Only in Louisville: Louisville Water Tower Park

Louisville Water Tower Park Offers Settings for Concerts and Weddings

By Rachel Reynolds

Imagine saying “I do” on a sunny day beside the flowing Ohio River and then sitting down to a delightful dinner with champagne toasts.  The bride and groom relaxed and guests mingling indoors and outdoors.

The refurbished interior of Pumping Station #1 was completed in March 2014, and the location now plays host to an increasing number of private events and public gatherings.

“I would say the Tower is one of the most visually memorable landmarks in the city,” says Channa Newman, education supervisor at Louisville Water.  “It’s an iconic structure.”

Maximum capacity for a sit-down dinner at the station is 120-130, but there is also outdoor space including a terrace on the backside near the water.  It is open year round for rental.

The surrounding park, several football fields in size, is also the sight of community charity events and and concerts.

The park has been the sight of the LIBA Buy Local Fair for the last nine years. The fair continues to be a popular event for Louisville residents, and will be held on Sunday, May 20 in 2018.

“It seems to be more and more of a popular place for community walks like 5Ks,” Newman says.  Recent events include the Lung FORCE Walk and Waggin’ Trails fundraiser for the Kentucky Humane Society, which featured doggy pools, socializing and adoptable pets looking for new forever homes.

“It was fun to have 2-legged and 4-legged friends on site,” Newman says of the KHS event.  “People love Louisville Water Tower Park because there’s lots of space to have vendors, kids’ space, a stage and a beautiful backdrop with the river right there.” Residents can go to the website at louisvillewatertower.com to see a complete schedule of events.

Louisville Water has also opened up the Crescent Hill Gatehouse near the reservoir so that residents can experience the history of that Gothic structure, which was built in 1879.

“A lot of people walk at the Reservoir but don’t get a chance to go inside the Gatehouse,” Newman says.  The Gatehouse is open to view during Walking Wednesdays at the Reservoir that take place weekly during late mornings and early evenings.

“I just encourage people to come out and explore,” Newman says.  “It’s a great way for people to connect with the history of Louisville.” 


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