It’s fun to share special experiences with your child and see the world through their eyes–and it’s even better when you can do that in your city! Louisville offers many activities for families to do together. As educators, we’ve selected some of our favorites for you to choose from. Because young children thrive on routine, we’ve arranged the day to mimic your preschooler’s weekday schedule. You can plan on more engaged learning in the morning and fun outdoor play in the afternoon. Let the adventure begin!
Morning (9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)
During the week, your preschooler’s day begins with an engaging curriculum, including circle time, small group instruction, S.T.E.A.M. (science, technology, engineering, art, and math), and more. The Kentucky Science Center and the Louisville Free Public Library make it possible to carry this theme into your family’s day out.
- Kentucky Science Center (9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.)
Even the littlest learners can explore interactive, playful exhibits at the Kentucky Science Center. The Science in Play exhibit features “the biggest Light Brite you’ve ever seen,” a
“Shapes and Stuff” store for hands-on learning about shapes, colors, and textures, and an ever-popular water table. The changing exhibits at the Science Depot ensure young scientists have something new to explore, create, and share every month. - Louisville Free Public Library (10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.)
With 17 locations across the city, Louisville Free Public Library offers developmentally appropriate storytimes for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Baby storytime focuses on sensory and social skills, while toddler and preschool storytimes incorporate movement and art. With different branches offering different dates and times, you can find one that works for your family. Search “storytime” on the library’s events page to find a storytime near you.
Lunch Time (11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.)
Make lunchtime an adventure with a visit to a child-friendly local restaurant. Depending on your needs, calming space versus energy outlet, Glow Work Cafe and Play, and Jak’s Restaurant at Malibu Jack’s are unique options that will appease you and your preschooler.
- Glow Worm Cafe and Play
A self-described “coffee shop meets indoor playground,” Glow Worm Cafe and Play provides a place where parents and caregivers can have a panini, smoothie, or coffee while children enjoy two spaces for creative, child-led play. After your child finishes their lunch, let them play while you relax until it’s time to continue your adventure-filled day! - Jak’s at Malibu Jack’s
Patiently waiting for a meal with a hungry preschooler is easy at Jak’s Restaurant. Located at the Malibu Jack’s indoor theme park, children ages 10 and under can access Bounce Beach, a beach-themed gym where they can play until lunch arrives.
Afternoon (1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
Preschool afternoons usually include nap times, followed by child-directed learning and outdoor play. After a rest, close out your adventure-filled day with a trip to the Louisville Zoo or the Parklands of Floyds Fork, where your child can explore animals and nature in spaces created with them in mind.
- Louisville Zoo (1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.)
One of the area’s most popular family attractions, the Louisville Zoo is home to more than 1,100 animals. We’ve found there’s always something new and novel to experience with each visit, like an activity we haven’t done before or an animal that’s extra active this time. Young children enjoy riding the carousel, playing at the Wallaroo Walkabout and Colobus Crossing playgrounds, and visiting the petting zoo. The zoo also has strollers for rent and a quiet area, headphones, and sensory bags for children and families who need extra support. - The Parklands of Floyds Fork (3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.)
With five connected parks spanning 4,000 acres, The Parklands of Floyds Fork has plenty of room for even the most active preschooler. We recommend the Marshall Playground and Sprayground in Beckley Creek Park, the Cliffside Playground and Sprayground in Broad Run Park, and Pope Lick Park playground near John Floyds Fields. Playgrounds are open year-round from sunrise to sunset, with spraygrounds active from May through September.
Keep the Adventure Going at The Gardner School
The Gardner School encourages hands-on, experiential learning for all ages, from infants to preschool. Our program nurtures each student’s emerging sense of self through an academically focused curriculum, qualified and caring teachers, creative play with friends, and a supportive environment designed for exploration. Contact us today to learn more!