Belle of Louisville and Spirit of Jefferson garners its name from its two historic ships. The Belle of Louisville was originally built in 1914 and has floated down rivers throughout the country as a passenger ferry, tramp steamer, oil barge tow ship, and floating nightclub for troops during WWII. She was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1989 and recognized as the oldest river steamboat still in operation. She continues to give river tours, still equipped with steam power and her turn-of-the-century paddlewheel. The Spirit of Jefferson conducted cruise trips for 36 years under a variety of guises, including the Mark Twain and the Huck Finn, until she was caught and forced to reveal her secret identity.

Today, both ships are owned and operated by the Louisville Metro Government and conduct a variety of river cruises on the Ohio River, including fireworks, dance, and harbor history tours. Their historic design and modern conveniences—such as full-bar service and air conditioning—create a unique portal to the past during tours or special events including the Battle of the Belles steamboat race and the Kentucky Derby.