Arts & Culture
New Frazier History Museum exhibit celebrates all 120 Kentucky counties – In March 2024, the Frazier History Museum debuted a new exhibit called 120 Cool KY Counties. The exhibit is the result of a huge collaboration between the museum and all 120 Kentucky Counties. 120 Cool KY Counties features stories, pictures and artifacts from each county in one location. https://www.leoweekly.com/arts/frazier-history-museums-120-cool-ky-counties-16074432
Louisville Zoo adds new polar bear to the family – The Louisville Zoo announced the addition of Borealis, or Bo for short, to the facility's award-winning Glacier Run exhibit. Bo is one of two polar bears at the facility. Qannik, a wild-born female, has resided at the zoo since 2011. With the addition of Bo allows for the zoo to join the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a cooperative breeding program that works to ensure the continuation of threatened and endangered species. https://www.wave3.com/2024/02/16/meet-bo-louisville-zoo-announces-latest-polar-bear-addition/
National Corvette Museum announces new sinkhole exhibit – February 2024 marked a decade since a massive sinkhole opened up under the building, swallowing eight cars from the museums multi-million-dollar collection. On the anniversary of the sinkhole, the museum announced the opening of a new exhibit examining the disaster, as well as the aftermath. The exhibit, dubbed “Ground to Sky: The Sinkhole Reimagined”, will feature the cars that were in the sinkhole, which includes the one-millionth Corvette that has since been fully restored by General Motors. The exhibit will run throughout summer 2024, June 14 through September 15. https://www.wkyufm.org/news/2024-02-13/national-corvette-museum-announces-new-exhibit-on-anniversary-of-sinkhole
50-foot-tall alien named Clive installed on Covington parking garage – Covington has a new public art installation in the form of a 50-foot-tall alien dubbed Clive. The extraterrestrial can be seen hanging out of the Midtown Parking Garage on Fifth and Scott Street studying anyone who passes under him with his magnifying glass. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2024/01/24/50-foot-tall-clive-alien-towering-over-covington-kentucky/72338298007/
New mural on Purple People Bridge combines iconic symbols from both sides of the river – Cincinnati based artist Matt Grote has completed a mural on the Purple People Bridge which connects downtown Cincinnati and Newport on the Levee. The mural, which is on the floor of the bridge, celebrates both Kentucky and Ohio and their respective cultures. The Purple People Bridge is only open to pedestrians and spans the Ohio River between the two cities. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2023/12/01/people-purple-bridge-mural
Secretariat's Paris home honoring him with park, mural and sculpture – Secretariat Park, a recreational park in Paris, Kentucky, opened to the public on the 50th anniversary of the Triple Crown winner's arrival in Paris. The park features a larger-than-life mural of Secretariat's 1973 Kentucky Derby victory and a life-size bronze sculpture of Secretariat in his paddock at Claiborne Farm. The park draws tourists from all over the world to see the statue and learn about Secretariat's legacy. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/sports/2023/10/06/secretariat-park-grand-opening
2
Bernheim Forest unveils plans for new large-scale outdoor art experience – Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is opening a new art experience called L+A+N+D, which stands for Landscape + Art + Nature + Design, the exhibit will feature large-scale outdoor installations that explore the human connection to nature, sustainability, climate change, and other environmental issues and will open to the public Summer 2024. https://www.wlky.com/article/clermont-bernheim-forest-outdoor-art-experience/44385559 https://www.lpm.org/news/2023-08-03/a-new-immersive-art-experience-grows-just-off-the-path-at-bernheim
Cheeky Museum of Contemporary Art + Culture opens – The Cheeky Museum of Contemporary Art + Culture is a new museum in La Grange, with a surprising goal: to combat loneliness. Located in a historic building, the museum features art exhibits, a community garden, an eatery, and an Airbnb. The museum is designed to be a place where people can share and engage in their passions, breaking down barriers to the creative process and bringing the community together. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2023/07/19/new-louisville-area-museum-open-la-grange-oldham/70399664007/
