Visit Louisville: Best of Louisville Tourism

Tour streets of Victorian houses, learn about one of the world's most famous horse races and head underground on a caving adventure in this fascinating Kentucky city.

Set along the muddy banks of the Ohio River is Louisville, the largest city in Kentucky and the seat of Jefferson County. Home of sporting legends, a sizeable Victorian neighborhood, an underground zip-line course and the Kentucky Derby, it is an endlessly fascinating place. Take it all in when you visit Louisville.

Founded in 1778 and named after King Louis XVI of France, the city is one of the oldest in the country. Step back into the past with a walking tour of Old Louisville and its more than 40 blocks of Victorian-era homes. Note the mix of architectural styles including neoclassical, Venetian gothic, Italianate and Tudor revival. Stay in the neighborhood to watch musical performances at Central Park's amphitheater.

If you're a sports fan, visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory, where you can make your own baseball bat.

At the Kentucky Derby Museum get some background on the annual race's history. The race is held in May at Churchill Downs, in Southern Louisville.

Discover what it takes to be a boxing legend at the Muhammad Ali Center. This cultural attraction is dedicated to the Louisville native's career and conflict resolution inspired by his values.

At Cave Hill Cemetery, a Victorian burial ground, find the final resting place of another son of the city, Colonel Sanders, the founder of the Kentucky Fried Chicken fast-food chain.

Those with an adventurous side should consider a zip-line tour of the caves and caverns of Louisville Mega Cavern. This network of manmade underground caverns was a limestone quarry for more than 40 years and is now a family-friendly attraction. Other activities include walking tours and an electric bike tour of the subterranean space.

Another option for a day out with the family is the Kentucky Kingdom amusement park which includes rides, slides and shows, and a waterpark called Hurricane Bay.

Reach Louisville by road, rail or by flying into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport which is approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) from the downtown core. Stay for a vacation of historical treasures, geological wonders and thrilling sports.

Where to stay in Louisville

Find the best Louisville areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Louisville

A steamboat docked at a pier with a bridge in the background.

Downtown Louisville

A noteworthy feature of Downtown Louisville is its fantastic nightlife. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Whiskey Row and KFC Yum Center.

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A brightly lit bridge with colorful lights against a twilight sky.

East Market District

While there might not be top attractions in East Market District, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Nulu Market Place and Louisville Slugger Field.

A historical marker for the Conrad-Caldwell House, detailing its architectural style and history.

Old Louisville

Old Louisville is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Ohio River Valley and Asia Institute Crane House while you're in town.

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A Victorian-style building with a turret and a tree in front.

Highlands

Highlands might not have many top sights, but Headliners Music Hall and Nulu Market Place are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

A large white bridge with multiple spans over a calm river.

Clifton

While visiting Clifton, you might make a stop by sights like Historic Frankfort Avenue and American Printing House for the Blind.

Galt House Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham

140 North Fourth Street Louisville KY

$150 nightly

$177 total

Oct 30 - Oct 31

Total with taxes and fees

Book a stay at this spa hotel in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff ...

Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport Expo Ctr by IHG

830 Phillips Lane Louisville KY

$101 nightly

$119 total

Oct 25 - Oct 26

Total with taxes and fees

Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the restaurant and the ...

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Louisville Downtown by IHG

800 W Market St Louisville KY

$105 nightly

$124 total

Oct 25 - Oct 26

Total with taxes and fees

Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Louisville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...

8.8/10 Excellent! (1,820 reviews)

"The room and bed were very comfortable. The only thing that needs improvement is the breakfast food. The eggs were dry every day; the sausages didn't taste good. The juices were too watered down. One day the cereal tasted stale. The buffet comes with the room; however, you'd be better off eating ..."

Reviewed on Sep 30, 2026

See all 2,328 properties in Louisville

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stellar Suites

822 E Market St Louisville KY

Book a stay at this luxury aparthotel in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, free bicycles on site, and in-room massages. Popular attractions Whiskey Row and KFC Yum ...

9.4/10 Exceptional! (154 reviews)

"Lovely studio loft style room in a charming neighborhood. Check in was incredibly convenient. Room was decorated well, made the stay feel very luxurious, especially for the price. Number of bars and restaurants in easy walking distance. If I’m in the area again, I would absolutely go out of my way ..."

