Louisville, Kentucky
With more than 120 attractions, many of them one-of-a-kind, Louisville has something for every age and interest. Discover the history of the city’s beginnings on the Ohio River, the traditions of the Kentucky Derby or the makings of the legendary Louisville Slugger. The life and ideals of Muhammad Ali can be explored at a magnificent center in his hometown. Take time to explore the city’s nooks and crannies in neighborhoods like Old Louisville. Visit the “Urban Bourbon Trail,” where you can raise a glass at six of the world’s best-stocked and most-celebrated whiskey bars. Or take a short drive to one of Bourbon Country’s famous distilleries. Live Thoroughbred racing is offered at Churchill Downs in the spring and fall, and simulcast wagering is offered year-round.
The list of must-see attractions goes on and on, from baby animals at the zoo to unique museums and historic homes. So what are you waiting for? Dive into the details of the search and we think you’ll agree that Louisville has something for everyone!
Come early to enjoy “Thunder over Louisville” – Saturday, April 18th, 2009
Rated as one of the top 100 events in North America, the Derby Festival’s Opening Ceremonies is truly a sight to behold. And each year, more than 500,000 eager thrill-seekers do just that. The day-long event kicks off the two exciting weeks of events that are part of the annual Kentucky Derby Festival. The Thunder Air Show dazzles the crowd with more than 100 planes, aerobatics teams, daring sky diving teams and breathtaking stunts. When it gets dark, the Thunder rolls. The fireworks will feature the latest in pyrotechnic power from Zambelli Internationale, America's "first family of fireworks". Eight 400-foot barges assemble on both sides of the 2nd Street Bridge to form the stage from which the fireworks spectacular ignites. The breathtaking and mind-numbing 28-minute show includes Thunder’s signature one-mile “waterfall” effect off the bridge, making the fireworks seem to rain down forever. The Galt House sits right on the water by the bridge.
Accommodations – Galt House Hotel and Suites | 140 North Fourth Street | Louisville, KY 40202
The Galt House Hotel and Suites is one of the largest hotels in the Southeast. Louisville’s Waterfront Hotel and Convention Complex is the most splendid and accommodating hotel in the city. The Galt House offers what no other hotel can. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi in all guest rooms, 6 restaurants, a rooftop Fitness Center, Triple Crown Club and 2,500 covered parking spaces. A Skywalk connects the hotel to the 4th Street Live! entertainment district. We will be staying at a very special time. Those who arrive on Saturday will be on site to enjoy the wonderful celebration called “Thunder Over Louisville”. (See above for information). This makes it a necessity to have 2 rates for stay in the contract. If you arrive earlier than Sunday, April 19 to enjoy “Thunder” the rate is a little higher. Please note this when registering. Check out their website at www.galthouse.com
This Year’s Rates: The Galt House Hotel & Suites will offer the following guaranteed room rates for April 2009:
| Room rates do not include state and local taxes. There is a maximum of four persons per room. These rates will apply 3 days before (other than April 18th) and 3 days after the official dates of the meeting, based on availability. YOU MUST HAVE YOUR HOTEL RESERVATIONS IN BY MARCH 25, 2009 TO RECEIVE THE DESIGNATED RATES. Reservation requests after the due date will be accepted on a space available basis at the group rate – but there is no guarantee of availability. Please make reservations early! | ||||||||||||||||||||||
To make individual reservations by internet: www.galthouse.com refer to code: 397372. A link to the hotel reservation is also available from the conference area on the GMS website – www.gmsactg.com
To make reservations for individual or multiple rooms by phone call: 502.589.5200 or 1-800-the-Galt (843-4258). Please request the group rate for Grants Management Systems or GMS. A confirmation number can be attained.
Self parking and valet will be available at the hotel at the current prevailing rate.
Airport Transportation can be arranged through the hotel for a fee by calling 502-561-4011 or going to www.galthouseshuttle.com. Taxi cabs are also available at the airport, as well as rental cars and city bus service.
Spouses and Guests
Spouses and guests who will be traveling with you are welcome to attend the Sunday and Thursday evening receptions and the opening session with a comical entertainer. The continental breakfast is only for registered attendees wearing a name tag.