Immersive farm-to-table shopping experience opens on River Road. – Ashbourne Farms broke ground on a new marketplace and urban farm project called Haymarket by Ashbourne Farms in early 2022 at 3032 River Road in Louisville. The marketplace opened in June 2023. It features an onsite urban garden, fresh produce, bakery products, garden products and other locally sourced items. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/life/food/2023/06/13/farm-to-table-shop-haymarket-by-ashbourne-farms-opens-in-louisville/70298496007/
Immersive children's museum coming to Louisville – The Portland Museum, located on Louisville's west end, is working to create AHOY, the Adventure House of You Children's Museum which will feature risky play, an indoor and outdoor space, and pay tribute to the heritage of Louisville's West End. AHOY is anticipated to cost $4 million, will be completed in four phases and is projected break ground sometime in 2024. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2022/10/28/ahoy-childrens-museum-to-open-in-west-louisville/69556208007/
Attractions
Louisville Zoo welcomes Wild Lights lantern festival back for the fifth year – From March 23 through May 19, the Louisville Zoo presents the fifth annual Wild Lights. This lantern festival 60 individual displays in themed areas depicting nature, coral reefs and Chinese mythology. Select area highlights include a blooming morning glory corridor, a 23-foot-tall octopus and a walk-through phoenix tunnel. Interactive lanterns invite guests to enhance the experience by powering lantern movements, competing in games and more. The event runs Sunday through Thursday nights, from 7 p.m. to 10, rain or shine. Tickets for Wild Lights are available online at www.louisvillezoo.org/wildlights https://www.wdrb.com/news/wild-lights-2024-is-back-for-a-5th-year-at-the-louisville-zoo-heres-how/article_00988bcc-c6ad-11ee-a202-5bea8cb40890.html
Kentucky Derby Museum to debut a $1 Million upgrade to iconic Riders Up! exhibit – The Kentucky Derby Museum will unveil the $1 million upgrade to its Riders Up! exhibit on April 12, 2024, just in time for the 150th Kentucky Derby. First making an appearance in 2000, The Riders Up! exhibit lets visitors get a taste of what it feels like to be a jockey during the Run for the Roses. The upgrade process started in February and when it is complete, the exhibit will captivate visitors with state-of-the-art technology that brings the thrill of horse racing into the 21st century. https://paulickreport.com/news/the-biz/kentucky-derby-museum-gallops-into-future-with-1-million-riders-up-exhibit-upgrade
Churchill Downs purchases 20-acres in Owensboro for future gaming facility – Churchill Downs Inc. subsidiary Ellis Entertainment paid $1.6 million for 20-acres in Daviess County to build a 68,000-square-foot gaming facility. The site, which is located on the corner of U.S. Highway 60 East and Wrights Landing Road, will feature 700 gaming machines, retail sportsbook, simulcast wagering and multiple food and beverage offerings. is expected to be open between January and March 2025. https://cdcgaming.com/churchill-downs-lays-out-development-slate/
New Kentucky after Dark trail highlights spooky attractions across the state – Twelve locations across the state join forces every fall to create a trail and passport program promoting haunted locations and stories across the state under the name Kentucky After Dark. This seasonal trail includes places like Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville and the Anderson Hotel Haunted House in Lawrenceburg. https://www.southernliving.com/kentucky-after-dark-7973329
'Domes and Dripstones' tour at Mammoth Cave reopens after year-long construction – Almost a year after being closed for renovations, a section of Mammoth Cave's expansive cave system has reopened with dramatic renovations. Over 200 feet underground, the 'Domes and Dripstones' tour route contains expansive rooms linked by a series of tight, zig-zagging turns. Known for its intensity due to the numerous stairs and steep inclines, the daily tour is ideal for people interested in sciences, particularly the development of stalactites and stalagmites. https://www.wymt.com/2023/09/28/domes-dripstones-tour-mammoth-cave-reopen-after-year-long-construction/
Sandy's Racing & Gaming opens for business in Ashland – Sandy's Racing and Gaming cut the ribbon on a brand new 40,000 square-foot facility that features more than 700 gaming machines. The center also has entertainment stages, a sportsbook lounge and dining options. In addition to the $75 million gaming center, construction of an equestrian center and Kentucky's only quarter horse racetrack. Both projects are projected to be finished in 2025. https://wchstv.com/news/local/sandys-racing-gaming-set-to-open-oct-26-in-ashland-boyd-county-kentucky-tax-revenue-entertainment-sports-betting-dining-quarter-track-horse-equestrian-tri-state
