Welcome to Louisville, Kentucky! Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, mouthwatering cuisine and bourbon, Louisville is a city that’s got a little something for everyone. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in and explore the best of what Louisville has to offer!
Getting There
By Air
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) is the city’s main airport and is conveniently located just a few miles from downtown. Plenty of major airlines fly in and out, making it easy to get here from almost anywhere.
By Car
If you’re road-tripping, Louisville is accessible via I-64, I-65, and I-71. It’s roughly a two-hour drive from both Cincinnati and Indianapolis.
By Train
Amtrak’s Cardinal line runs through Louisville, connecting it with Chicago, Indianapolis, and Washington, D.C.
Where to Stay in Downtown Louisville
Downtown Hotels
- 21c Museum Hotel: 21c Museum Hotel is an art museum and hotel in one, located in the heart of downtown.
- The Brown Hotel: The Brown Hotel is a historic hotel known for its luxurious accommodations and the famous Hot Brown sandwich.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Holiday Inn Express Downtown: The Holiday Inn Express is where I stayed when I went to Louisville. It is comfortable and affordable, with a great location.
- Aloft Louisville Downtown: Aloft Louisville Downtown is a modern and stylish option that won’t break the bank.
Unique Stays
- Louisville Guesthouses: Check out Airbnb for charming guesthouses and apartments in historic neighborhoods.
What to Do in Louisville
Explore Bourbon Country
Why Visit: Louisville is the gateway to the Bourbon Trail, home to some of the most famous distilleries in the world. Highlight: Take a tour of the historic Evan Williams Bourbon Experience or visit the iconic Jim Beam Distillery. Don’t miss the Urban Bourbon Trail, a collection of bars and restaurants with extensive bourbon selections.
Check out my post on How To Visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail HERE.
Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
Why Visit: Baseball fans, this one’s for you! See how the famous Louisville Slugger bats are made and even hold bats used by baseball legends. Highlight: Pose with the giant bat outside the museum and take home a mini-bat as a souvenir.
Take a Food Tour
Why Visit: Everyone knows I love a good food tour. Get a tour of the city plus get to try all the local, tasty cuisine? Sign me up! Highlight: This Louisville Food & History Walking Tour takes you through one of Louisville’s most vibrant neighborhoods, the NuLu District.
Take a Cocktail Tour
Why Visit: Cocktails more your thing? What about cocktails and ghosts? This Prohibition Ghosts Cocktails and Bites Walking Tour in Louisville is awesome because you get to learn all about Louisville’s haunted history and prohibition- all while sipping some prohibition-era cocktails. Highlight: Enjoy some small bites in addition to your cocktails.
Stroll Through Waterfront Park
Why Visit: This beautiful park along the Ohio River is perfect for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or just soaking up some sunshine. Highlight: Check out the Big Four Bridge, a former railroad bridge now used for walking and biking, offering fantastic views of the river and the city.
Immerse Yourself in History at the Frazier History Museum
Why Visit: Discover Kentucky’s rich history through engaging exhibits and interactive displays. Highlight: Don’t miss the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center located inside the museum.
Explore the Speed Art Museum
Why Visit: The Speed Art Museum is Kentucky’s oldest and largest art museum, featuring an impressive collection of art from around the world. Highlight: Enjoy free admission on Sundays!
Wander Through the Highlands
Why Visit: This eclectic neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife, unique shops, and fantastic restaurants. Take a Highlands food tour to experience some of the best local cuisine. Highlight: Bardstown Road is the main drag, full of quirky stores, vintage shops, and cozy cafés. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the local vibe.
Catch a Race at Churchill Downs
Why Visit: Home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is a must-visit for any trip to Louisville. Highlight: If you’re visiting in May, snag tickets to the Derby. If not, take a tour of the track and visit the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn all about the “Run for the Roses.”
Where to Eat in Louisville
Breakfast and Brunch
- Wild Eggs: A local favorite known for its creative breakfast dishes and fresh-squeezed juices.
- Toast on Market: Delicious breakfast and brunch options with a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.
Lunch
- The Cafe: A charming spot offering delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups.
- Royals Hot Chicken: If you love spicy food, try their famous hot chicken sandwiches.
Dinner
- Jack Fry’s: A Louisville institution, this upscale restaurant serves Southern cuisine with a twist.
- Harvest: Farm-to-table dining at its finest, with a menu that changes seasonally.
Sweet Treats
- Please & Thank You: Known for their amazing cookies and excellent coffee.
- The Comfy Cow: Treat yourself to some of the best ice cream in the city, with unique flavors and a cozy vibe.
Tips for Visiting Louisville
- Weather: Louisville experiences all four seasons, so pack accordingly. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly with occasional snow.
- Transportation: While downtown is walkable, renting a car or using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft will make it easier to explore the city’s various neighborhoods. My husband’s preferred method of transportation, electric scooters, are also available (much to my dismay 😅)
- Events: Check the local calendar for events and festivals happening during your visit. Louisville hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Kentucky Derby Festival, Forecastle Music Festival, and the St. James Court Art Show.
- Local Lingo: The locals pronounce it “Loo-a-vull” or “Loo-ee-vill,” so try to say it like a native!
Conclusion
Louisville is a city that beautifully blends Southern charm with urban sophistication. From sipping bourbon and exploring historic sites to enjoying world-class art and indulging in delicious food, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. So pack your bags, grab your walking shoes, and get ready to fall in love with Louisville, Kentucky!
