Louisville Family Fun is easily accessible! Louisville offers a wide range of activities that cater to families, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do. At hudsonfamily.net, we understand the importance of quality family time, and we’re here to guide you through the best experiences Louisville has to offer. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or educational outings, Louisville has it all, creating lasting memories for your family. Explore local gems, hidden parks, and kid-friendly events in Louisville to discover family activities that everyone will enjoy.
1. Discover Exciting One-Time Events in Louisville
Are you looking for unique and engaging one-time events in Louisville for your family? Louisville offers a variety of exciting activities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether it’s a seasonal festival, a special performance, or an educational workshop, these events provide opportunities for families to create lasting memories together.
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Shrek the Musical
- Dates: April 11, 6:30pm; April 12, 1pm and 6:30pm; April 13, 1pm
- Location: Ballard High School Fine Arts Center
- Details: Enjoy a live performance of Shrek the Musical, based on the popular movies and fairy tales.
- Cost: $12 general; students/seniors $9
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Spring Festival
- Date: April 12, 10:00 am – Noon
- Location: Fern Creek Baptist Church
- Details: A free festival featuring a cupcake walk, slime table, popcorn, devotional, and an Easter egg hunt.
- Cost: FREE
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Hero Hustle Louisville
- Date: April 12, 8:00am to 11:00am
- Location: Shawnee Park, 4501 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40211
- Details: A family-friendly event with costumes, a 5k/10k run, and a 1-mile fun run.
- Cost: Youth-based pricing for the 5k/10k 12 & Under are only $15.
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Earth Day Fest at The Parklands of Floyds Fork
- Date: April 18, 5pm-9pm
- Location: The Woodland Pavilion – 10801 Lasater Rd, Louisville, KY 40291
- Details: Celebrate Earth Day with live music, food, beer, trivia, community partner booths, and vendors.
- Cost: FREE
Earth Day Fest at The Parklands of Floyds Fork features live music, food, and community booths.
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Easter Clay Workshop
- Date: April 19, 10:00am-12:00pm
- Location: Oldham County Schools Arts Center 7105 Floydsburg Rd Crestwood KY 40014
- Details: A fun-filled morning creating Spring and Easter-inspired ceramic artwork.
- Cost: $20 per person, registration required.
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TreeFest
- Date: April 19, 11:00am-3:00pm
- Location: Petersburg Park; 5008 E Indian Trail, Louisville, KY 40218
- Details: Louisville’s Arbor Day celebration with tree planting, giveaways, and eco-friendly vendor booths.
- Cost: FREE
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Original Goat Yoga Experience
- Dates: April 26 & May 17, 11AM
- Location: 2482 Flat Rock Road- New Castle KY
- Details: Embrace relaxation and fun with Goat Yoga classes at Flat Rock Farm.
- Cost: $35 registration required.
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Beechmont Festival of Flowers 2025
- Date: May 10, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Location: Southern Pkwy & W Wellington Ave, Louisville, KY 40214
- Details: Plants, crafts, and wares for sale, with flowerpot painting for kids.
- Cost: FREE
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Mothers’ Day Create-A-Date Ceramics Workshop
- Date: May 10, 10:00am-12:00pm
- Location: Oldham County Schools Arts Center 7105 Floydsburg Rd Crestwood KY 40014
- Details: Create one-of-a-kind ceramic gifts and keepsakes with loved ones.
- Cost: $20 per person, registration required.
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Spotlight Dance Series
- Date: May 10, 7:00pm
- Location: IU Southeast Ogle Center
- Details: A dance concert presenting contemporary, classical, and innovative dance pieces.
- Cost: $13 child/student/senior, $17 adult, registration required.
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DoNot Stop Half Marathon | Louisville
- Date: May 17, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
- Location: Shawnee Park, 4501 W Broadway, Louisville, KY 40211
- Details: A donut-themed event with a half marathon, 5k/10k.
- Cost: $15, registration required.
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Forest Fest 2025
- Date: May 17, 11:30AM-7:00PM
- Location: Jefferson Memorial Forest – Horine Reservation, 12406 Holsclaw Hill Rd, Fairdale KY 40118
- Details: A family-friendly festival of bluegrass and Americana music, local food and crafts.
