LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Two Louisville favorites are getting national recognition. USA Today has named the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory among the nation’s top five attractions for sports fans at No. 3 and No. 5 respectively.
Rounding out the top five of the publication’s top 10 “Best Attractions for Sports Fans” as part of its 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards include the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado; Boise State’s Blue Turf and the Savannah Bananas.
“Congratulations to the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum on making USA Today’s 10Best list of top attractions for sports fans in America,” said Mayor Craig Greenberg, D-Louisville. “Your commitment to providing engaging and unforgettable experiences draws visitors from around the world and elevates Louisville’s reputation as one of America’s great sports cities.”
The Kentucky Derby Museum said it welcomed an all-time high of 258,382 guests during fiscal year 2024 from Oct. 1, 2023 to Sept. 30, 2024. Readers voted the museum onto the list for the second straight year, which moved up from No. 5 in 2023. Its continued growth has been driven by investments in new exhibits, immersive programming and must-attend events, the museum said.
“We’re incredibly honored and proud of this milestone,” said Patrick Armstrong, president and CEO of the Kentucky Derby Museum. “This record wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our amazing guests, the strategic vision of our Board members, the dedication of our KDM team and the shared passion for the Kentucky Derby. Our visitors responded enthusiastically to the unique exhibits and experiences we offer, and we’re excited to build on this momentum as we approach our 40th anniversary in 2025.”
The museum gallery at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. The museum said it welcomed more than 310,000 guests in 2023. (Fleur de Lis Communications)
The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory said it welcomed more than 310,000 guests in 2023 while undergoing its largest museum gallery renovation in more than 15 years. It has welcomed more than six million visitors since opening in 1996.
“We’re thrilled to be recognized as one of the Top 5 Sports Attractions, alongside another Louisville institution,” said Andrew Soliday, marketing director at Hillerich & Bradsby Co. “This honor truly shows that Louisville is a unique and exciting sports city.”
For the latest on the Derby Museum as it approaches its 40th anniversary, visit derbymuseum.org and follow @derbymuseum on social media. The museum is gearing up for “Derby in December,” a free community Derby party set for Dec. 3.
Check out sluggermuseum.com for more on the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, including additional information and hours.