Recreations & Leisure
The Kentucky Derby is arguably the area?s most prized tourist attraction. The Derby is for thoroughbred horses and is held at Churchhill Downs - named for relatives of explorer Lewis Clark. Horseracing holds an important part in Louisville?s history, dating back to the 1700s. The city hosts Derby Week with a number of events coinciding with the rush of visitors to see horses and jockeys on one of the country?s most prestigious tracks. If you're looking to get a bit of exercise yourself, don't overlook the potential for a little ghost hunting. You'll find that a city as rich in history as Louisville has some ghosts in the closet and you're invited to see what you can find. Or maybe you're in the mood to look up some ghosts of your own. Louisville has a library with extensive genealogy helps for those doing family research. When you're planning your stay in Louisville, you may find that the accommodations are as exciting as many other attractions. You can choose from nearly two dozen bed and breakfasts that offer an array of amenities, many in historical settings. If these still aren't what you're looking for, the Ohio River offers opportunities for fishing, or you can spend days touring area parks and historical sites.
City Getaways
For those who live in Louisville, there's a great selection of exciting destinations that make a great trip for a day or a weekend getaway. For the visitor to Louisville, it's probably going to be difficult to see everything that's already available at your fingertips right in the city. But if you do have time to look for some additional attractions, there's plenty to do in the area. The Renfro Valley Entertainment Center is just a short drive away. The live gospel, bluegrass and country music make this a must-do for the music lover. Whether you're planning a visit around an awesome headliner or a particular event, or you're just looking for some great music, take time to check out Renfro Valley.
The Hidden Hill is located just across the Ohio River in Utica, Indiana. This is a plant lover's dream, but with a touch of whimsy that's bound to catch the attention of the young and the young at heart. From the outdoor train to the exotic trees and plants, it's a chance to let your imagination free while you soak up the tranquility.
Jim Beam's American Outpost is located in Clermont, Kentucky. You'll find a number of distilleries in Louisville and the surrounding areas, many offering tours, shopping and even tasting opportunities.