Having fun in the city doesn't have to break the bank. From historic sites and riverfront strolls to art, music, and family fun, these free experiences showcase Bourbon City's character, creativity, and charm. Did we mention they're free?
Caufield’s Novelty has been entertaining Louisvillians since 1920. Not only will Caufield's meet all your costume needs, its room of scary animatronics, a Zoltar fortune telling machine, and funhouse pranks will delight the child in everyone. There's also a huge selection of gag gifts — from Groucho glasses to water-squirting gum packs. Enjoying the creepy vibes is totally free.
Get some fresh Bourbon City air during a stroll or a bike ride across the Big Four Bridge. The bicycle and pedestrian bridge spans the Ohio River, connecting Louisville to Jeffersonville, IN. The two-mile, round-trip journey offers breath-taking views of the city, river, and Waterfront Park. Be sure to take in the bridge's nightly light show, starting every evening at sunset.
Visit the final resting place of Louisville's most famous son, Muhammad Ali. Cave Hill Cemetery is a scenic 296-acre Victorian-era National Cemetery & Arboretum. The boxing legend and global humanitarian joins other Kentucky icons, including KFC founder Colonel Harland Sanders and Louisville founder George Roger Clark. The cemetery and arboretum are open year-round.
Enjoy free, live Bluegrass and Kentucky roots music every weekend from April through October, as Louisville venues host the LouGrass music series.
Pop into the 21c Museum Hotel, open 24/7, and browse the world-class contemporary art on display by artists from all over the globe. Be sure and snap a selfie with the hotel's signature red penguins or David (inspired by Michelangelo's 16th-century statue).
Climb aboard at PlayPort, a one-of-a-kind play area at Waterfront Park that pays homage to the Ohio River's cultural and industrial heritage. Shaded seating areas make it comfortable stop for families, and the park's scenic riverfront trails are just steps away.
Explore Waterfront Botanical Gardens, where you can enjoy thoughtfully curated plant collections, tranquil walking paths, and sweeping views of downtown. The gardens are open Wednesday-Sunday and only on weekends in the winter.
One of the nation's premier skate parks, Dave Armstrong Extreme Park welcomes skateboarding, in-line skating, and biking for all ages and skill levels. This Metro Park spans 40,000 sqft of outdoor concrete terrain, plus a wooden vert ramp, and its signature 24-ft full pipe. Open 24 hours a day, it's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to ride, practice, or just take in the action.
Immerse yourself in nature at Iroquois Park, a 739-acre oasis designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. The park boasts a picturesque network of trails that weave through mature woodlands and past stunning vistas. Olmsted's design offers a peaceful retreat with a scenic overlook, picnic areas, and the historic Iroquois Amphitheatre.
Learn about the history of the Ohio Valley at the Filson Historical Society, home to an extensive collection of original manuscripts, letters, diaries, photographs, architectural records, books, maps, newspapers, and portraits. Free 45-60-minute guided tours are offered Monday and Thursday at 2 p.m. Visitors can tour the campus, including the historic Ferguson Mansion, Wood Carriage House, and the Owsley Brown II History Center. Online reservations are required for tours.
Posted by: Louisville Tourism
Posted on: 18/02/2026