center

A must-visit cultural landmark honoring Louisville native Muhammad Ali. This six-story museum explores Ali’s life, legacy, and humanitarian impact through interactive exhibits built around his six core values: Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Respect, Giving, and Spirituality.

Arts, Culture & Performance

The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts
The Speed Art Museum
Kentucky Science Center

Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts

Home to Louisville’s major performing arts organizations, the Kentucky Center hosts Broadway tours, symphony performances, ballet, theater, and more—often with shows scheduled year-round.

Speed Art Museum

The Speed Art Museum is Kentucky’s largest and oldest art museum, featuring an impressive collection that spans more than 6,000 years of art history. Located on the University of Louisville campus, the Speed houses world-renowned works ranging from ancient and classical art to contemporary pieces, photography, and rotating special exhibitions.

Kentucky Science Center

Perfect for visitors of all ages, the Kentucky Science Center features hands-on exhibits across multiple floors and a large-format digital theater—making science fun, approachable, and interactive.

Bourbon, Distilleries & Whiskey Row

Bourbon barrels in a rickhouse
Whiskey Row in Louisville
The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Located on historic Whiskey Row, this immersive experience offers guided tours through bourbon history, an artisanal still, and expertly curated tastings. Tours typically last 45–60 minutes.

Peerless Distilling Co.

An award-winning craft distillery producing Kentucky straight bourbon and rye entirely in downtown Louisville. Tours take guests through the full grain-to-bottle process, capped with a premium tasting experience.

Explore More, Just Steps Away

Downtown Louisville is highly walkable, with many attractions clustered near convention hotels, Whiskey Row, and the Ohio River waterfront. You’ll also find excellent dining, local bourbon bars, live music venues, and unique shops throughout the area.

Whether you’re squeezing in a quick tour or extending your stay, Louisville offers something for everyone – history buffs, sports fans, food lovers, and bourbon enthusiasts alike.