Join us for some fun things to do in Lou!
Can’t spell Louisville without “L-O-V-E!” According to WDRB, Louisville is ranked fourth in the U.S. for most beautiful and affordable places to live! We couldn’t agree more. For Spalding students, working and going to school in the heart of downtown has its perks. With plenty of job opportunities, internships and real-world experiences Louisville is one of the best cities to live, work and succeed. This summer, take the time to check out all that Louisville has to offer.
Make a splash this summer and let’s dive into the top five things to do in Louisville!
1. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory / Louisville Bats Game
Time Frame: Summer/Fall
Photo Credits: Louisville Slugger Instagram
Louisville Slugger Bat in front of the Louisville Slugger Museum
Photo Credits: Spalding Alumni Association
Spalding Alumni Association Members at a Louisville Bats game
“Take me out to the Bats game!” Our first stop on our summer activities list is to start the day off at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where the famous baseball bats are made! Did you know that 1.8 million Louisville Slugger bats are made each year?
Then swing on over to one of the many restaurants along Main Street and finish the day with a Louisville Bats game at Slugger Field. The Slugger Field is minutes away from Spalding’s campus — a homerun activity for all.
2. Louisville Zoo
Time Frame: All-year
Photo Credits: Louisville Zoo Instagram
Wild Lights at the Zoo lit up sign
Photo Credits: Louisville Zoo Instagram
World Tapir Day at the Louisville Zoo
Find a roaring good time at the Louisville Zoo! There’s always something new at the zoo. From new exhibits, to educational programs, and seasonal events – the Lou Zoo is always a fun time. A fan-favorite event is in the springtime, check out the popular lantern festival called Wild Lights at the Zoo.
“The Louisville Zoo has been a place I have been going to since I was kid. Each time I go there it feels like I am a kid again exploring the place and seeing the new animals,” says Lex Barthmaier, Education major, “There is always new something there to explore and interact with!”
Be curious and learn about wildlife in and out of the classroom. At Spalding, our biology major is designed to provide you with a solid starting point in the vast field of natural science. It ignites your curiosity and passion, empowering you to make a meaningful impact and drive effective change in the world. The zoo could be a great place to work or a place to learn about our conservation or wildlife!
3. Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest
Time Frame: All-year
Photo Credits: Bernheim Instagram
Morning of Media day celebrating the completion of the first Forest Giant.
Get ready for a tree-mendous time at Bernheim Forest! For those who are new to Louisville, one of the best places to explore and connect with nature is Bernheim. In the popular PBS TV show Samantha Brown’s Places to Love, Samantha says Bernheim is one of her favorite places to visit in Louisville, Kentucky! Leaf your troubles behind and go on a hike or two and learn about horticulture from the Bernheim experts.
A “big” part of Bernheim is seeing the famous “Forest Giants.” Danish artist Thomas Dambo constructed these giants made of recycled wood from the region. Ask one of the Bernheim workers about the giants origin stories and backgrounds!
4. Endless Summer Paddle Company
Time Frame: Summer/Fall
Photo Credits: Endless Summer Paddle Instagram
People practicing standup yoga with Endless Summer Paddle Company
We stand for this summer activity! One of Louisville’s best kept summer secrets is a session with this stand-up paddle boarding company. From beginners to experts – they’ll have the perfect session for anyone. And for the yogis out there, come check out the stand-up paddle boarding yoga.
One Yelp reviewer wrote, “Hands down the best water activity around for teenagers…equipment rental is reasonably priced and the beginner paddle is a great way to try things out and see if you like it. The location is easy to find on Google Maps, and the coffee shop is a great place to get some refreshment before or after your paddle. We look forward to going back next time we are in town!”
5. Belle of Louisville
Time Frame: All-year
Photo Credits: Belle of Louisville Instagram
Belle of Louisville riverboat on the Ohio River
Go with the flow on the Belle of Louisville riverboat! For those who might not enjoy paddle boarding, setting sail on the Belle of Louisville might be the next best thing.
Did you know the Belle of Louisville is the only remaining authentic steamboat from the great American packet boat era? The Belle of Louisville is open year-round so book a cruise anytime. Check out their seasonal cruises such as their “Ghost Cruises” during the spooky months. With live music, dinners, and holiday events – water you waiting for?
There’s just so much to do in Lou! According to SmartAsset, Louisville is a top city for new college grads, which may explain why over 70 percent of our alums choose to live in Louisville. Explore downtown Louisville and check out the top dining spots near Spalding’s campus. Featured in a Forbes article, Louisville’s downtown scene has flourishing attractions for everyone. See you around town!
Please send marketing@spalding.edu pictures if you’d like us to share on social media.