Bored of just going out to restaurants and bars? Don't worry, our awesome city has a variety of different activities to choose from! Amazing adrenaline-pumping adventures are just waiting to happen at these fun spots across the city. Listed below are 11 unique locations in Louisville that will expand your imagination and increase your hunger for adventure.
1. Explore the limestone mine (and adventure park) at the Louisville Mega Cavern.
The Mega Cavern offers thrilling ziplines throughout this limestone cave for the adventure of a lifetime. Carefully cross these rope bridges and zip quickly through the air, often in near-complete darkness.
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The Mega Cavern is located at 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, KY 40213.
Breakout Louisville is the perfect place to bring a group of friends, especially if you love solving mysteries. You'll feel like you're in a movie as your team works together to crack all of the codes before time runs out. Breakout Games Louisville currently offers 6 different mysteries to solve: Mystery Mansion, The Kidnapping, Museum Heist, Operation: Casino, Island Escape, and Hostage. Once you try one, you'll need to come back and solve them all!
Breakout Games Louisville is located at 1805 Cargo Ct, Jeffersontown, KY 40299.
Sometimes there's nothing more adventurous than exploring the wilderness, and we have an incredible array of parks around Louisville to walk through. Check out this article on some of the best places to hike around the city.
Indoor rock climbing is a surprisingly fun way to get a good workout! Adrenaline rushes through you as you climb to the top of these tall structures, and the padding below provides a safe place to break your fall if you lose your grip. All climbers are welcome here, and there are varying degrees of difficulties to suit both the beginner and advanced climber.
Climb Nulu is located at 1000 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40206.
5. Zipline across the canopy of Jefferson Memorial Forest at Go Ape
Explore the beautiful Jefferson Memorial Forest like you never thought was possible at this adventure park. Go Ape is a zipline and ropes course that is open for all ages. Check out this article to learn more about this awesome treetop adventure.
Go Ape is located at 11311 Mitchell Hill Rd #101, Fairdale, KY 40118.
6. Take a historical tour of the most haunted location in Louisville
Waverly Hills Sanatorium is said to be one of the most haunted locations in Louisville (if not the entire country) and has been featured in numerous paranormal television shows. Waverly Hills offers historical tours and even overnight stays for those who dare to enter at night. The tour takes you through various sections of the building, from the hallways to the infamous "body chute," as well as specific locations where ghosts have been sighted before.
Waverly Hills Sanatorium is located at 4400 Paralee Lane, Louisville, KY 40272.
Explore Harrod's Creek with Nachad's canoe and kayak rentals. This creek isn't difficult to navigate, and provides a relaxing day of easy rowing and nature watching.
Nachand Canoe and Kayaking is located at 6313 River Rd Prospect, KY 40059.
8. Listen to scary tales on a Louisville Ghost Tour
Louisville Ghost Tours provides a spooky historical experience as you follow your tour guide around the city at night. Dressed in Victorian-era clothing and carrying a lantern to light the way, your guide will walk you around downtown and tell chilling and tragic tales that once occurred at these now-haunted sites. The tour is a 3/4 mile walk that lasts approximately an hour and a half.
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Louisville Ghost Tour meets at 400 South 4th Street, 40202. Advanced tickets are required.
9. Learn how to scuba dive and explore the underwater world
In order to fully explore the dark depths of mysterious bodies of water, you must be certified to scuba dive. Luckily, you can get your certification right here in Louisville and start exploring underwater in the city. Falling Rock Park is a clear rainwater quarry open for scuba diving, and there are even cars and other objects on the floor of the quarry waiting for divers to explore.
The Louisville Dive Center is located at 4265 Roosevelt Ave, Louisville, KY 40213.
10. Go horseback riding at the Louisville Equestrian Center
The Louisville Equestrian Center offers horseback riding lessons for people of all ages and experience levels. Ponies are available for young children to learn on, and beginner and experienced riders are welcome, as the center offers more advanced lessons that teach you more complex horsemanship skills.
The Louisville Equestrian Center is located at 6720 Mt Washington Rd, Taylorsville, KY 40071.
11. Float through the skies with Balloon Odyssey's hot air balloon rides
Balloon Odyssey offers an incredible aerial experience for those looking for a unique adventure. Watch the city grow smaller as you drift high into the sky in this open-air thrill ride. This hot air balloon ride is the perfect adventure for a birthday, anniversary, or any other special occasion.
Balloon Odyssey is located at 1301 Taxus Top Ln, Louisville, KY 40243.
What are your favorite spots to visit when you're feeling adventurous? Let us know in the comments below or on Facebook! If you enjoyed the article, click here to read about some more awesome adventures to take across the state.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Are you or someone you know a lover of interesting and often rare antiques or collectibles? As it turns out, so are many other people in Louisville-- that's why we have huge flea markets here every month, as well as amazing food trucks and even live music to accompany you as you shop. Check out our list of the best flea markets in Louisville, Kentucky, below:
The Flea Off Market is a combination flea market, art fair, and street party, as they describe themselves on their website. It opens on the first weekend of every month usually in the East Market District, on the edge of downtown Louisville, but frequently changes location. Usually, there are over 100 vendors selling their wares, which might include books, clothes, records, vintage items, bicycles, antiques, cool old junk, used tools, jewelry, terrariums, pet adoptions, fine arts and crafts, fresh-cut flowers, organic produce and meat, and much more. The Flea Off Market also features live music, a variety of food trucks, and a bar with local craft beer and seasonal cocktails. Dates and locations vary, so please check the official Flea Off Market website for more information.
This free urban market occurs outdoors on the waterfront plaza on the first weekend of every month. Here you can find a variety of collectibles, antiques, or handmade goods. Food trucks, local wine, and craft wine are available to enjoy here!
A longstanding Kentucky thrift store, are actually 17 Peddlers Mall locations across the state of Kentucky, all of which are filled with interesting antiques and collectibles. Check out their app, which has a catalog of items you can easily search through!
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Hillview Peddlers Mall is located at 11310 Preston Hwy, Louisville, KY, 40229. Make sure to check out the numerous other locations, too.
Located just over the river, Vendors' Village is a lovely flea market that has everything you're searching for. It is clean, neatly organized, and stocked full of items from vendors that you won't find anywhere else.
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Vendors' Village is located at 706 East Lewis And Clark Pkwy Ste C, Clarksville, IN, 47129.
Located on the lawn of Mellwood Antiques and Interiors is Fleatiques-- an outdoor flea market in Kentucky. Once you're finished with the outdoor market, head inside this Kentucky antique shop and discover amazing pieces to decorate your home with. The flea market and store itself are plenty enough to keep you occupied for a day of antique shopping.
Mellwood Antiques and Interiors is located at 1860 Mellwood Ave, Louisville, KY, 40206.
Rather than a strict focus on antiques and collectibles, Derby Park Flea Market is much more like a huge yard sale. You can find amazing deals here if you really look.
Derby Park Traders Circle is located at 2900 7th Street Rd, Louisville, KY, 40216.
Looking for more awesome deals in Louisville and the surrounding areas? Why not go shopping at the best thrift stores in Kentucky, many of which are found right here in Louisville? Don't forget to comment below or on Facebook to let us know which flea markets you think are worth going to.
