This free walking tour, led by local historian Rick Bell, will explore the history of Louisville’s riverfront and the development of today’s acclaimed Waterfront Park. Beginning at the Belle of Louisville’s landing at the Fourth Street wharf, the 90-minute tours will end at the Lincoln Memorial. Bell will describe the riverfront’s importance to the growth of Louisville from its founding during the American Revolution, through its glory days during the Steamboat Era, to its renaissance as one of the world’s most successful maritime recreational parks.

The tour will start on the wharf in front of the Belle of Louisville and will conclude at the Lincoln Memorial. Free parking is available in the park. A convenient location would be the Green Lot - park and follow the signs to walk to the Belle of Louisville. (see map for locations of the Belle, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Green Lot). The total walking distance from your car, through the tour, and back to your car is approximately 2 miles.