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Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse

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Interior
2 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Interior
Interior
Interior

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View in a map
Louisville, KY
  • Place, Nulu Market Place
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Louisville Waterfront Park
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Lynn Family Stadium
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.)
    ‪10 min drive‬

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About the neighborhood

Louisville

Located in Downtown Louisville, this vacation home is next to Ohio River Valley and Thomas Edison House. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a balcony.
View more Vacation Homes in LouisvilleOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Nulu Market Place - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Louisville Waterfront Park - 8 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Lynn Family Stadium - 8 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Louisville Slugger Field - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • KFC Yum Center - 19 min walk - 1.0 mile

Getting around

  • Louisville, KY (LOU-Bowman Field) - 13 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Fifth Third Club - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Decade - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Play - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪The Last Refuge - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪La Bodeguita De Mima - ‬6 min walk

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse

Welcome to the Shantyboathouse! Recognized as a truly unique property, it has twice been featured in the Courier-Journal and was honored with a historical plaque by the Louisville Landmarks Commission in 2019. According to a 1976 newspaper article, a local legend recounts that the house floated up the river during the 1937 flood, and was later set on a foundation—earning it the enduring nickname, "the shanty boat." This rich history adds to the property's distinctive character and charm.
The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a balcony, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a sofa bed.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Kitchen island
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Fenced yard
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city center
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo

Things to do

  • Golfing nearby
  • Theme park nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items and take out the trash
Lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 3-17

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25
Property Registration Number LIC-STL-20-00600

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do within easy reach of this vacation home?

This vacation home is situated in Downtown Louisville, just steps from Ohio River Valley and Thomas Edison House, and within a short walk of Nulu Market Place. You'll also find KFC Yum Center and Louisville Slugger Museum within a short drive.

Is there parking available at this vacation home?

No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.

Is this vacation home next to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, this vacation home doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

Is Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this vacation home include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.

Are there hot tubs at Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse?

Yes, this vacation home has a spa tub.

Does this vacation home offer breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Does this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Louisville, KY (LOU-Bowman Field), which is 6.9 mi away (13 minutes by car). Another top airport is Louisville Intl. Airport (SDF), which is located 9.6 mi away (16-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse?

Yes, every accommodation at Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse comes with a balcony.

Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 27 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 27 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Joe V.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay was wonderful. Colin was prompt in messaging us if we had any questions, and he made the check-in and check-out process easy with his instructions. The house was very well furnished, and we felt incredibly comfortable during our two nights at the Old ShantyBoat House.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026

10/10 Excellent

Debbie W., Maple Shade,NJ

Liked: Cleanliness
Our host was very easy to work with and the accommodations were outstanding.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina B.

Liked: Cleanliness
This place was absolutely stunning! And the host was always quick to respond with all of my questions and gave such lovely recommendations of things within walking distance that I could go do. 10 out of 10 would recommend this place!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

S D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Colin is the perfect host, super responsive and helpful. He has the house, the check in and out process all set up so well you likely won't need anything at all. Perfect location, easy to walk to great coffee places, and restaurants, as well as distilleries. The house was plenty of space for 2 couples. The outdoor area was awesome! 5/5, will come back!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keith S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place, great communication from owner.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew D.

Liked: Cleanliness
We absolutely loved our stay! Awesome house in a fantastic location. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott L.

Liked: Cleanliness

3 Days on Bourbon Trail

We love, love, love this rental! While the location was just outside of downtown, you could easily take a short 7-8 uber to the Urban Bourbon Trail and other sites downtown. The best aspect of the location is that it is walking distance to restaurants, bars and coffee shops.The kitchen is well-stocked and the host even provided snacks and a bottle of wine upon arrival. The outside patio was perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Note that there is a bathroom with a bathtub on the first floor, one shower in the upstairs bathroom and the spiral staircase to go up and down on. When we were younger, we had an apartment with a spiral staircase so that brought back some fond memories. The owner gave great advice on bringing luggage up the outside staircase at the back of the house that leads to the second floor. The was plenty of open parking spaces on the street and a parking pad behind a gate in the backyard. We didn't use the hot tub since it was pretty hot in July, but the hot tub was clean and appeared to be in working well. Don't wait. You should book this rental now with confidence!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chris K., Upperco, MD

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Stay in Louisville

The house was great and had everything we needed. I really enjoyed all the history of the house. The neighborhood was really nice and an easy walk to food and drinks. I would stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome stay

The Shantyboathouse did not disappoint. Colin and Whitney thought of everything and communication was excellent. The reno of the property is beautiful and the area was walkable to restaurants and bars. Four of us stayed and it was the perfect location to explore Louisville. We did a ghost tour in old Louisville, bourbon tours, race day at Churchill Downs and a tour of a horse farm. It was a wonderful trip.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sara H.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Spring Break trip!