Gov. Beshear Officially Designates Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Historical Corridor – Gov. Andy Beshear has designated the route from Camp Nelson in Jessamine County to the Kentucky/Ohio border at Mays Lick as the Brigadier General Charles Young Memorial Historical Corridor. . This designation honors the legacy of Charles Young, the first African American to reach the rank of brigadier general in the U.S. Army. The corridor will be denoted with signage and the state will work to promote its historical, military and cultural significance. It is also hoped that the corridor will encourage travel and tourism through the region. https://www.wmky.org/news/2023-06-02/gov-beshear-officially-designates-brigadier-general-charles-young-memorial-historical-corridor
Frazier Museum launches new app to take museum state-wide – The Frazier History Museum announced the launch of a new app, which will bring the museum to Kentuckians across 120 counties. The app is called Frazier+. It provides engaging and educational Kentucky history content—free of charge. Users can explore the museum's collection of videos, photos, and texts to either heighten their in-person experience or learn from the comfort of their couch or classroom. https://www.wbko.com/2023/04/17/frazier-museum-launches-new-app-take-museum-state-wide/
New exhibit salutes Kentucky's women veterans – Any museum curator will tell you that putting together an exhibit that effectively tells a compelling story, perhaps addressing myths or highlighting underappreciated achievements, is a challenge under any circ*mstance. So, it's no surprise that it took a while for the Kentucky Historical Society in Frankfort to roll out a comprehensive past and present tribute to Kentucky's women in uniform. The exhibit will be up through the Fall of 2024. https://www.wuky.org/local-regional-news/2023-07-10/new-exhibit-salutes-kentuckys-women-veterans
Railbike tours offered along Bluegrass Scenic Railroad – Rail Explorers, a railbike tour company, has opened a new location in Versailles. The 10-mile round-trip tour takes riders through two thoroughbred farms, between limestone cliffs, to the Kentucky River with views of a bourbon distillery and Young's High Bridge. Riders may choose the Quad Railbike (up to four riders) or Tandem Railbike (up to two riders) option. The tour is pet-friendly and pets ride for free. https://www.lex18.com/news/covering-kentucky/railbike-tours-offered-along-bluegrass-scenic-railroad
New Kentucky Black History Trail to use augmented reality— The Kentucky Black History Trail is a new collaborative project between six Kentucky counties that will use augmented reality to bring Kentucky's Black history to life. Visitors will be able to use their mobile devices to experience holograms of Kentucky historical figures at more than 15 sites across the region. The anticipated launch for this program is Juneteenth 2024. https://www.thenewsenterprise.com/news/local/hardin-part-of-multi-county-award-to-establish-state-black-history-trail/article_4af0b36b-ab55-5705-a036-847c93d58fcf.html
Derby Museum unveils new Secretariat exhibit - On the 50th anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown win, the Kentucky Derby Museum unveiled a new exhibit, "America's Horse," honoring his life and legacy. The exhibit features artifacts from his career, including costumes from the 2010 Disney film about his life, and a massive confirmation shot highlighting his physical attributes. https://paulickreport.com/news/the-biz/kentucky-derby-museum-launch-party-for-new-secretariat-exhibit-set-for-april-20/
New Social Hall Added to Whiskey Row – Number 15, a new “social hall” in downtown Louisville opened in May. Located in the historic W.L. Weller building on Main Street features five floors of bars, live music, event spaces and a penthouse. https://www.wlky.com/article/whiskey-row-number-15-downtown-louisville/45211526
National Corvette Caravan coming in 2024 – The National Corvette Museum's Seventh National Corvette Caravan is slated for Aug. 29-31, 2024. The event has become known as the single largest moving automotive event in the world. To commemorate the five-year milestone anniversaries of the NCM's founding, Corvettes from all over the world travel from all over the country, and indeed the world, to converge on Bowling Green, Kentucky for a homecoming. https://www.corvsport.com/the-2024-national-corvette-caravan/
Bourbon
*See the separate document, What's New in Kentucky Bourbon, for a list of new and expanded bourbon experiences.
Culinary
The Burl music venue and arcade starts brewing beer too – Located in Lexington's Distillery District, The Burl opened as a live music venue in 2016. In 2018 they added an arcade that featured dozens of pinball machines, retro video games and Skee-Ball. In February 2024, The Burl debuted its craft beer line, Burl Brew. Located on the Burl's campus next to the concert hall and arcade, the microbrewery taproom will feature more than a dozen unique taps as well as a full co*cktail bar.
