KENTUCKY 2025 GUIDE
BOURBON, HORSES, AND NATURAL BEAUTY
Kentucky Sports Alliance Helps Attract the State’s Top Events
With more than 150 facilities across the state, planners can find the right venue and location for any event
From the banks of the Ohio River to the towering peaks of Black Mountain, Kentucky is a group travel planner’s dream state
Welcome to the KENTUCKY SPORTS ALLIANCE!
Dear Friends and Partners,
We are thrilled to announce the evolution of TEAM Kentucky as we become the Kentucky Sports Alliance (KSA). For the past 20 years, TEAM Kentucky has been dedicated to promoting sports tourism across the Bluegrass state. As we move forward, we are excited to build on this legacy and double down on our commitment to enhancing sports tourism in Kentucky.
The KSA represents the renewed focus and commitment to a strong Commonwealth sports brand that will continue to showcase the best of what our state has to offer. With 14 destinations currently making up the KSA, we are more robust and united than ever in our mission to provide exceptional sports experiences for rightsholders, national governing bodies, athletes, fans and visitors alike. Our destinations are:
• Bowling Green
• Corbin
• Elizabethtown
• Hopkinsville
• Kentucky Department of Tourism
• Kentucky Lake
• Kentucky Venues
• Lexington
• London/Laural County
• Louisville Sports Commission
• Louisville Tourism
• Madisonville - Hopkins County
• McCracken County-Paducah
• Murray
Kentucky’s renowned brand of hospitality, Southerness and authenticity is a ‘spirit’ easily found throughout the state’s 150+ sports facilities. Yes, Kentucky’s Bourbon is a spirit that comes in a glass, but you’ll also see that same spirit define our culture, compassion, creativity and innovation. We pride ourselves in being so much more than a unique place to compete and look forward to continuing this journey together under the Kentucky Sports Alliance banner.
Our new website, kentuckysportsalliance.com, will serve as a comprehensive resource for sports tourism in Kentucky. Even though it’s still in progress, we invite you to start exploring the site and discover the exciting opportunities that await you in our great state.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you soon and encourage you to experience Kentucky’s ‘spirit’ for yourself by hosting your next event with us.
Warm regards, Brad Knapp President, Kentucky Sports Alliance
Scan to discover more of what Kentucky offers sports planners at SportsPlanningGuide.com
ON THE COVER: Keeneland race track in Lexington.
Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky
KENTUCKY VENUES
No matter what type of sporting event you’re planning, Kentucky Venues is here to welcome you. With two stateof-the-art facilities less than 7 miles from one another, we can host any type of event no matter how large –from boxing matches to basketball tournaments!
Working with Kentucky Venues, you will have:
• Access to cutting-edge data to better inform your event decisions.
• Proximity to the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and the UPS Worldport.
• Sworn peace officers and state-of-the-art security systems that create a sense of comfort for everyone on the property.
• Proximity to attractions, hotels, and restaurants that represent the best culinary experiences in Kentucky.
KENTUCKY EXPOSITION CENTER
• 1.2 Million Sq. Ft. of Contiguous Meeting Space
• 56 Meeting Rooms and Two Arenas
• 350+ Acres of Outdoor Exhibit and Demo Space
• Can accommodate 80 basketball courts throughout the facility
At Kentucky Venues, we’re dedicated to curating exceptional experiences and fostering success for every event. Our facilities offer expansive, transformative, and flexible space proving that no event is too small or too large for us to handle. We know events, because we produce events.
KENTUCKY VENUES
Linda Edwards
Executive Director of Sales and Food & Beverage sales@kyvenues.com (502) 367-5000 www.kyvenues.com
KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER
• 200k Sq. Ft. of Contiguous Class A Exhibit Space
• 40k Sq. Ft. Column-Free Ballroom
• 52 Meeting Rooms, including a Tiered Conference Theater
• Combined with the Kentucky Exposition Center, can hold 130 volleyball courts
KENTUCKY SPORTS ALLIANCE
Helps Attract the State’s Top Events
With more than 150 facilities across the state, planners can find the right venue and location for any event
By Jason Paha
Kentucky is a state renowned for hosting some of the world’s best sporting events.From the legendary Kentucky Derby to the PGA Championship, the Bluegrass State knows how to hold a captivating sports competition.
The newly rebranded Kentucky Sports Alliance (formerly Team Kentucky) is a big reason why Kentucky attracts such quality events.
The Alliance’s members showcase more than 150 facilities across the state, with a veteran team that can help planners find the right venue for their event.
“Team Kentucky was around for over 20 years and did a great job,” said Brad Knapp of Louisville Tourism. “(This rebrand came about because) we felt like it was time to showcase a more sports focus, especially in our name. The same people are still here, just with an updated brand.”
The Alliance is made up of these partners: Bowling Green CVB, Corbin Tourism Commission, Elizabethtown CVB, Hopkins County Tourist & Convention Commission, Kentucky Department of Tourism, Kentucky Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kentucky
BOWLING GREEN CVB
Bowling Green features a diverse offering of sports facilities that can accommodate events year-round. Its newest stateof-the-art 56,000-square-foot gymnasium and indoor tennis/ multipurpose facility at Michael O. Buchanan Park can cater to any event, as the facility has interchangeable floors. Bowling Green has also earned a reputation as ‘Vette City, since it is the home of the National Corvette Museum and it hosts a variety of outdoor events, live music and yearly festivals as well as the famed Michelin NCM Bash.
