The Best Hotels with Pools to Book in Louisville, Kentucky

Attention, shoppers: this Hilton is neighbors with the Mall of St Matthews — the first enclosed suburban shopping mall in Kentucky. Today, it’s a sprawling, million-square-foot complex with all the trappings you expect: shops galore, sit-down and fast-casual dining, a movie theater and, of course, hot pretzel kiosks – just and try resist walking by without buying one. And when you’re ready to drop? The hotel has a heated indoor pool, 24-hour snack store and elegant, understated rooms.

Housed in the bones of a building that dates back to the 1800s, this hotel is a winner for its central location, proximity to Museum Row and Whiskey Row, and scenic setting by the Ohio River waterfront. In warmer weather, the outdoor pool is the place to be, while the cozy on-site restaurants, bars and lounges offer a warm embrace in the winter. Whiskey drinkers in particular will be interested in Jockey Silks Bourbon Bar, a key stop on the city’s Urban Bourbon Trail.

The indoor heated pool at Hyatt Regency Louisville offers a soothing respite from the energy of the 4th Street Live! entertainment district in downtown that awaits outside the front doors. As does the on-site Sway restaurant, serving seasonal Southern fare sourced from local farms, dairies and butchers in a sophisticated, low-lit setting. As for the guest rooms? Most of them come with grand views of the city, so you can feel so-close-and-yet-so-far when you need to retreat from the urban circus.

Combining your Louisville weekend with a little work? This downtown hotel is conveniently connected via skywalk to Kentucky International Convention Center. And, when the handshakes are over, you can let your hair down at 4th Street Live! entertainment district, just round the corner. Sophisticated rooms offer twinkling views of downtown and the Ohio River, as does the outstanding indoor pool, with its floor-to-ceiling windows.

For city lovers, downtown Louisville is the place to be. And Fairfield Inn & Suites Louisville Downtown puts you within walking distance of all the action. Bourbon drinkers will want to pencil in some time to make the two-block walk to Old Forester Distilling Co, where they can take a tongue-tingling tour to learn about the magic behind the much-loved amber liquor. Grab free breakfast and a swim at the heated indoor pool before making the quick drive to local hot spots like the Louisville Zoo.

The East Market District of downtown, known as NuLu (New Louisville), is the city’s go-to spot for hip restaurants, art galleries, specialty stores and antique shops. Which makes Home2 Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown NuLu, just a short walk away, any self-respecting hipster’s home base. You may be too cool for school, but don’t skip the complimentary hot breakfast, or a dip in the heated indoor pool.

A central downtown location? Check. Walking distance to attractions, entertainment and restaurants? Check. Signature hot waffles? Check, check and check. Hampton Inn Louisville Downtown covers all the basics for an adventure in the River City, plus adds a splash with an indoor pool, fitness center and business center. Walk a few blocks north to the riverfront, east to NuLu, or west for 4th Street happenings.