— Best Museum (Sports)
- And the winner is...
- Muhammad Ali Center
The Basics
Opened: 2005
Neighborhood: Downtown
Self-description: “Continue Ali’s legacy and inspire greatness.”
Website: alicenter.orgBest of Louisville Stats
Total nominations: 3
Total wins: 1
First nomination: 1999, Best Anticipated Local Attraction
Also nominated for: 2006, Best Building Architecture
Total wins for Ali himself: 4, including 1998 for Best Athlete and 2010 for Best Celebrity You’d Most Like to MeetThe Voting Academy Says
“A calming, quiet vibe transports you back to a time that reminds you it’s OK to grow, learn and change. The beautiful photos, paintings and the space itself remind us all to talk to each other. And remind us that we can reach our goals while simultaneously trying to change the world.”
- And the other nominees are...
- Kentucky Derby Museum
The Basics
Opened: 1985
Neighborhood: Churchill Downs
Self-description: “Engage, educate and excite everyone about the extraordinary experience that is the Kentucky Derby.”
Website: derbymuseum.orgBest of Louisville Stats
Total nominations: 5
First nominations: 1987, Best Tourist Attraction, Best Place to Take Out-of-Town GuestsThe Voting Academy Says
“I learn new tidbits about our town every time I go.”
- Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
The Basics
Opened: 1996
Neighborhood: Downtown
Self-description: “Making baseball bats since 1884.”
Website: sluggermuseum.comBest of Louisville Stats
Total nominations: 7
Total wins: 1
Won: 2008, Best Product Made in Louisville
Past nomination: 2009, Best Louisville LandmarkThe Voting Academy Says
“I’m not a baseball fan, so I was shocked at how fascinating it all was the first time I toured it. You can smell it when they burn the logo into the wooden barrel. Also, people might think you’re a tourist, but no shame whatsoever in getting one of those little Slugger bats.”