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2026

The Bellwether Hotel

1300 Bardstown Rd Louisville KY

Stay at this aparthotel in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, premium bedding, and bathrobes. Popular attractions Louisville Mega Cavern and Whiskey Row are located ...

9/10 Wonderful! (60 reviews)

"Lovely eclectic and historic property, comfortable beds, very nice bathroom layout. Loved the toiletries provided, and there were a number of thoughtful touches that elevated the experience. The bar space, with its deep sink, turned out to be an excellent place for arranging flowers that I was taking ..."

Reviewed on Sep 28, 2026

StudioRes by Marriott Louisville East

700 Stone Creek Pkwy Louisville KY

Stay at this aparthotel in Louisville. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Hurstborne Shopping Center and ...

8/10 Very Good! (11 reviews)

"Over"

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2026

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Louisville attractions

A nighttime hot air balloon festival with colorful balloons, including one labeled "OLIVER WINERY."

Kentucky Exposition Center

8.8/10 (2,714 reviews)

During your trip, find out what's happening at Kentucky Exposition Center, a top convention center in Louisville. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and great live music.

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Things to do

Kentucky Derby Museum - General Admission and Guided Track Visit

$24

per adult

94% of travellers recommend

Louisville: 3-Hour Food and History Tour of NuLu District

$129

per adult

94% of travellers recommend

Old Louisville Ghost Tour as Recommended by The New York Times @ 4th and Ormsby

$29

per adult

92% of travellers recommend

See all activities in Louisville

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Louisville?

The best time to visit Louisville is from May through September, when the weather is typically warm and pleasant. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through February are a good option, offering cooler temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Louisville?

The best neighborhoods to explore in Louisville depend on what you want to see:

University offers Tringle Park, Ulmer Stadium, and the Speed Art Museum.
Valley Station features Riverside Farnsley-Moremen Landing, Waverly Hills Sanatorium, and Waverly Park.
Old Louisville provides cultural sites such as the Asia Institute Crane House, Louisville Auto Museum, and Conrad-Caldwell House Museum.
Jeffersontown is great for entertainment, with Bluegrass Indoor Karting, Danger Run, and Jeffersontown Commons Shopping Center.

What is a good itinerary length for Louisville?

An extended stay of four to five days lets travelers explore more, perhaps taking a Guided Culinary Adventure or a Haunted Old Louisville Walk, and enjoying areas like Downtown Louisville. See Louisville Activities.

How do you get around Louisville?

Louisville offers bus services for getting around, with the Louisville Bus Station serving as a central point. For more flexibility, travelers can find rental cars available in neighborhoods like Downtown Louisville, Fairgrounds, and St. Matthews. Rideshare services are also an option for convenient travel throughout the city.

What are the top things to do in and around Louisville?

Louisville offers a mix of iconic landmarks, unique tours, and local experiences for travelers:

Explore the Louisville Slugger Museum, celebrating baseball history
Tour Angel's Envy, Stitzel-Weller, and Kentucky Artisan distilleries for a bourbon experience
Take a Haunted Old Louisville Walk to discover local legends
Enjoy a day at Kentucky Kingdom, an amusement park.

How do I plan a trip to Louisville?

When planning your Louisville trip, search for places to stay in Downtown Louisville or University. Book flights, hotels, and rental cars in advance. Public transit is available, but remember to have indoor backups for outdoor plans.

What cuisines can you find in Louisville?

In Louisville you can find Cuban cuisine, with dishes like Ropa Vieja and Lechon Asado. Travelers can also explore other Latin American flavors, including Mexican tacos and burritos, alongside North American options such as Southern soul food and Cajun Creole dishes.

Can I book a refundable hotel in Louisville?

Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Louisville by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.

Why book a trip to Louisville with Expedia?

Expedia makes it easier to plan your Louisville trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.

Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Louisville?

The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Louisville can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.

How can I manage my Louisville trip on Expedia?

Once you've booked your Louisville trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.

What if I need help during my Louisville trip?

Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Louisville trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.

How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Louisville?

If it's your first trip to Louisville, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.

How can I save on my Louisville hotel booking with Expedia?

Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Louisville hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Louisville, KY

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