Spring Valley KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Spring Valley, Kentucky.
1. Kentucky Derby Museum
HORSE RACING HERITAGE
The Kentucky Derby Museum celebrates the history and traditions of America's greatest horse race. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view extensive Derby memorabilia, and experience the excitement of the race through immersive displays. Guided tours of the adjacent Churchill Downs racetrack offer a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic venue.
2. Falls of the Ohio State Park
ANCIENT RIVER FOSSILS
Falls of the Ohio State Park, located on the banks of the Ohio River, is renowned for its Devonian fossil beds, some of the largest exposed in the world. Nature enthusiasts can explore hiking trails, interactive exhibits, and the interpretive center, which details the area's geological history. The park offers stunning views and opportunities for birdwatching and river recreation.
3. Locust Grove
HISTORIC 18TH CENTURY HOME
Locust Grove is a beautifully preserved Georgian mansion that served as the home of Lucy Clark Croghan and her husband William Croghan. The estate offers guided tours that delve into the history of early Kentucky and its prominent visitors, including George Rogers Clark. The site also hosts special events and living history demonstrations throughout the year.
4. Speed Art Museum
CULTURAL ART COLLECTION
The Speed Art Museum, Kentucky's oldest and largest art museum, houses an impressive collection spanning 6,000 years of human creativity. Its galleries include works from European masters, contemporary pieces, and rotating exhibitions. The museum features a popular cafe and an art-filled outdoor space, making it a vibrant destination for art lovers.
5. Churchill Downs
LEGENDARY RACETRACK
Churchill Downs is an iconic horse racing venue best known for hosting the annual Kentucky Derby. Visitors can tour the historic grandstands, visit the paddock area, and learn about thoroughbred racing. The site buzzes with excitement every May for the Derby but offers tours and events year-round.
6. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
BASEBALL BAT LEGACY
The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory showcases the story of the legendary baseball bat and its impact on America's pastime. Guests can watch skilled craftsmen create bats, hold bats used by famous players, and take photos with the iconic giant bat outside the museum. Interactive exhibits and memorabilia make it a must-visit for baseball fans.
7. Waverly Hills Sanatorium
HAUNTED HOSPITAL TOURS
Waverly Hills Sanatorium is famous as one of the most haunted locations in the United States, attracting visitors interested in paranormal activity and local history. Guided tours recount its past as a tuberculosis hospital and explore the eerie, sprawling building. Special events, including overnight investigations, add to the site's mystique.
8. The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts
LIVE PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts is the cultural heart of downtown Louisville, hosting Broadway shows, concerts, and ballet. Its modern theaters offer excellent acoustics and comfortable seating, making for a memorable experience. The center regularly features both world-renowned artists and local talent.
9. Derby Dinner Playhouse
DINNER THEATER EXPERIENCE
Derby Dinner Playhouse pairs delicious buffet-style dining with professional theater productions, creating a unique entertainment experience. Guests enjoy a variety of performances ranging from classic musicals to contemporary comedies. The venue's intimate setting ensures everyone feels close to the action.
10. Sandbox VR
VIRTUAL REALITY GAMING
Sandbox VR offers an immersive virtual reality experience, allowing groups to step into interactive digital worlds. Advanced motion capture technology makes the adventures feel incredibly realistic, whether exploring alien landscapes or surviving a zombie apocalypse. The venue is popular for friends, families, and team-building events.
11. AMC Stonybrook 20
MODERN MOVIE THEATER
AMC Stonybrook 20 is one of Louisville's premier theaters, featuring comfortable reclining seats and the latest in cinematic technology. With a wide selection of blockbuster and indie films, the theater is a popular spot for moviegoers. Concession options and online ticketing make for a convenient entertainment experience.
12. Renaissance Fun Park
FAMILY FUN CENTER
Renaissance Fun Park provides entertainment for the whole family with go-karts, mini-golf, arcade games, and laser tag. It's a lively location for birthday parties and group outings. The park's outdoor activities are especially popular on warm days.
13. Village 8 Theatres
CLASSIC NEIGHBORHOOD CINEMA
Village 8 Theatres offers a nostalgic movie-going experience in the heart of Saint Matthews. The theater is known for its affordable ticket prices and selection of mainstream and independent films. Its charm and convenient location make it a favorite among locals.
14. Brown Park
PEACEFUL URBAN PARK
Brown Park is a tranquil green space with walking trails, picnic areas, and a quiet creek. It's perfect for a family outing, a jog, or simply relaxing amidst natural scenery. The park is beautifully maintained and features a wildlife observation area.
15. Farmington Historic Plantation
ANTEBELLUM PLANTATION HOUSE
Farmington Historic Plantation offers a glimpse into antebellum Kentucky with its meticulously restored Federal-style home. Guided tours share the stories of the families who lived and worked here, including the enslaved individuals who shaped its history. The site's gardens and special events immerse visitors in the region's rich past.