As Kentucky’s largest city, most people recognize Louisville as home to the popular Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and the Louisville Slugger baseball bat. But, did you know that the city was named after King Louis XVI of France and is one of the oldest cities west of the Appalachian Mountains? For locals, there’s quite a bit to do and see each day, so if you’re looking to make some family memories in and around the Louisville area this summer, here’s The Gardner School’s bucket list of attractions and places of interest to explore close to home.
Iroquois Park
Located south of downtown Louisville, Iroquois Park has been referred to as “Louisville’s Yellowstone,” as it is built on a large knob covered with old forest growth. Along with its scenic view of Louisville’s skyline, the park features an amphitheater, basketball courts, a golf course, a disc golf course, and a riding stable. If you’re looking for some fun outdoor family time, Iroquois Park is the place!
Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay
Kentucky Kingdom is a 63-acre amusement park in Louisville that includes a collection of thrilling amusement rides and a water park named Hurricane Bay. From roller coasters to water rides to water slides, there’s something fun for the whole family. An added bonus for younger children is King Louie’s Playland, featuring smaller amusement rides and attractions.
Kentucky Science Center
Everyone in the family will enjoy engaging with science in both educational and entertaining ways at the Kentucky Science Center! Children can learn more about science through interactive, playful exhibits. The center also offers sensory-friendly nights for families of children with special needs, including themed activities and after-hours admission.
Louisville Bats at Louisville Slugger Field
Baseball is among summer’s greatest sports, so why not take the family to a Louisville Bats baseball game? Louisville’s Minor League team plays at Louisville Slugger Field and offers special programs for children, including its Kids Club (a membership-based fan club for children ages 12 and under) that features a jersey, autograph book, and free admission to all Sunday games.
Louisville Waterfront Park
Louisville Waterfront Park is an 85-acre municipal park, adjacent to the downtown area of Louisville and the Ohio River. The park features many family-friendly options, including playgrounds, picnic areas, an Abraham Lincoln memorial, a swing garden, and more. Families can even rent a bicycle carriage and explore the park together.
Louisville Zoo
With a mission to “better the bond between the people and our planet,” there is plenty to do at the Louisville Zoo. Families can visit more than 1,200 animals in naturalistic and mixed animal settings, representing geographical areas and habitats. Children will enjoy the playground, re-circulating splash pad, Conservation Carousel, face painting at the Art Shoppe, and many opportunities to feed the animals. Admission is free for children ages two and under.
Malibu Jack’s
An all-indoor theme park, Malibu Jack’s offers a refreshing reprieve from the summer heat. Preschoolers and parents alike can go bowling, play miniature golf, and drive go-karts (for ages 4 and up). Children ages 10 and under can access Bounce Beach, a beach-themed gym where they can play until it’s time to grab a bite to eat at the on-site, family-friendly Jak’s Restaurant.
Mammoth Cave
Once referred to by an early guide as a “grand, gloomy, and peculiar place,” Mammoth Cave’s vast chambers and complex labyrinths have earned the cave system its name. Just a short drive from Louisville, it’s one the world’s largest cave systems, with more than 400 miles of underground caverns. The park offers several activities for families, including camping, cave tours, hikes, and nighttime stargazing. Admission to the park is free for all ages, but there are varying fees for cave tours and activities.
The Parklands of Floyds Park
Creative as an interactive outdoor classroom, The Parklands of Floyds Fork teaches science and natural history through dynamic experiences in the field that stimulate curiosity, critical thinking, and discovery for children, adults, and families. In these five connected parks, you’ll find community gardens, hiking, and a playground that make this natural treasure a fantastic opportunity to spend some quality time together as a family.
The Gardner School Encourages Adventurous Learning
Whether it’s through hands-on family adventures or learning in a school setting, children benefit from learning in many different ways. If you’d like to find out more about The Gardner School of Louisville’s educational program, enrichment opportunities, or our summer day camp, contact us today.
