“AS ANYONE WHO COMES HERE SOON DISCOVERS, LOUISVILLE IS ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUELY AUTHENTIC DESTINATIONS ON THE PLANET. ” – Louisville Tourism
USITT19 is flying south. Louisville, Ky, is filled to the brim with thoroughbreds, bourbon, and plenty of disco balls. Yes, disco balls. The city will share its southern hospitality with us March 21-23 as we experience the newly renovated Kentucky International Convention Center surrounded by a city steeped in rich history, culture, and passion.
Home to Louisville Slugger baseball bats, bourbon, Muhammad Ali, and world-famous horse racing, its entertainment options range from placing bets to sipping spirits and everything in between.
Pumped full of quirky charm, the Bourbon City provides hints of history peppered in with innovation.
5 things to know about bourbon’s birthplace:
1. It’s a Comfort food lover’s paradise
Named one of the “10 Best Food Cities” in America, the city’s unusual twists on Southern classics have put Louisville on the map. A one-of-a-kind trail composed of award-winning micro-distilleries, exhibits, and craft cocktail destinations provide tourists and locals with a treat of brews and spirits. Let’s not forget … the city is also home to Kentucky Fried Chicken if the classic 11 herbs and spices are more your style.
2. They’re serious about their bourbon
Kentucky has been distilling the barrel-aged spirit known as bourbon since the 18th century. Though you’ll find craft distillers sprouting up in other parts of the country, Kentucky still produces 95 percent of the supply, making it bourbon’s true home. You’ll find it at almost every bar and restaurant you come across.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, the Urban Bourbon Trail & Experience takes you on a spirited journey and celebrate’s the city’s whiskey heritage at some of the world’s best bourbon bars.
3. Placing bets is a way of life
When you hear the name “Louisville,” it’s a crime to not associate it with the Kentucky Derby. Churchill Downs, home to the famous Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks, has held thoroughbred racing each Spring, September, and Fall since 1875.
A true Kentucky tradition, these races provide betting opportunities to record-breaking crowds of more than 170,000 and currently holds the record for the longest-running, continuous sporting event in the U.S. Visit the track to experience “the most exciting two minutes in sports.”
4. Arts & Entertainment are wide-spread
Art, theatre, live entertainment, and performances are staples in the River City. Actors Theatre of Louisville, The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, the Brown Theatre on Broadway, and StageOne Family Theatre are just a taste of what you can be immersed in as far as artistic expression goes.
USITT has a strong presence in the city with members working in universities, theatres, and manufacturing companies, such as ZFX, Inc., Entertainment Project Services, StageOne Family Theatre, Prodigy Performance Systems, Inc., The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, University of Louisville, and Youth Performing Arts School, to name a few. Check out more robust entertainment options.
5. museums are abundant
Culture is at Louisville’s core. Museum Row, located in the heart of the city,
boasts a wide variety of galleries, museums, and history lessons woven into each stop. The Kentucky Derby Museum, Muhammad Ali Center, Kentucky Science Center, and the Louisville Slugger Museum are big-ticket experiences for low-ticket costs. Explore more museums and tours.
Disco Fever: Omega National Products in Louisville claims to have made 90 percent of the disco balls used in the United States during the disco craze and remains a supplier … We weren’t kidding about the abundance of disco paraphernalia.
See you in Louisville!
