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LOUISVILLE'S SPIRIT ENHANCES YOUR MEETING EXPERIENCE THERE B Y D O S W E L L I N G R A M Yes, Bourbon is a spirit that comes in a glass, but it's also the spirit that defines the city's culture, arts and parks, and cre- ative energy. It's this kind of spirit that helped create Louisville itself - a city that combines heritage with innovation, authenticity with originality, and quirkiness with friendliness in a way that's completely unique to the region. It's an entirely different type of Southern. With a booming bourbon ren- aissance, iconic attractions, world-class hotels and venues, and a renowned culi- nary scene, Louisville is an experience like no other city that is sure to WOW your delegates. From the expanded and renovated convention center to the thriving culinary scene and popular Urban Bourbon Trail, Louisville offers you and your attendees plenty of pre- and post-conference activ- ities all within the downtown district. With Louisville's unique brand of Southern hospitality and 6,000 hotel rooms within walking distance of the convention cen- ter, it is easy to see why meeting atten- dees always have an unforgettable and fun time here. The Kentucky International Convention Center serves as the states largest meet- ing venue. The building's exhibit space has increased from 146,000 to over 200,000 square feet of Class A space featuring a 40,000-sq. ft., column-free ballroom. This main ballroom allows you to customize the venue to your needs with color-changing LED walls and has the kitchen capacity to create an aston- ishing 15,000 meals per day. With 52 meeting rooms and a 175-seat tiered conference theater, the LEED Silver certified Kentucky International Convention Center is also home to 100,000 square feet of pre-function space, advanced Wi-Fi technology and features the unique Oak & Brew—an on- site coffee shop and bourbon bar, perfect for attendees to catch- up in between ses- sions. No matter your group's budget, the downtown area is home to affordable and upscale accom- modations. Set among dining, nightlife and meeting venues is the historic Galt House Hotel & Suites located along the Ohio River and the historic Brown Hotel—both legends in the Louisville history. More affordable options in the downtown area include the Embassy Suites Louisville Downtown, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Louisville Downtown and the Courtyard by Marriott Downtown. Both the Hyatt Regency Louisville and the Marriott Louisville Downtown connect directly to the Kentucky International Convention Center. Louisville is unique in that the down- town area is pedestrian friendly with iconic attractions and 130 restaurants within walking distance of the conven- tion center. From nightlife and historic museums to honoring heroes and enjoying a bit of sports fun—there's plenty to explore in downtown Louisville. Save time to visit Whiskey Row, the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, the popular 4th Street Live, the Frazier History Museum and more. Founded by Lamont Collins in 2019, The Roots 101 African-American History Museum is a place for visitors to see themselves in history, to explore the African-American story entirety, and to curate a greater understanding of the achievements, cultural contributions, and the experiences of African-Americans. The museum gets its name from the idea that the first-class taken on any subject in higher education is a 101, and applies that idea to the exhibits to create an immersive beginning to learning African- American history. Its new location at 124 N. 1st St. had its grand opening in June of 2021, and the museum continues to make patrons better ancestors through exhibits that raise awareness of the African-American experience from slavery to freedom. Be sure to con- tact Louisville Tourism's president CEO Cleo Battle if you are contemplat- ing bringing an event to Louisville. He and his crack team will provide you all of the sup- port you need to make your meeting there a success. B M & T ••• March/April 2023 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 52 L O U I S V I L L E • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS Marriott Louisville Downtown 616 Hyatt Regency Louisville 393 Embassy Suites Louisville Downtown 304 Courtyard by Marriott Downtown 140 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Kentucky International Convention Center Total Space 200,000sq. ft. Largest Hall 80,136 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom 40,000 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 52 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Louisville Tourism – (888) 568-4784 www.gotolouisville.com Kentucky International Convention Center at night photo credit: Louisville Tourism AREA GUIDES