CORBIN TOURISM COMMISSION
The Corbin Arena is a 100,000 square foot, multi-purpose facility. It offers full arena rental and is conveniently 87 miles south of Lexington, KY and 83 miles north of Knoxville, TN. The venue directly reaches a primary market of over 500,000
Venues, London/Laurel County CVB, Louisville Sports Commission, Louisville Tourism, McCracken County Sports Tourism, Murray CVB, Paducah CVB, Visit Hopkinsville and Visit Lexington.
Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky
people within a 50-mile radius and Corbin has a strong visitor services infrastructure in place with more than 800 hotel rooms.
ELIZABETHTOWN CVB
With a Big-League atmosphere, state-of-the-art facilities and endless family fun and entertainment in downtown Elizabethtown, the legendary Ripken Experience creates lifelong memories. Elizabethtown Sports Park consists of 12 youth turf fields with LED lighting, nine dedicated batting cages, and stadium seating to give every player a true BigLeague experience.
KENTUCKY LAKE CVB
Major League Fishing is the world’s largest tournament fishing organization and premier outdoor entertainment brand. The MLF’s Bass Pro Tour, which showcases 65 of the world’s top professional bass anglers competing for millions of dollars, will host an event at Kentucky Lake from June 5-8, 2025. Kentucky Lake is open to host all kinds of fishing tournaments as well as a variety of other sporting events. Come fish where the pros fish.
KENTUCKY VENUES
Kentucky Venues serves regional, national and international clients while promoting the progress of the Commonwealth and advancing Kentucky’s agriculture and tourism industries and economy. Two of Kentucky Venues’ top facilities are the Kentucky International Convention Center (located at the center of downtown Louisville, the Kentucky International Convention Center is a top-tier convention center with state-of-the-art design and technology) and the Kentucky Exposition Center (which offers 1.2 million square feet of contiguous meeting space to serve events large and small).
LEXINGTON
Lexington’s Keeneland Race Course has hosted the Breeders’ Cup World Championship, an annual series of major thoroughbred horse races. Keeneland most recently held the Breeders’ Cup in 2022, 2019 and 2015. The city is also home to the University of Kentucky, whose men’s basketball team has won eight national championships, second all-time behind only UCLA.
LONDON/LAUREL COUNTY CVB
Whether you are looking for high speed races at the London Dragway, endurance adventure races in the Daniel Boone National Forest or the perfect location for cycling, Laurel County has a variety of venues to suit your needs. Events like the Archery Shooters Association, Kayak Bass Fishing and War Hammer 100 are just a few events that call London, Kentucky home.
Kentucky.
LOUISVILLE
The Kentucky Derby is one of the most famous events in sports. The race kicks off the Triple Crown series with Churchill Downs hosting the iconic race for horses aged three. The Derby is one of the oldest ongoing sporting events in the country with the first race taking place in 1875. It is the most attended horse racing event in the United States, and it is one of the most bet on in the country, with hundreds of millions betted every year. The 2024 Derby was branded the 150th Kentucky Derby and a record $210.7 million was bet on the race.
MADISONVILLE – HOPKINS COUNTY
Madisonville and Hopkins County are home to the new Kentucky Sports Factory that boasts the largest single surface hardwood floor in the state of Kentucky. This 90,000-squarefoot state-of-the-art facility features an indoor turf soccer field, batting cages, six basketball courts, 12 volleyball courts and 22 pickleball courts. The West Kentucky Archery Complex contains 56 NFAA indoor shooting lanes plus a 90-meter outdoor range.
PADUCAH CVB – MCCRACKEN COUNTY
With diverse sports facilities and successfully hosted events from the club level to collegiate and professional, PaducahMcCracken County is a perfect tournament destination. Its venues have hosted a variety of events and tournaments from the National Retriever Championships and Cabela’s King Kat Tournament Trail to NCAA Conference Baseball, Golf and Tennis Championships.
VISIT HOPKINSVILLE
From state-of-the-art facilities to vibrant local culture, Hopkinsville provides everything needed to create an unforgettable sporting experience. The Planters Bank-Jennie Stuart Health Sportsplex offers a premier venue with over 54,000 square feet of space, featuring multiple courts for basketball, volleyball and soccer.
Horse racing is king in the state of
Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky
NATURAL BEAUTY BOURBON, HORSES, AND
in the Bluegrass State
From the banks of the Ohio River to the towering peaks of Black Mountain, Kentucky is a group travel planner’s dream state
By Billy Stampfl
Enjoy the great outdoors in Kentucky.
Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky
The advantages to visiting Kentucky are well known: bourbon, music, horse racing, food. Some come for the Kentucky Derby, which draws thousands of guests every May; others are ready to sip bourbon and munch on a Hot Brown. Still others simply desire a serene vacation amid rolling hills and sparkling grasslands, surrounded by natural wonders as their Southern adventure awaits.
BOURBON IS A KENTUCKY STAPLE
Louisville is not just Kentucky’s largest city and one of the country’s most historically relevant towns (it is, after all, the home of Muhammad Ali and the Louisville Slugger). It also marks the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, a renowned path that commences at the Frazier History Museum and winds through charming towns such as Clermont, where you will find the James B. Beam Distilling Co. American Outpost, and historic Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Here, visitors can savor award-winning spirits from nine legendary distilleries, including Willett, Preservation, and Four Roses.