We had an awesome stay! What a cool house and location. We walked to coffee shops, bars and even a Louisville Bats game. We hung out in the hot tub each night watching movies. Highly recommended!
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved our stay

Colin is an amazing host! Great communication, responsiveness and hospitality. We stayed for a week with our family of four (kids ages 9 & 12). The hot tub was a hit for us all but especially the kids! It became a nightly tradition.Leading up to our trip, Colin ensured we were all set, shared the instructions for the house and even offered to recommend things for our family to do - which we took him up on! The house is also within walking distance to so many things!We loved the house and all the little touches inside. How often can you say you stayed in a piece of history? No detail was left unturned from the very generous welcome basket, to the toiletries in the bathrooms that we were able to use, to all the necessities we needed - paper towels, detergent, etc.Our kids had a blast. We went to the Frazier Museum one of the days we were there and there was a wall of post it notes that people could write their favorite thing about Kentucky. Both my kids wrote "The Shanty Boathouse" :)Thank you Colin for the amazing stay! We hope to be back. The Boklewski's
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ines D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing Stay!

We loved everything about the house, very well stocked and decorated, the owner thinks of everything, the kitchen had cooking oil, many spices and a full coffee bar with creamers and coffee flavors it was great to know we didnt need to shop for those essential items at the store. Backyard is super cute and comfortable, bbq and the jacuzzi perfect after returning from a long day exploring. Location is great too walking distance to a lot of great restaurants. We’ll be returning for sure
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natasha B., Atlanta, ga

Liked: Cleanliness

“Yaya this place is legit!”

My granddaughters first reaction to the Shanty house was to tell me the place was “legit!” Coming from a 6 year old I’d say that’s pretty good. We loved our stay and wished we could have stayed longer than 2 nights. We were in and out for Christmas. We spent our first day off site so we really only got 1 day to hang out at the property. Everything has been thought of!!! I cooked a full meal and everything I needed was there. I packed extra for no reason! My husband grilled and again we made unnecessary purchases because it was already there. If I had to complain the only thing I would say is an earlier check in would be nice, 4 is a bit late.Overall, we had a 5 star experience and I hope we get to stay again!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lance S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Stay in Louisville

We had a great time staying at Shanty Boat House. We love historic homes and live in one built in 1889. This home has just as cool history. It is in a great up and coming neighborhood which we like with many great options for shopping, food, and beverages! My only caution is make sure everyone in party is ok with stairs. The home was very well stocked and in great shape!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katrina G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Shanty Boathouse

Host was so helpful with recommendations, waters and snacks left for us and a card. Very prompt to respond as well.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jessica Y.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous property!

The renovations and amenities were exceptional. Great communication and accommodation from the hosts. Would definitely recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Home - Perfect Location

The property was exactly as advertised and the owner was tremendously responsive. The home was perfectly located for us to explore Louisville. There were so many pubs, restaurants, and shops well within walking distance, yet the neighborhood was extremely quiet and peaceful. We definitely hit a home run when we selected this property for vacation. Thank you Colin!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing space in Louisville

We stayed at the Shanty boat house for our girls weekend and it was amazing. The space was perfect for our group of five. The location was walkable to tons of fun bars, restaurants, and shops, and only a short ride away from other attractions. It was nice to come home after a long day, walking and soak our legs in the hot tub. The place was spotlessly clean, and came with every single amenity you could think of. There was even a lovely care basket for when we arrived, it was such a nice touch. We are already planning our next trip back because of how great it was.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Meghan O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great place!

Beautiful house, fun neighborhood and a very hospitable property owner. Would absolutely go back again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

John W.

Liked: Cleanliness

A must stay

While there was some confusion on cost, the overall experience was incredible. The property has all of the amenities of a 5-star location. This property is on my must stay list for the next time I am in Louisville for a long weekend.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful place!

Outstanding spot for our weekend with friends. 2 couples and it worked out perfectly. Excellent communication with Colin prior to our arrival and throughout the trip. Highly recommend this spot!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melissa G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great Times in Louisville

Excellent property for a trip to Louisville. Good location, great outdoor space, and even better property managers. Can’t recommend this place enough!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Doug S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great house. Fun location

Very interesting historic house that was perfect for our small group. Great outdoor space for hanging out. Good location for walking around Butchertown. Colin, the host, was very helpful and communicated well.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Taylor C.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great House and Location

House was great for our girls trip - clean, comfortable and just as listed. Location was very good, close to restaurants and easy to Uber if needed. Wish we had more time and better weather to enjoy the nice backyard. Host was very responsive and accommodating. Would definitely recommend!
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie K.

Liked: Cleanliness

10 out of 10 Rental

This beautiful rental did not disappoint and learning about it's history was so fun. As a family we have stayed at over 10 different properties over the years and Colin by far was the best host we've had. This property is exacting as portrayed online. Walkable to many restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques. Also anywhere we drove to was less than 10 minutes away. Highly recommend.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023