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Home > United States > 35 Most Instagrammable Places in Louisville: Photo Spots in Louisville

35 Most Instagrammable Places in Louisville: Photo Spots in Louisville

By Dymphe / April 10, 2023

There are lots of Instagrammable places in Louisville ! The beauty of all the photo spots in Louisville will surprise you for sure!

Louisville is a city that's very nice to visit in the United States . When you're in Kentucky, I'd definitely recommend going there!

That's because it's a city with great activities. For example, you can go to Churchill Downs or visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory.

Moreover, Louisville is also the largest city in the state of Kentucky!

Another reason why you should visit Louisville is that there are gorgeous places in the city. The photo spots in Louisville are lovely for those who like photography.

Colors, pretty walls, flowers, bridges, beautiful nature, you find it there. And there's so much more than that. You'll definitely love the most Instagrammable places in Louisville!

Table of Contents

1. Umbrella Alley: One of the Most Colorful Instagrammable Places in Louisville, KY

One of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville is definitely Umbrella Alley.

Here you can see all kinds of colorful umbrellas that cover the whole street. These colors make all the photos you take here very happy!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝙈𝙮𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙡 | 𝙇𝙞𝙛𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙮𝙡𝙚 𝘽𝙡𝙤𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙧 (@mychaldanae)

Another great thing about this place is that there are flowers on the wall. This makes the place even more fun and colorful! It's definitely one of the most colorful photo spots in Louisville.

Also, I like that you can stand underneath the umbrellas and have them appear above you!

That way you can put both you and the umbrellas in the center of the photo, which gives the best results!

2. Little Lou Flower Truck

Little Lou Flower Truck is an awesome place in Louisville for taking photos. If you like flowers, it's one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville.

This is a very cute flower truck with lots of beautiful flowers. I love how small the flower truck is!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Little Lou Flower Truck (@littlelouflowertruck)

Furthermore, the flowers are very colorful, which is wonderful for your photos! This is why it's one of my favorite Louisville Instagram spots. And there are many different flowers, which makes it even more colorful!

The flowers are great for taking happy photos!

It is definitely one of the best photo spots in Louisville!

3. Instagrammable Flower Mural in Louisville

You can find this mural as well at Umbrella Alley. There are many murals here, but this one is very pretty!

This spot features a lot of pink, which is always great! That's why it is definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by azlyn💌 (@azpaige46)

Furthermore, there are several other colors that fit very well with the pink color.

Also, I like that the mural transitions from one wall to the one beside it. This gives a lovely 3D effect! That's also why the mural is one of the best photo spots in Louisville.

If you want to take the best photos here, consider wearing something in the colors of the wall. For example, you can wear something blue and pink. That way you have a perfect match with the scene!

4. Lueberry Wall

You find this one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville at Lueberry Acai. This is a great place where you can buy all sorts of superfoods.

Inside, you find this wonderful wall. You should definitely see this wall if you want to find the best Louisville Instagram spots.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by c o u r t n e y (@courtneykleopfer)

The wall has green leaves that are great to capture. That's especially so if you like the color green.

Also, the name of the place is visible on the green wall. It is there with lights that stand out!

Furthermore, you can see some lovely colorful butterflies on the left side of the mural. These add a lovely touch to the photo.

What's great is that you can stand in front of the wall and capture it such that it fills the whole shot!

5. On Big Four Bridge

The Big Four Bridge is a wonderful bridge that you can find next to the Louisville Waterfront Park. This bridge belongs to the best photo spots in Louisville!

What's great is that you can capture very symmetrical photos here. Because of the symmetry, it's one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ivette Araiza (@araiza_ivette98)

You can stand in the middle of the bridge and have the metal structure above you.

Another thing that I like about this place is the white railing on both sides of the bridge. These railings make the bridge even more symmetrical! It's amazing if you want to capture symmetrical Louisville Instagram spots.

6. Large Wings: A Unique and Pretty Instagrammable Place in Louisville

You can find these pink wings at the Louisville Zoo.

These wings look incredible! They are very large and are very colorful.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Laura Matthews Vinson (@cheekynoir)

You can stand in the middle of the wings to take the best photos here! If you do that, it looks like the wings are yours, which is awesome!

Also, I like that the wings almost look fake, because they are so impressive! Moreover, they stand out in comparison to the background, which is awesome. You'll definitely get very cute pictures here.

7. Pizza Mural at The Post

If you like pizza, this is one of the best photo spots in Louisville for you! You can find this very fun pizza mural at the Post in Louisville. The Post is a great pizza place in Louisville where you can get delicious pizza.

The mural is one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Meredith (@brokeandunoriginal)

It features a slice of pizza that is very colorful. Also, the other parts of the mural are black and white, which makes the pizza slice stand out!

To take the best photos here, you can wear something that has the same colors as the mural! For example, you can wear something yellow!

8. Instagrammable Lanterns at Louisville Zoo

You find this next one of the most Instagrammable places at the Louisville Zoo as well.

Here you can capture these very colorful lanterns.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by olivia🧝🏼‍♀️🧚🏻‍♀️🪴♎️🧿🦋🍓💘 (@oliviamccubbins_)

These lanterns stan out a lot in comparison to the other parts in the photo!

