Louisville Hotels and Traveler's Guide

The first Saturday in May is always a magical time in Kentucky. Flowers are blooming and spring is in the air. That day signifies the running of the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, which is one of a plethora of reasons to visit the city of Louisville. Often referred to as the "most exciting two minutes in sports," the race is emblematic of the convergence of old and new values in this city. It is made great by its bustling downtown business district south of the Ohio River and the contrasting, serene neighborhood of Old Louisville home to historic preservations from the Victorian era.

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Every year the two week long Kentucky Derby Festival precedes the famous horse race for which it is named. One of the festival's most exciting events is called the Thunder Over Louisville which is the largest annual firework spectacle in the nation. Another unique attraction is the Adam Matthews Balloon Festival, one of the largest hot air balloon gatherings of its kind in the country. For a two week respite the Derby Festival is wonderful, but the one of a kind Old Louisville neighborhood is another great reason to visit the city. It is the largest historically preserved neighborhood of its nature anywhere in the nation. Also, the baseball enthusiast can't afford to pass up the Louisville Slugger Museum while here, a tribute to the America's national pastime.

The city is situated along the Indiana border on the Ohio River, near the metropolitan regions of Cincinnati and Lexington. People in Louisville are all extremely friendly, and are more than willing to fix you a drink while you take in the scenery. Feel free to explore Baxter Avenue where you can find a tavern, coffeehouse or restaurant to suit your tastes. Also for those looking to indulge their cultural side, the Louisville Ballet or Orchestra, and the Kentucky Opera are all great options to that end. There's something for everyone in Louisville.

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