If you’re thinking of taking a trip to Louisville, KY but need a list of things to do with kids, this blog post is going to tell you all you need to know!
Did you know that Louisville, KY is full of fantastic experiences for all ages?! I recently spent a weekend in Louisville and I’ve got the inside scoop for you on the best family-friendly activities that will make your visit awesome! I’m talking everything from bourbon to baseball bats, Louisville is a city that effortlessly blends Southern charm with urban excitement in the heart of the Bluegrass State.
Inside this post, you’ll find:
- A list of 35 Louisville activities for families
- Awesome restaurants in Louisville including those downtown, on Whiskey Row and the best brunch spots in the city
- Suggestions on where to stay in Louisville with your family
- How to get to Louisville from wherever you are in the world
Short on time? Here’s our top 3 favorites!!
- Louisville Mega Caverns – the only fully underground zipline in the world makes this a thrilling adventure.
- Churchill Downs – Louisville’s top attraction where families can enjoy the races and learn about the history of horse racing.
- Mammoth Cave National Park – guided cave tours offer a fun and educational way to spend the day.
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Things To Do In Louisville With Kids
Louisville Mega Caverns
Hands down, my favorite activity for families in Louisville is underground ziplining with Louisville Mega Caverns. You will take a 2.5 hour small group tour into the cavern and zip down 5 lines – IN THE DARK!
Our tour guides, Maddy and Ashton, were so awesome! They were super encouraging, knowledgeable, and great with kids! They helped us every step of the way, from getting into our gear to getting out of it.
I think I was more scared to do this than Raelyn was though!! She jumped right up there and went screaming down the line. My heart was pounding when it was my turn, but it was so exhilarating and fun! I can’t recommend this activity enough.
One really nice perk is that, unlike other places that charge extra for photos, they stop partway through the tour to take a photo of your group in the cavern and email it to you completely free of charge.
Being that this is the ONLY fully underground zipline in the WORLD, this is surely the most unique thing to do in Lousiville, KY! If you’re not up for ziplining though, consider trying out the ropes course instead!
Waterfront Park
When you need to cool off from the hot summer days in Louisville, stop by the splash pad and playground at Waterfront Park. In addition to the many play areas for kids, Waterfront Park is the best place to catch a sunset as you walk down the bank of the Ohio River or take the self-guided art walk.
For dinner with a view, I recommend you try Riverfront Restaurant and Raw Bar. If you like hot sauce, ask the chef for the special homemade stuff! We love the ambiance of the outdoor patio here.
Walk the Big Four Bridge
You can’t miss walking across the Big Four Bridge which connects Waterfront Park to Jeffersonville, Indiana.
I think it’s so cool being able to walk the bridge and be in two different states in a matter of minutes! Reward yourselves with a trip to The Widows Walk Ice Creamery when you get on the Indiana side of the bridge!
The bridge is also beautifully lit at night!
Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay
What kid doesn’t love a day at an amusement park and/or waterpark?! I know mine do. The waterpark is a great option to beat the summer heat.
Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay are only open seasonally with the amusement park staying open longer than the waterpark. When planning your visit, be sure to check their calendar for current hours.
I feel bad even admitting this, but sometimes I cannot stand spending a whole day at an amusement park even though I know my kids would love it. The long lines in the heat just aren’t fun for me. But, if you have time and want to spend a whole day here go for it. If not, I think there are some other really great options on this list that you can do instead.
Museum Row
To really get the full cultural impact of Louisville, consider visiting Museum Row.
Although it’s a little pricier out the gate, by using this Main Ticket you can save in the end on admission prices. This ticket will admit you to all 6 of the museums here on Museum Row and is valid for one year from the date of purchase – so you don’t even have to see them all in one trip.
Children under 5 are free at all attractions except the Kentucky Science Center. A separate ticket for children ages 2-5 will need to be purchased on site.
- Muhammad Ali Center – Through stories and interactive exhibits, you can see the legacy left on the boxing world by this inspirational boxer.
- Evan Williams Bourbon Experience – Cheers to sampling some bourbon with a little history on the side!
- Frazier History Museum – learn all about American history from guns to bourbon to Lewis and Clark’s expedition
- Louisville Slugger Museum – It’s truly so cool to see how these iconic baseball bats are made. The kids will love swinging for the fences in their batting cages too!
- Kentucky Science Center – Making science fun again, there are tons of cool hands-on exhibits that will spark your kiddos imaginations
- KMAC Museum – Calling all art lovers!! Contemporary art with a little bit of a Kentucky twist.
