Looking for a destination that blends iconic experiences, walkable venues, and a welcoming spirit? Louisville, known as Bourbon City, is redefining what it means to host memorable meetings and events.
With more than 23,000 hotel rooms and two state-of-the-art convention centers—including the downtown Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) and the under-expansion Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) adjacent to the airport—Louisville offers the perfect balance of modern capability and handcrafted hospitality.
As the world’s only walkable spirits destination, Louisville’s downtown gives attendees the chance to move seamlessly from a meeting to a bourbon tasting, then on to a chef-driven dinner or live bluegrass set—all within a few blocks. New tasting rooms and distillery experiences debuted in 2025, enriching Louisville’s signature bourbon scene and adding even more depth to the Urban Bourbon Experience.
What truly sets Louisville apart is its ability to infuse Southern charm and cultural richness into every event. Whether you’re planning an intimate board retreat or a citywide convention, you’ll discover distinctive venues that blend modern sophistication with Louisville’s storied charm—from historic steamboats and immersive distilleries to hidden speakeasies and cutting-edge museums.
Louisville is home to the world’s only Urban Bourbon Experience, featuring more than two dozen bourbon attractions woven throughout the city. Bourbon isn’t just something to sip here—it’s part of the city’s culture and character, found in its hotels, restaurants, shops, and curated tours. From private tastings and mixology sessions to after-hours networking, bourbon provides a signature touch attendees won’t forget.
Beyond bourbon, Louisville’s culinary and cultural scenes continue to shine. Planners can tap into award-winning chefs, local art galleries, live music, and vibrant neighborhoods that showcase the city’s creative energy and hospitality-first spirit. Iconic attractions like the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, and Churchill Downs offer unforgettable opportunities for group outings and off-site events.
Getting here is effortless. With ongoing infrastructure investments—including major upgrades at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)—attendees can arrive and depart with ease. The airport is just 10 minutes from downtown, keeping travel simple and stress-free.
Louisville Tourism’s dedicated convention development and destination services teams provide expert support from site selection through execution, ensuring every event runs
seamlessly. They’re backed by a citywide commitment to hospitality that has earned Louisville national recognition as one of America’s friendliest and most welcoming cities.
So if you’re ready to raise the bar on your next meeting, choose a destination where every gathering comes with a splash of Southern flavor and a toast of bourbon.
Plan your meeting in Louisville today: https://www.gotolouisville.com/meeting-planners/?utm_source=smart-meetings&utm_medium=native-content&utm_campaign=smart-meetings-fall-2025
