Howard Steamboat Museum

Visiting the Howard Steamboat Museum is like taking a trip back in time to when the mighty riverboats claimed the Ohio River and steamship was the only way to travel. Howard Steamboat Museum is a time-capsule of that Steamboat era, with two floors of memorabilia, models, books, paintings, furniture and more. The entire 1894 home stands much the way it did when the Howards, then owners of world-famous JeffBoat, made and manufactured steamboats and steamships that were used the world over. This hidden gem, located just over the river from Louisville, Kentucky, is one of only five steamboat museums in the United States and the only one to be in the home of one of the most prolific builders of those famous boats.

How to get to Howard Steamboat Museum
Howard Steamboat Museum is located conveniently right across the Ohio River from Louisville, KY. Just take the JFK Memorial I-65 bridge from Kentucky into Indiana. Take the very first exit, Exit 0, Downtown Jeffersonville. Make a right on Court Avenue and keep driving towards the Ohio River. The Museum is located just one block up.

Best and worst times to go
The best time to go is during the week, when the crowds are low. During this time, its possible to have a private tour with one of the volunteers who will answer any and all questions you have about steamboats and river travel. The worst time to go is during the Derby season, the Kentucky Derby Festival, the two weeks proceeding the Kentucky Derby as crowds on both sides of the river makes travel virtually impossible.

Admission to the Howard Steamboat Museum
The Museum is open Saturday through Sunday, and closed on Monday. Admission is less than $10 per ticket and even cheaper for seniors, children, and the military.

Must see/do at the Howard Steamboat Museum
Be sure to stop in on the bottom floor and see the "man cave". This gentleman's den has a hand-carved and created chair made almost entirely of horns and animal skins. Also, if weather permits, take a tour around the property. There are many paddlewheels around the grounds and even an iron "jail" used in a steamboat for misbehaving guests.

Insiders tips at the Howard Steamboat Museum
Even though this is a guided tour, don't feel as if you need to be rushed. The guides do have a script, but love answering questions and sharing what they know. Each room has tons of history to see and plaques to read and the guides will go at your own pace, if you ask.

Author's bio: CC Thomas is a native Kentuckian and an adopted Hoosier who loves to travel. Follow the adventure at www.iknowfuntravel.blogspot.com.