Furthermore, nature here is awesome as well! If you love nature, it's one of the best photo spots in Louisville.

9. Sunergos Coffee

Sunergos Coffee is a great place if you are looking for good coffee while you are in Louisville.

You can get a delicious cup of coffee here!

Besides that, the place is very photogenic and one of the best Louisville Instagram spots. It is especially great if you want to capture neutral photos here. There is a lot of grey here.

Furthermore, it is great if you pose with a cup of coffee!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CASS SPOONAMORE ✨ (@cassspoonamore)

10. St. James Court Fountain

St. James Court Fountain is another one of the Instagrammable places in Louisville!

The fountain looks beautiful and I love the circular railing around it. Also, the decorations of the railing look very elegant.

Another great thing about this place is that there are trees in the background that look lovely. The color green is awesome!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝒯𝓇𝒾𝓃𝓃𝑒🦋 (@itztrinzlife)

11. Instagrammable Bench With Flowers in Louisville

You can find this next one of the best photo spots in Louisville here! It is at the Louisville-Nimishillen Historical Society.

What's great about this place is that there are many pretty flowers here.

These flowers look amazing and are wonderful to capture. Also, they make the spot very colorful.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lex (@lexilabarba)

You can sit on a bench while taking photos here. The flowers then appear behind you, which is awesome!

Also, the fact that you can sit on a bench here is great as well. This allows you to do several sitting poses.

Another great thing about this place is the mural in the background. There you can see even more flowers! Furthermore, you can see the name of the Louisville-Nimishillen Historical Society there.

To make the best pictures here, you should sit in the middle of the bench, when you take photos here. That way, you can take very symmetrical photos, which is great!

12. Louisville Wings

These wings are one of the best photo spots in Louisville as well.

You find these wings in the Nulu District. To be more precise, they are at Toast on Market.

The wings are very colorful, which is great to see! You can stand in the middle of the wings to make the best shots here! This is one of the cutest Instagrammable places in Louisville!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Morgan Price (@morganpriceless)

That way, it appears as if the wings are your own wings, which is awesome!

You can either wear something that fits the colors of the wings, or something that is more neutral, such as black.

13. Quills Coffee

Quills Coffee is another great place in Louisville if you want a delicious cup of coffee!

But besides that, it is also a great place for taking photos, as it is one of the best photo spots in Louisville!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Quills Coffee (@quillscoffee)

You can see the coffee shop in the background here. There you can also see the name of the coffee shop, which is great to capture!

Furthermore, you can stand at the pedestrian crossing to take the best photos here.

Also, if you hold a cup of coffee from the coffee shop, you can put more emphasis on the coffee, which is awesome!

If you like coffee and you're looking for Louisville Instagram spots, this is perfect!

14. Broad Run Park: Instagrammable Park in Louisville

Broad Run Park is a great park with beautiful nature.

This makes it a great place for taking photos in nature.

There are lots of walking paths in the park. These walking paths are great for a relaxing walk through the park, but also for photography!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by chlo🌙🍄🪴🍋 (@chloemattinglyy)

You can sit on the walking paths and have the beautiful green nature behind you!

This is one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville for sure!

15. The Parklands of Floyds Fork

The Parklands of Floyds Fork is another one of the best photo spots in Louisville!

Here you can capture beautiful nature as well.

Furthermore, you can take a photo on the grass fields of this place. You can then have trees in the background, which is great.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ivonne (@ivonne.beauty_)

Also, there are pink flowers that add a bit of happiness to your photos!

The combination of pink and green looks very pretty!

16. Dairy Kastle

Diary Kastle is a great place where you can get delicious ice cream. But you can also go here to get some very good photos! That's because it is one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville!

You can sit at one of the tables outside of the place.

That way you can have the mural in the background.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Barrett Gargala (@bgargala)

This mural is great and features the name of the place "Dairy Kastle".

Also, there is a sun, a hill, and a castle.

It is a very minimalistic mural, but it looks very fun and elegant!

17. Palace Theatre

The Palace Theatre is a great theater in the city center of Louisville. It is one of the best Louisville Instagram spots, so I recommend taking photos here.

Besides that, you can go here for a great performance, after taking photos!

The Palace Theatre looks very beautiful from the outside.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Limestone Events (@limestoneeventsky)

That's because it is a very vintage building. If you're looking for vintage photo spots in Louisville, you should definitely go here!

You can see the name of the place in the middle of the front of the theater. It is in beautiful colors and features a lot of lights, which is awesome!

Besides that, there are many other lights in the shots you take here!

To take the best photos here, you should stand in the middle of the building. That way, your photos will look very impressive!

18. “Welcome to Umbrella Alley”

Here's another one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville! You find this one at Umbrella Alley as well.

What's great is that you can see here a beautiful mural with flowers. These flowers are very pretty and make your photos look very happy!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jocelyn Mosman (@jocelynmosman)

Also, I love that you can see the text "Welcome to Umbrella Alley". This makes it clear that you are at this lovely spot!

