Family Fun in Louisville, KY: The Best Family Things to Do in Louisville, KY

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You’ll find all kinds of family fun in Louisville, KY, a small town with abundant big-city attractions. Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Louisville (pronounced “LOO-uh-vul” by the locals) is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and a dash of Southern charm. Whether you're a resident looking for new adventures or a visitor exploring Derby City for the first time, here's our curated list of the best Louisville family activities.

Summary:

  • 10 Best Family Things to Do in Louisville, KY

  • Free Family Things to Do in Louisville, KY

  • Indoor Family Fun Louisville, KY

  • Conclusion

 

10 Best Family Things to Do in Louisville, KY

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Louisville for families, you won’t have to look very far. From exploring the dozens of parks to discovering the city’s history, these top Louisville, Kentucky, family attractions offer memorable experiences for all ages.

 

  1. Kentucky Kingdom: Thrilling adventures await at Kentucky Kingdom, where families can enjoy a day filled with exciting rides and refreshing water park fun. From heart-pounding roller coasters to lazy river floats, there's something for everyone at this popular Louisville attraction.

  2. Blind Squirrel: Treat your taste buds to a culinary delight at Blind Squirrel and indulge in delicious comfort food favorites with live music. You can even hit the beach volleyball courts for a friendly game. End the evening by satisfying your sweet tooth at the Homemade Ice Cream & Pie Kitchen, a Louisville staple since 1982, where you can choose from a wide variety of after-dinner treats.

  3. Louisville Cardinals: Experience the electric atmosphere, indulge in stadium treats, and create unforgettable memories as you cheer on the University of Louisville football team. Join the excitement at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium as the Cardinals battle rivals in thrilling matchups.

  4. Belle of Louisville: Step aboard the historic Belle of Louisville for a memorable river cruise along the scenic Ohio River. Soak in breathtaking views of the city skyline while enjoying live entertainment and learning about the rich history of this iconic steamboat.

  5. Huber’s Orchard & Winery: For some family fun near Louisville, KY, visit Huber's Farm and enjoy seasonal activities, from strawberry picking in May to apple and pumpkin picking in September. With its picturesque setting and abundant fresh produce, Huber's Farm offers an entertaining and educational experience for all ages.

  6. Kentucky Derby Museum: Immerse yourself in the excitement of the Kentucky Derby with a visit to the Derby Museum and Churchill Downs. Explore interactive exhibits, learn about the history of this famous race, and even take a behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic racetrack.

  7. Falls of the Ohio State Park: Discover the natural beauty of Falls of the Ohio State Park, where you can explore fossil beds and enjoy scenic hikes along the riverfront. With stunning views and numerous educational opportunities, Falls of the Ohio State Park offers an incredible outdoor experience and is one of the top Louisville attractions for families.

  8. Louisville Zoo: Get up close and personal with exotic animals from around the world at the Louisville Zoo, one of the most popular family things to do in Louisville, Kentucky. Explore various habitats, participate in educational programs, and delight in interactive exhibits that inspire a love for wildlife and conservation.

  9. Louisville Mega Cavern: Embark on an underground adventure at the Mega Caverns in Louisville, Kentucky, home to the world's only fully underground zip line course and an array of other exciting attractions. Within these Louisville caverns, you can go on a Mega Quest or take a tram tour through the vast underground labyrinth, learning about the unique geological formations and history of this remarkable site.

  10. Mammoth Cave: Delve into the depths of Mammoth Cave, the world's longest-known cave system. As one of the fun things for families to do in Louisville, KY, you can explore underground passageways, marvel at stunning rock formations, and learn about the cave's rich natural and cultural history through guided tours and educational programs.

The Belle of Louisville riverboat, offering family fun in Louiville, KY

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Free Family Things to Do in Louisville, KY

For free, fun family activities, Louisville, KY, has plenty to offer. Enjoy a delightful day out together at these free Louisville, KY, family attractions, which are always well worth a visit.

