More than 4,000 acres, four parks and Floyds Fork define The Parklands of Floyds Fork. The park system offers access to nature that is easy to explore through specific trail options: from an extensive network for hikers and cyclists to a paved section of the Louisville Loop. In Jefferson, you can combine experiences in nature with museums, historic sites and bourbon culture.
Trails through The Parklands
More than 60 miles of trails in The Parklands are designated for hiking and cycling. There is also access to a 22-mile water trail on Floyds Fork. When planning, it is worth considering these figures alongside the Louisville Loop: 19 miles of the Loop run through The Parklands. This section is paved, non-motorized and designed to meet ADA accessibility standards.
If you are looking for a paved, non-motorized route, the Loop offers a clear point of reference. The other trails offer opportunities for hiking and cycling, while the water trail provides a different perspective on Floyds Fork. This gives you a choice of different types of routes without combining them into a single route.
Derby, Muhammad Ali and baseball history
At the Kentucky Derby Museum, the permanent exhibition traces the history of the Kentucky Derby and thoroughbred racing. Admission includes interactive exhibits, hands-on activities and digital experiences about the Derby’s history, culture and traditions. The offerings combine historical content with different ways of presenting it.
The Muhammad Ali Center traces Ali’s path from his childhood in Louisville through three world heavyweight titles to his humanitarian achievements. Exhibitions, films and immersive environments bring these milestones to life; artifacts, images and interactive displays illustrate his achievements. Those interested in sports history will also encounter a life story that extends far beyond the ring.
Baseball history is also on display: Louisville Slugger has been making baseball bats since 1884. More than 3,000 original bat models are on view in the Bat Vault at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. The long manufacturing tradition and the collection offer two different ways to explore an object closely associated with baseball.
Historic homes and their stories
A guided house tour at Historic Locust Grove covers the Croghan and Clark families, the enslaved community, and famous visitors to the estate in early frontier-era Kentucky. You should generally allow 60 to 90 minutes for the tour; tour times may change. An audio guide is also available for the grounds and outbuildings. This provides two distinct ways to visit: a guided look inside the house and an audio guide for other areas.
The Farnsley-Moremen House in Riverside, The Farnsley-Moremen Landing, was built circa 1837. This approximate date gives the house a specific place in the region’s history, while the Locust Grove tour explores several families, the enslaved community and visitors to the estate.
Bourbon experiences and practical information
Visitors of all ages can take the tour at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience; you must be at least 21 years old to take part in the tasting portion. Angel’s Envy offers hands-on bourbon cocktail classes in downtown Louisville. The classes are a different way to explore bourbon than a tour. Dates and availability may change, so check these details before making plans.
The Louisville Zoo is open daily year-round, except on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. There is also a petting zoo; some activities may be seasonal. Since hours and operations may change, it is advisable to check the current schedule before your visit. The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) offers bus connections to and from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport; routes and schedules may change.
Discover more destinations: Louisville, Wildwood, Jeffersontown, Lyndon, Lynnview, Seneca Gardens, Briarwood, Parkway Village
For the main travel overview: Kentucky.
