Clear your calendars, outdoors enthusiasts! The 2024 Discover Boating® Louisville Boat RV & Sportshow®, in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, is returning to the Kentucky Exposition Center on January 24-28, 2024.
As your one-stop shop for road-tripping and on-the-water adventures, you'll find hundreds of boats and RVs on display at this year's Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow. Additionally, there will be all sorts of activities for the whole family to enjoy!
It doesn't matter whether you're new to the great outdoors or a seasoned pro; this Louisville Show Guide has something for everyone.
What to Expect at the Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow
1. Buy a Boat or RV
Are you in the market for a new boat or RV? If so, you're in luck. Boat and outdoor shows are some of the best places for first-time boaters and adventure-seekers to find their dream boat or RV.
Because they display many brands and models under one roof, it's easy to compare any options you might want to check out. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to network with fellow outdoors enthusiasts and boat and RV dealers (which might be useful later).
Before attending the show, check out our Discover Boating Louisville Boat Finder, which lists all the boats at this year’s show. You can browse your options and determine which brands or models you want to view.
Check Out Our Boat Finder Tool
2. Salute Our Heroes
To express our gratitude for your service, all active and veteran military, first responders, and USCG & USCGA members can take advantage of FREE admission on Thursday, January 25.
Simply show your military, first responder, health care, or USCG & USCGA valid identification card and photo ID at Will Call to receive your complimentary ticket. This is sponsored by National Vet Help.
3. Enjoy $5 After 5 pm Deals
Do you want to avoid the weekend crowds? Swing by the Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow on Wednesday and Thursday (Jan. 24 and 25) after 5 pm for discounted admission tickets ($5).
4. Visit the Lake Life Lounge
Bring on the boating vibes this winter at the Lake Life Lounge! Visit Booth 2035 to relax, enjoy live music, and kick back with a drink.
5. Watch Cooking Demonstrations by Tim Farmer
Outdoorsman, host, and executive producer of Tim Farmer's Country Kitchen will be serving up good times and delicious eats at this year's show! Tim will share cooking tips and recipes in the Lake Life Lounge on Friday, Jan. 26, at 7 pm and Saturday, Jan. 27, at 2 pm. Don't miss it!
6. Meet Wakeboard Pros
Are there any wakeboarders in the house? Stop by the Wake Zone in booth 2105 to meet pros, including Chad Sharpe, and receive insider tips to level up your skills. Plus, don't forget to check out the latest water gear and toys.
7. Try Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
Have you ever wanted to try stand-up paddle boarding? Well, now's your chance! The Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow will feature a paddle sports pool for guests to demo kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and other paddle sports. No experience is needed!
After your demo ride, check out the latest paddle sports gear and watercrafts!
8. Explore Fred’s Shed How-To Center, Presented by Progressive® Insurance
If you have a boat, engine, or RV problem that you can't seem to fix, stop by Fred's Shed How-To Center (in Booth 2025). Our tech experts will provide tips, tricks, and DIY advice for both first-time boaters and experienced road trippers.
9. Licenses from the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife
Booth 1000 will be your one-stop shop for all things schedules, rules, and regulations for Kentucky's 2024 boating, fishing, and hunting seasons. You can also purchase licenses.
10. Taste Four Roses Bourbon
If browsing all the boats and RVs makes you thirsty, stop by the Four Roses Bourbon Lounge. Four Roses Award-Winning Family of Bourbons will be available for guests to sample. And if that's not your thing, you can help yourself to a Four Roses Bourbon Signature Cocktail!
On Saturday, don't miss two exciting cocktail demonstrations from Four Roses brand ambassador and mixologist, Abby Martinie. Abby will perform cocktail demonstrations from 1:15 to 2 pm and 3:15 to 4pm in the Four Roses Bourbon Lounge.
11. Go Fishing in the Kid's Trout Pond
The Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow is kid-friendly. Bring the little ones by the Kid's Trout Pond for some catch-and-release fishing! This is a terrific time to introduce youngsters to the sport of fishing.
12. Play in the Kids' Cove Fun Zone
Once they've finished fishing, bring your kids by the Kids' Cove Fun Zone. We've got many games and fun activities for them to enjoy—and it's FREE for everyone aged 5-12.
The latest addition to this year's Kids' Cove Fun Zone is an immersive encounter with dinosaurs! Children can now delve into the world of Jurassic creatures like never before. Engage with the Dinosaur Dimensions team and encounter four incredibly lifelike animatronic dinosaur puppets.
13. Learn About the Importance of Life Jackets
Managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources (KDFWR), this program promotes water safety. It offers stations across the state equipped with life jackets people can borrow for a day. Supporting this effort is easy: bring your gently used life jackets to Booth 1000. For each life jacket you contribute, you'll earn an entry into a drawing for a chance to win a KDFWR Swag Collection!
14. Watch a Puppy Pals Performance
Ideal for animal enthusiasts, this new show feature is sure to delight! Witness rescued and adopted dogs showcase incredible stunts and awe-inspiring acts in a thrilling, action-packed performance. These talented canines have even graced the stage of America's Got Talent. Check out the show's Features page for the complete performance schedule.
15. Listen to Live Music by Roger Weber
Roger Weber, an award-winning performer, music producer, and songwriter, will perform daily throughout the show. Find his full performance schedule on the show's Feature page.
16. Learn About the Excitement of Hydroplane Boats
Discover the thrill of Unlimited Hydroplane Boats up close at Booth 4120, courtesy of Guntersville Lake HydroFest and Madison Regatta.
Get an insider's look at these incredible vessels, their powerful engines, and the dedicated crew behind them. Experience the adrenaline of the 2023 racing season through captivating video footage and meet the skilled drivers who reach speeds of 200 mph on water.
Don't forget to register for a chance to win an exclusive VIP experience at the thrilling 2024 summer races!
17. Take a Boating Safety Course
Join the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources for in-person Boater Education Classes on Jan. 26 and 27, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. These instructor-led sessions will take place in room B-108, conveniently located between South Wing A and B at the Kentucky Expo Center. While the class is free, parking fees apply for entry onto the Expo Center grounds. Seats fill up fast, so secure your spot by registering here.
Ticket Information
Ready to grab your Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow tickets? Purchase general admission tickets online for $12 for adults aged 13 and older. Children under 12 are FREE with a paying adult!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow:
Can I Come Back on the Same Day?
Yes, attendees can leave and return on the same day. All you have to do is get your hand stamped on your way out. However, another ticket is required if you want to return another day.
Is the Show Handicapped-Accessible?
Yes, the show is handicapped-accessible. However, there will be no wheelchairs or scooters available for rent.
Is There Parking Available?
Sure is! Visitors can park in the Kentucky Exposition Center for $12 (buses cost $25). Handicapped parking is also available.
Can I Get on the Boats?
Considering boat shows are ideal for buying a boat, you can board most vessels. Keep in mind that each exhibitor might have their own boarding rules.
