Visiting the Southern city of Louisville soon? Lying beside Ohio River, the city is rich in history as reflected in its museums and historic landmarks. If you are wondering what to do in Louisville, check out this list of activities that will surely cater to your interests and preferences and see for yourself what you can do in the city that gave birth to notable figures like Muhammad Ali and Abraham Lincoln.

Experience the Race at Churchill Downs

Located in Louisville's Central Avenue, you simply can't miss spotting or visiting Churchill Downs. This iconic landmark in the city is famous all over the world as the venue of the legendary Kentucky Derby. With their tours, this racecourse has become a historic venue for all, not just for those who love horses and horse racing. Let knowledgeable tour guides walk with you at the historic race course or feel like a billion bucks as you sit on Millionaire's Row. Not to be missed is the Kentucky Derby Museum. Enjoy the ambiance of a revered shrine in American sport.

Learn About Horse Racing at Kentucky Derby Museum

No one goes to Louisville and skips the Kentucky Derby Museum. After all, the city has been attached to this world-famous horse race. The museum is located within Churchill Downs and is the climax of touring the venue. Dedicated to Thoroughbred horse racing, you don't have to be a fan of the sport (you will become eventually!) to appreciate the museum. It is an educational and informative activity in Louisville KY. Learn about the history, traditions, and its significance not just to the city, but also to American culture. The highlight is the 360? audio-visual experience interactive exhibit known as "The Greatest Race.” As a premiere attraction, a visit to this museum is one of the top things to do in Louisville KY.

Bring the Kids to Slugger Museum & Factory

As a historic city, Louisville is home to Museum Row in West Main District. One of these is the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. A head-turner, this museum has the largest baseball bat in the world installed at its entrance. For sure, you won't get lost looking for this unique museum.

Baseball is a top sport in America, but even if you are not a fan, this is worth your time and is always one of the favorite things to do in Louisville by both tourists and locals. Learn about Louisville Slugger baseball bats and their uses throughout the history of American baseball. See exhibits like the Signature Wall (of contract players), the Bat Bault, Museum Store and of course, experience the Factory Tour where kids and adult will learn how bats are made from a block of wood.

Go Ziplining at Louisville Mega Cavern

When you think about ziplines, you imagine flying over a lush forest but in Louisville, you do it underground! The Mega Cavern used to be limestone quarry and based on its support structure, it is considered a building. A unique and one-of-a-kind experience to zipline not just in the dark but 75-100ft below the ground, see the massive limestone mine as you zip and slide over its suspension bridge. This activity is suitable for all ages.

Get the Best Views at the Big Four Bridge

Walk to the Big Four Bridge and see beautiful views of the river and Louisville. The Big Four Bridge is a decommissioned railroad bridge across Ohio River connecting Louisville, Kentucky, with Jeffersonville, Indiana and today is one of the top walking trails in the city. Well-maintained, it has a beautiful park underneath for you to get a good look at the bridge and enjoy a leisure walk at the bridge. While walking, see boats and barges crossing the river. If you are looking to what to do in Louisville at night, visit this bridge and see its beautiful lights.

Be Inspired at Muhammad Ali Center

The greatest boxer in the world, a man of wisdom, Muhammad Ali is one of Louisville's distinguished locals and visiting this museum in his honor remain on top of the things to do in Louisville KY list. More than learning about his boxing career, Muhammad Ali Center emphasizes his private life and aspirations to inspire people to pursue greatness based on Ali's six core principles. Located in West Main District, see artwork and Ali's contributions beyond the ring including his humanitarian efforts.

Enjoy Family Fun at Louisville Zoo

A visit to a local zoo is a no-fail activity among those with little children and Louisville has a well-maintained, clean, and modern zoo. Formally called Louisville Zoological Garden, this zoo was founded back in 1969 and at present, it covers an area of 134 acres that includes a botanical garden, splash pad, playground, and rides. The zoo is home to 1,500 animals like tigers and bears, but the main attraction is the Gorilla Forest. Get up close to daily lives of animals to see feeding and training. Child-friendly, the zoo has easy and safe walkways.

Nightlife at Fourth Street Live

When you feel that the night is young, head to Fourth Street Live where restaurants and pubs are housed under one roof. Located in downtown Louisville, this entertainment and dining complex is definitely a fun place to go for dinner and dancing. There are more than a dozen options when it comes to dining, whether you are looking for a romantic dinner venue or a place to bring your group of friends. After dinner, there are options depending on your preference from live music at Hard Rock Café or have a drink at Jim Beam Urban Distillery.  Enjoy the exciting and eclectic ambiance of Louisville's Fourth Street Live! A must when it comes to things to do in Louisville KY!

Enjoy the Outdoors with Louisville Waterfront Park

A visit to a local zoo is a no-fail activity among those with little children and Louisville has a well-maintained, clean, and modern zoo. Formally called Louisville Zoological Garden, this zoo was founded back in 1969 and at present, it covers an area of 134 acres that includes a botanical garden, splash pad, playground, and rides. The zoo is home to 1,500 animals like tigers and bears, but the main attraction is the Gorilla Forest. Get up close to daily lives of animals to see feeding and training. Child-friendly, the zoo has easy and safe walkways.

Join the Urban Bourbon Trail

You can't leave Louisville KY without participating in the famous Urban Bourbon Trail which is still one of the top things to do in Louisville KY. Bourbon is not just Kentucky's official spirit, it is a must to at least take a sip of this popular whiskey. Learn about this spirit and its role in Kentucky with Urban Bourbon Trail, suited not just for bourbon connoisseur but to amateurs as well.

The trail lets participants have a passport and have them stamped on every visit, with at least six you will be officially a Bourbon County Citizen. Visit historic hotels, restaurants, and pubs and sip everything from Old Grand Dad Bourbon to bourbon-based cocktails.

There you have it, a concise list of things to do in Louisville KY that matches the type of travel to this Southern City, from romantic weekend getaway to a wonderful family trip. Use this list of activities in Louisville and you have a worry-free trip while visiting top attractions as well as experiencing must-dos in the area.