MUSIC: HOME OF BLUEGRASS
Kentucky is the birthplace of bluegrass and one of the most storied music hotbeds in the world. This state’s impact on American song and dance has been profound, giving rise to famous musicians like Bill Monroe (a native of Rosine) to the Country Music Highway, an amped-up stretch of Eastern Kentucky where numerous country legends cut their teeth. This iconic route, a winding slice of U.S. 23, honors the rich legacy of country tunes. Spanning from Ashland to Paintsville, it has produced over a dozen country stars, including Loretta Lynn, Ricky Skaggs, and Chris Stapleton.
ARTS AND CULTURE
A stroll through the heart of Paducah’s dynamic downtown highlights this community’s commitment to creativity and culture. Designated as a Creative City by UNESCO in 2013, Paducah’s support of the arts is apparent around every corner. On the streets of Lower Town, home of the Artist Relocation Program and the beehive of activity at the Paducah School of Art & Design, creativity is in the air.
THE HORSE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD
Kentucky is renowned for its deep-rooted equestrian culture, making it a premier destination for horse enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. At the heart of the state’s horse heritage is the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, a sprawling 1,200-acre facility dedicated to celebrating the state’s equestrian legacy. Visitors can explore engaging exhibits, take guided tours, and enjoy horse shows that underline Kentucky’s role as a hub for horse breeding, training, and competition.
FOOD, DRINK AND MORE BLUEGRASS FUN
Kentucky is also a must-visit destination for food lovers, offering a delectable array of Southern cuisine and local specialties. The state is famed for its iconic dishes, such as bourbon-infused dishes and the famous Hot Brown—a savory open-faced sandwich layered with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce. The Hot Brown was originally created at The Brown Hotel in 1926 in Louisville. The hotel still serves this delicious dish today. In Elizabethtown, visit the famed Back Home Restaurant, which features a slew of Kentucky favorites and recipes that celebrate life south of the Mason-Dixon Line. Located in a gorgeous old home, Back Home Restaurant is a bipartite stop: it’s a full-service restaurant with an attached boutique.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
At Lost River Cave in Bowling Green, you can ride by boat into an underground labyrinth. Lost River Cave’s historic underground boat tour is a great eco-adventure for all ages. Groups can enjoy its hiking trails, activities and charming gift shop located just an hour north of Nashville in Bowling Green, Kentucky.
Surrounded by Daniel Boone National Forest and residing at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Corbin is a charming city with a wealth of natural and cultural gems waiting to be discovered. Corbin’s crown jewel is undoubtedly Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, home to the “Niagara of the South” – Cumberland Falls. Explore hiking trails, go horseback riding or enjoy picnicking with a view that will leave you in awe.
London resides in the foothills at the edge of the majestic Appalachians, surrounded by pristine forest, lakes, and rivers. An abundance of mountain bike and hiking trails weaving through the Daniel Boone National Forest and historic city parks, along with world-class cycling roads attract cyclists from all over to Kentucky’s designated Cycling Capital.
Madisonville and Hopkins County are home to Kentucky’s largest variety of outdoor recreation activities, including scenic trails, tranquil lakes, rolling grasslands and dense forests. Groups can enjoy a trek down Falls Trail that features a stunning cascade that is nearly 70 feet tall. Kentucky features a rich tapestry of experiences that capture the heart and soul of the Bluegrass State. From the world-renowned Bourbon Trail in Louisville to the rhythmic legacy of the Country Music Highway, Kentucky is a celebration of its storied traditions and vibrant culture. The state’s commitment to preserving and showcasing its heritage is evident in every corner.
Waterfront Park in Louisville is a fabulous place to gather.
Photo courtesy of Team Kentucky
BOWLING GREEN, KENTUCKY
Bigger is better in Bowling Green, Kentucky, as their state-of-the-art facilities are not only impressively large, but support an endless amount of sports. Known best for their expertise in operating functional multipurpose venues, these locations are prepared to support tournaments and events of any size. Car enthusiasts will love the National Corvette Museum & Motorsports Park, an exciting and challenging environment made for anyone who’d like to become proficient behind the wheel. This park is one of the most centrally located and easily accessible in the country, making it a must when visiting Bowling Green. BG Hot Rods Minor League Baseball is a prime ballpark in the area, hosting playoff and division series games for the Bowling Green Hot Rods. Come enjoy a minor league game and support the local sports scene.
Looking to get in touch with nature? Search no further than Lost River Cave, which is a natural and man-made environment spread across 72 acres. Visitors can learn about the history of the spot as a Civil War campground or as an underground 1930s nightclub on boat tours. When hungry, patrons can swing by Chaney’s Dairy Barn where they sell homemade ice cream from Jersey cows. The milk is processed on the Chaney farm and sold directly to customers.
MICHAEL O. BUCHANON PARK
Tennis, Racquetball, Volleyball, Softball and More Outdoor Sports
Named after a Warren County Judge Executive, Michael O. Buchanon Park is stacked with a tennis and sports facility, the Buchanon gym and fields for football, soccer, baseball and softball. The spacious 90 acres gives guests plenty of room to enjoy the wonderful amenities offered, grab a bite to eat at the numerous concession stands or have a picnic near the playground. Patrons from around the country venture to Buchanon Park to partake in softball tournaments.
BASIL GRIFFIN PARK
Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Fishing and More Outdoor Sports
The sprawling 100-acres dedicated to Basil Griffin Park is a one-stop shop for all, containing multiple baseball/softball fields, football fields and multipurpose fields. Home to the Aviation Heritage Park, this location sports enough space for an outdoor hockey rink, eight pickleball courts and a lake with a boat ramp and fishing access. The abundance and quality of this location makes it the crown jewel of the county parks, constructed with families in mind.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“Bowling Green has such nice facilities to host sporting events, there’s tons of places to eat. What keeps me coming back is how great the facility managers are and as a basketball tournament director to have 10 courts at one facility it makes it so much easier to run a quality event.”