Another great thing about this place is that it is very colorful. You can see here the colors pink, blue, green, yellow, and white. The combination of these colors is phenomenal.

19. Turkey Run Park at the Parklands

Turkey Run Park is another one of the best Louisville Instagram spots.

Here you can pose in front of a river in the park.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kaylin DeAnn (@hellokaylin)

Furthermore, you can stand in front of beautiful nature.

This makes it a great spot, especially if you love the color green!

20. Instagrammable Umbrellas in Louisville

This is another one of the best photo spots in Louisville with colorful umbrellas. You find these at Red Tree.

What's great about this place is that most of the things here have very neutral colors.

This makes the umbrellas stand out a lot, which is great!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by lily zirkelbach (@lilyzirkelbach)

21. Churchill Downs

Here's another one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville. You find this place at Churchill Downs , which is a racetrack.

What's great about this spot is that it is very symmetrical.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ellie Trosper (@ellietrosper)

You can stand in the middle of the place and have both sides of your photo look the same! The fence, the plants, and the structure of the entrance, all are symmetrical.

Furthermore, I love that you can see the name of the place above you when you take pictures here.

This text looks very stylish and the color is very pretty as well!

22. Blue Wall in Louisville: Amazing Instagrammable Place if You Love Blue

You find this one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville at Churchill Downs too

The mural features a lot of blue, which is great if you want to add blue photos to your Instagram feed!

Also, the mural consists of many flowers, which is always a lovely sight to see! These flowers make the place a very happy place! It's perfect if you want to find happy Louisville Instagram spots.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by McKenzie Waldron (@mckenzie225)

You can stand in front of the wall and have it cover your shot from left to right. That way you get the best results.

Furthermore, you can vary the distance between the camera and the wall. That way you can capture a lot of the mural or only a small section! This can result in very different photos!

23. Crescent Hill Reservoir

Crescent Hill Reservoir is a very historic place in the city of Louisville. You find here this gatehouse that looks amazing. The house dates back to the year 1879 and has Gothic architecture!

This makes it one of the best photo spots in Louisville!

The building looks very stylish, which is awesome! It features many small details that make your photo better!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by ✰ Isabelle Siva ✰ (@isabelle.siva)

Also, the railing at this place is great!

It also has details and these details fit very well with the house.

You can stand in front of the railing with the house in the background.

To make even better photos when you are here, consider wearing something formal! That way your photos will turn out to be even more elegant!

24. Flower Ceiling

You find this next one of the best Louisville Instagram spots at the Louisville Zoo as well. In spring, Wild Lights Louisville Zoo takes place.

Here you can find this beautiful ceiling with artificial flowers!

These flowers are amazing to see because they are so large. This makes this place such a unique spot!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Erica Bivens TV (@erica.bivens)

Also, I love the yellow color of the flowers. This color looks very soft.

To make an amazing photo here, you can stand in the middle of the path when taking photos here. That way you get the most symmetric photo, which looks great!

25. Instagramable Wall With Leaves in Louisville

You find this next place at Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory . This is a lovely museum about the bat maker Louisville Slugger.

What's awesome about this place is that you can see a huge baseball bat here. This looks very impressive and huge, which is awesome to capture. You can stand next to it when taking photos here.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lauren Vandiver Green (@vandifair)

Another lovely thing about this place is the wall of leaves in the background. Moreover, the color of the leaves fits very well with the color of the bat!

Also, you can see the name of the place on the wall behind you. This is great as well, and makes it clear where you are!

This makes it one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville for sure!

26. Instagrammable Mural at Mamili in Louisville

Here's another one of the best photo spots in Louisville. You find this mural at Mamili.

What's great about this spot is that it is very colorful. There are so many colors in all the photos you take of it!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lori Cheek (@cheekd)

But that's not all, it also features many colors that you don't often see together. This makes it a unique spot for taking Instagram photos!

What's great is that you can take photos here at several parts of the mural. Each part looks different, so you can end up with many different photos, which is awesome!

27. 8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen

8UP Elevated Drinkery & Kitchen is a great restaurant in the city. It is the perfect place for great food and drinks, and it is a very relaxing place!

What's great about this place is that you can find it on the rooftop of a building.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alex L Speth (@alexlspeth)

This means that you have a beautiful view of the city of Louisville from here! This makes it one of the best Louisville Instagram spots for sure!

Besides that, there are small palm trees that add a feeling of summer to your photos! Moreover, the furniture of this place is very neutral, which looks great with the green color of the palm!

Another great thing is the glass that you can see on the edges of the rooftop. This glass gives the place a very stylish feeling!

28. 21c Museum Hotel Louisville

21c Museum Hotel Louisville is another one of the best photo spots in Louisville.

Inside the hotel, you can find this lovely wall. It features a landscape with many details. Furthermore, there is a lot of green color. This makes it a great place, especially if you like the color green!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by raleigh hunt (@raleighhunt)

Also, the yellow and red decorations on the lower part of the wall look awesome! That's also why this hotel is one of the best Louisville Instagram spots.

29. View of the Big Four Bridge from a Distance

Another one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville was the Big Four Bridge. But that bridge is also beautiful to capture from another bridge!

