Our Guide to The Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow

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Clear your calendars, outdoors enthusiasts! The Discover Boating® Louisville Boat RV & Sportshow®, in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, is returning to the Kentucky Exposition Center on January 22-26, 2025.

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 

Louisville-Boat-Show

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, comparing any options you might want to check out is easy. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to network with fellow outdoors enthusiasts and boat and RV dealers (which might be useful later). 

Visit the Boat Finder

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 23. 

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.

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. 22 and 23) 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 4105 to relax, enjoy live music, and kick back with a drink.

5. 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.

6. Little Skippers can Play Bumper Boats

Let your kiddos experience a splash-tastic adventure in the Bumper Boat pool – spinning, whirling, and bumping into their fellow boaters. It's open to children up to 60" tall.

7. Meet Wakeboard Pros

Are there any wakeboarders in the house? Stop by the Wake Zone in booth 2110 to meet pros, including professional wakeboarder Chad Sharpe and watersports equipment expert Jordan "Maxy" Maxymek, and receive insider pointers and tips to level up your skills. Plus, don't forget to check out the latest water gear and toys.

8. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (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!

9. 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 1120). Our tech experts will provide tips, tricks, and DIY advice for both first-time boaters and experienced boaters. 

10. Licenses from the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife

Booth 1000 will be your one-stop shop for all things schedules, rules, and regulations for Kentucky's 2025 boating, fishing, and hunting seasons. You can also purchase licenses. 

Kentucky law enforcement and fisheries biologists will be available to answer any of your questions. 

11. Take a Boat Safety Course

Join the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources for in-person Boater Education Classes on Jan. 25, 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.

12. Go Fishing in the Kids' 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.

13. Get Career Advice from Industry Pros

Is a marine or RV career in your future? Swing by the South Wing B Lobby on Friday, January 24, from 11 am to 12 pm for career advice from boating and RV industry professionals. Open to all high school, trade/vocational school, and community college students, this is an excellent opportunity to learn about the necessary skills, training, and education to join the nautical workforce. 

14. Donate Your Gently Used Life Jackets

Managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources (KDFWR), the Life Jacket Loaner Station 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. And for each life jacket you contribute, you'll earn an entry into a drawing for a chance to win a KDFWR Swag Collection!

Ticket Information 

Louisville-Boat-Show

Ready to grab your Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow tickets? Purchase general admission tickets online for $12 for adults aged 13 and older. (Adult tickets are $14 at the door.) And children under 12 are FREE with a paying adult! 

Buy Tickets Here

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 $13. 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. 

Check out our guide on Boat Show Etiquette: The Dos and Dont's of Attending a Boat Show.