- Cost: Free, parking $15 per car.
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KY Flea Market Memorial Day Spectacular
- Dates: May 23: 10-6, 24: 10-6, 25: 11-5, 26: 10-5
- Location: KY Expo Center
- Details: A flea market with over 600 booths selling antiques, collectibles, jewelry, and more.
- Cost: Free admission.
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Hometown Half Marathon/10K/5K Louisville, KY
- Date: May 25, 7:00am to 10:00am
- Location: Broad Run Park/Cliffside Playground
- Details: A local-themed running event with a half marathon, 5k/10k.
- Cost: Registration required.
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Touch a Truck!
- Date: May 31, 9AM – 12PM
- Location: Kentucky Kingdom
- Details: A day of hands-on family fun with large vehicles.
- Cost: $10, registration required.
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Kid’s Cruise
- Dates: June 4, 11, 18, 25 – July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 1:00 – 2:30 PM
- Location: Belle of Louisville Riverboats, 401 West River Road, Louisville KY 40202
- Details: Family-focused activities drawing from science, technology, engineering, the arts and math.
- Cost: $14.99, registration required.
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Buy Local Fair
- Date: June 8, 11am-5pm
- Location: Lynn Family Stadium Fan Zone
- Details: Booths from local retailers, organizations, and artists, with music, food, and a kid’s fun zone.
- Cost: Free admission, $10 parking.
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Jammin’ at Jeptha feat. The Bacon Brothers
- Date: June 21, 6 PM
- Location: Jeptha Creed Distillery
- Details: An evening of live music, food, games, and craft cocktails.
- Cost: $45
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Summer Family Fun Fest & Kid-Owned Business Expo
- Date: June 21, 10am-2pm
- Location: CityPlace Expo Center, 112 South 1st Ave. La Grange, KY 40031
- Details: Carnival games, a petting zoo, face painting, and vendor booths.
- Cost: Free admission.
Summer Family Fun Fest & Kid-Owned Business Expo offers carnival games, a petting zoo, and face painting.
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Silent Disco Kid’s Cruise
- Dates: June 28, July 26, 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- Location: Belle of Louisville Riverboats, 401 West River Road, Louisville KY 40202
- Details: A river cruise with the added bonus of picking your own kid-friendly music.
- Cost: $14.99, registration required.
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KY Expo Center Labor Day Spectacular
- Dates: August 29: 10-6, 30:10-6, 31:11-5, October 1: 10-5
- Location: KY Expo Center
- Details: A flea market with over 500 booths selling antiques, collectibles, jewelry, and more.
- Cost: Free admission.
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PAW Patrol Live! A Mighty Adventure
- Dates: October 3 at 6pm, October 4 at 10am and 2pm
- Location: KFC Yum! Center
- Details: An electrifying adventure with heroic action, catchy tunes, and interactive fun.
- Cost: Tickets start at $34
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Christmas Gift and Decor Show
- Dates: December 12: 11-7, 13: 10-7, 14: 11-5
- Location: KY Expo Center
- Details: The nation’s largest free admission Christmas gift show
- Cost: Free admission.
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KY Flea Market New Years Spectacular
- Dates: January 1: 10-6, 2: 10-6, 3: 10-6, 4: 11-5 (2026)
- Location: KY Expo Center
- Details: A flea market with over 500 booths selling antiques, collectibles, jewelry, and more.
- Cost: Free admission.
By attending these one-time events, families can explore new interests, engage with the community, and create cherished memories. Remember to check hudsonfamily.net regularly for updated listings and details on more family-friendly events in Louisville!
2. Enjoy Long-Running and Recurring Events in Louisville
Looking for consistent family fun in Louisville? Recurring events offer a reliable way to engage in activities that your family loves. Louisville has a variety of long-running events that provide ongoing entertainment and learning opportunities for all ages.
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Louisville Free Public Library Story Time Events
- Location: Various locations around the city
- Details: The Louisville Free Public Library hosts story time events at different branches throughout the city. These events often include crafts and other activities to complement the stories.