- KY Center for the Performing Arts – for some awesome live performances, Broadway shows and concerts, don’t miss checking out this for some family fun in Louisville!
- Peerless Distilling Co. – sample some small-batch bourbon with big flavor.
More Louisville Museums To Visit
- The Speed Art Museum – everything from classics to contemporary art exhibits and everything in between.
- Museum of American Printing House for the Blind – explore hands-on the contribution of those who helped make printing for the visually impaired possible.
- Conrad Caldwell House Museum – This Victorian Mansion is frozen in time and beautifully preserved if you are interested in seeing how the fancy folks lived back in the day.
KY Bourbon Trail, Distillery Tours & Whiskey Row
Even though we are talking about kid-friendly activities, I think it’s important not to lose sight that sometimes us adults need to do a little something for ourselves too.
Being that Louisville is known for its bourbon, what better way to experience it than a distillery tour with a few samples on the side on the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Beginning at the Frazier Museum, use them as your guides to find the speakeasy entrance where you can have the official drink of Louisville: an Old Fashioned.
Click here for a list of the distilleries on the Bourbon Trail.
But if you’re looking for more of a guided tour, consider THIS ONE HERE!
You can choose 3 distilleries to visit out of a list of 15, making this tour fully customizable. Each tour will include samples as well.
Although many distilleries in Louisville primarily cater to adults, many permit children on the premises and on tours. There may be age restrictions so it’s always best to check with the establishment before visiting to be sure of their rules.
I think it’s always worth mentioning that a family trip is supposed to be enjoyed by everyone in the family. So parents shouldn’t be afraid to take their kids to something that is for adults. Just be responsible and respectful at all times, of course.
Churchill Downs
If you find yourself wondering what is Louisville best known for or the number 1 attraction that draws tourists to Louisville from all over the world, this is it!
Churchill Downs is the famous location of the world-renowned Kentucky Derby. If you happen to be in town when the races are, dust off your fanciest hat and head down to see the show! Kids can attend the races for free with a paying adult.
Kentucky Derby Museum
Be sure to take the time to do one of the many tours offered at the Kentucky Derby Museum. You can choose from many to suit different styles and budgets. Some include bourbon tasting, for others you can see the horses up close or while they’re practicing on the racetrack, or you can choose to just take a tour of the track itself and learn more about it.
Get your ticket to the Kentucky Derby Museum here.
Louisville Zoo
A classic Louisville attraction for families, especially those traveling with toddlers and small children is a visit to the Louisville Zoo. The highlight here is the Gorilla Forest exhibit, where you feel like you are stepping into their world with nothing but a piece of glass separating you. It’s a place where kids can roam freely and explore and learn about the fascinating world of animals.
Cruise the Ohio River
There are two options for those wanting to cruise the Ohio River during a visit to Louisville.
- Belle of Louisville: Cruise the Ohio River in the only authentic steamboat remaining from the packet boat era. This piece of history offers a leisurely journey with live music and scenic views. The kids will love the stories of river life.
- Mary M. Miller: A more modern riverboat with more comfortable seating and modern amenities.
A dinner cruise or a sunset cruise would also be a great date-night option for couples in Louisville, as well!
Admire the Murals Around Town
- “It’s Pronounced” – a neon sign located in the window of the Visitors Center on 4th St
- “Whiskey Row” – located on the 3rd street underpass. There are 5 different murals here including a hot brown, whiskey row, Muhammad Ali, a riverboat and horses, and one spelling out ‘Louisville’
Pro Tip: For the first two I recommend parking at the Hyatt Parking garage and walking to each of these. - “Whiskey Got Me Into Trouble” – located at 1149 S Shelby St, right by the Trouble Bar
- “Pastel Swirls” – located across the street from Whiskey got me into trouble. 741 E Oak St
- “Greetings from Louisville” – 1101 Central Ave. There is a gas station right there for easy parking, but I felt super uncomfortable and that the neighborhood was kind of sketchy. So I recommend taking your picture and leaving.
- “Welcome to Whiskey Row Four Roses” – 118 E Main St
These are just a few of my favorites, but there are many others spread throughout the city that you will find on your travels.
See A Show
When you’re looking for some evening activities or things to do at night in Louisville, consider taking the whole family to see a live show or performance.
Great places to see a show with kids in Louisville!
