A Long Weekend in Louisville, KY

Skip to Trip Info Box

We usually roll into campgrounds with an RV, which requires logistics and has a specific rhythm to it. This time was different. For our long weekend in Louisville, we stayed in a stationary Airstream at Progress Park, and it completely changed the pace for us.

Progress Park is built for play, so we spent most of our time with the kids in the water — kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming in the small lake right in the middle of the park. When we needed something different we bounced between outdoor games (giant chess, pickleball, basketball, playground, to name a few), explored the short nature trails, relaxed on the swing and hammock, and in the evening, gathered around the fire pit in the spectacular outdoor private space.

The Airstream itself was updated and comfortable — just enough space for sleeping, snacking, and collapsing at the end of an active day.

The park is really not crowded, even when fully booked, and each Airstream unit has its own private beautiful patio, and assigned beach on the lake.

The paddleboards and kayaks are included as part of the experience, which we loved.

Midway through the weekend, we did venture out once — to walk the Big Four Bridge downtown, the longest pedestrian bridge over the Ohio river, that connects Louisville to Jeffersonville, Indiana. It was wild to “walk to another state,” and the views over the river were worth the trip.

What makes Progress Park stand out is how self-contained it is. We kept thinking how fun it would be to return with friends or extended family — each Airstream has its own defined area, but you’re still close enough to gather. We also learned the park hosts weddings and private events, and you can see why. The layout and atmosphere fit that perfectly.

Even though this park is tucked so close to the city, you feel far from the hectic rhythm. This short getaway reminded us that sometimes planting ourselves in one spot — especially one designed for outdoor fun — is exactly the reset our family needs.

If You Go

The weather in Louisville, KY, is appropriate for water and outdoor activities during May through September.

• Location: Progress Park, Louisville, KY

• Book through: https://www.progressparkky.com/

• Best for: Families with kids who like the outdoors

• Bring: Swimsuits, water shoes, food & snacks, yard games, and bikes/scooters for zipping around

• Stay: Airstream rentals include private patios, lake access, kayaks, and paddleboards

Check out these recipes for cooking in a tiny kitchen -

Couscous Salad

Creamy Lentils Stew

GF Power Bowl

Shakshuka

Savory Stir Fry

Hazelnut Chocolate Pancakes

Chocolate Chip Pancakes