Louisville Scores Again: Four Attractions Named To USA Today’s 10Best List For Sports Fans
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 27, 2025) – Louisville has cemented its reputation as one of the nation’s premier sports cities, with four of its attractions ranked among the top 10 in USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Attraction for Sports Fans. Louisville is the only city in the nation to claim this honor, underscoring the city’s unique role in sports tourism and the strength of its hospitality industry.
After a month of online voting, the four Louisville attractions honored on the 10Best list are: the Kentucky Derby Museum (#2), Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory (#4), Churchill Downs Racetrack (#5), and the Muhammad Ali Center (#10). Each represents a cornerstone of Louisville’s storied sports history, while together they create a powerful draw for fans, families, and travelers.
Kentucky Derby Museum – Celebrating its 40th anniversary with a record-breaking 260,000 guests, the Derby Museum is the only place where fans can experience the thrill of Derby every day – exploring 151 years of champions, fashion, culture, and racing history.
“Being recognized for the third straight year feels like our own Triple Crown, and we couldn’t be more proud that guests see Kentucky Derby Museum as part of what makes Louisville special,” said 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.”
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – Ranked #5 on last year’s 10Best list, the museum gives baseball fans a behind-the-scenes look at how America’s most legendary bat is made, while honoring some of the sport’s greatest players.
“We’re proud to make the list and be recognized as one of the country’s top sports attractions,” said 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.”
Churchill Downs Racetrack – The world-renowned racetrack, National Historic Landmark, and home of the Kentucky Derby for 151 years offers an unmatched blend of tradition, sport, and spectacle.
“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,” said 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.”
Muhammad Ali Center – Celebrating its 20th anniversary this November, the Ali Center is a powerful cultural attraction that honors the life, values, and legacy of Muhammad Ali – Louisville’s native son and global sports 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,” said 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.”
With sports tourism generating more than $45 billion annually in the U.S., cities with strong, diverse sports attractions are drawing increasing numbers of visitors. From baseball to boxing to horse racing, Louisville offers one of the most dynamic and immersive sports experiences in the country — and continues to be recognized as such on a national stage.
Media contacts:
Kentucky Derby Museum: Katrina Helmer, Khelmer@derbymuseum.org
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Nick Fuchs, Nick.fuchs@sluggermuseum.com
Churchill Downs Racetrack: Jeanna Cunningham, Jeanna.cunningham@kyderby.com
Muhammad Ali Center: Dustin Vogt, Dvogt@alicenter.org
Louisville Tourism: Rosanne Mastin, Rmastin@gotolouisville.com
