The famous line spoken by Tom Hanks in A League of Their Own may have even occurred in Evansville, considering that scenes at Dottie and Kit’s farm, Willie’s Suds Bucket and Racine Bells field were filmed in this cherished Hoosier State city. Visitors can visit Bosse Field, the site where Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and Madonna once occupied, also known as the first municipally owned sports stadium in the nation and the third-oldest ballpark still in regular use for professional baseball, third only to Fenway Park in Boston and Wrigley Field in Chicago.
Besides its unparalleled sports history, Evansville has a remarkable architectural history and is home to the oldest library in Indiana, Willard Library. Additionally, Evansville has two remaining Andrew Carnegie constructed libraries. The city is proud of its picturesque downtown situated on the Ohio River, with strolls along the riverfront during sunset as a popular spring and summer pastime.
Evansville has hosted endless sports events and is dedicated to helping planners create memorable sporting events, offering free event planning materials and connecting planners with any sources and other services they may need.
CVB/Sports Commissions Services Offered
- Volunteer staff
- PR/Media assistance
- Signage
- Site visits
- Transportation assistance
- Lodging services
- Grant programs
- Welcome bags/gifts
- Itinerary development
- Event planning assistance
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Things to do in Evansville
Other than planning memorable sports events, choosing a city with unforgettable activities to partake in is another vital aspect to consider when choosing a location for your next sports event.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the USS Landing Ship Tank 325 is a fully operational amphibious vessel designed to land-battle ready tanks, troops and supplies directly onto enemy shores. The ship offers hour-long, guided tours for groups and sports teams.
At Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden, players, families and spectators can explore this 45-acre zoo situated on rolling hills and featuring over 700 animals from around the globe. Visitors can gaze upon thousands of exotic and regional botanic species as well as animals.
Endless educational experiences are always happening at Evansville Arts, History and Science Museum, the Children’s Museum of Evansville and Evansville Wartime Museum. At Evansville Arts, History and Science Museum, exhibits include Rivertown, USA, a depiction of life in Evansville and the Midwest in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Planner Perspective
The inaugural 2017 Evansville HydroFest™ faced significant weather-related challenges each of the three days from the effects of Hurricane Harvey. The Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau staff worked closely with our Executive Committee to respond quickly so we could present a world-class American Power Boat Association hydroplane race on the Ohio River. Thanks to ECVB, our event was well organized, well attended, and our fans went home safe and thoroughly entertained. We look forward to many years of bringing the Roar to the River with them!
Evansville HydroFest: Randy Lientz (Race Director)
Deaconess Sports Park is one of the best parks in the Midwest. It has everything to offer, a great overall layout, along with the best playing surfaces you will find anywhere. But, what stands out the most is the staff, from the CVB to the whole Park Staff. Great to work with and they always have our customers in mind. Cannot say enough good things. Come experience it yourself. You will not be disappointed!
3Up 3Down Events: John and Trisha Grass (USSSA Baseball/Softball Directors)
How to Get to Evansville
Serenely located on the banks of the Ohio River, Evansville is the largest city in Southern Indiana and the third-largest city in the state, making it easily accessible by various methods of transportation.
By Land: As a hub for the Indiana, Kentucky and Illinois tri-state area, Evansville is most commonly reached by US Highway 41 and Interstate 164. Major cities located within a five-hour drive from Evansville include Chicago, Louisville, St. Louis, Nashville and Indianapolis. Downtown Evansville can also be reached by various Greyhound buses.
By Air: The nearest major airport to Evansville is Evansville Regional Airport (EVV), located five miles from the city center and featuring various domestic flights. The nearest international airport is Louisville International Airport (SDF), situated just two-hours northeast of Evansville.
Contact Information
Company Name: Evansville Convention & Visitors Bureau
Sports Sales Manager: Brooke Harmening
Title: Sports & Convention Sales Executive
Telephone: 812-421-2203