Welcome to the “‘Ville”, Kentucky’s largest city. Sitting one the Ohio River, it is the home of so much history and culture. From baseball’s Louis Slugger Factory and Museum, to the derby’s Churchill Downs, you will find so many interesting things here. If you’re looking for nature why not take a hike through Bernheim forest, drive out to the Mega Cavern where you’ll find 17 miles of underground passageways and six ziplines, or just relax in one of the many parks? The Mohammed Ali Museum and the Louisville Slugger Factory and Museum are located here too. Louisville is sure to delight you.

Louisville is walkable with sites and restaurants close by, but we recommend TARC’s (Transit Authority River City) two free LouLifts. They make a loop downtown weekdays 7:00 am - 7:00 pm and 10:00 am - 6 pm on Saturdays. Look for the red and silver signs for the different loops. Also several of the hotels offer shuttles to nearby attractions. If you're planning on venturing out to the Mega cavern, you'll need a car, but you'll find that Louisville is a driver-friendly city.

Louisville International Airport (SDF) is 6 miles from downtown and takes about 10 minutes by car. Rental cars and ride sharing, like Lyft are available as are hotel shuttles.

Louisville was founded in 1778. It was named for King Louis XVI of France to thank him for his assistance during the Revolutionary War. By 1830, Louisville had become the largest city in the Bluegrass state. The city was home to famous people like boxer Mohammed Ali, actress Jennifer Lawrence, journalist Diane Sawyer, KFC’s Colonel Harland Sanders, U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell, and scientist Edward Hubble.

Louisville has great food and was recently named "One of America’s Best Music Scenes" by Time Magazine. It is an extremely active city with so many outdoor actives and historic museums. Something to note, Louisville has a low cost of living, so go big!

The weather in Kentucky can be beautiful. Spring-like conditions typically begin in mid-to-late March with average highs in the 50s and lows in the 30s. Summers can be hazy and hot with highs in the 80s and lows in the 60s. Fall temperatures reach the 70s by day and 40s at night. Seasonal extremes in both temperature and precipitation are not uncommon during early spring and late fall. Winter typically brings a mix of rain, sleet, and snow, with occasional heavy snowfall and icing. Highs in the 40’s and lows in the 20’s are the norm.

Louisville is a foodie town. This UPS hub provides quick access to ingredients from all over the world. Try the delicious “hot brown”, made famous at the historic Brown Hotel in town. It's the ultimate comfort food. You can’t go to Kentucky without eating Kentucky fried chicken, and we’re not talking about the fast food chain here. Finish it off with some “derby pie” for dessert (trademarked by the Kern family at their famous Melrose Inn). It has been replicated by many restaurants calling the chocolate-nut pie a “Kentucky pie.” If you’re looking for a night out, some bars are open until 4am.

One of the best souvenirs to purchase is a custom Louisville slugger. If that doesn’t do the trick, maybe a derby glass and some bourbon to fill it or a “picture hat” - the large decorated hats worn by women at the derby.

Louisville is most famously known for its derby style, dress and fabulous hats. But that’s not everyday fashion there. Fashion is relaxed, but bright colors and pastels are popular. An umbrella is good to have just in case.

Kentucky is the birthplace of bourbon. The state makes 95% of the bourbon supply in the world.