Sports Fans Find Exactly What They Seek in Kentucky
With sports tourism generating more than $45 billion annually in the U.S., cities with strong, diverse sports attractions are drawing an increasing number of visitors.
Among them is Louisville! From baseball to boxing to horse racing, the city offers one of the most dynamic and immersive sports experiences in the country—and continues to be recognized as such on a national stage.
Louisville continues to make headlines in the sports world as four local attractions have been nominated for USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Award for Best Attraction for Sports Fans. The nationwide list includes 20 museums, venues, and iconic sporting destinations. Louisville is the only city in the country with four attractions, further cementing its reputation as a premier hub for sports tourism.
Read more about the four nominated Louisville attractions below:
The world-renowned racetrack, National Historic Landmark, and home of the Kentucky Derby for 151 years offers an unmatched blend of tradition, sport, and spectacle.
"Home to 'The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,' Churchill Downs is proud to be recognized as one of the country's top sports attractions," said Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack. "As the site of the longest continually held sporting event in the U.S., this honor reflects Louisville's rich tradition of sports and hospitality. We're thrilled to stand alongside other iconic destinations that make our city such a dynamic place to visit."
Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the Derby Museum ranked no. 3 on USA Today 10Best's 2024 list. It's the only place where fans can experience the thrill of Derby every day—celebrating 151 years of champions, fashion, culture, and racing history.
"We're thrilled to be nominated for the third year in a row—going for our own Triple Crown—and proud to stand alongside our partners in the city's sports and tourism scene," said Patrick Armstrong, President & CEO of the Kentucky Derby Museum. "This nomination puts Louisville on the map as one of the best places in the country for sports fans to explore, learn, and celebrate their passions."
LOUISVILLE SLUGGER MUSEUM & FACTORY
Ranked no. 5 on last year's 10Best list, the museum gives baseball fans a behind-the-scenes look at how America's most legendary bat is made, while honoring some of the sport's greatest players.
"We're thrilled to be back in the lineup once again," said Deana Lockman, Vice President, Executive Director of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. "It's an honor to be in such great company with our partners who help make Louisville an iconic destination where legendary stories are told and unforgettable memories are made every day. From baseball to Ali to horse racing, Louisville truly is a dream destination for sports fans."
Celebrating its 20th anniversary this November, the Ali Center is a powerful cultural attraction that honors the life, values, and legacy of Muhammad Ali—Louisville's native son and global sports icon.
"As the home of The Greatest of All Time, it's an honor to be recognized as one of the top destinations for sports fans," said DeVone Holt, President & CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center. "We hope this nomination showcases the work our team does every day to provide the Greatest experience within our museum. We invite everyone to show their support with a vote for the Ali Center."
While planning a trip to Louisville, visitors can download a copy of Louisville Tourism's annual Visitor Guide or explore attractions, events, lodging, and dining options at Louisville Tourism.
Courtesy of Groups Today.
Photo courtesy of Louisville Tourism.
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