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

Clear your calendars, outdoors enthusiasts! The 2023 Discover Boating® Louisville Boat RV & Sportshow®, in partnership with Progressive® Insurance, is returning January 25-29, 2023, to the Kentucky Exposition Center. 

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 one of the best places for first-time boaters and adventure-seekers to their dream boat or RV. 

Because they display many brands and models under one roof, it’s easy to compare any options you might be interested in checking out. Additionally, there are plenty of opportunities to network with fellow outdoors enthusiasts, boat & RV dealers (which might come in handy later).  

Before attending the show, check out our Discover Boating Louisville Boat Finder. Essentially, it lists all the boats at this year’s show. You can browse your options and determine which brands or models you’re interested in viewing. 

Check Out Our Boat Finder Tool

2. Salute Our Heroes

To express our gratitude for your service, all active/veteran military, active/retired first responders, and USCG/USCGA members will receive free admission on Thursday (1/26). All you have to do is show your military ID (or equivalent) and a photo ID. 

3. Enjoy $5 After 5 pm Deals

Why bother with the weekend crowds? Swing by on Thursday (1/26) after 5 pm for discounted admission tickets ($5). 

4. Meet Wakeboard Pros

Are there any wakeboarders in the house? Stop by the wake zone to meet pros Chad Sharpe and Massi Piffaretti, enjoy live music performances by Modern country artist Kevin Jaggers, and receive insider tips to level up your skills.  

5. Try Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)

Ever wanted to try stand-up paddle boarding? Well, now’s your chance! The Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow will feature a paddle sports pool for guests to demo kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, and other paddle sports. 

6. 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. Our tech experts will provide tips, tricks, and DIY advice for both first-time boaters and experienced road trippers. 

7. 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 2023 boating, fishing, and hunting seasons. You can also purchase licenses. 

8. 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 try. And if that’s not your thing, you can help yourself to a Four Roses Bourbon Signature Cocktail. 

9. Grab a Bite at the Food Court

Don’t worry—there will be plenty of food available in the food court located in East Hall. Levy’s will be dishing out delicious grub and ice-cold beverages for guests to enjoy. 

10. 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! Not only is this a terrific time to introduce youngsters to the sport of fishing, but it’s free for everyone 12 and younger. 

11. 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. 

Ticket Information

Ready to grab your Discover Boating Louisville Boat, RV & Sportshow tickets? General admission is $14 for adults aged 13 and older. (And children under 12 are FREE with a paying adult.) As we mentioned, general admission costs $5 after 5 pm on Thursday (1/26).  

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 $10 (buses cost $20). 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.