- Fourth Street Live!: This lively, entertainment district is a great place for families to visit and kick back and relax. Although it’s not a venue solely dedicated to performances for kids, they host outdoor concerts and events that are open to all ages. Many of the restaurants in the area are also kid-friendly.
- The Louisville Palace: Often considered a hidden gem in Louisville, Most of the shows are appropriate for all ages, unless otherwise specified.
- KFC Yum Center: Consider taking the kids to a concert if one is in town during your visit.
- Ky Center for the Performing Arts: They host a wide variety of events throughout the year such as ballets, concerts, and Broadway shows.
Explore the NuLu District
The NuLu district has gained popularity among travelers with a variety of trendy boutique shops, art, culture, and dining options. It’s very walkable making it easy to explore with kids. I think it’s worth taking the time to check out when visiting Louisville.
Not sure where to go? Take a look at this food and history tour! Be sure to come hungry, you’ll be stopping at 6 places for food and bourbon samples.
NuLu Food and History Tour | 135+ 5 STAR REVIEWS | CLICK TO BOOK!
See a Game at Slugger Field
Take the kiddos to see the Louisville Bats play minor league baseball at Slugger Field. They often have promotions and special events for kids. Don’t forget about the snacks, because what’s a baseball game without a hot dog, right?!
Old Louisville Walking Tour
If you’re a huge history buff or really enjoy seeing the historic sites, consider an Old Louisville Walking Tour. I want to be fully transparent here and let you know that you won’t actually enter any of the structures that you will pass by, so if you want to do that consider taking these tours separately.
500+ 5 STAR RATINGS | LIKELY TO SELL OUT | BOOK NOW!
Cave Hill Cemetery & Arboretum
I know it sounds a little weird thinking about going to a cemetery on your vacation, but if you are looking for a serene experience that escapes the hustle and bustle check out Cave Hill Cemetery and Arboretum.
The picturesque grounds are beautifully kept and there are several walking trails, sculptures, and gardens. this Victorian Wra cemetery houses the graves of many influential people in history, including Muhammad Ali and Colonel Sanders.
Waverly Hills Sanatorium
Another fun and cheap thing to do in Louisville with kids is a visit to the Waverly Hills Sanatorium. This is an old tuberculosis sanatorium that is a part of the National Register of Historic Places. They run regular tours and ghost tours (which may be a fun thing to do for couples looking for a different kind of date night out in Louisville).
I think this would be a great fall family activity in Louisville during the Halloween season. They also run a special haunted house in September-October. Do you think you can spot some paranormal activity?
Full Throttle Adrenaline Park
Whenever I am planning a trip for my family, I always seem to struggle to find more things to do at night than I do during the day. So whenever I come across places like Full Throttle Adrenaline Park I get really excited because it means we don’t have to go to the hotel right after dinner!
This is especially great if you are traveling with older children or teenagers. They have a rage room, axe throwing, and go-kart racing.
Malibu Jack’s
Our first experience with Malibu Jack’s was during our trip to Lexington, KY. They cater a little more to all ages (whereas Full Throttle Adventure Park is more for older children). They have play areas for all ages, laser tag, several rides, plus so much more – and it’s all indoors! So no more worrying about what to do in Louisville when it rains unexpectedly on your trip!
Cherokee Park
Consider taking your family for a leisurely afternoon at Cherokee Park. Kids can play in the creek, families can picnic, walk, go for a bike ride or 2.3 mile drive through Cherokee Park to admire the beauty set right inside this city.
They tell you if you keep to the left you will stay in the park, but once you start turning right you will leave the park.
Whitehall House and Gardens
I think it’s worth mentioning Whitehall House and Gardens as one of the prettiest places in Louisville, KY. The mansion is open for tours and the four gardens on the grounds are free to explore. Before you visit, make sure that there are no private events taking place as this is a very popular place for weddings.
Falls of the Ohio State Park
Just across the Ohio River from Louisville in Clarksville, Indiana is the largest exposed fossil bed in the world. Dating back to over 390 million years old, these fossils are NOT to be touched or collected. Visiting in late summer to early fall (Aug-Oct) will allow you the best access to these fossil beds because the river will be at its lowest point.
This is a very affordable activity at only a $9 admission for adults and one of the coolest things to see in the Louisville area.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Lastly, just under an hour and a half south of Louisville, you can visit Mammoth Cave National Park, the longest cave system in the world.
You can easily spend a whole day here exploring the grounds. I highly suggest you take a guided cave tour. There are several options, but the one we took was the historic tour and it was so much fun!
