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Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse

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Interior - Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse (Louisville)
Interior - Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse (Louisville)
Interior - Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse (Louisville)
3 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi - Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse (Louisville)
Interior - Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse (Louisville)
In the heart of Louisville's Butchertown neighborhood, Shantyboathouse offers a hip retreat. Stroll to trendy restaurants and bars or explore unique local shops in the NuLu district.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning

Add dates for prices

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.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

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

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 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.
  • In-room accessibility
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • 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

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Policies

Check-in

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

Check-out

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

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 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.

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession.
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
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
Property Registration Number LIC-STL-20-00600
If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with EU regulations about consumer rights, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal.

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Located in Downtown Louisville, a neighbourhood in Louisville, this holiday home is near theme parks and near a water park. KFC Yum Center and Louisville Slugger Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's popular attractions include Louisville Zoo and Kentucky Kingdom. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at L&N Federal Credit Union Stadium or Churchill Downs. Spend some time exploring the area's activities, including golfing and winery tours. Visit our Louisville travel guide
View more Holiday homes in Louisville
Map
Louisville, KY

What's nearby

  • #BigFourWalkingBridge #LouisvilleKentucky #USA Tribute to #Paris & #Peace in the #World #Blue #White #Red
    Louisville Waterfront Park
    8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Panorama Ohio River waterway riverboats and bridges leading to heart of downtown Louisville KY
    KFC Yum Center
    19 min walk - 1.6 km
  • Nulu Market Place
    3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Lynn Family Stadium
    8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Louisville Slugger Field
    9 min walk - 0.8 km

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

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 1 mi (2 km) of Ohio River Valley and KFC Yum Center. Thomas Edison House and Nulu Market Place are also within 5 minutes.

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Louisville's Award-Winning Historic Shantyboathouse Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 29 out of 29 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 29 reviews

10

Cleanliness

9.8

Location

Reviews

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

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

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

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
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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lance S.

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

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott M.

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

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Scott L.

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

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Natasha B.

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

“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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erica B.

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

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
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Taylor C.

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

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie K.

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

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
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Stephen M.

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

As Listed!

Amazing place to stay in a great neighborhood. Close to so many great bars/restaurants in Nulu and a quick trip to downtown. Perfect central location for numerous distilleries in Louisville and not too far from Bardstown, Lexington & Frankfort. Host was great! Responded immediately and was exceptionally attentive. The place is incredibly nice. Has every kitchen appliance and is a great space to hang out downstairs. Rooms and beds are big and everything is impeccably decorated with Louisville paraphernalia. Overall, stay here! We’ll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023