- Cost: Free
- Frequency: Weekly
- Website: Louisville Free Public Library Events
Louisville Free Public Library hosts story time events at various locations around the city.
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Speed Art Museum Drop-In Family Programs
- Location: Speed Art Museum
- Details: The Speed Art Museum offers drop-in family programs on Sundays, with free admission. The family tour is held every Sunday at 2pm and is recommended for families with children ages 5-10 years old.
- Cost: Free on Sundays
- Frequency: Sundays
- Website: Speed Art Museum Family Programs
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Speed Art Museum Early Childhood Programming
- Location: Speed Art Museum
- Details: Early childhood programming for ages 0-5 includes Baby Playdate (1st Wednesday of each month, 10 AM – 12 PM) and Toddler Takeover (1st Wednesday of each month, 10 AM – 12 PM).
- Cost: Included in museum ticket
- Frequency: 1st Wednesday of each month
- Website: Speed Art Museum Early Childhood Programs
Early childhood programming at Speed Art Museum includes Baby Playdate and Toddler Takeover.
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KMAC Museum Tiny Art Tales
- Location: KMAC Museum
- Details: Join us every Friday of the month from 10:30-11:15 am for movement, music, and art making.
- Cost: Free
- Frequency: Fridays monthly from 10:30-11:15 am
- Website: KMAC Museum Tiny Art Tales
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All About Kids Open Gym and Swim
- Location: Oldham and Louisville locations
- Details: All About Kids offers open gym and swim sessions at both their Oldham and Louisville locations. Times and days vary by location and activity. Punch cards are available for frequent visitors.
- Cost: Varies
- Frequency: Varies by location
- Website: All About Kids Open Gym and Swim
Open gym at All About Kids provides indoor fun in Louisville.
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SIGS Open Gym Style Options
- Location: SIGS in New Albany
- Details: SIGS in New Albany has several open gym style options, including tot-spot and bounce time. Passes are available for multiple visits.
- Cost: Varies
- Frequency: Varies
- Website: SIGS Open Gym
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Kentuckiana Parkour Parents Night Out
- Location: Kentuckiana Parkour in Clarksville, IN
- Details: Every Saturday night from 6-8pm, Kentuckiana Parkour hosts a Parents Night Out for children ages 5 and up. Kids can participate in ninja and parkour courses.
- Cost: $20
- Frequency: Saturday nights
- Website: Kentuckiana Parkour Parents Night Out
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Defy Kid Jump
- Location: Defy Louisville
- Details: Every Monday-Friday until noon, Defy offers Kid Jump for children ages 6 and under and their adult. Parents jump free with a child’s admission.
- Cost: $15 for a 90-minute jump spot
- Frequency: Monday-Friday
- Website: Defy Louisville
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Whet Your Palette Drop-In Painting
- Location: Whet Your Palette
- Details: Drop in and paint at Whet Your Palette, leaving the mess at home. Canvases are half off on Tuesdays.
- Cost: Varies
- Frequency: Daily, with discounts on Tuesdays
- Website: Whet Your Palette Drop-Ins
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Blackacre State Nature Preserve Saturday Farm Animal Feeding
- Location: Blackacre State Nature Preserve And Historic Homestead
- Details: Volunteer animal feeders discuss feeding and caring for farm animals on Saturdays at 9:00am from May through September. Visitors can bring their own treats like apples, carrots, and bread.
- Cost: Free
- Frequency: Saturdays, May-September
- Facebook: Saturday Farm Animal Feeding
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The Little Loomhouse Drop-In Opportunities
- Location: The Little Loomhouse
- Details: Get creative with weaving and learn some unique history with drop-in opportunities.
- Cost: Varies
- Frequency: Varies
- Website: The Little Loomhouse Upcoming Events
Drop-in opportunities at The Little Loomhouse offer weaving and unique history lessons.
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The Parklands of Floyds Fork Wednesday Wonders
- Location: Ben Stout House, Turkey Run Park
- Details: Interactive programs designed to spark curiosity in young children aged 5-9. Each week features a different natural history wonder with outdoor exploration, science experiments, and art.