The Burl campus is also planning a new food option, Lucy's Kitchen, which will offer a fresh twist on favorite bar fare. https://lextoday.6amcity.com/food/the-burl-brew-lexington-ky
New Indian-Mexican fusion restaurant opens in Louisville – In December 2023, Louisville welcomed a new Indian-Mexican fusion restaurant to the Audubon Park neighborhood. Tikka Tacos on Preston Street features entrees such as the Bollywood Taco, which is a mixture of chicken tikka and avocado piled high on to Indian paratha flatbread. The menu boasts a healthy mix of fusion and traditional Indian dishes at a more than reasonable price point. https://www.leoweekly.com/food-drink/indian-mexican-treat-yourself-to-both-at-tikka-tacos-15811901
West Kentucky Brewery Hop trail launches a digital pass – The Kentucky craft beer trail known as West Kentucky Brewery Hop debuted its new digital pass on National American Beer Day. The downloadable pass offers an engaging and interactive platform for craft beer aficionados to explore the rich brewing culture of the region. By downloading the digital pass and visiting each brewery included on the trail, users can unlock exclusive merchandise and the chance to win exciting prizes, all while savoring the finest brews that West Kentucky has to offer. https://www.craftbrewingbusiness.com/business-marketing/west-kentucky-brewery-hop-trail-launches-a-digital-pass-promising-prizes-to-users/
White Squirrel Brewery cuts the ribbon on its facility – White Squirrel Brewing tapped the keg on its new facility in the Shake Rag District of Bowling Green. Specializing in a wide variety of ales, the White Squirrel opens at 3 p.m. on weekdays and 11 a.m. on weekends. In the coming months the brewery owners plan to add a beer garden, space for food trucks and live music. https://www.wbko.com/2023/09/26/white-squirrel-brewery-welcomes-over-1500-guests-opening-weekend/
Brown Hotel restaurant brings back chef's table experience – The historic Brown Hotel in downtown Louisville announced that it is bringing back a classic culinary experience in the form of the chef's table. The chef's table features a seven-course meal complete with wine pairings and can be reserved for two to four guests. Diners have the chance to watch the kitchen line work as they prepare the food that they will be eating. Reservations for the chef's table must be made 48-hours in advance. https://www.kentucky.com/lexgoeat/restaurants/article280888153.html
Versailles opens new Italian restaurant in old police station– Vallozzi's, an upscale family-owned Italian restaurant, has opened for business in downtown Versailles in what used to be a police station. The newly renovated building, which was built in the 1880s, now seats up to 120 and serves upscale Italian fare as well as fine wines and spirits. https://www.kentucky.com/lexgoeat/restaurants/article278277563.html
Chaney's Dairy Barn Wins Four Gold Medals for Ice Cream and Milk– Chaney's Dairy Barn brought home four gold medals from the 2023 Los Angeles Dairy Competition. Chaney's ice cream shop is located on the working dairy and milk processing facility where 100% of the milk produced on the farm goes into fluid milk products and ice cream that can be purchased locally and at its on-site store located at 9191 Nashville Road in Bowling Green. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/life/food/2023/07/26/chaneys-dairy-barn-wins-gold-medal-at-international-dairy-competition/70458196007/
Purple Toad Winery opening new location in Bowling Green in Fall 2024 – A new wine tasting room will be opening up in Bowling Green. Paducah's Purple Toad Winery will build this new location at the corner of Hunts Lane & Cemetery Road.
https://www.wnky.com/purple-toad-winery-opening-new-location-in-bowling-green/
Horses
The Kentucky Derby Museum kicked off the Kentucky Derby 150 celebration 150 days before the Derby – The museum, which is located next door to Churchill Downs, kicked off the countdown to the race on December 6. In continued celebration, the museum will host a Derby Hat Show on March 24, a Derby 150 Birthday Tribute featuring Old Forester on April 11 and the Kentucky Derby Museum Ball on April 26. https://paulickreport.com/news/triple-crown/kentucky-derby-museum-to-host-free-race-to-derby-150-party-on-dec-6/ and https://www.derbymuseum.org/derby150.html
Keeneland Race Course Plans $93 Million in Upgrades – The world famous Keeneland Race Course in Lexington announced a $93 million project that make improvements to the paddock, visitors' center and operations building. The new paddock building will expand viewing and dining experiences, enhance hospitality during Keeneland's Thoroughbred auctions and provide new venues for special events year-round. Construction is scheduled to be completed in fall of 2025. https://www.sportstravelmagazine.com/keeneland-race-course-plans-93-million-in-upgrades/
City of Louisville celebrates 20th anniversary of 'Gallopalooza' ahead of Kentucky Derby 150 -- Gallopalooza is returning to Louisville in 2024 bringing 150 horse statues to the streets of the Derby City. The statues can be previewed at the Churchill Downs First Turn Club from March 22-24. Afterwards they will be moved to different sites around the city. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2024/02/14/gallopalooza-20th-anniversary-collection https://www.wdrb.com/news/city-of-louisville-relaunching-gallopalooza-next-spring-for-kentucky-derby-150/article_48ae7ba0-200a-11ee-a254-73865beb13d0.html
