Trip motivation
We’ve made a few trips to Louisville from Nashville. From Nashville, it’s only a few hours. Read more about our drive here.
One of the great things about traveling as frequently as we do is that we don’t have to squeeze all the top 10 things of a city into one trip. Sometimes it’s nice just to eat on a patio not in our city and play in the pool. Of course, we also enjoy getting out and explore the city, but we definitely haven’t seen all there is to do because we know we’ll be back.
Top Pick: Louisville Zoo
We’ve been to the Louisville Zoo multiple times and love it. Our favorite animals are the polar bears and the elephants. During our Spring trip, there were evening lights and during our Summer trip, there were dinosaurs and an amazing splash park. The zoo is a reciprocal partner with the Nashville zoo so tickets were reasonably priced for us.
Waterfront Park
Near the river, Waterfront Park is a huge open space and multiple playgrounds including a splash area. Playgrounds are always part of our trips if we can fit them in. Ben likes to run during this time because he feels like he isn’t missing out much, the kids love getting their energy out, and it allows us balance where we can feel like everyone got to do something fun
Kentucky Science Center
The Kentucky Science Center is a great place to take kids in Louisville. It has hands-on exhibits on a variety of science topics, as well as an IMAX theater and educational programs. There’s great play areas and interactive learning activities such as weather, airplanes, space, and more.
Kentucky Derby Museum
We didn’t have time to explore the Derby Museum exhibits but did enjoy exploring the gift shop and walking along the outside area. There were some racing videos we could watch in the lobby. The entry tickets come with a film, tour of Churchill Downs and a large museum with exhibits on winners, horses, and Derby hats!
Restaurants
Ten20beer: Lovely outdoor brewery space with rotating food trucks
Bluegrass Brewing Co: Downtown location has a few tables. The bourbon barrel stout is Ben’s favorite drink. They also have a food menu including ice cream sundaes.
Other Louisville Activities for Kids
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Frazier History Museum
Kentucky Railway Museum
Children’s Museum
