by T. Lynn Wright

Created on: May 25, 2009   Last Updated: June 02, 2009

Louisville, Kentucky is a large metropolitan city on the banks of the Ohio River. Once dominated by industry, it now boasts a large medical community, highly rated colleges and NCAA sports, and a growing arts and culture scene. The city is a lovely blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. Venerable multi-story buildings have been subtly updated. There are neighborhoods of old Victorians and fountains and charming shotgun houses. Winter in Louisville is usually quite mild, with temperatures in the 40s and lows in the 20s. It does snow in Louisville, but heavy snowfall is the exception.There is much to do and see during the winter months.

For families, there are always winter camps and activities at the Louisville Zoo. Children can bundle up and observe how many regional animals spend the winter months.The Louisville Science Center offers an IMAX theater and hands-on displays that kids of all ages will enjoy. For the visitor who loves the outdoors,bring a sled. The Metro Park service opens hills when there is at least a few inches of snow. If skating is your pleasure, the Alpine Ice Arena opens in the autumn and hosts skating for the public as well as hockey games.

Visitors can catch a play at Actor's Theater, an opera or concert at the Kentucky Center for the Arts or view priceless collections at the Speed Art Museum. A favorite spot in Louisville is the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory. After touring the museum and the factory, visitors can shop in the outlet store and have a bat personalized. The museum is on Main Street-you can't miss the huge bat!

Although there are many venues directed at tourism, some travelers may want to take in some local color. Go to Bardstown Road where you'll find rows of eclectic shops and great restaurants. ear X-tacy is a large, well-known music store that often features live local bands. If you're hungry, head down the street to Lilly's, arguably one of the city's best restaurants. If you prefer something a bit more upscale, you'll enjoy the Oakroom at the Seelbach or the Bristol Bar and Grille. The Louisville nightlife doesn't wane during the winter. There are five nightclubs located in the Corner Nightclub Complex on Liberty. For a more local experience, try Stevie Ray's Blues Bar on Main.

The winter season in Louisville starts in November with Dickens on Main Street. You'll see people dressed in Victorian winter costumes as well as an appearance by Santa Claus and a fireworks display.Take a carriage ride to view the decorations in the city. The Festival of Trees and Lights is open at Slugger Field, featuring dazzling trees and other displays. The festival benefits the local children's hospital.

The Louisville Metro area is home to several shopping malls and the Galleria, a unique shopping and dining complex downtown. Antique lovers will swoon when they see the Louisville Antique Mall. There are five stories to walk through in the impressive Art Deco structure. You'll get hungry from that much shopping, so stop in at the Colonnade Cafe on the top floor. A brilliant skyline, a myriad of attractions and destinations and friendly local folks-enjoy a winter trip to Louahvul.

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