A Grand Slam for Louisville

In a dazzling display of hometown pride, Louisville just pulled off a sports tourism grand slam. Four of the city's iconic attractions landed top spots on USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards 2025 for "Best Attraction for Sports Fans."

After a month of online voting, the Kentucky Derby Museum came in at #2, followed by the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory at #4, Churchill Downs Racetrack at #5 and the Muhammad Ali Center at #10. Louisville was the only city with four attractions recognized. It's a win for the city, a win for sports fans and a win for every visitor who's ever felt the magic of Louisville's game-day spirit.

"Congratulations to all of the winners recognized in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards," says Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. "Having four Louisville attractions honored is a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes about our city's legacy and leadership in sports tourism."

It confirms what many locals have come to know: this city lives and breathes sports. Louisville is not just a great place to visit; it's a place to cheer.

If the Kentucky Derby is the crown jewel of horse racing, then the Kentucky Derby Museum is its sparkling showcase. Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, the museum landed in second place, all while welcoming a record-breaking 260,000 guests this past year. That's proof that the thrill of Derby isn't just limited to the First Saturday in May. There, visitors can relive the 151 years of racing history, fashion, culture and unforgettable finishes-all under one roof, every single day.

"Being recognized for the third straight year feels like our own Triple Crown, and we couldn't be more proud that guests see the Kentucky Derby Museum as part of what makes Louisville special," says Patrick Armstrong, President and CEO of the Kentucky Derby Museum. "Sharing this honor with our fellow attractions makes it even more meaningful and shows that our city is second to none when it comes to sports, tradition, and unforgettable experiences."

On deck? The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where you'll be instantly transported to the heart of America's pastime. From the unmistakable crack of the bat to the scent of freshly milled wood, this attraction is a sensory home run for baseball fans of all ages.

Ranked fourth-and up one spot from last year-it's a place where legends are honored, bats are born and visitors get a behind-the-scenes look at how history is made.

"We're proud to make the list and be recognized as one of the country's top sports attractions," says Deana Lockman, Vice President and Executive Director of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. "It's a home run to be included alongside our incredible Louisville partners who bring this city's rich sports legacy to life. Together, we help make Louisville a premier destination for fans to celebrate the spirit and history of sports."

Best known as the home of the Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports, Churchill Downs Racetrack offers far more than a fleeting thrill. As a National Historic Landmark and the beating heart of the Kentucky Derby for over 150 years, this iconic venue blends tradition, spectacle and Southern hospitality like nowhere else. Ranked fifth, Churchill Downs continues to be a bucket-list destination for racing fans and curious travelers alike.

"Churchill Downs, home to 'The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports,' is proud to be ranked among the top five sports attractions in the nation," says Mike Anderson, President of Churchill Downs Racetrack. "As the site of the longest continually held sporting event in the U.S., this recognition celebrates Louisville's rich tradition of sports and hospitality. We're honored to stand alongside other iconic destinations that make our city such a dynamic place to visit."

Float like a butterfly, win an award like a champ. The Muhammad Ali Center rounds out Louisville's winning streak, earning the tenth spot and reminding visitors that greatness isn't just about athleticism but about purpose, too. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this November, the center is more than a museum; it's a cultural experience that honors the life, values and legacy of Louisville's native son and global icon.

"Muhammad Ali loved big crowds so it's only appropriate that his museum is considered one of America's top attractions for sports fans," says DeVone Holt, President and CEO of the Muhammad Ali Center.  "It speaks highly of Muhammad's legacy that his life's journey remains relevant to people who travel from around the country to experience the example of greatness that he left us all."

This isn't just a feel-good moment for Louisville, but also a strategic win. Sports tourism generates more than $45 billion annually in the U.S., and cities with strong, diverse attractions are increasingly drawing fans, families and adventure-seekers. Louisville's ability to offer four nationally ranked experiences-from baseball to boxing to horse racing-positions it as one of the most dynamic sports destinations in the country.

These attractions all tell stories of grit, greatness and game-day glory, all woven into Louisville's identity. The city offers a rare blend of history, heart and hospitality-whether it's reliving Derby Day, swinging for the fences or standing in the shadow of a champion. And with national recognition like this, Louisville isn't just on the map, it's leading the pack.

Behind every unforgettable visitor experience is a team working to make Louisville shine-and Louisville Tourism is leading that charge. Its mission is to enhance the city's economy through tourism, and the results speak for themselves.

"This distinction not only celebrates the iconic experiences these attractions offer but also reinforces Louisville's position as a premier destination for fans from around the world," says Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. "It's a proud moment for our hospitality industry and a powerful reminder of how sports continue to drive visitation, economic impact and community pride."

In 2024 alone, Louisville welcomed 19 million visitors, supported nearly 70,000 tourism-related jobs and contributed an estimated $4.2 billion to the local economy. That impact trickles down to everyday residents, generating $247 million in state and local tax revenue and saves each Louisville household an average of $800 on their tax bill.

Louisville's latest win on the national stage is more than a moment of recognition, but a reflection of the city's enduring spirit. From the roar of the crowd at Churchill Downs to the quiet reverence inside the Muhammad Ali Center, each attraction offers a unique way to experience greatness. And with four attractions landing top honors in USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, the rest of the country is taking notice.

If you're planning a visit, you'll find more than just sports history. You'll find heart, hospitality and a whole lot of popcorn-worthy moments. Louisville knows how to put on a show, and these attractions are proof that the city's legacy isn't just preserved-it's celebrated.