The Belle of Louisville is a grand example of the history of our region and the Ohio River. Built in 1914, it is the only remaining riverboat of its kind and we are lucky enough to have it right here on the banks of Kentucky. But what many don’t realize is that this iconic Kentucky landmark it not from Kentucky at all… it was built and imported from Pennsylvania! Here’s the history of the legendary Belle of Louisville.

With its location on the banks of the Ohio River, Louisville is a proud river town with the water playing a crucial role in its history and identity.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
The downtown business district of Louisville is located immediately south of the Ohio River, where the Belle of Louisville faithfully patrols the waters.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
The beautiful Belle of Louisville is a grand example of the history of our region and the Ohio River. Built in 1914, it is the only remaining riverboat of its kind and we are lucky enough to have it in Kentucky!
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
This historic riverboat was first known as the Idlewild and then the Avalon before it was purchased through an auction in 1962 and renamed the Belle of Louisville. And what many people don't realize is that this Kentucky icon actually got its start in... Pennsylvania!
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook

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Just after the turn of the century, the Belle of Louisville was built by James Rees & Sons Company in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for the West Memphis Packet Company. She initially operated as a passenger ferry between Memphis, Tennessee, and West Memphis, Arkansas. It wasn't until 1931 that this vessel arrived in Kentucky.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
She hauled cargo faithfully until the mid-century, ultimately falling into disrepair as railroad and automobile transport gained in popularity.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
In 1962, Jefferson County Judge Marlow Cook purchased the steamboat for $34,000 in hopes of reviving the waterfront. He renamed her the Belle of Louisville, restoring her to her former glory and prepping her for recreational cruises and travel.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
Beautiful and majestic, today, the Belle of Louisville is as much a part of the Louisville skyline as any of the city's bridges or buildings.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook
She is a Kentucky icon and truly the belle of the Bluegrass State!
Belle of Louisville Riverboats/Facebook

Did you know the history of this iconic Kentucky landmark? The Belle of Louisville is a true Bluegrass treasure and we don’t care how it got here — we’re just happy to claim it as ours.

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Belle of Louisville Riverboats, 401 W River Rd, Louisville, KY 40202, USA