When standing on the bridge next to it, you can capture the whole structure, which is awesome.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marj Neilson (@marjneilson)

Also, from here you can see the water of the river. This is beautiful to see as well!

Also, you can see many of the city's buildings in the background.

30. Instagrammable “Love” Wall at Red Tree in Louisville

This is another lovely photo spot that you can find at Red Tree.

The outside of the place is lovely to capture, but the inside is as well!

Inside this place, you can again see beautiful umbrellas. These umbrellas feature a lot of colors and details. And this makes them very photogenic.

Besides that, there is a large wall with green leaves. This wall is lovely to capture as well!

Also, you can see the word "Love" in the lights on the green wall! This is a very positive message to include in the photos you take here.

What's also great about this one of the Louisville Instagram spots is the bar stools. These bar stools look lovely and are great for doing sitting poses when taking photos here!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by 𝕄𝓸𝚕𝚕Ⓨ❁☽✞𑁍🦋 (@livinglifeasmolls)

31. Greetings from Louisville

Looking to create a postcard when you are in the city of Louisville? Then go to this place! You can find it at 1101 Central Ave.

What's great about this mural is that it includes the text "Greetings from Louisville".

Furthermore, you can some of the sights of the city in the letters of the word "Louisville", which is awesome.

Also, the colors are beautiful and very photogenic!

This makes it one of the best photo spots in Louisville if you want to create a postcard that you can appear in!

To make the best postcard, consider wearing something in the colors of the mural. That way, you can be part of the postcard even more!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Stephanie Mar (@travelgypsy007)

32. Instagrammable Wall With a Lovely Quote in Louisville

Looking for a place with great ice cream in Louisville? Then go to The Comfy Cow . Here you can have the perfect ice cream!

But besides that, you find there this Instagrammable wall!

The pink color looks very soft and the lights are beautiful as well. This makes this one of the most Instagrammable places in Louisville for sure!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Molly Fiser Gerdes (@molly_fiser)

Another great thing about this wall is the drawing of a cow. This looks very happy! Especially, because the cow has ice cream as well!

Also, the quote is lovely! It shows the text "Tomorrow we can eat broccoli but today is for ice cream".

You can take the best photos here if you hold ice cream, like the cow!

33. Bat at Louisville Slugger Museum

This large bat at the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory looks awesome. It is so huge!

This makes it another one of the best photo spots in Louisville for sure!

Also, the red stone of the building next to it looks very beautiful1

Furthermore, to make the best photos here, you should lower the camera. That way you can capture the bat in full, while also capturing yourself!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Travel Couple ✈︎ Matt + Nat (@adventuresofmattandnat)

34. Please & Thank You

Please & Thank You is a great place if you want to have good coffee and cookies while you are in Louisville!

Besides that, it is also one of the best Louisville Instagram spots!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Voice-Tribune (@thevoicetribune)

That's because the interior of the place is very special.

For example, the wall is very pretty. It features a unique pattern of all kinds of shapes and colors.

Another great thing about this place is the black sofa. This looks great together with the colorful wall!

35. Louisville Cream

Louisville Cream is another great place where you can get ice cream when you are in the city of Louisville. Their ice cream is amazing, and that's because of the taste and how it looks!

The ice cream here looks very special, which makes it very photogenic. Louisville Cream definitely belongs to the best photo spots in Louisville!

When you are here, you should definitely take a photo in front of the ice cream shop's window. Here you can see the name of the place, and you can see a wonderful reflection that is great!

It is definitely one of the best Instagrammable places in Louisville if you also want ice cream!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Louisville Cream (@louisvillecream)

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The 50 best photo spots in Louisville

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26 Feast BBQ

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36 Sapporo Japanese Grill & Sushi

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Louisville, Photoshoot Walking Tour with Pictures

French Quarter Photoshoot

Get your photos taken on a walking tour of Louisville. Walk through the city's lively downtown area, one of its most popular spots, as your photo is taken by your professional photographer guide.

Kentucky International Convention Center

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Discover Louisville in a unique way: on a photoshoot walking tour. Walk through the city having your picture taken, all while learning about the area's history and culture from your professional photographer guide. Choose between a private or a shared group experience and explore Louisville on this walking tour. Pose or look candid for your photographs as you walk through the city's historic downtown area. Pass by a number of famous locations, including the Kentucky International Convention Center, Waterfront Park, the KFC Yum Center, Slugger Field, and more. Choose which locations you prefer to have as the backdrop for your photos. Learn about the city and its sights as you walk between these areas with your photographer guide.

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The Ultimate Guide to 2 Days in Louisville

Written by teresa bitler, destinations | kentucky | north america | travel | united states.

Have a weekend to escape? This ultimate guide to 2 days in Louisville showcases some of the things you must do during your visit to Kentucky.

Growing up, I knew Louisville as the home of the Kentucky Derby. That was enough to pique my interest. But when I learned about the city’s Victorian architecture, bourbon-tasting rooms, and distilleries, I knew I had to go with my husband, Jerry.