- Kris Fields
BOWLING GREEN CVB
Damion Wheeler
damion@visitbgky.com
270-782-0800
www.visitbgky.com/sports/
BEECH BEND RACEWAY
Racing, Automotive Sports and Events
Renowned for its infamous drag strip, the Beech Bend Raceway has been bustling with automotive events since its installment in 1956. Bountiful beech trees envelope the facility and the Barren River wraps around the surrounding area, creating a picturesque environment for fun around the track. Drifting competitions and vendor showcases are held frequently, bringing sizable crowds filled with race car enthusiasts.
CORBIN, KENTUCKY
Corbin, Kentucky is within an hour and a half drive of both Knoxville, Tennessee and Lexington, Kentucky, and is situated within a 50-mile radius of over 500,000 people. With a large population to draw from, big events and youth sports tournaments alike thrive at facilities like Corbin Arena and Civic Center Park.
The city offers a variety of outstanding attractions and activities for families to enjoy while in town for sporting events. Harland Sanders Café and Museum is the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Colonel Sanders’ original restaurant has been carefully restored to its original 1940s appearance and is placed on the National Register of Historic Places. A visit to Sanders Park is also a must, where you can see the garden that contains those 11 secret herbs and spices, along with a butterfly garden, statue of the colonel and more.
For outdoor adventure and fun, Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is called “Niagara of the South” for a reason with a 125-foot curtain of water that falls 68 feet. Also, located amid the pristine beauty of the Daniel Boone National Forest, the 5,600-acre Laurel River Lake is a favorite destination that features quiet coves, clifflined shores and plenty of activities.
CORBIN ARENA
Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports
Corbin Arena is the perfect venue for a variety of sporting events and tournaments with 100,000 square feet of space. The arena features an NCAA regulation-size portable basketball floor with 4,800 seats with a capacity of 6,000 and several configurations available that include additional floor seating. Amenities include a 19,261-square-foot concourse, top-notch sound system and two scoreboards, concessions, a box office and more.
CIVIC CENTER PARK
Soccer, Football, Flag Football and More Outdoor Sports
Civic Center Park features eight soccer fields for youth tournaments between U8 and U16, along with two football fields—one of which is a practice field at 100 yards by 50 yards. On-site concessions are available and there is a paved parking lot for 450 vehicles. The park is also close to the downtown area and even closer to the beautiful Laurel River Lake for scenic views and additional activities.
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, in Southeastern Kentucky, the City of Corbin is a sports lover’s dream. Conveniently located at exit 25 on I-75. Corbin boasts a variety of outstanding sporting venues providing a small city atmosphere while offering big experiences.
CORBIN TOURISM COMMISSION
Nancy Conley
nancy@corbinkytourism.com (606) 528-8860 corbinkytourism.com
MILLER
PARK
Baseball, Softball, Pickleball, Disc Golf
Just a short drive down the road from Civic Center Park is Miller Park, which features three Little League baseball fields, two of which are softball regulation size, three outdoor pickleball courts with permanent lines and nets, a batting cage complex with four cages total and a par 27, 9-hole disc golf course. There is one concession stand located at Miller Park, along with a picnic shelter.
ELIZABETHTOWN, KENTUCKY
Elizabethtown, Kentucky is renowned as a premier sports destination with state-of-the-art Elizabethtown Sports Park leading the charge. This expansive facility is a hub for sports tournaments big and small, featuring top-tier diamonds and fields that cater to a wide range of sports.
Beyond sports, Elizabethtown offers a diverse array of activities and entertainment. Social on Main combines relaxation with recreation, featuring a food hall with a curated selection of fine eats, a dynamic tap wall that has over 40 well-appointed self-pour taps and even eight duckpin bowling lanes. To keep the entertainment going, enjoy a leisurely round at Heartland Mini Golf.
ELIZABETHTOWN SPORTS PARK
Baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse and more Outdoor Sports
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“Kentucky Youth Soccer has held our state tournaments at Elizabethtown Sports Park for 12 years, and it’s been a fantastic experience every time. The ample space makes it easy to manage large events, and the fields and facilities are always in top shape, creating a great environment for athletes and spectators alike.”
– Kris Zander, Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Soccer
Renowned for being one of the top sports facilities in the United States, Elizabethtown Sports Park is a perfect spot to host any type of outdoor sporting event. The park features Cecilian Bank Miracle Field for championship games and three quads for a total of 13 baseball/softball fields, all of which are lighted and have synthetic turf diamonds. In addition, there are 10 multipurpose natural turf fields and two championship fields with synthetic turf. Amenities at the park include stadium lawn seating, three large pavilions, locker rooms, playgrounds, and nearby hotels.
ELIZABETHTOWN
SPORTS PARK
Brandt Bawpley (270) 765-6132
bpawley@sportsfacilities.com
www.etownsports.com
MADISONVILLE - HOPKINS COUNTY, KENTUCKY
Hopkins County, Kentucky hosts some of the best sporting venues in the country, perfect for any event or tournament. The county also has many facilities to choose from, along with many family activities, parks and trails to discover.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of Mahr Park Arboretum as you stroll through the winding trails or kayak on Pee Wee Lake and take in the wildlife. This 265-acre park in Madisonville features a natural environment looming with wildlife, native trees, and plants.
You can also journey to Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park for mountain biking, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, swimming, golf, tennis, camping and much more. These wooded landscapes offer the perfect place to relax and go on an adventure off the beaten path.
