Attractions

As one of the many cities that line the Ohio River Louisville, KY has a lot to offer in the name of free and cheap thrills. Louisville, KY is of course known for the world famous Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby, but there are events that happen in Louisville, KY that don’t surround the big race.

Street level view of St. James Art Show

St. James Art Show

Consistently voted one of the top art festivals in the nation, St. James Art Show offers the full gamut of artistic works. Hosting nearly 750 exhibitions and 300,000 attendees you not only get to experience Olivia’s eye popping stained glass interpretation of a sunrise, but also Bobby Joe’s basement junk on a blanket set up in an adjacent parking lot. I attended this event every year I lived in Louisville and there was too much to see. I had to come back another day to actually soak in everything that was on display. The Old Louisville Historic District where this event is held is also architecturally timeless.  The St. James Art Show takes place the first week in October and it’s free.

The Elders at Waterfront Park 2008

WFPK Waterfront Wednesdays

WFPK Radio Louisville hosts Waterfront Wednesdays throughout the summer at Waterfront Park in downtown Louisville, KY. The park sits off the river and is full of rolling grass hills, fun fountains for the kids, and a great view of the city and the bridge to Indiana. During the summer WFPK constructs a stage and sets up sound equipment for a small, free, show every Wednesday. And these aren’t local punk bands from the high school playing four string electric guitars through a 20 watt amp taped to a barrel. These are well known, of the moment, independent artists such as: The Whigs, Dave Barnes, and VHS or Beta. Never heard of them? That’s because you haven’t been to Waterfront Wednesday. Check site listings for artist line-up. Admission is free.

Thunder Over Louisville

Thunder Over Louisville

Ok, I lied. I said, no events related to the Kentucky Derby Festival, but this event can’t be overlooked. Thunder Over Louisville is the most earth shaking firework show I’ve ever felt, not seen, felt. Granted half the fireworks are shot off the bridge over the Ohio River, you still feel it and smell it. Thunder Over Louisville kicks off the Kentucky Derby Festival’s month long celebration in the city. They call it “Thunder” for a reason, your ear will ring for days. Don’t miss it. Go early for a good seat, and walk. Traffic is horrible in and out. Louisville isn’t made for a lot of people. To feel this event is free.

If you only visit Louisville, KY for the Derby it’s okay. It will cost you money but you’ll remember it. If you visit Louisville, KY for free events not related to Derby, it won’t cost you money and you’ll remember it. Do it one way or do it both. I recommend both.

Photo credits: Rhombusleech for St. James Art Show, Peter D for The Elders, Caomai for Thunder