We made that happen on a visit to northern Kentucky to explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail . Even though we spent three days in Louisville, it wasn’t enough. (I’m already planning what we must see on our next visit.) Just have the time to get away for the weekend? This guide to 2 days in Louisville will point you to the highlights.

There are no shortages of bourbon bars, like the Bar at Fort Nelson in Louisville. Photo by Teresa Bitler

What's in This Article:

Cultural Sights in Louisville

Culture and history blend in Louisville, so most cultural sights have a solid historical bent. The combination of culture and history at these attractions makes the city so fascinating.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Your visit begins with free time in the museum. There, you’ll learn about Hillerich & Bradsby, the Louisville furniture company behind the infamous bat, as well as the evolution of the game. You can also pose next to the likenesses of some of the game’s greats, like Babe Ruth, holding a Louisville Slugger. Part museum and part factory tour , this experience is a must, even if you don’t know a fly ball from a foul ball.

On the Louisville Slugger Factory Tour, you’ll learn how wooden cylinders become bats. Photo by Teresa Bitler

When called for your tour, you’ll step into the factory where artisans shape, dip, and paint the bats. You can take all the photos you want and get a miniature bat at the end as a souvenir. Fans who desire more souvenirs can get them at the museum’s extensive gift shop.

Roots 101 African-American Museum

Open Tuesday through Saturday, the Roots 101 African-American Museum traces the history of African Americans from royalty in their native land to bondage in the United States. The museum uses art to tell much of the narrative. I particularly liked the pieces from Africa on the first floor.

Art tells the story of African Americans at the Roots 101 African-American Museum. Photo by Teresa Bitler

While the second floor contains more artifacts, art still dominates. For example, a room dedicated to social justice features numerous paintings and photographs. It is powerful and fascinating. Plan to spend up to an hour and a half, depending on how long you linger over each piece.

Muhammad Ali Center

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali was a cultural icon, and the museum dedicated to him celebrates his legacy. Start by watching the movie shown in the Orientation Theater, especially if you don’t know much about him. Then, continue through the museum. I’m not much of a boxing fan, but I found the exhibits on his rise to fame and career interesting. And I enjoyed the Train with Ali interactives.

The Muhammad Ali Center tells the story of the legendary boxer. Photo by Teresa Bitler

However, if you can’t stand boxing, it’s nearly impossible to avoid the sport on a visit to the Muhammad Ali Center . The introductory movie includes clips from his matches and highlights from fights played throughout the museum.

Historical Sights in Louisville

Founded in 1778, Louisville has a rich history built on horses, bourbon, and tobacco. You’ll get some city history when you visit the cultural attractions above. But if you love history, you won’t want to miss these three stops.

• Local author Kevin Gibson turned his natural interest in comparing present to past into a book that looks into a wide variety of locales that contribute to the city’s legacy. From “the old Sears building” that continues to be used as a directional touchpoint to a downtown theater that has been frozen in time, you’ll get a tour of these places paired with stories that will inform and sometimes surprise. In the process, it may just get you wondering about the many people a hundred years ago that traversed those places in a completely different context. And when it’s all said and done, you’ll walk away with a better understanding of Louisville’s history and culture, from major historical landmarks to neighborhood businesses to the Louisvillians who made these places important.

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Frazier History Museum

This museum covers everything Louisville. You’ll learn about Lewis and Clark, bourbon’s economic impact, and why Louisville’s nickname is “Glitter Ball City.” (Hint: It’s the Disco Ball Capital of the World.) My favorite exhibits include the multi-wall display of bourbon bottles and the Charles W. Stewart Historic Miniatures Collection.

The Frazier History Museum has an extensive bourbon exhibit, including these displayed bottles. Photo by Teresa Bitler

Frazier History Museum doubles as the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center, so even if you skip the museum’s exhibits, it’s worth stopping at the welcome center. You can buy more than 90 brands of bourbon and bourbon-related souvenirs here, and it offers several programs. There are daily bourbon tastings, mixology programs, and private tastings.

Old Louisville History and Architecture Tour

Old Louisville is one of the oldest historic districts in the United States and contains some of the nation’s best examples of Victorian architecture. The homes, built mostly between 1880 and 1905, represent a variety of styles, including Italianate, Victorian Gothic, and Queen Anne.

Old Louisville has some of the nation’s best Victorian architecture. Photo by Teresa Bitler

• Country Houses of Louisville, 1899-1939 presents an in-depth view of 32 spectacular country estates in Louisville, Kentucky, and the families and architects who built them. Focusing on houses constructed in Louisville around Frederick Law Olmsteds Cherokee Park and along the bluffs overlooking the Ohio River, the book features works by distinguished local and national architects and landscape architects whose work in Kentucky is not widely known. This period and genre of residential architecture and related social history in Louisville have never before been documented this thoroughly or extensively.

Book the Old Louisville History and Architecture Tour offered by Louisville Historic Tours to see the houses and learn about the city. On tour, you’ll learn about industry leaders who lived here, some local scandals, and even about a ghost or two that haunts the area.