Kentucky Horse Park building New Barns – Construction will begin in Fall 2024 on two 100-stall pavilions at Kentucky Horse Park, replacing old barns. The new barns will maximize the number of stalls and provide ample access for trailers and exhibitors, and includes new restrooms, muck pits and more. The barns are on track to be finished by May 2024. https://eventingnation.com/coming-soon-to-kentucky-horse-park-new-barns/
Derby City Gaming Downtown facility opens for business– Derby City Gaming Downtown, the first major gaming center in downtown Louisville, officially opened in December 2023. Located at the corner of Fourth and Market streets, the 43,000-square-foot building features 500 of the latest historical horse racing machines, a "fresh-air gaming area" and three bars, each with a unique theme. There will also be a Churchill Downs gift shop. https://www.wlky.com/article/derby-city-gaming-downtown-open-louisville-sports-gambling/46052309
Corbin opens Cumberland Run, a new harness racing track and gaming facility– Cumberland Run, a new harness racing track and gaming facility in Corbin, Kentucky, has officially opened its doors to the public. The indoor facility features simulcast and live betting options, as well as brand new gaming machines, a bar, and food. The outdoor racetrack opened for harness racing in October 2023. ttps://www.thetimestribune.com/kentucky/cumberland-run-a-long-awaited-dream-for-corbin-becomes-a-reality/article_1cce9736-2be0-11ee-85a9-3f4c86c444fc.html
Second Stride Joins Horse Country Tours – Horse Country, a tour company that provides behind-the-scenes looks at Kentucky's equine industry, is partnering with Second Stride, a leading national equine adoption program. Second Stride offers tours six days a week, where guests can learn about the retraining and re-homing process of retired racehorses. https://www.thoroughbreddailynews.com/second-stride-joins-horse-country-tours/
Churchill to Renovate Jockey Club Suites Before 2024 Derby – Churchill Downs is updating and refreshing the Jockey Club Suites at the Louisville oval. The $14 million renovation is due to be completed by the 150th Kentucky Derby. All 61 suites, common spaces, dining rooms, and restrooms located on the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors as part of the area are included in the renovation. Originally constructed in 2004, the Jockey Club Suites seat approximately 2,500 guests and also serve as a premium rentable space for special events throughout the year. Renovations are scheduled to be finished by spring 2024.
https://www.thoroughbreddailynews.com/churchill-to-renovate-jockey-club-suites-before-2024-derby/
Hotels & Lodging
The Lodge at Mammoth Cave reopens after renovation – After two years of being closed for renovation, the Lodge at Mammoth Cave reopened to the public in January 2024. The Lodge, which was built in 1965 received upgrades to its rooms, lobby, giftshop and restaurant. It also remodeled for ADA-accessible rooms, a conference room and two public restrooms. https://www.bgdailynews.com/news/the-lodge-at-mammoth-cave-reopens-after-renovation/article_8bbdd009-7f6e-54e1-98e3-df4320e80096.html
A trendy spa opens in the historic Galt House Hotel – The Pelo West salon and spa has opened for business on the 17th floor of the legendary Galt House Hotel in downtown Louisville. This luxury spa will offer hairstyling and color, massages, facials, nails and sauna services. It is open seven days a week and appointments can be booked through the spa website. https://loutoday.6amcity.com/business/pelo-west-opens-louisville-ky.
New cabins shaped like bourbon barrels – A new type of lodging experience has popped up in Lawrenceburg. Bourbon Barrel Retreats offers bourbon enthusiasts a chance to stay in cabins shaped like oversized barrels. The seven barrels sit on a 50-acre property just minutes away from more than a dozen distilleries, including, but not limited to: Four Roses, Woodford, Buffalo Trace and Makers Mark. https://gardenandgun.com/articles/wake-up-in-a-bourbon-barrel-in-rural-kentucky/
Jimmy Buffett Margaritaville resort hotel coming to Northern Kentucky – A Margaritaville Hotel and Resort is set to be built in Newport, Ky. Named after the famous song written by the late Jimmy Buffett, the $133.6 million hotel will sit on the banks of the Ohio River and feature 264 full-service rooms, several restaurants, bars and retail shops. To drive the laidback theme home, there will be 5 O'Clock Somewhere Bar and a pool on the 12th-floor that overlooks downtown Cincinnati. The resort is expected to be completed by fall 2026. https://www.kentucky.com/news/state/kentucky/article279569624.html
Family entertainment complex coming to Simpson County – Gov. Andy Beshear announced funding for a massive family entertainment facility in Simpson County. The Dine and Play Social House will be a 45,000 square-foot facility that features a bowling alley, an arcade, mini golf, axe throwing, and indoor and outdoor social game areas complete with ping pong, billiards and fowling as well as rentable event space and a restaurant. Additionally, it will attach to a full-service Hampton Inn hotel. The complex is expected to be open by 2026. https://www.wnky.com/33-8m-project-to-bring-the-dine-and-social-play-house-to-simpson-county/ https://www.lanereport.com/168791/2023/10/33-8-million-tourism-development-project-coming-to-simpson-county/