- Cost: Free for members / $5 for non-members
- Frequency: Every Wednesday from Feb. 8 – Dec. 20, 10:30am-11:30am
- Website: Wednesday Wonders at The Parklands of Floyds Fork
These recurring events offer consistent opportunities for families to learn, play, and bond together. Be sure to check hudsonfamily.net regularly for more updates and information on family-friendly events in Louisville!
3. What Are Some Exciting Day Trip Options from Louisville?
Ready to explore beyond Louisville? Day trips offer a fantastic way to discover the surrounding areas and create lasting memories with your family. Here are some exciting day trip options within a few hours of Louisville, providing a diverse range of experiences from natural wonders to charming towns.
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Marengo Cave
- Location: Marengo, Indiana
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Explore the stunning underground formations with guided tours suitable for all ages.
- Why Visit: A cool and educational adventure perfect for a hot day.
- Website: Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Little Crooked Creek Safari
- Location: Shelby County, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 45 minutes
- Highlights: An interactive petting zoo experience with a variety of friendly animals.
- Why Visit: Great for kids who love animals and want a hands-on experience.
- Website: Little Crooked Creek Safari
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Elizabethtown
- Location: Elizabethtown, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Explore local parks, historical sites, and family-friendly restaurants.
- Why Visit: A charming town with a mix of outdoor and cultural attractions.
- Website: Day Trip to Elizabethtown Kentucky
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Wendt’s Wildlife Adventure
- Location: Carlisle, Kentucky (east of Lexington)
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 2 hours
- Highlights: A family-owned wildlife adventure with a variety of animals and interactive experiences.
- Why Visit: A unique opportunity to see and learn about wildlife in a natural setting.
- Website: Wendt’s Wildlife Adventure
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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New Albany
- Location: New Albany, Indiana
- Distance from Louisville: Adjacent to Louisville
- Highlights: Visit the inclusive playground and splash pad designed for children with special needs.
- Why Visit: A fun and accessible destination for families with diverse needs.
- Website: Inclusive playground and splashpad in New Albany
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Georgetown
- Location: Georgetown, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Explore horse farms, historic downtown, and family-friendly parks.
- Why Visit: A blend of Kentucky’s horse country charm and historical significance.
- Website: A Day Trip to Georgetown, Kentucky
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TC Highlands Farm
- Location: Pleasureville, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Visit with friendly Highland cattle and enjoy a farm tour.
- Why Visit: A unique and educational experience for animal lovers.
- Website: TC Highlands Farm Tour
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Bardstown
- Location: Bardstown, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Explore bourbon distilleries, historic sites, and scenic landscapes.
- Why Visit: Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” it offers a rich cultural and historical experience.
- Website: Day Trip to Bardstown
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Loveland Castle
- Location: Loveland, Ohio (near Cincinnati)
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 2 hours
- Highlights: Explore a medieval-style castle with unique architecture and historical significance.
- Why Visit: A fun and educational experience that sparks the imagination.
- Website: Day Trip to Loveland Castle
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Boone County
- Location: Boone County, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1.5 hours
- Highlights: Visit attractions like the Creation Museum and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.
- Why Visit: Offers a mix of educational and entertaining activities for the whole family.
- Website: Visit Boone County Day Trip
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Brandenburg
- Location: Brandenburg, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Visit Buttermilk Falls and enjoy outdoor activities.
- Why Visit: A scenic and relaxing getaway with natural beauty.
- Website: Buttermilk Falls – Day Trip to Brandenburg Kentucky
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Josephine Sculpture Park
- Location: Frankfort, Kentucky
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 1 hour
- Highlights: Explore contemporary sculptures in a beautiful outdoor setting.
- Why Visit: Combines art and nature for a unique cultural experience.
- Website: Day trip to Josephine Sculpture Park in Frankfort
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Falls of the Ohio State Park
- Location: Clarksville, Indiana
- Distance from Louisville: Adjacent to Louisville
- Highlights: Explore fossil beds and enjoy scenic views of the Ohio River.