 

  1. The Big Four Bridge: The Big Four Bridge in Waterfront Park offers a picturesque setting for group outings. Traveling across the Ohio River on this pedestrian-friendly bridge delivers stunning views of the Louisville skyline. You can also rent bikes to cross the bridge and visit its surrounding areas, making it an ideal spot for outdoor fun and relaxation and one of the top family-friendly things to do in Louisville, KY.

  2. Schimpff’s Confectionery: Across the bridge from Louisville is Schimpff’s Confectionery. Established in 1891, this historic candy shop offers a delightful array of homemade treats, including chocolates, caramels, and old-fashioned candies. You can also watch them make their famous Red Hots from scratch. Visiting Schimpff’s is one of the more fun family things to do in Louisville, Kentucky, where everyone can indulge their sweet tooth while enjoying the nostalgic charm of this beloved local gem.

  3. Speed Art Museum: Admission to this vibrant hub of creativity and inspiration is free on Sundays, allowing everyone to explore this museum's rich history and diverse displays. With a collection of artwork spanning centuries and continents plus engaging exhibits suitable for all ages, this is one of the top things to do in Louisville, KY, for families. Enjoy hands-on activities, attend workshops, and participate in special events.

  4. The Parklands of Floyds Fork: Spanning a vast 4,000 acres, The Parklands of Floyds Fork offers endless opportunities in its expansive outdoor playground for family fun things to do in Louisville, KY. Rent kayaks to glide along the tranquil waters of Floyds Fork, or cast a line and enjoy fishing in designated areas. With ample space for biking, picnicking, and sightseeing, you can create cherished memories amid the park's sprawling greenery.

  5. Anchorage Trail: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and unwind among peaceful surroundings. This scenic two-mile paved trail is ideal for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and biking. With plenty of parking and charming cafes nearby, Anchorage Trail is one of the attractions in Louisville, Kentucky, for families that offers a convenient, relaxing retreat and a chance to connect with nature.

 

Indoor Family Fun Louisville, KY

Discover indoor family fun in Louisville, KY! Whether you’re a local family or considering a move, this city offers a diverse array of indoor attractions for all ages. Explore some of the best family things to do in Louisville.

 

  1. Marengo Cave: One of the fun family attractions near Louisville, KY, is Marengo Cave, offering a thrilling underground adventure for families. Explore winding passageways adorned with breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites, marveling at the natural wonders within. Guided tours occur daily and cater to all ages, making it the perfect outing for curious minds and adventurous spirits.

  2. Muhammad Ali Center: Here, Louisville proudly honors one of its most famous natives, legendary boxer Muhammad Ali. This engaging museum celebrates Ali's life and legacy, showcasing his remarkable career, commitment to social justice, and humanitarian efforts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the educational exhibits, watch captivating videos, and even test their boxing techniques at interactive displays.

  3. Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory: Home to the iconic Louisville Slugger baseball bat, this museum and factory offer an unforgettable experience. Take a guided tour to see how these legendary bats are made, from shaping the wood to the branding of the iconic logo. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to swing replicas of bats used by baseball greats, while the impressive collection of memorabilia provides a fascinating glimpse into the history of America's favorite pastime.

  4. Kentucky Science Center: With hands-on exhibits, immersive experiences, and engaging demonstrations, this museum sparks excitement for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. From exploring the wonders of outer space to unraveling the mysteries of the human body, there's something to captivate everyone, making it one of the best family things to do in Louisville, KY.

  5. Main Event: A one-stop destination of active entertainment and endless fun, Main Event is the place to be. Featuring bowling lanes, arcade games, laser tag arenas, and more, this entertainment center offers hours of laughter and friendly competition. Fuel up with delicious food and drinks at the on-site restaurant, then dive back into the action for a memorable day of bonding and adventure.

Conclusion

Along with its diverse amenities and many family-friendly activities, Louisville, KY, has a more affordable cost of living, making this Southern charm-filled city an ideal spot to plant roots and create lasting memories. Whether enjoying the vibrant arts scene, exploring the city's parks and museums, or simply embracing the strong sense of community, Louisville’s welcoming environment offers residents a wonderful place to flourish.