Derby City Hotel Under Construction in Downtown Louisville – The 168-room Derby City Hotel is slated to open in July 2024 in the heart of downtown Louisville on the corner of Second St. and Market Street. The hotel will operate under the Canopy by Hilton. In addition to lodging, Derby City will also feature a ground floor restaurant and rooftop bar and eatery. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2023/08/25/derby-city-hotel-canopy-hilton-under-construction-downtown-louisville/70587905007/ https://www.wdrb.com/news/business/new-renderings-show-planned-60-million-hotel-at-2nd-and-market-streets-in-downtown-louisville/article_60730364-e2d4-11ed-8e4d-cb4bd7ce9dda.html
Myriad hotel opens in Louisville – The Myriad, a new 65-room boutique hotel located at 900 Baxter Avenue, and its onsite restaurant, Paseo, are open and accepting reservations. The facility includes a swim club complete with a lounge pool, cabana rentals and a poolside bar. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/local/the-myriad-boutique-hotel-baxter-avenue-highlands-opening-soon/417-e4e71d74-460e-4d05-acb0-cdb974057a2e
Bardstown Motor Lodge opens as a unique option for bourbon country travelers — This mid-century-inspired hotel, located at 418 East Stephen Foster Ave., is unmistakably authentic. Guest rooms flow seamlessly into breezy outdoor spaces with welcoming fire pits, a swimming pool, poolside bar, and a retro-styled rec room. The motel is on the same property as the hugely popular fine dining restaurant, Toogie's Table. https://www.whas11.com/article/news/community/bardstown-motor-lodge-kentucky-community-common-bond-hotel-collection/417-eb434317-023c-43ef-a64a-0bb5f7b2bd14
North by Hotel Covington, Knowledge Bar & Social Room open – After months of anticipation, North by Hotel Covington and Knowledge Bar & Social Room are officially open to the public. Construction on the 72,000-square-foot building began in the spring of 2022. The space, which sat vacant since 2015, was the previous home of the Covington YMCA and Gateway Bookstore. In total, North added 53 luxury suites and lofts to Hotel Covington. Additionally, a new ballroom with a 500-person capacity was built over top of the YMCA's old swimming pool. Dubbed The Lightwell, this space honors its past as a natatorium with traditional pool tile, cove lighting and a contrasting color scheme. https://linknky.com/business/openings-closings/2023/04/11/north-by-hotel-covington-knowledge-bar-social-room-celebrate-grand-opening/
New hotel The Manchester opens in Lexington – This new downtown Lexington hotel, located at 941 Manchester St., not only treats its guests to a restful stay, but also to beautiful architecture and decor. Interior designer Jenny Bukovec drew on all the best bits of Kentucky history and culture for Lexington's The Manchester – which hosts guests in rich wood- and brick-lined interiors. https://thespaces.com/manchester-hotel-lexington-ky/
Crown Plaza Hotel Getting Big Renovation – The Crowne Plaza Louisville Airport, Kentucky's fourth largest hotel, will see a $25 million expansion and refresh scheduled to be completed by Spring 2024. The project involves remodeling all 588 rooms in the eight-story Crowne Plaza, which sits on state-owned land leased from the adjacent Kentucky Exposition Center. The Schneider Co. also plans to add a bar to the lobby, replace the hotel restaurant called Blue Horse with a new concept and to remake all of the event spaces. https://www.meetingsnet.com/destination-venue-news/big-louisville-hotel-getting-big-renovation
Swanky NULU Hotel Genevieve Is Open – The Hotel Genevieve is open for business in downtown Louisville on East Market Street. This 122-room boutique hotel features a ground floor restaurant, Rosettes, and Bar Genevieve which is situated on the hotel's rooftop. The view from the roof gives guests a spectacular view of downtown Louisville. https://www.wdrb.com/news/business/hotel-genevieve-opens-in-nulu-bringing-something-different-to-louisvilles-entertainment-scene/article_eb84f5f8-ef58-11ed-841c-67a8f8af2ab4.html
Woodspring Suites coming to Bowling Green – Extended stay is here to stay in the Bowling Green lodging landscape. Less than four months after David Chandler announced plans for an extended-stay SpringHill Suites by Marriott in his The Hub development along Lovers Lane, Pennsylvania-based Posh Properties has begun work on a 122-room Woodspring Suites hotel near Cumberland Trace Road and Scottsville Road. The hotel will be open for business in April 2024. https://www.bgdailynews.com/news/woodspring-suites-coming-to-bowling-green/article_5de29131-b57f-5991-923a-3f5bb64afb36.html