I also have a whole blog post on things to do in Mammoth Cave National Park that you can read here.
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Where to Eat in Louisville
In this section, let’s talk about the best places to dine in Louisville, KY – because let’s be honest, trying the food is one of the best parts about a new destination! Louisville has everything from Southern comfort classics, to BBQ, to some of the best brunch!
Best Brunch in Louisville
- Biscuit Belly – a very popular, and busy, place for brunch. You order at the counter and they bring it out to your table. Make sure you get the Gravy Train!! It comes with 3 small bowls of different flavor gravy and biscuits. It’s delicious!
- The Morning Fork – a very casual place to have a classic brunch. We enjoyed the MF’n breakfast sandwich, some sweet crepes and a chicken salad sandwich on a croissant! Each day at 3pm they open up as “Fork and Barrel” which is higher end evening dining.
- Con Huevos – another counter service, casual, open-seating restaurant that serves some of the best Mexican-style brunch in town.
Best Downtown Louisville Restaurants
- Riverhouse Restaurant and Raw Bar – The riverside patio dining really sets the ambiance here. But don’t worry, even if you can’t sit on the patio they have big windows that allow you to still have dinner with a view.
- The Brown Hotel – this is THE SPOT to get Louisville’s famous ‘hot brown sandwich’. In case you aren’t familiar, a hot brown is an open-faced turkey sandwich with melted cheese, charred tomatoes and crispy bacon. In addition to the hot browns, this historic hotel is beautiful inside.
- 610 Magnolia – a contemporary, yet still traditional, fine dining experience. Reservations are highly sought after so you will want to make them as far in advance as possible if you think you may want to go here during your visit to Louisville.
Best Restaurants on Whiskey Row
- Repeal Oak-Fired Steakhouse – just an all around great steakhouse! Their oak fired steaks are some of the best in the area. It’s great for a date night or even a night out with the family, although the menu is a little more upscale than some other options.
- Merle’s Whiskey Kitchen – This is the most fun dining experience you will have in Louisville. They’re all about the live music. I always choose to eat outside if I have the option, and they have a great patio for outdoor seating as well. Make sure you try the garlic parm fries or the mac and cheese!
- Doc Crowes – The menu is southern specialties and barbecue. I had the fried shrimp tacos! They also have over 2,500 bourbon expressions making it a great place for the bourbon enthusiast.
Best Snacks & Desserts
When your kiddos are looking for something sweet, these are a few of my favorite places to get dessert in Louisville!
- The Comfy Cow – the pink building on Frankfort Ave serves up some of the best ice cream in town.
- Please & Thank You – the chocolate chip cookies here are soooo good!
- Hi-Five Doughnuts – when we travel we like to get a big box of donuts to keep in our room when we need a quick snack. Your go-to place in Louisville for donuts is High-Five.
Where to Stay in Louisville with Kids
Click each of these links below to check availability and book your hotel!
- Drury Inn & Suites – When we visited Louisville, we stayed at the Drury Louisville North. Although it’s a little further out of town, it took us 10 minutes max to get everywhere we wanted to go, but I always rent a car when I go somewhere, so that wasn’t a big deal to me. What I love about the Drury is that they have free dinner every evening for hotel guests. You can get popcorn, hot dogs, nachos and cheese and so much more.
- Aloft Louisville Downtown – with a nice central location to downtown and lots of amenities. You’re going to get top notch customer service at this hotel.
- 21C Museum Hotel – This boutique hotel is part of the museums on the Main Ticket that we mentioned in the previous section. It’s location on Whiskey Row makes it a great choice.
- Omni – I really don’t think you can go wrong with the Omni brand of hotels. It’s very close to the KFC Yum Center if you happen to be in town for an event.
How to Get to Louisville, KY
If you’re flying into Louisville, you will fly into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF).
I always suggest renting a car when you’re exploring a new destination. This way, you are always on your own time. Click here for car rentals in Louisville.
Louisville is just under a 3-hour drive from Nashville, under 2 hours from Indianapolis, under 2 hours from Bowling Green, KY, and an hour and a half from Lexington, KY.
Wrap-Up: Family-Friendly Activities in Louisville
There is an endless list of awesome things to do for families in Louisville. “Derby City” has a mix of culture, history, adventure, delicious culinary experiences and so much more making Louisville a good place for families to visit. If you’re still asking yourself, ‘Is Louisville worth visiting?” – the answer is YES.
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