Those hallways are adorned with photographs showcasing Louisville’s most recognizable landmarks and experiences, including the University of Louisville’s The Thinker statue in front of Grawemeyer Hall – reiterating the institution’s dynamic connection to the city.Ěý

“These images are a great representation of Louisville and ensure so many of the community’s signature locations and experiences are highlighted,” said Dan Mann, executive director of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority. “The stunning images will greet visitors and give them a taste of what to expect during their stay here in Louisville.” 

Other renovations include new terrazzo flooring, a new ceiling, enhanced lighting fixtures and upgrades to the mechanical and electrical system.Ěý

“The new ‘Signature Louisville’ photograph collection is a perfect way to welcome and engage travelers, inspiring them to visit Louisville’s iconic landmarks while showcasing the city’s unique brand of Southern hospitality, one-of-a-kind attractions and urban bourbon experiences,” said Doug Bennett, executive vice president of Louisville Tourism.Ěý

In addition to UofL, other city landmarks highlighted in the photographs include: 4th Street Live!, 21c Museum Hotel, Angel’s Envy, Belle of Louisville, Churchill Downs, Copper &
Kings, Kentucky Kingdom, Louisville Extreme Park, Louisville FC/Racing Louisville FC, Louisville MegaCavern, Louisville Slugger, Louisville Zoo, Old Forester, St. James Court, UPS, Waterfront Wednesday, Whiskey Row and an iconic photo of Muhammad Ali.

In 2019, the airport accommodated more than 4.2 million passengers.Ěý

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Associate Professor of Arts History Christopher Fulton views The Thinker as a fitting symbol for UofL’s campus and students.

“What it represents is the labor of thinking and education,” said Fulton. “Especially because we are a public educational institution, and many of our students struggle or strive to receive an education.”

While many castings of The Thinker exist around the world, UofL’s is the first large-scale bronze cast. It was personally supervised by Auguste Rodin in Paris and completed in 1904. Before reaching UofL in 1949, it spent 45 years traveling. See our interactive timeline below to follow The Thinker’s journey to campus and his time here:

The the Belknap campus’ setting in historic Old Louisville, “stunning” Grawemeyer Hall, cast of Auguste Rodin’s The Thinker and “plenty of foliage flanking the classic red brick structures.”

The 274-acre Belknap Campus, which includes seven of the 12 academic colleges, has more than 1,100 trees representing many species and even hosts a .Ěý

In selecting each state’s school, Travel + Leisure considered setting, scenery, building designs and upkeep of the campus grounds. The publication also considered campus visits, in-depth virtual tours, first-person references and general research.

“Sure, picking the most beautiful college in every state of the union isn’t an exact science … But for travelers seeking an all-around positive experience —whether you’re on a college tour with the kids or looking for a place to wander on a balmy afternoon — these scholarly institutes all get top marks for good looks,” the publication states.