For those interested in the arts more than the outdoors, Hopkins County is home to Glema Mahr Center for the Arts. The center organizes diverse musical acts, award-winning plays and top-name entertainers year-round at affordable prices.
MADISONVILLE HOPKINS COUNTY SPORTSPLEX
Basketball, Volleyball, Pickleball, Soccer And More Indoor Sports
Madisonville Hopkins County Sportsplex is an all-new multi-purpose facility, boasting the impressive feat of having the largest hardwood floor surface in the state of Kentucky. It can accommodate a wide variety of sporting events with six indoor basketball courts, 12 indoor volleyball courts, 22 indoor pickleball courts, an indoor regulation turf soccer field (60 yards by 30 yards), an indoor walking path, meeting rooms, batting cages and 475 parking spaces.
WEST KY ARCHERY COMPLEX Archery
Few archery facilities are as state-ofthe-art and accommodating as West KY Archery Complex. This multi-use venue offers an outdoor range with up to a 90-meter shooting distance. The 18,000-square-foot indoor area makes it the largest archery range in the state and can easily hold up to 56 NFAA shooting lanes. With concessions, 400 bleacher seats and over 225 parking spaces, it undoubtedly is one of the best places to host archery events in the country.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“As the Head Coach for the USA Archery South East Regional Elite Development (RED) Team I am tasked with finding training facilities for our team. The facility must also provide targets and target buttresses which meet the exacting competition standards of World Archery.”
- Laval D. Falks, USA Archery Level 5 Coach, Head Coach, Regional Elite Development (RED) Team South East HOPKINS COUNTY TOURIST & CONVENTION COMMISSION
Tricia Noel tnoel@visitmadisonvilleky.com (270) 821-4271 visitmadisonvilleky.com
Disc Golf
Home to the Kentucky State Disc Golf Championship, this beautiful outdoor area boasts an 18-hole championship course and 9-hole recreational course with concreate tees and DISCatcher Pro Targets. Located in a 265-acre arboretum, the park is cart and dog friendly, with drinking water and restrooms available. The area also features multiple pavilions and event venues to meet all your needs.
MAHR PARK CHAMPIONSHIP DISC GOLF COURSE
KENTUCKY LAKE (MARSHALL COUNTY), KENTUCKY
Featuring over 2,300 miles of shoreline and over 160,000 acres of water. Kentucky Lake is a majestic lake, and it has plenty of room for you to go fishing, enjoying watersports or exploring in your boat.
Kentucky Lake in Marshall County provides multiple sporting opportunities, covering everything from water sports and competitive fishing at the largest manmade body of water east of the Mississippi River to traditional sports at top facilities like Mike Miller Park. Fishing is particularly popular at the South’s Great Lake, with record-breaking catches for crappie, catfish, large and small mouth bass.
Along with its sporting opportunities, leisure activities and adventure await families and athletes.
Full-day boat rentals are available at Kentucky Lake at one of our many full service marinas, and nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to explore the wildlife and hiking opportunities in Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. The variety of lodging accommodations also makes Kentucky Lake unique from affordable, locally owned resorts, to hotels, two state resort parks, and over 150 private home rental options.
Nearby, enjoy miniature golf at Maggie’s Jungle Golf, featuring live animals in protective areas, or Forgotten Past with rides and other fun activities. Go karting and more are available at Kentucky Shores Family Fun Center. For a movie night, enjoy a classic from-your-vehicle experience at the legendary Calvert Drive-In Theater. Let’s not forget, the chance to play 18 holes at topranked courses in our region, Kentucky Dam Village Golf Course or Calvert City Country Club!
KENTUCKY LAKE
Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Triathlons And More Watersports
Stretching over 160,000 acres, Kentucky Lake is an impressive spot for sports and recreation. Fishing is a major part of the lake’s culture, with large and mouth bass, crappie, bluegill and redear sunfish available in abundance during specific times of the year. With its immense size, the lake is also a hotspot for boating, offering several marinas and launching ramps along its shorelines. Camping grounds, cabin rentals and more are also available throughout the year.
MIKE MILLER PARK
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Flag Football, Disc Golf, Outdoor Sports
Located in Benton, Kentucky, Mike Miller Park offers dozens of multisport options for your next tournament or event. The park features five multipurpose fields, two auxiliary fields, three lighted youth baseball fields, lighted adult baseball and softball fields, a spectacular 18-hole disc golf course and more. Multiple pavilions, a playground, a concession building and press box are among the many amenities included.
Kentucky Lake in Marshall County is a great option for your next sporting event. This small town boasts big fun and a chance to disconnect from the business of competition and travel sports. In between games, spend your time on a boat or along the shoreline of beautiful Kentucky Lake fishing, soaking up the sun, or hiking in Land Between the Lakes! This community may be small, but sometimes that’s just what the family needs to reconect!
KENTUCKY LAKE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Elena Blevins eblevins@kentuckylake.org (270) 527-3128 www.visitkylake.com
CALVERT CITY MEMORIAL PARK
Soccer, Baseball, Disc Golf, Mountain Biking and More Outdoor Sports and Events
Calvert City Memorial Park is a serene spot for locals and visitors alike, featuring multipurpose fields, pickleball courts, youth baseball/softball fields, a disc golf course, golf course and more. The park’s picturesque location provides a great environment for marathons and endurance racing events. Mountain biking is also available at Memorial Park, with trails that appeal to all skill levels.
LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY
Whether you are organizing a major regional tournament or just planning to catch a game, Lexington, Kentucky, or Lex for short, has everything you need for an exceptional sports experience.