Explore new construction homes in Louisville, KY, today or browse more Pulte® blogs. You can also discover affordable home builders in Louisville with Centex.

 

Written By: Macie Delnay, Florida Resident and Former Louisville Native

How to Let ‘No’ Motivate You ~ The Disney College Program

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The Disney College Program.

This program changed my life. Growing up, my family loved going to Disney, and we created so many wonderful memories there. In high school when I heard about the program (where I could LIVE in Orlando, Florida and get to create that same magic that had been created for me), I was over the moon, and I couldn’t wait to get to college so that I could apply.

Well, the time finally came…application day. As I filled out the application and hit submit, I held my breath and wished upon every star out there… and I waited… and waited. Three months of waiting was agonizing. Three months of seeing other people in the Facebook group moving through the rounds of interviews. Three months of waiting to hear on the last day that I was no longer in consideration.

I was disappointed to say the least, but I wasn’t going to let it get me down. I knew what I wanted. The DCP was my dream, so I brushed myself off and stood back up.

Next application season came around, and I applied again. This time I started receiving invitations for a second interview… and then a phone interview! This time was it. I knew it. My perseverance had paid off. After my phone interview (the last possible round), I started watch people get accepted on the Facebook group. With each week passing by, more people were accepted. With each minute passing by, I was refreshing my email. Then on the last day, I received that email once again. I was no longer in consideration.

Wow. I couldn’t believe it. I thought this was it.

“No. I’m not gonna let this stop me” I thought to myself, “People encounter trials and tests on their way to their dream. It usually doesn’t go the way they thought it would, just watch any Disney movie”.

Before I knew it, application season had once again arrived. As my friend Jessica and I sat on her dorm room floor jamming to Disney tunes, we opened the application, filled it out, and hit the submit button. This time seemed different. I felt it in my bones. I didn’t feel anxious or nervous, but excitement because I just knew I was moving to Orlando the following semester.

Interviews came more quickly this time. I had watched dozens of YouTube videos and read articles and took notes on how to prepare for these interviews. During the second wave of acceptances, I received an email that thought I was imagining (and immediately screenshotted): “Dear Macie, Congratulations! You have been selected…”.

Five months later, I moved into my apartment with five amazing roommates, and I was getting ready to start my first shift in merchandise on Main Street U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom. Little did I know that I was going to be dancing every night to the firework show, making friends from all over the world, and creating memories that I’d never forget.

I went into college not knowing what I wanted to do.  After a semester of GenEds, I decided that I loved people and storytelling, so I went with a Communication degree (because you can do anything with that, right?). The Disney College Program gave me direction and helped me narrow down what I wanted to do, but more importantly, it showed me where I wanted to do it.

You are going to hear “no” in your life. You will probably even hear it two or three times, but don’t let it stop you from following your dreams. When you hear “no”, use that opportunity to make the most of where you are, preparing yourself for your next chance. You will learn something from it. Surround yourself with positivity and know your time is coming. Don’t lose hope. Chase after your dreams with everything you have.

As Walt Disney once said, “The difference in winning and losing is most often not quitting.” Pursue your dreams with everything inside of you and don’t hold back.

Written by: Macie Delnay

Tips and Tricks: Portfolios

In my previous post, I shared all about polishing off that resume to help you secure your dream job. However, if you are like me, you’ve been hearing about how to make a resume for YEARS. On the other hand, we never hear too much about portfolios. Today, I hope to change that.

Welcome to round two of Tips and Tricks with Macie! Now let’s talk about portfolios. Here are the four things that I think are the most important to keep in mind when you're creating your portfolio

  1. RESEARCH – Sometimes job applications will specify what the employer wants to see on a portfolio. It will be to your benefit to include exactly what they're looking for. Maybe they want an online portfolio, which means you have to create a website (I highly recommend Squarespace or WordPress). If you haven’t created anything you could put in a portfolio at a job, it is perfectly acceptable to pull from your classwork or create what they are asking for. Get involved with clubs (like PRSSA – shameless plug) that will allow you to help run their social media, write, design graphics, etc. You’ll get to develop your skills in a semi-professional environment and have something tangible to showcase in your portfolio.

