10 Things To Do Near The Kentucky Derby
Attending the Kentucky Derby is a bit of a dream. It’s an entire universe unto itself with all those thoroughbreds, impeccably dressed members of society, and pretty mint juleps. If you’re lucky enough to attend the races, you’re lucky enough.
But, why stop there? If you add a few days to the beginning or end of your itinerary, you can make room for some lovely distillery tours, castle visits, and not-so-secret underground caverns. Interested in taking a short tour through lovely Louisville? Let’s don our favorite fascinators and see what it’s all about.
Kentucky Derby Museum
It’s nice to know everything about something we’ve been looking forward to for ages, and the Kentucky Derby Museum, located right at Churchill Downs, is a must. It’s not just for horse racing super-fans, either. Even if you’re just a casual visitor, you’ll enjoy the beautiful exhibits, engaging multimedia presentations, and sheer energy of the place.
One of the highlights is the 360-degree immersive movie that puts you right in the heart of the action. You can also tour the racetrack, get up close and personal with some of horses, and try on some jockey’s silks, or uniforms. It’s all very hands-on and fun; you’ll leave with a better appreciation for the tradition and spectacle of the “most exciting two minutes in sports.”
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
The names “Louisville” and “slugger” are practically synonymous. And, again, even if you’re not a die-hard devotee, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is still worth your while. You’ll spot it from a mile away – there’s a giant baseball bat leaning against the building.
Inside, you can see how the famous bats are made – from raw wood to polished perfection. The tour is fun and informative, and you even get a mini bat souvenir to take home. There are also interesting exhibits on legendary players and, if you’re lucky, you might catch a live demo of bats being made right there on the factory floor.
Kentucky Kingdom
How about a little adrenaline, instead? Kentucky Kingdom, Louisville’s amusement and water park combo, is so much fun, especially if you’re traveling with the kiddos or are just a kid at heart, yourself. Inside, you’ll find there are roller coasters, splash zones, wave pools, and funnel cakes as far as the eye can see. Count us in.
From the thrilling Storm Chaser coaster to the relaxing lazy river in the water park, there’s something for everyone’s desired adrenaline level. Indeed, Kentucky Kingdom is a great way to enjoy a sunny spring day before or after the Derby, and it’s close to downtown Louisville. Just remember to pack your sunscreen and a sense of adventure.
Muhammad Ali Center
The Muhammad Ali Center is a marvelous tribute to one of Louisville’s most beloved natives. And it’s not just a museum about boxing – though yes, there’s plenty of that. It’s also about activism, courage, and the power of standing up for what you believe in. The entire center is thoughtful, inspiring, and beautifully laid out.
You can explore interactive exhibits about Ali’s life, including his early days in Louisville, his legendary boxing career, and his deep commitment to social justice. The entire experience will prove to be moving and powerful, and you’ll likely walk away thinking as much about your own, personal values as much as the art of an uppercut.