- Why Visit: A unique geological site with opportunities for learning and exploration.
- Website: Falls of the Ohio State Park
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Deam Lake (IN) State Recreational Area
- Location: Borden, Indiana
- Distance from Louisville: Approximately 45 minutes
- Highlights: Enjoy swimming, hiking, and picnicking in a natural setting.
- Why Visit: A great spot for outdoor recreation and family fun.
- Website: Deam Lake (IN) State Recreational Area
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
These day trip options offer a variety of experiences for families looking to explore beyond Louisville. Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or unique attractions, there’s something for everyone within a short drive. Check out hudsonfamily.net for more ideas and detailed guides to plan your next family adventure!
4. What Are Some Great Outdoor Activities for Families in Louisville?
Looking to enjoy the great outdoors with your family? Louisville and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of outdoor activities perfect for creating lasting memories. From scenic parks to adventurous trails, here are some fantastic options to explore:
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Hiking and Nature Trails
- Location: The Parklands of Floyds Fork
- Details: Explore various trails suitable for all skill levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife along the way.
- Why Visit: Offers a refreshing escape into nature with well-maintained trails and beautiful scenery.
- Website: The Parklands of Floyds Fork
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Water Activities
- Location: Louisville Waterfront Park
- Details: Rent kayaks or paddleboats and enjoy a day on the Ohio River. The park also features splash pads for kids to cool off in the summer.
- Why Visit: Provides a fun and active way to enjoy the waterfront with stunning city views.
- Website: Louisville Waterfront Park
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Picnics and Outdoor Dining
- Location: Cherokee Park
- Details: Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day at one of Louisville’s most beautiful parks. The scenic overlooks and open spaces are perfect for family gatherings.
- Why Visit: Offers a peaceful and scenic setting for a leisurely family outing.
- Website: Cherokee Park
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Biking
- Location: The Big Four Bridge
- Details: Bike across the iconic Big Four Bridge, connecting Louisville to Jeffersonville, Indiana. Enjoy panoramic views of the Ohio River and the city skyline.
- Why Visit: A unique and scenic biking experience with easy access to both Kentucky and Indiana attractions.
- Website: Big Four Bridge
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Farm Visits and Animal Encounters
- Location: Blackacre State Nature Preserve
- Details: Visit this historic homestead and nature preserve to see farm animals, explore hiking trails, and learn about local history.
- Why Visit: Offers an educational and engaging experience for kids and adults alike.
- Website: Blackacre State Nature Preserve
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Fishing
- Location: McNeely Lake Park
- Details: Enjoy a day of fishing at McNeely Lake, known for its serene environment and abundant fish population.
- Why Visit: Provides a relaxing and rewarding outdoor activity for families who enjoy fishing.
- Website: McNeely Lake Park
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Horseback Riding
- Location: Various stables and trails near Louisville
- Details: Experience the thrill of horseback riding on scenic trails. Several local stables offer guided trail rides for families.
- Why Visit: A unique and adventurous way to explore the Kentucky countryside.
- Website: Horseback Riding and Trail Rides near Louisville
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Apple Picking
- Location: Local apple orchards near Louisville
- Details: Visit local apple orchards and pick your own fresh apples. Many orchards also offer other family-friendly activities.
- Why Visit: A fun and seasonal activity that provides fresh produce and outdoor entertainment.
- Website: Apple Picking & Apple Orchards near Louisville
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Sunflower Picking
- Location: Huber’s Orchard and Winery (Starlight, IN)
- Details: Pick your own sunflowers at Huber’s and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The orchard also offers other attractions and activities.
- Why Visit: A picturesque and memorable outdoor experience perfect for family photos.
- Website: Sunflower Picking at Huber’s
Tips for visiting Marengo Cave
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Camping
- Location: YMCA Camp Piomingo
- Details: Enjoy a family camping weekend at YMCA Camp Piomingo. Participate in various outdoor activities and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- Why Visit: Offers a fun and immersive outdoor experience for the whole family.
- Website: [YMCA Camp Piomingo Family Camp](https://louisvillefamilyfun.net/2021