  2. SPECIALTY – Communications is an incredibly broad industry, and there is need to do everything. Find your niche. Start to focus in on what you love doing. Chose work you love so much that you would do it for free. Then, do some of it for free to build that portfolio! There’s a so many different areas if communication that you can focus on: social media, PR, HR, marketing, graphic design, and the list goes on. Find what you are good at and/or what you love, go after that. Demonstrate in your portfolio to an employer that you have worked to thoroughly develop specific skills.

  3. BRANDING – Figure out what your brand is. Your brand will represent you. Strong and consistent branding shows that you know what you want. It will set you apart from the competition. Think about how you want your target audience to perceive you. Crafting your brand practically looks like: creating a logo, choosing colors, writing and standing by your mission statement, and having a website that displaying all of these different elements.

  4. BEST FOOT – Don’t just plaster everything you’ve ever done on a website. It would look clutter-y, and it would give off the impression that you don’t know really what you want. Put the best of the best onto your website/portfolio. Think about the projects that you’re especially proud of – that’s what you should put up.

Hopefully, these tips will better prepare you to beginning your career in this crazy, growing industry. Take a deep breath. Know you are exactly where you need to be in this moment. Learn from it. You got this.

“Go, live your dream!” – Tangled

Taken from the PRSSA website.

Written by: Macie Delnay

Tips and Tricks: Resumes

Creating a resume so incredible that the hiring manager offers you a job right there on the spot… is tricky. You’re marketing yourself on a piece of paper someone will glance at, and sometimes, you have to market yourself to a computer before human eyes ever see it. Resumes are constantly being updated; they truly are never complete. Every job application requires a custom resume. You wouldn’t send a resume with all of your PR experience for a Social Media Internship. There would be different keywords needed for each.

I’ve done so much research on this over the past six months as I’ve worked to get my dream internship. I thought I would share what I’ve learned with all of you in hopes that you might get one interview close to landing THE job.

Hopefully, with these six tips, you will be one step closer to understanding how to do this whole resume thing.

1. KEYWORDS – My biggest tip is pay attention to key words on your job description. Print out a copy of your resume… and then print out a copy of the job description. Highlight the keywords in the job description and then your resume to see how many words matches up. Your resume may go through an ATS (applicant tracking system). This is a computer program that tracks how many key words you have. If you don’t have enough, your application goes in the trash. I know - It’s harsh, but big companies like Disney use it because they can’t go through 50,000 applications.

2. CLASSIC LOOK – Most resumes should be the classic black and white. It looks official and standard. It’s great, but if the position you are applying for is a creative position (graphic design, for example), then you can use a more creative resume to showcase your skills. Add color. Add some shapes! Go crazy… but not too crazy. Stick to your brand, and make sure it is professional looking. Canva.com is an INCREDIBLE resource to get inspiration from (or to fill out a template).

3. DON’T REPEAT – Your resume will look solid and detailed if you don’t have the same action verb at the beginning of each bullet point. I know it doesn’t always happen, but it’s a great goal. Use a thesaurus or google ‘good action verbs for resumes’. Your school’s career center will also have some excellent resources to help you to spice up the wording in your resume.

4. NUMBERS – Numbers stick out so much against the mundane-ness of alphabetical letters, but more importantly they SHOW the results of your action. In the business world, results are everything. Always include numbers.

5. USE ALL THE WORDS - The less white space, the better. I know that some resume templates are cute and simplistic but try to fill your resume with as many words as you can. Show off the work you have done; you deserve it.

6. CANVA – As I mentioned before, there is a website that I have discovered recently called Canva.com. This incredible resource helps with a multitude of design options. If your creative juices aren’t flowing and you need to create a stylish resume, check out Canva. They have free (and purchasable) templates for resumes, logos, menus, posters, flyers, business cards, YouTube thumbnails, and so much more. It will even help you create your brand.

Taken from the PRSSA Website.

Written by: Macie Delnay