You’re coming to Louisville for The Utility Expo—the biggest gathering in the industry for utility construction pros, equipment, and innovation. But after the show floor closes for the day, there’s still plenty to explore in the host city. Here’s a straight-to-the-point look at top attractions that are worth your time while you’re in town.
Churchill Downs and Kentucky Derby Museum
One of Louisville's most iconic landmarks, no visit is complete without seeing Churchill Downs. It's home to the legendary Kentucky Derby and one of the most iconic sporting venues in the country. The Kentucky Derby Museum gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the Derby's rich history, with exhibits on horses, jockeys, and traditions that have made it a cultural staple for more than 150 years. Guided tours include access to parts of the grandstands and track!
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Walk into the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and you’ll see the world’s largest baseball bat leaning against the building—hard to miss. Inside, you’ll find a working factory where Louisville Slugger bats are still made. You' see how raw billets of wood are turned into pro-grade bats used by legends past and present, with guided factory tours showing every stop of the process. It’s a solid look at American manufacturing and craftsmanship with strong ties to tradition and performance.
The museum also features memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and the chance to hold bats swung by players like Babe Ruth and Hank Aaron!
Louisville Mega Cavern
Once a massive limestone quarry, and now an underground adventure hub, the Louisville Mega Cavern is one of the city’s most unexpected spots. You can explore the massive space via underground tram tour or take part in guided activities like ziplining and ropes courses—all beneath the surface of the city.
Muhammad Ali Center
Overlooking the Ohio River, the Muhammad Ali Center honors one of Louisville’s most famous figures. Exhibits go beyond boxing, exploring Ali's work as a humanitarian, activist, and global icon. Interactive displays and powerful multimedia exhibits walk you through his journey - from his Olympic gold medal to his impact around the world. It’s a clean, modern space with a sharp focus on legacy and leadership—not just sports.
Louisville Waterfront Park and Big Four Bridge
Located just a short walk from downtown, Louisville Waterfront Park is a well-designed green space along the Ohio River that offers a quiet change of pace from the city. One of its main features, the Big Four Bridge, connects Louisville to Jeffersonville, Indiana, via a converted railroad bridge now used by pedestrians and cyclists.
The bridge is lit up at night and offers great skyline views—especially at sunset. Whether you’re looking to get some fresh air after the Expo or just want a low-key spot to walk and recharge, the park and bridge are easy to access and worth the visit.
Looking for recommendations on places to eat or drink? Check out our guide to eating and drinking in Louisville like a local!
Louisville's iconic bourbon scene
You can't visit Louisville without running into its bourbon roots. This city sits at the gateway to Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just curious, several distilleries downtown offer immersive tours and tastings that highlight the craftsmanship and history behind the state's most iconic spirit.
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
Located on Louisville’s historic Whiskey Row, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience offers a guided look at one of Kentucky’s most well-known bourbon brands. The tour takes you through the bourbon-making process with immersive exhibits, a functioning micro-distillery, and a recreated 1800s-era Louisville streetscape.
It’s a mix of history, craftsmanship, and tradition, right in the heart of downtown. Whether you’re a longtime bourbon fan or just curious about the heritage behind it, this experience offers a memorable taste of Louisville’s signature spirit.
Just a few blocks from the Expo center, the Old Forester Distillery offers a full production facility tour—from fermentation and distillation to bottling and barrel raising, all under one roof. It’s the only downtown distillery with a working cooperage onsite, making it a standout stop for anyone interested in the full lifecycle of bourbon making. The space blends modern design with deep-rooted history, as Old Forester was the first bourbon to be sold in sealed bottles back in 1870.
Set in a sleek, industrial-style building near the riverfront, the Angel’s Envy Distillery tour is a more modern take on bourbon production. Known for its signature port barrel finish, Angel’s Envy focuses on small-batch, high-quality craftsmanship. The guided experience walks you through the distillation process and finishes with a tasting in a well-designed, contemporary setting.
Old Louisville & Haunted Tours
October is a great time to check out Old Louisville, known for its massive collection of preserved Victorian buildings. If you’re up for something different in the evening, haunted walking tours of the neighborhood dig into local history, architecture, and a few ghost stories.
Get More Out of Your Trip to The Utility Expo
You’re in Louisville to meet and see the best in the industry —but while you’re here, take a few hours to explore a city that knows how to blend history, grit, and character. These attractions offer a solid look at what makes Louisville unique—no fluff, just a good use of your time off the show floor.
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