This walking tour was one of my favorite activities in Louisville, but it does cover a lot of ground in 90 minutes. (You’ll walk through multiple neighborhoods and parks designed by Frank Olmstead, who designed Central Park in New York City.) If you have mobility issues or walk at a slower pace, you may want to call Louisville Historic Tours to make sure it won’t be too much for you.

On an Old Louisville walking tour, you’ll learn a lot about the city’s past and architecture. Photo by Teresa Bitler

Churchill Downs – Kentucky Derby Museum

Located at Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby Museum celebrates everything related to the annual Run for the Roses. Exhibits feature racing superstars Secretariat and American Pharoah, legendary trainer D. Wayne Lucas, and celebrity jockey Bill Shoemaker. You can feel what it’s like to sit at the starting gate or test your jockeying skills in an interactive video race.

Don’t miss the complimentary 18-minute movie about the Kentucky Derby. It was one of the highlights for me. If you love the Derby, as I do, you could easily spend two hours here, especially if you take one of the daily tours of Churchill Downs ($17 per person). And take the time to see a retired racehorse at the Kentucky Derby Museum Stable. It’s free even if you don’t visit the museum.

The Kentucky Derby Museum is located next door to Churchill Downs. Photo by Teresa Bitler

Tip : Horseracing fans will want to visit nearby Lexington, Kentucky , for a deeper dive into the horses and individuals behind the Sport of Kings.

Bourbon Activities in Louisville

In addition to the Frazier History Museum, downtown Louisville boasts seven stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Additionally, the city has its own Urban Bourbon Trail , highlighting distillery tours, bourbon-centric bars, and more. Here are a few of my favorites.

Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery

Located a few storefronts from the Frazier History Museum and across the street from the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery is one of the most famous distilleries in the area. Tours fill up weeks in advance, but the distillery has a lovely gift shop and an upstairs bar, The Bar at Fort Nelson. We went for the drinks but returned the following day for the bottling experience.

My husband, Jerry, filled his own bottle at Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery. Photo by Teresa Bitler.

Although not listed on the distillery’s website, Michter’s allows a few people to fill a bottle of Fort Nelson Reserve Barrel Strength Rye to bring home on select mornings. The experience cost $150, and honestly, Jerry just pulled a lever to start and stop the flow of bourbon. Still, he loved it and said it was one of the highlights of our entire Kentucky trip.

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Most distillery tours and tasting experiences are the same. That’s not true at Evan Williams Bourbon Experience , where you can learn about bourbon through unique experiences. For example, the distillery offers a charcuterie class, which teaches you how to pair charcuterie with bourbon. And at the Speakeasy Tasting Experience on Saturdays and Sundays, you enter a speakeasy where you taste five premium bourbons and learn about Prohibition in Louisville.

The Ideal Bartender Experience at Evan Williams features “Tom Bullock,” the first African American to write a cocktail book. Photo by Teresa Bitler

We opted for The Ideal Bartender Experience. The tasting, set in the Prohibition era, introduces guests to Louisville native Tom Bullock, the first African American to write and publish a cocktail book. As he narrates the story in character, the mixologist pours three premium bourbons and makes you a cocktail. Hands down, this was my favorite tour on our Kentucky Bourbon Trail trip.

Doc Crow’s

This restaurant on Whiskey Row stands out for several reasons. First, the location is inside a historic distillery warehouse. Second, the restaurant’s name comes from the person who created Kentucky bourbon, Dr. James C. Crow. And third, it serves fresh oysters and great barbecue. But bourbon lovers come for the bourbon.

Doc Crow’s is known for its ribs, oysters, and bourbon. Photo by Teresa Bitler

You can enjoy bourbons in the restaurant or at the bar, but true bourbon aficionados head to the Bourbon Room, where they’ll find more than 2,000 bottles available for 1-ounce tasters and 2-ounce pours. Doc Crow’s sells six bourbon flights, including an introductory, small batch, and rye flight. If there is a particular bourbon you’re dying to taste, Doc Crow’s Bourbon Room is the place to find it.

Historic Hotels in Louisville

Louisville has quite a few historic hotels. Whether you stay in them or not, they’re worth a visit for their impressive architecture, legends, bourbon, and food.

The Brown Hotel

Opened in 1923, The Brown Hotel , a Georgian-Revival hotel, wows architecturally. If you’re short on time, make a point to visit the Lobby Bar and Grill for a drink. The mixologists do more than use fresh fruit and herbs in their drinks. I watched one use a manual ice crusher to make the crushed ice for my Mint Julep. You can also order other bourbon-based cocktails like an old-fashioned or create your own bourbon flight.

The Hot Brown open-faced sandwich is a Kentucky favorite invented at The Brown. Photo by Teresa Bitler

Architecture and bourbon aren’t the only reasons to visit The Brown Hotel. Go for a Hot Brown. The hotel restaurant invented this open-faced sandwich for dinner dance guests in the 1920s. This open-faced turkey sandwich now appears on menus across the state, featuring bacon and topped with Mornay sauce. It’s delicious (and worth getting at the hotel that invented it), but it’s rich.

