Parkway Village KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Parkway Village, Kentucky.
1. Churchill Downs
LEGENDARY HORSE RACING VENUE
Churchill Downs is world-renowned as the home of the Kentucky Derby, the longest continuously running sporting event in the United States. Visitors can tour the iconic grandstands, learn about the rich history of thoroughbred racing, and experience the lively atmosphere during race days. The track's unique twin spires and vibrant traditions draw horse racing fans from across the globe.
2. Kentucky Derby Museum
CELEBRATION OF DERBY HISTORY
The Kentucky Derby Museum offers an immersive look into the heritage of the Kentucky Derby and horse racing culture. Interactive exhibits, guided tours of Churchill Downs, and historic memorabilia provide insights into this cherished Kentucky tradition. Guests of all ages can enjoy engaging multimedia displays and even try on jockey silks.
3. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
BASEBALL BAT LANDMARK
The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory celebrates the art of baseball bat making and the legacy of the Louisville Slugger. Visitors can watch bats being crafted on the factory floor, pose with the world's largest bat, and explore exhibits featuring legendary baseball players. The museum appeals to sports enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
4. The Speed Art Museum
FINE ART DESTINATION
The Speed Art Museum is Kentucky's oldest and largest art museum, featuring an impressive collection spanning thousands of years. Highlights include European and American masterpieces, contemporary art, and engaging temporary exhibitions. Educational programs and striking architecture make this museum a must-see for art lovers.
5. Louisville Zoo
FAMILY WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
The Louisville Zoo houses over 1,700 animals from around the world, providing interactive wildlife experiences for families and visitors of all ages. Themed exhibits like Glacier Run and Gorilla Forest allow guests to learn about diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts. Seasonal events and playgrounds make the zoo a year-round attraction.
6. Beckley Creek Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR ESCAPE
Beckley Creek Park offers beautiful landscapes with creeks, woodlands, and miles of walking and biking trails. Visitors can relax by the water, enjoy birdwatching, or explore playgrounds and picnic areas perfect for families. The park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation and connecting with nature.
7. Pope Lick Park
PEACEFUL NATURE TRAILS
Pope Lick Park delights nature enthusiasts with its tranquil trails, gentle hills, and picturesque creek crossings. Walkers and cyclists can enjoy rural scenery, wooded paths, and a variety of local wildlife. The park is part of Louisville's renowned Parklands system, offering a refreshing escape from city life.
8. Turkey Run Park
HILLY OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
Turkey Run Park features hilly terrain and woodlands, perfect for adventurous hikers and cyclists. Visitors can climb to the iconic silo for panoramic views of surrounding forests and trails. Wildlife sightings and immersive natural settings make this park a highlight for outdoor enthusiasts.
9. Kentucky Science Center
HANDS-ON SCIENCE FUN
The Kentucky Science Center inspires curiosity with interactive exhibits, IMAX films, and engaging science activities. Its three floors feature hands-on experiments and themed exhibits suitable for all ages. The center is a vibrant educational destination for families and curious minds.
10. KMAC Museum
CONTEMPORARY ART HUB
KMAC Museum focuses on contemporary art and craft, showcasing works by regional and national artists in a modern gallery space. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions, educational workshops, and a creative gift shop. The museum's downtown location makes it easily accessible for culture seekers.
11. Belle of Louisville
HISTORIC STEAMBOAT CRUISES
The Belle of Louisville offers a unique river cruise experience aboard the nation's oldest operating Mississippi River-style steamboat. Guests can enjoy narrated tours, live entertainment, and scenic views of the Ohio River. This National Historic Landmark is a charming way to explore Louisville's waterfront.
12. Urban Bourbon Trail
BOURBON BAR ADVENTURE
The Urban Bourbon Trail guides visitors through more than 35 bars and restaurants featuring extensive bourbon selections and bourbon-inspired cuisine. Participants collect stamps on a digital passport and savor local cocktail creations at each stop. The trail offers a flavorful introduction to Louisville's bourbon heritage.
13. Fourth Street Live!
DOWNTOWN ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
Fourth Street Live! is a vibrant hub for dining, nightlife, and live events in the heart of downtown Louisville. Visitors can catch concerts, dine in diverse restaurants, and enjoy energetic nightlife under a covered pedestrian street. This entertainment complex is a favorite gathering spot for both locals and tourists.
14. Muhammad Ali Center
INSPIRING LEGACY MUSEUM
The Muhammad Ali Center celebrates the life and values of Louisville's iconic boxing champion and humanitarian, Muhammad Ali. Exhibits highlight his achievements in sports, civil rights, and global citizenship through interactive displays and personal artifacts. The center's inspiring message resonates with visitors of all ages.
15. Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
DOWNTOWN DISTILLERY TOUR
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience offers an immersive journey into the world of Kentucky bourbon, located on Louisville's historic Whiskey Row. Guests can explore the distillation process, sample award-winning bourbons, and enjoy multimedia exhibits that trace the company's rich history. The guided tours make this attraction a highlight for bourbon lovers.