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Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse

Photo gallery for Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse

Living area
A two-story house with a balcony, outdoor seating area, and a hot tub.
A spacious living area with a grey sofa, a coffee table with books, a dining table with chairs, and a kitchen in the background.
A modern kitchen with a central island, a dining area with a sofa, and a staircase leading to an upper level.
A spacious living area with a dining table, sofa, and TV.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area

Highlights

  • Firepit available
    One of the few properties with a dedicated outdoor firepit.
  • Walkable and wonderful
    Guests love the walkable location for its easy access on foot.
  • Discover nearby landmarks
    Close to Whiskey Row
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub on site
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue grill

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
    ‪9 min walk‬
  • Airport, Louisville, KY (SDF-Louisville Intl.)
    ‪9 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Common area 1

1 Double Futon

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Outdoor play area
Garden
Dining area

About this property

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.

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

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

Important information

You need to know

Property Registration Number LIC-STL-20-00600
Property # 2820508vb
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Louisville

Located in Downtown Louisville, a neighbourhood in Louisville, this holiday home is near theme parks and near a water park. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Louisville Waterfront Park and Louisville Mega Cavern, while KFC Yum Center and Louisville Slugger Museum are cultural highlights. Check out an event or a game at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium, and consider making time for Kentucky Kingdom, a top attraction not to be missed. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including golfing and winery tours.
View more Holiday homes in LouisvilleOpens in a new window
Map
Louisville, KY

What's nearby

  • Nulu Market Place - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Louisville Waterfront Park - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Lynn Family Stadium - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Louisville Slugger Field - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
  • Whiskey Row - 17 min walk - 1.5 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • ‪Fifth Third Club - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪The Last Refuge - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Tartan House - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Play - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Decade - ‬8 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse located?

Located in Downtown Louisville, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Ohio River Valley and Louisville Waterfront Park. Whiskey Row and KFC Yum Center are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 36 out of 36 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 36 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 36 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Barbara A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely wonderful stay! The house was clean, incredible comfortable, and beautifully maintained. The location was perfect and within walking distance to some of the best distilleries and fabulous restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doug W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great location and within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rachel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a really wonderful stay here. The house is so beautifully renovated and well stocked and we loved the neighborhood. Hosts could not have been nicer!
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We loved this property and its location. It was my husband’s 40th birthday, and we were in town for my son’s national archery tournament. It fit our needs and then some. We would love to stay at the Shanty Boat House again.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Debbie W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our host was very easy to work with and the accommodations were outstanding.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very nice with a great outdoor area! The kitchen was stocked with what we needed and location of property is walking distance to several great restaurants. Highly recommend! Host was so responsive! We hope to come back soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monique M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Easy to find, great location to popular dining and key tourist sites. The property is fabulous, comfortable, has everything you need & more! Colin was very responsive and provided great recommendations. Would definitely book again...maybe the weather will be better next time!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrew D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We absolutely loved our stay! Awesome house in a fantastic location. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

L O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our girls weekend here was perfect! The kitchen had everything we needed, comfy beds, spacious bathrooms, plenty of closet space. The backyard is so fun. The layout and the decor are cozy and we enjoyed seeing the history of the property posted around the house. It’s a great combo of an old Louisville house with modern updates. This house is a great getaway spot with plenty to do a couple streets over in NuLu. We felt safe and it is a quiet street. Thanks to the hosts!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joe V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Keith S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place, great communication from owner.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sabrina B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay and fantastic property!! FYI Google Maps takes you through the back alley when trying to park. Not sure if others have mentioned that but it may be worth calling out in your instructions.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Meghan O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place!

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

10/10 Excellent

Melissa G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jessica Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous property!

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

10/10 Excellent

S D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katrina G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location

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
Response from VrboOwner on 20 May, 2024
Hey John thanks again for staying with us! You are more than welcome to come back anytime you're in town!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Doug S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kelly S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ines D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

About the host

Hosted by Colin Clark

Host profile image
As a lifelong Louisville resident, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for everything this city has to offer. One of my favorite parts of hosting is meeting people from all walks of life and helping them experience Louisville like a local. Whether you’re here for work or adventure, I hope your stay gives you a chance to discover the charm, history, and hospitality that have made this city home for me for so many years.

Why they chose this property

The rich history of this property is what inspired me to bring it back to life. When I first discovered it, many people saw nothing more than a structure ready to be torn down. But I saw something different—I saw its potential and envisioned restoring it while preserving the incredible story it had to tell.

My hope has always been to share that story with visitors to Louisville by giving them a place to stay that’s more than just a home—it’s a piece of local history. During the restoration, I even discovered the original newspaper article lying among the remains of the dilapidated building. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did and that it helps you appreciate the unique history that makes this property so special.

What makes this property unique

Louisville is known for its iconic shotgun houses, but the Shantyboathouse stands apart from the rest. While traditional shotgun homes are typically built upward and outward, this one took a completely different approach—it was built downward and outward. It’s an unexpected architectural twist that adds another fascinating chapter to an already incredible story.

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