For baseball fans, Lexington Legends games offer a great way to pass time at the ballpark, while soccer enthusiasts can cheer on the Boys or Gals in Green from Lexington Sporting Club at Toyota Stadium, which is located just outside of the city in nearby Georgetown.
Lexington also offers a lot of leisurely options to entertain the entire family. Visit the renowned Kentucky Horse Park and the International Museum of the Horse to learn more about equestrian history. Enjoy the unique blend of culture and tradition with Horse Farm and Bourbon Distillery Tours, or experience the excitement of live races at Keeneland Race Course
RUPP ARENA AT THE CENTRAL BANK CONVENTION CENTER
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“If you are looking to bring an event to a city that will meet the needs of your event and cater to the experience of your participants, Lexington is a nobrainer. Incredible event and sports facilities combined with top-tier dining and entertainment options will ensure that every group has a oncein-a-lifetime experience.”
-Byron Hicks, USA Ultimate VISITLEX
John Pohl
jpohl@visitlex.com (859) 244-7716 www.visitlex.com
Basketball, Volleyball, Wrestling and More Indoor Sports and Events
There has been a long-standing, winning tradition at Rupp Arena. Not only is it home to Kentucky’s very own University of Kentucky men’s basketball team, but it also hosts all sorts of additional sports tournaments and entertainment events. WIthin walking distance of five different hotels and a plethora of unique, award-winning restaurants, Rupp Arena is conveniently in the heart of Lexington.
LEXINGTON SPORTING CLUB SOCCER COMPLEX
Soccer, Field Hockey, Lacrosse and More Outdoor Sports
Beyond being the home of Lexington Sporting Club (LSC), the USL League
One side’s home sports complex is also the perfect location to host a variety of other sporting events. With seven multipurpose turf fields, the complex can host a variety of sports. In September 2024, LSC completed their state-of-the art new stadium with seating for 7,500 fans.
ALLTECH ARENA AT KENTUCKY HORSE PARK
Equestrian, Rodeos, Indoor Football and More Sports and Events
Experience world-class facilities and immerse yourself in equestrian history, all in one great location. Originally built for the FEI World Equestrian Games, the 5,500-seat Alltech Arena at Kentucky Horse Park offers versatile space for a variety of events outside of equestrian superiority, being able to host all sorts of indoor sports and events.
LONDON-LAUREL COUNTY, KENTUCKY
The vibrant city of London, Kentucky has family-friendly attractions for all ages to enjoy. For a historical and archaeological visit, Camp Wildcat Civil War Battleground is the site of the first meeting of regular troops in Kentucky throughout the U.S. Civil War.
For thrill-seekers, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park boasts both campgrounds and an aerial adventure park, Tree-Top Adventure, where visitors can zipline through the trees and climb through rope bridges. The invigorating Air Raid Trampoline Park contains countless attractions for all ages, including trapeze, battle beam, foam pits and monkey bars.
WILDCAT OFF-ROAD PARK
Off-Roading, Campgrounds
A family-friendly, 2,000 acre off-road park that will accommodate all off-road enthusiasts. Wildcat has over 100 miles of trails with the greatest sites in the Southeastern United States. Wildcat Offroad is conveniently located 2 miles from I-75 off Exit #49 and has trails for the novice rider all the way up to the most experienced rider.
London-Laurel County offers a variety of experiences to entertain and captivate any audience. As the “Cycling Capital of Kentucky” we offer numerous cycling experiences such as our annual Red Bed Ride in April. Add to that countless trails for hiking, our amazing canoe and kayaking opportunities, a variety of local and unique restaurants, RV parks and hotels and you get the perfect destination for individuals, families, or events.
LONDON-LAUREL COUNTY TOURIST COMMISSION
Travis Shortt Director of Public Relations and Events (606) 687-8843 travis@lltc.net www.visitlondonky.com
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY
Bourbon often takes center stage in Louisville, Kentucky, but those in the know also pick this southern gem for sports tournaments and events. From premium exposition spaces at facilities like Kentucky Exposition Center, to collegiate sports, concerts and other events at KFC Yum! Arena, Louisville has you covered.
Louisville has more than 120 attractions so there’s always something for everyone, but three iconic sports certainly stand out. Churchill Downs has been the “Home of the Kentucky Derby” since opening its gates in 1875, which is now the longest continually running sporting event in the U.S. and “the most exciting two minutes in sports.”
For baseball fans, the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory spotlight the global baseball icon where visitors can learn about the brand’s past, present and future, and even create a custom bat. Originally from Louisville, boxing legend Muhammad Ali’s legacy of creating change, pursing justice and inspiring greatness is celebrated at the Muhammad Ali Center.
The Urban Bourbon Experience is comprised of more than ten distilleries located downtown, that are open for public tours and tastings. The Urban Bourbon Trail boasts over 35 bars and restaurants with more than 60 bourbons and bourbon-inspired culinary delights – so download the passport, collect your stamps and enjoy a special prize at the end.
KENTUCKY EXPOSITION CENTER
Basketball, Volleyball, Archery and More Indoor Sports
Louisville’s 1,300,000-square-foot
Kentucky Exposition Center (KEC) is the sixth largest of its type in the nation, perfect for a variety of sports meetings, conferences or tournaments. Freedom Hall is one of the two arenas at KEC, offering a capacity of 18,865, along with the 6,600-seat Broadbent Arena, both arenas host everything from equestrian events to concerts and more.