Dream Hotel planned for Louisville – Dream Hotel Group, known for its vibrant dining, nightlife and entertainment, plans to open a hotel on Main Street in downtown Louisville in 2025. Dream Louisville is set to feature 168 guest rooms and suites, 10,000 square feet of private meeting and event space, rooftop lounge and four original food and beverage concepts including a signature restaurant. The hotel project will be housed in the former Tapp Leather & Co. building, a 19th century icon on the city's historic Whiskey Row just steps from Louisville's downtown attractions. https://www.travelpulse.com/news/hotels-and-resorts/dream-hotel-group-expands-to-louisville-kentucky.html https://loutoday.6amcity.com/development/boutique-hotel-developments-louisville
Music
Jack Harlow announces lineup for inaugural Gazebo Festival – Internationally known rapper and Louisville native Jack Harlow announced that he is putting on a music festival in his hometown. The Gazebo Festival will take place May 24-25, with Harlow as a co-headliner along with R&B singer/songwriter SZA. Other acts on the bill include, James Blake, Omar Apollo, PinkPantheress and Vince Staples, to name a few. https://variety.com/2024/music/news/jack-harlow-gazebo-festival-louisville-sza-james-blake-omar-apollo-1235925434/
Railbird Music Festival releases its 2024 lineup – Held annually at the historic Red Mile racetrack in Lexington, this year's festival, June 1-2 features Chris Stapleton, Hozier, Turnpike Troubadours, Counting Crows, Dwight Yoakam and many more. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/12/05/railbird-music-festival-2024-tickets-lineup-bourbon-bar/71811112007/
ROMP 2024 initial lineup announced – Held in Owensboro, June 26-29, 2024: The annual ROMP Festival celebrates bluegrass from around the world. The headliners at this year's fest include; Dierks Bentley, Molly Tuttle & Golden Highway, Leftover Salmon, The Travelin' McCoury's, the Earls of Leicester, Jerry Douglas and many more. Held in Owensboro's Yellow Creek Park, the four-day music, camping and art festival traditionally features more than 30 top bluegrass, folk and Americana acts. https://www.tristatehomepage.com/news/top-stories/romp-2024-initial-lineup-announced/
Bourbon and Beyond festival announces 2024 lineup – Held in Louisville, September 19-22: The annual Bourbon & Beyond festival is the perfect blend of bourbon, food and music. The 2024 lineup includes Neil Young, Dave Matthews Band, Tyler Childers, The Black Pumas and 96 other national and regional acts. https://www.lex18.com/entertainment/dave-matthews-band-zach-bryan-tyler-childers-among-headliners-at-2024-bourbon-beyond-festival
Louder Than Life sets 2024 lineup – This hard rock and metal festival is held in Louisville the week after Bourbon and Beyond, September 26-29. 2024 marks its 10th anniversary and the lineup includes Slipknot, Slayer, Mötley Crüe, Korn and dozens of other major artists and bands. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2024/02/21/louder-than-life-unveils-2024-lineup
Outdoors
Kentucky State Parks celebrate 100 years – 2024 marks 100 years since it was established in 1924. In that time the department has dedicated itself to preserving the natural and historical sites throughout the commonwealth for future generations, while opening 45 state parks. The celebration will take place throughout the year, all over the Bluegrass State. https://www.lex18.com/news/kentucky-state-parks-celebrate-100-years-in-2024
Kentucky wildlife refuges get federal help to acquire land – The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced that the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approved $21.7 million in funding to help conserve land on five national wildlife refuges across four states, including two in Kentucky. https://www.kentuckytoday.com/news/kentucky-wildlife-refuges-get-federal-help-to-acquire-land/article_ac1e9008-e53b-11ed-a5c9-bbcd726696fb.html
Other
Southeastern Kentucky debuts new Appalachian Triangle campaign – In an effort to boost Southeastern Kentucky's visibility on the national tourism scene, eight counties and cities in the region have teamed up to form the Appalachian Triangle of Kentucky. The coalition includes, Rockcastle-Mt. Vernon, London-Laurel County, the city of Corbin, Whitley County, Bell County, Barbourville, Manchester, and the city of Harlan. The Visit ATKY website offers visitors a complete overview of the region's events, festivals, museums, lodgings and more. https://fox56news.com/news/kentucky/visit-the-appalachian-triangle-southeastern-kentucky-launches-tourism-campaign/
Kentucky Derby Festival unveils 2024 Thunder Over Louisville theme – 2024 marks the 69th year for the Kentucky Derby Festival. Events will span several weeks from mid-March through Derby week. Every year the Thunder Over Louisville show serves as the “Opening Ceremony” for the festival. It was announced that the theme of this year's daylong air and fireworks event will be a celebration of the 150th Kentucky Derby. https://spectrumnews1.com/ky/louisville/news/2024/02/28/2024-thunder-over-louisville-theme
2024 North American Eclipse Viewable from several Kentucky cities - The solar eclipse is anticipated to be the biggest travel event ever in the U.S. The duration of totality will be almost four and a half minutes, almost double that of The Great American Eclipse of August 21, 2017. Several locations within the Path of Totality are planning events to celebrate the phenomenon. Those locations include; Paducah, Henderson, Wickcliffe, Morganfield and Sturgis. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2024/03/05/total-solar-eclipse-2024-events-kentucky-april-8/72771846007/ https://www.whas11.com/article/weather/2024-total-solar-eclipse-kentuckiana-weather/417-4141b275-8b66-412e-b7df-07f17573cdce https://www.kentuckytourism.com/events/2024-eclipse