The Seelbach Hilton Louisville

The Seelbach Hilton Louisville is a legendary hotel with marble floors and a grand staircase. Over the years, it has hosted presidents, including Franklin Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy, Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton. Celebrities like Neil Diamond, Rod Stewart, Boy George, and Keith Richards have spent the night here. But its most infamous guest may be Al Capone, who could escape through tunnels under the hotel if law enforcement came looking for him.

Harry Truman, Al Capone, Keith Richards, and other celebrities have checked into The Seelbach. Photo by Teresa Bitler

I stayed two nights and loved the history at The Seelbach. I was also intrigued by some design elements, like the box built into my door near the floor. When I asked, I learned that in the past, you could leave your shoes in that box at bedtime. You’ll find your freshly polished shoes waiting for you the following day.

How to Explore Louisville

If you plan to visit Louisville, you can fly into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport and rely on rideshares to get around. Even though we had a rental car, we used Uber several times because parking downtown could be a hassle.

The best time to visit is the spring and fall. However, the racing season at Churchill Downs is mid-March to June and September to October. The busy season can affect the number of people at hotels, restaurants, bars, and on the roads. Unless you have tickets to the Kentucky Derby, you will probably want to plan your visit for any time other than the first weekend in May.

The Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Tour is one of the most popular attractions in Louisville. Photo by Teresa Biter

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When to Visit Louisville

The off-season runs from the beginning of July to the end of August, the hottest time of the year. It picks up again during winter, November through February, the city’s coldest months. Plan your trip accordingly. You could easily spend more than 2 days in Louisville. But if you’re on a tight schedule, this ultimate guide covers the city’s highlights. You may find that, like me, you will want to come back to see even more. When planning your trip to Louisville, Kentucky , or some other fantastic destination in the Midwest , let Wander with Wonder be your guide.

Cocktails | Historic Hotels | Historic Towns | History | Midwest | Spirits

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28 Top-Rated Things to Do in Louisville, KY

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley traveled to Kentucky in the fall of 2022 and explored its cities and towns, including Louisville .

However you choose to pronounce it (it takes some practice!), Louisville is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Kentucky if you're looking for a big city weekend getaway . Kentucky's largest city, "Loo-a-ville" as it's pronounced by locals, offers no end of exciting things to do, whatever your interests.

Those who enjoy exploring a destination on foot will love Louisville's wide, leafy pavements; its pedestrian-friendly, sometimes even traffic-free streets; as well as its fun trail networks. Ready to hit the town after dark for some nightlife? You'll want to head to Fourth Street Live! , a lively pedestrian-only retail and entertainment hub that covers a few city blocks and is never dull.

Are you a sports fan? You'll want to swing by the Louisville Slugger Museum if baseball's your thing, while boxing fans can find out all about "The Greatest" at the Muhammad Ali Center . Art and history lovers, too, have plenty of excellent museums to explore, and those traveling with kids will enjoy outings to the Louisville Zoo , the Kentucky Science Center , and the Louisville Mega Cavern .

For a comprehensive look at the places to visit in this vibrant Kentucky city, be sure to read our guide to the best things to do in Louisville, KY.

See also: Where to Stay in Louisville

1. Head Underground at the Louisville Mega Cavern

2. tour the louisville slugger museum & factory, 3. visit the home of the kentucky derby at churchill downs racetrack, 4. get your race fix at the kentucky derby museum, 5. meet "the greatest" at the muhammad ali center, 6. visit the frazier history museum, 7. conrad-caldwell house museum, 8. take a walking tour of historic old louisville, 9. explore historic downtown louisville, 10. cross the big four bridge, 11. take the kids to louisville zoo, 12. explore the grounds of the cave hill cemetery & arboretum, 13. feel the vibes at fourth street live, 14. see the historic locust grove farmestead, 15. take in a show at louisville palace theatre, 16. see international artworks at the speed art museum, 17. visit the home of abe's best friend at farmington, 18. get smart at the kentucky science center, 19. the home of the usa's top inventor: thomas edison house, 20. kentucky museum of art and craft (kmac), 21. louisville metro hall, 22. hop aboard the belle of louisville, 23. take a stroll along louisville waterfront park, 24. walk or bike the louisville loop, 25. take a drive to waverly hills sanatorium, 26. the kentucky center for the performing arts, 27. the cathedral of the assumption, 28. see a game at the kfc yum center, where to stay in louisville for sightseeing, map of things to do in louisville, ky, louisville, ky - climate chart.

What began as a massive limestone quarry in the mid 19th century is now one of Louisville's top attractions. The Louisville Mega Cavern encompasses roughly 100 acres of caverns and 17 miles of tunnels directly beneath the city and offers no end of fun. Interestingly, the caverns are held up by steel girders, leading to its being classified as Kentucky's largest building.

Here, you'll find an array of adventure opportunities including Mega Zips, the world's only fully underground zipline course . This thrilling course consists of six ziplines and numerous bridges laid out in different routes. In addition to the ziplines, a ropes course tests your balance, as well as your agility.

For less adventurous souls, a guided historic tram tour runs throughout the cavern and provides fascinating historical and geological information. Visiting Louisville at Christmas? Check out the attraction's website for details of its annual festive lights displays.