KENTUCKY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTER
Cheerleading, Martial Arts, Gymnastics and More Indoors Sports
With 300,000 square feet of space, Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC) can host any size indoor sports tournament. KICC features a 200,000 square foot exhibit hall, 40,000 square foot ballroom, and over 50 meeting rooms. KICC’s downtown location is within walking distance to over 7,000 hotels rooms, 50 restaurants, and Museum Row.
CLIENT PERSPECTIVE
“If you are looking for the ideal location to host an event, look no farther than Louisville! It is one of the best cities for your attendees to enjoy their overall experience and most importantly, you will have a first-class partner in the Louisville Tourism team.”
- Carol Bruggeman, Executive Director, National Fastpitch Coaches Association
LOUISVILLE TOURISM AND LOUISVILLE SPORTS COMMISSION
Gen Howard
ghoward@gotolouisville.com 502-560-1497
www.gotolouisville.com
Dave Patrone, STS dpatrone@louisvillesports.org 502-736-3498 www.louisvillesports.org
KFC YUM! CENTER
Basketball, Volleyball, Indoor Football and More Indoor Sports
KFC Yum! Center is Louisville’s most recent indoor sports space and is home to the Louisville Cardinals men’s and women’s basketball teams. The arena’s capacity differs depending on the sport, with up to 22,090 for basketball and other events at its max. It will be the host of the 2024 NCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship December 19-22. Its located in the heart of downtown on the Ohio River.
MCCRACKEN COUNTY, KENTUCKY
There’s something for everyone in McCracken County, Kentucky, with one of the country’s best upcoming sports facilities on the horizon for a 2025 grand opening that will be in the City of Paducah.
Families will enjoy plenty of art displays, starting with Paducah’s Wall-to-Wall Floodwall Murals, depicting the city’s history on its protective floodwall through over 60 larger-than-life art pieces. The National Quilt Museum displays quilts from around the world highlighting artistry in the fiber arts.
Paducah’s Historic Downtown Shopping District is full of locally owned shops and boutiques for every taste and unique nearby restaurants round out a day of exploring. Hotel Metropolitan is a hotel-turned-museum, showcasing Paducah’s African American heritage.
PADUCAH SPORTS PARK
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Lacrosse and More Outdoor Sports McCracken County Sports Tourism Commission is building a 105-acre sports recreation complex in Paducah, Kentucky. Set to open in 2025, Paducah Sports Park is expected to feature five meticulously crafted high school baseball diamonds, 20 versatile youth/fast-pitch diamonds and 10 multipurpose fields, all of which will cater to players and teams of all ages and skill levels. The facility will be located on the site of the former Bluegrass Downs and Stuart Nelson Park along Greenway Trail.
The Paducah Sports Park will be a Gem of a venue in Kentucky. The design and layout of the facility will be nothing short of first-class. From the moment you walk into the venue, the history of Bluegrass Downs and Stuart Nelson Park will resonate throughout the park. We’re excited to honor the rich history of Paducah and McCracken County inside a place that will create even more memoires for the community.
MCCRACKEN COUNTY SPORTS TOURISM COMMISSION
Chastity Heeren, General Manager CHeeren@paducahsportspark.com (815) 590-6373 www.paducahsportspark.com
MURRAY, KENTUCKY
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Kentucky, Murray offers a blend of rich history and culture, art and natural beauty, along with its top sports facilities like CFSB Center and Roy Stewart Stadium, making it an ideal destination for everyone, no matter the sport.
Immerse yourself in the cute charm of Murray’s historic downtown, where you’ll find many small shops and local businesses. As you explore, be sure to admire the vibrant downtown murals that bring the city’s history and culture to life. A visit to the Farmers Market is a local favorite where you can find fresh produce and homemade goods.
For those who love the outdoors, the nearby Land Between the Lakes Recreational Area provides endless opportunities for adventure, like hiking, fishing and wildlife watching. Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate the beauty of the Doran Arboretum, a perfect spot for a peaceful walk through a variety of native plants and trees.
CFSB CENTER
Basketball, Volleyball, Track and More
Indoor Sports
A versatile facility with a seating capacity of 8,600 and able to host multiple sports. It features a split-level concourse system, with the lower level including VIP sections, concessions, locker rooms and the Murray Room (banquet style meeting space) . The upper level includes four concession areas and a rubber track. CFSB Center also has a sports medicine room, a weight room and officials’ locker rooms that double as production offices for events.
REAGAN FIELD Baseball
Reagan Field, with symmetrical dimensions of 330 feet to the foul poles and 400 feet to center field, is an ideal venue for baseball events. The field has a seating capacity of 800 with an electronic scoreboard, natural grass surface and a press box. Upgrades in 2014 included the addition of lights and a permanent grandstand, followed by a more spacious press box in 2015. The outfield fence is 10 feet high in most areas, but gets up to 16 feet in center field.
THE MKY OFFERS A SMALLTOWN FEEL WITH NCAA DIVISION I UNIVERSITY FACILITIES. QUALITY ACCOMMODATIONS ARE LOCATED A VERY SHORT DISTANCE FROM LOCAL RESTAURANTS AND MURRAY STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS. MSU ATHLETICS AND THE MURRAY CVB CAN PROVIDE PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVENTS.
MURRAY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
Erin Carrico erincarrico@tourmurray.com (270) 759-2199 www.tourmurray.com
ROY STEWART STADIUM
Football, Soccer, Track and Field and More Outdoor Sports
A seating capacity of 16,800, and home to the Murray State football team, this beautiful stadium offers modern, wellkept facilities perfect for large events. The training room spans 4,675 square feet and includes treatment tables, whirlpools and a physician’s exam room, all equipped with advanced rehabilitative technology. Combined with Pat Spurgin Rifle Range making the Roy Stewart Stadium a key asset for MSU.