Plans underway to bring Amtrak back to Louisville and Southern Indiana – The city of Louisville received a $500,000 grant to research the feasibility of building a 115-mile passenger rail corridor between Louisville and Indianapolis. Amtrak discontinued service to the area in 2003 and Louisville is currently the fourth largest metropolitan area without Amtrak. Officials say exploring the possibility of creating the rail line requires research into construction costs for new stations, ridership estimates, and safety upgrades for older train lines. https://www.lpm.org/news/2023-12-09/plans-underway-to-bring-amtrak-back-to-louisville-and-southern-indiana
Louisville's Muhammad Ali International Airport to offer direct international flights after renovations are complete – Louisville's main airport announced that it will offer direct international flights once its $400 million renovation is complete. The project will expand its security and TSA checkpoint and create space for U.S. Customs. Airport officials initially plan to offer flights to places like Mexico and the Caribbean and expand to Canada and Europe afterwards. So far the airport has replaced aging jet bridges and elevators, added a color-coded light system in parking garages, and modernized the airport's operations center. Airport officials are beginning the second phase of the project which focuses on baggage claim and behind the scenes mechanical and electrical systems. The third and final phase will focus on airport security is slated to finish in 2027. https://www.wlky.com/article/louisville-direct-international-flights/60013737 https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/local/2023/07/21/inside-the-400m-sdf-next-transformation-at-louisvilles-airport/70391444007/
New Joy Ride campaign encourages visitors to explore the bluegrass region via the backroads– Kentucky Tourism kicked off a new campaign that encourages visitors to get the most out of their trip through the bluegrass region by taking advantage of Kentucky's backroads. By driving the backroads travelers will witness the state's scenic beauty in the form of horse farms, distilleries, wineries, small towns, historic homes and so much more. https://www.travelagentcentral.com/continental-united-states/kentucky-unveils-joy-ride-tourism-campaign
Vahalla Golf Club to host 2024 PGA Championship – The PGA Championship is returning to the Valhalla Golf Club in spring 2024. The course located just outside of Louisville will host one of international golf's biggest tournaments for the fourth time from May 13-19. The course was designed by Jack Nicklaus and opened in 1986 and has since become one of golf's most storied venues. Tickets are available for purchase through the tournament's website. https://www.courier-journal.com/story/sports/golf/pga/2024/02/21/when-where-pga-championship-2024-golf-tournament-open-today-valhalla-tickets-channel-schedule-watch/72681713007/
Lexington gets highest rating again in Kentucky for LGBTQ rights; near top in country – Lexington has received the highest score in the state for its policies regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender equality, according to a nonprofit group that ranks cities on LGBTQ policies. Lexington received a score of 114, one of the highest of the 506 cities ranked by the Human Rights Campaign. That puts Lexington in the top 2% of the country. https://www.kentucky.com/news/local/counties/fayette-county/article281846823.html
Louisville maintains perfect LGBTQ inclusivity score – According to the latest Municipal Equality Index scores from the Human Rights Campaign, Louisville maintains it's perfect score for LGBTQ inclusivity for the for the eighth year in a row. The HRC's index examines each city's inclusivity on a range of issues including non-discrimination laws, municipal services and law enforcement. Lexington and Covington also received perfect scores from 2023's HRC index. https://loutoday.6amcity.com/louisville-municipality-equality-index
British Airways is now operating direct flights between London and Cincinnati – As of June 2023 British Airways is operating direct flights between London Heathrow Airport (LHR) and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). British Airways will operate the flights five times a week during the summer and four times a week during the winter. https://nkytribune.com/2023/06/british-airways-offers-cvg-fliers-new-international-travel-choice-first-flight-has-arrived-from-heathrow/
Louisville lands major meeting and events conference for 2025 – The city of Louisville is set to host the world's largest industry association for meeting and event professionals – the Meeting Professional International's (MPI) World Education Congress (WEC) June 10-12, 2025. This is the first time Louisville is a host city for the event and marks the first time in more than a decade that WEC will return to the southeastern United States. An estimated 2,500 attendees will be in town for the event. https://original.newsbreak.com/@jc-phelps-563771/2566840691936-louisville-lands-major-industry-conference
###
11
