Louisville Tourism recently unveiled a new Black Heritage tour collection — the Unfiltered Truth Collection — inviting Louisville visitors to discover the past, present and future of the African American community in Louisville.
“For so many things that make Louisville unique — from Bourbon to horse racing, to food traditions and even the Greatness himself, Muhammad Ali — countless people of color have contributed their gifts to build the city’s vibrant culture,” said Rosanne Mastin, marketing communications manager at Louisville Tourism.
The collection features local attractions and businesses that will offer new exhibits and experiences for visitors to explore Black history and heritage — with emphasis on the bourbon and horse racing industries and Muhammad Ali Tourism.
“All attractions are accessible to be set up for group tours,” Mastin said. “Just contact the individual attraction to arrange your group’s experience.”
The Ideal Bartender Experience at Evan Williams Bourbon Experience takes groups back in time to the final days of Prohibition. Meet Louisville legend and renowned bartender, Tom Bullock — the first Black American to write and publish a cocktail book. Sit back for an immersive presentation, then enjoy one of his famous cocktails.
Currently, the Kentucky Derby Museum offers two experiences highlighting the African American community’s impact on horse racing.
Proud of My Calling, An African American Experience in the Kentucky Derby uses costumed actors, paintings, artifacts and photos to tell the story of the many Black jockeys, trainers, farriers and grooms of the Kentucky Derby. Take a walking tour through Churchill Downs and learn about the many famous and lesser-known African American horse racing figures with the African Americans in Thoroughbred Racing Tour.
Once doors open, the new ROOTS 101: African American Museum will display local and national artifacts helping visitors to understand the experience of African Americans in Kentucky and beyond. Mastin says the museum will most likely open later in the year.
Other Louisville attractions participating in the tour collection include The Kentucky Center for African American Heritage, Frazier History Museum, Locust Grove and Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.
“Louisville Tourism has a new website page dedicated to all of Louisville’s Black Heritage Experiences,” Mastin said. This page provides a rundown of the Unfiltered Truth Collection; important attractions and stops highlighting Black heritage; and 24-, 48- and 72-hour itineraries.
For more information on the new tour collection, visit gotolouisville.com/black-heritage.
