Though most recently immortalized in song by Carrie Underwood, the Louisville Slugger has been around since 1884 when seventeen-year-old Bud Hillerich used his father’s woodworking shop to create a bat for pro ball player Pete Browning, also known as the “Louisville Slugger.” The rest, as they say, is history–and with a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, it can be fun for the entire family, too!
The Basics
Hours: Monday through Saturday: 9 am to 5 pm; Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm.
Summer hours: (June 19 through August 13): Open until 6 pm Sunday through Wednesday; Open until 8 pm Thursday through Saturday.
Admission: Adults $14; Kids (6-12): $8; Seniors (60+): $13; Kids 5 and under get in FREE!
Location: Conveniently located in downtown Louisville–just look for the World’s Biggest Bat if you’re having trouble finding it! (It weighs 68,000 pounds and reaches 120 feet into the sky, so you can’t miss it!)
The Factory
Louisville Sluggers are still in production today. The guided factory tour allows you to get up close and personal with each step of the process. You’ll hear fantastic stories about the history of the Slugger from your tour guide, and even get to see the “Louisville Slugger” brand leave its mark on the bats. After the tour, everyone gets their own piece of history: a free miniature Louisville Slugger bat! But remember: The last factory tour begins 30 minutes before closing, so make sure to plan accordingly.
The Museum
America’s favorite pastime is rich with history, and the Louisville Slugger Museum lets you get to know the fascinating details of one of its most important components: the bat. With displays from the greats like Joe DiMaggio and Babe Ruth, it’s every baseball fan’s dream come true.
The Signature Wall lets you see and touch the signatures of players who’ve signed contracts with Louisville Slugger–the same names that are burned into their bats–including Reggie Jackson, Cal Ripkin, Jr., and more. A visit to the Hold a Piece of History exhibit gives you hands-on access to the bats used by legends from Mickey Mantle to Derek Jeter. With at least one bat from every major league team, you’ll be sure to find your favorite.
The museum also features interactive fun. Bud’s Batting Cage allows visitors to hit with replicas of the bats used by legends, while Batter Up! Is a simulated pitching and hitting experience where you can see if you’ve got what it takes to make it in the Big Leagues.
There’s also a whole host of events and temporary exhibits throughout the year, so don’t forget to check the online calendar while planning your visit. To make sure you’re always in the know, sign up for the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory newsletter–you’ll also get a downloadable 10% off coupon!
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