Yew Dell Botanical Gardens
What began as 33 acres of farmland in 1941 became a nationally acclaimed garden when Yew Dell opened to the public in 2004. Theodore and Martha Klein spent a half-century converting the land into gardens, introducing 60 plant species.
“It’s been there for a while, but as I’ve been talking to tour operators, I’ve noticed they’ve started to want to include it in their tours a lot,” said Robertson. “Yew Dell already welcomed groups, but we recently helped them build a group package that is specifically aimed at motorcoach travelers.”
Group pricing and customization ensures a number of different types of groups will love wandering through the continuously blossoming grounds. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the garden features a range of flora that hails from as far away as the American Southwest and the Himalayas.
The Serpentine Gardens showcases a collection of evergreens and yew hedges, and a walled garden displays seasonal annuals and perennials. Nature lovers will seek out the garden trails that meander through a natural arboretum and into wilder areas teaming with wildlife.
The Secret Garden has become a favorite, as the section can be entered only through a double row of American holly trees that form an evergreen tunnel. A replica of a medieval castle, which was once a pool house for the family, stands out amid the flowers.
Groups can arrange a catered meal on the grounds for a longer stay.
Big Four Bridge
Visitors can see the city while floating across a pedestrian bridge on a Segway tour of the Big Four Bridge. The one-mile pedestrian bridge officially opened to the public in 2014.
Groups can either stroll along the bridge across the Ohio River into Jeffersonville, Indiana, on their own, or they can take a guided Segway tour with Wheel Fun Rentals.
Those opting for the Segway tour complete orientation before exploring Louisville’s 85-acre Waterfront Park and Big Four Bridge. Guides share fun facts and stories while they breeze past local art, sculptures, the Lincoln Memorial and the Big Four Bridge’s incomparable view of the Louisville skyline.
Wheel Fun Rentals also rents tandem bikes, paddleboards, bumper boats, canoes and kayaks. A self-guided bike tour takes riders past some of the city’s most interesting destinations, such as the Louisville Slugger Museum, East Market Galleries and Belvedere.
“The Big Four Bridge appeals to many groups,” said Robertson. “The bridge leads you into downtown Jeffersonville shops, which are wonderful local shops.”
Musicians and other performers serenade pedestrians and cyclists alike to add a festival-like air to the Big Four Bridge experience.
Sample Bourbon Across Kentucky
Louisville’s bourbon scene continues to grow alongside the rest of the state. Groups can choose from a number of bourbon tours throughout Kentucky, including three separate bourbon trails. Find out more about these aromatic experiences with our online article, “Kentucky Bourbon Stops.”
For more information go to www.gotolouiville.com