PADUCAH, KENTUCKY
Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River, Paducah is a picturesque gem that has been recognized as a UNESCO Creative City for over 10 years. Finding a city that ignites inspiration at every corner is rare, yet Paducah delivers on all fronts with that famous Southern hospitality anchoring it all.
But Paducah isn’t just a leisure destination — the incredible atmosphere you’ll discover in the heart of America’s Inland Waterways is practically begging to transform your next tournament into a memorable affair you will talk about for years. Having successfully hosted numerous club, collegiate and professional events, Paducah is equipped and ready to welcome your next game, match, meet or competition! From college baseball games at historic Brooks Stadium to water skiing at Twin Oaks Lake, Paducah offers a variety of spaces that can accommodate tournaments, 5Ks, marathons and more. With spacious and versatile venues and plenty of comfortable lodging options, you’ll be amazed at how Paducah can impact and inspire.
THE PADUCAH/MCCRACKEN COUNTY CONVENTION AND EXPO CENTER Basketball, Volleyball, Cheerleading and More Indoor Sports
The perfect space for large-scale sporting events. With 40,000 square feet of space, it can fit eight volleyball or four college-sized basketball courts, along with tasty concessions and more than enough parking. In addition to the court space, there is another 30,000 square feet of meeting space for teams to game plan and strategize. Some other events held at the Expo Center include cheerleading competitions and even dog shows.
BROOKS STADIUM PARK
Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Football
Brooks Stadium Park is a 75-acre facility featuring John Sheppard Field and Brooks Stadium/Doc Hedig Field. John Sheppard Field is made up of a high school softball field with lights and bleacher seating, a soccer field and football field. Brooks Stadium/Doc Hedig Field has a 3,000-person capacity, which includes television-ready lights, a press box with wireless connectivity and broadcast equipment, a redone parking lot, restroom facilities, a concession stand and free Wi-Fi.
Five Reasons to Play in Paducah
1) Plenty of indoor and outdoor venues to support whatever your team does best
2) Over 2,000 rooms, including familiar brand favorites and historic boutique hotels
3) Just a half-day’s drive from four major cities
4) Top-notch amenities without the big-city price tag
5) Creative dining and shopping for all the moments between plays
PADUCAH CVB
Lynda Peters-Jones
lynda@paducah.travel (270) 443-8783 www.paducah.travel
PADUCAH SPORTS PARK
Baseball, Softball, Soccer and More Outdoor Sports
Expected to open in 2026, Paducah Sports Park will provide Kentucky with a state-of-the-art facility for outdoor community recreation and tournament play. The park will feature five welldesigned baseball diamonds and two softball diamonds, catering to players and teams of all ages and abilities. The park will include ten rectangular multipurpose fields, perfect for soccer, lacrosse and other field sports.
HOPKINSVILLE-CHRISTIAN COUNTY, KENTUCKY
Hopkinsville’s nickname is the “Batter Capital of the World.” While that nickname originates from globally recognizable batter mixes like Ghirardelli’s brownies and Red Lobster’s Cheddar Bay biscuits, the city is also renowned for its award-winning baseball and softball complex, Tie Breaker Athletic Park
Along with top-notch sports facilities, both outdoors and indoors, there’s plenty to see and do in Hopkinsville. For family fun, Bluegrass Splash water park offers relaxing experiences like the lazy rippling river, as well as excitement at Hurricane Alley and Riptide Express. For a countryside getaway and farming experience, including a unique farm-themed mini golf course, Christian Way Farm has all ages covered.
For those wanting a deeper dive into the water, Pennyroyal Scuba Center offers unusually clear waters for divers along with warm southern hospitality. History buffs will enjoy Hopkinsville’s historic museums, containing the rich and sometimes bizarre history of southwestern Kentucky, such as tales of the Black Patch Tobacco Wars and the vigilante Night Riders.
PLANTERS BANK-JENNIE STUART HEALTH
SPORTSPLEX HOPKINSVILLE
Basketball, Volleyball, Soccer, Football and More Indoor Sports
This 54,000-square-foot sportsplex offers multiple courts, making up 24,000 square feet of the total space, along with the synthetic turf BryMak Field. The crumb-rubber turf field is surrounded and enclosed by a BAP 3.0 Kick Series Dasher System with manually retractable soccer goal closure systems. BryMak Field may be lined for soccer, but it can be utilized for multiple sports as the facility also has 12 batting cages and can be transformed into an indoor golf driving range.
PLANNER PERSPECTIVE
“I had the BEST time here! The visiting center has lots of information and great displays of the towns local companies and history. If you forgot to get something from the local distilleries or just want a cute Hopkinsville souvenir this is the place to go! Another great
- Ericka Sims-Hall, Google Review
HOPKINSVILLECHRISTIAN COUNTY CVB
Amy Rogers
arogers@visithopkinsvillecom (270) 887-2300 www.visithopkinsville.com
TIEBREAKER ATHLETIC PARK Baseball, Softball
Tie Breaker Athletic Park is an award-winning baseball and softball complex that features five lighted fields with stateof-the-art playing surfaces. Permanent field distances are 310 feet, with temporary fencing available at 200 feet. The facility also includes covered spectator seating and concessions. Tie Breaker hosts local recreational events on weekdays and a full schedule of youth and adult baseball and softball travel team tournaments from April through early October.