Address: 1841 Taylor Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kentucky

Who doesn't have a soft spot for baseball? The Louisville Slugger Museum is located at the downtown manufacturing plant and headquarters of this famous company. And you can't miss it: a 120-foot, 68,000-pound scale replica of Babe Ruth's Louisville Slugger bat leans against the wall of the building, towering over all who pass by.

The guided tour is well worth taking and starts with a movie detailing the company's history back to its origins in the 1880s. Once done, you'll head out onto the factory floor for a 30-minute tour to see these iconic bats being made. At the conclusion of your tour, you'll get your very own mini bat as a souvenir.

Special memorabilia and exhibits are also found at the facility, including the engraved Signature Wall and historic bats like that used by Hank Aaron to score his 700th home run. Batting cages, photo opportunities, and special seasonal events and exhibits add even more fun things to do. A large gift shop selling baseball-themed items is also located on the premises.

In need of a coffee and a tasty snack after all that baseball trivia? Head a few doors down to the excellent Blackbeard Espresso for a sit-down or take-out treat.

Address: 800 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

The city of Louisville's main claim to fame is the annual Kentucky Derby horse race. Held at the legendary Churchill Downs Racetrack the first Saturday in May since 1875, hundreds of thousands of visitors descend on the city each year to attend one of Kentucky's biggest tourist attractions . Racing fans can find out more about this historic race and its enduring popularity at the Kentucky Derby Museum .

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most famous horse races in the world and has one of the highest purses of any such event. The race track itself sees more than 150,000 people attend the event, with the energy of the crowd being a huge part of the overall experience.

The event is also well known as a fashion showcase, and everyone who attends is encouraged to dress up for the occasion, including wearing flamboyant hats. For those unable to attend on race day, many spots in Louisville and the surrounding area host Derby Day parties that celebrate the sport.

Address: 700 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Located on the grounds of Churchill Downs, the Kentucky Derby Museum provides historical insight and perspective on the sport of horse racing and its biggest race, the Kentucky Derby.

Two floors of exhibits at the museum include racing artifacts, interactive displays, and fine art. One of the highlights of a visit is the inspiring 18-minute movie The Greatest Race , shown in high definition on a 360-degree projection screen.

Trophies, photographs, riding silks, and commemorative Derby glasses are also on display. Alongside general admission to the museum, you can take part in a guided 30-minute tour of the racetrack facility . For an additional fee, more extensive private tours of Churchill Downs are available that take you behind-the-scenes into areas where visitors are not normally permitted.

If after all this touring you work up an appetite, the on-site Derby Café is a good spot to grab a bite to eat and refuel for the day. A well-stocked gift shop is also located on the premises.

Address: 704 Central Ave, Louisville, Kentucky

Fans of the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali, also known as "The Greatest," should be sure to visit the Muhammad Ali Center . Opened in 2005, this state-of-the-art facility is an international education and cultural center inspired by the six core ideals of its founder, Muhammad Ali: respect, confidence, conviction, dedication, spirituality, and giving.

The Ali Center features captivating exhibits and multimedia presentations, including a fascinating orientation film to begin the tour of the facility. Other exhibitions contain historic Civil Rights-era media footage, video-on-demand of Ali's fights, and interactive boxing fun.

Two frequently changing exhibit galleries also enhance the space, as does the Children's Hope and Dream wall , a mosaic compiled solely of children's artwork from around the globe.

The facility also has meeting and event space and a retail store, and hosts special events throughout the year.

Address: 144 North 6th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Located in the heart of Historic Louisville, The Frazier History Museum celebrates the history of Kentucky through numerous artifacts, displays, and live performances . Some of the notable items on display include the ceremonial sword of Founding Father Josiah Bartlett, the family bible of Daniel Boone, and the bow attributed to Apache warrior Geronimo.

Other interesting items on display include the ivory-handled Colt pistols of General George Armstrong Custer. A rare copy of Uncle Tom's cabin is also on permanent display. Be sure to also visit the museum store for Kentucky-related souvenirs.

The Frazier History Museum is situated in the downtown area known as " Museum Row " on Main Street. Convenient on-site parking makes visiting easy, and you can walk to the other prominent attractions, like the Louisville Slugger Museum and the Kentucky Science Center.

Address: 829 W Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Designed as a Richardsonian Romanesque mansion, Conrad-Caldwell House was built for Theophile Conrad, a Frenchman who made his fortune in the tanning business. Built in the 1890s, the grandest of the many heritage homes in the Old Louisville neighborhood features gargoyles, swags, massive arches, and fleur-de-lis on the outside.

The inside of the house features woodwork, stained glass, and impressive fixtures. Guided tours are offered Wednesday through Sunday and provide historical context for this three-story home. A self-guided tour option is also available at a reduced cost.

With a downtown location and decadent décor, the Conrad-Caldwell House is a popular venue to rent for special occasions. Check out their events calendar for news and details of seasonal events, including their popular afternoon teas, garden parties, and special Christmas tours.

Address: 1402 St. James Court, Louisville, Kentucky

Stretching from West Broadway down to the University of Louisville and straddling South 2nd and South 3rd Streets, Old Louisville is one of the most pleasant areas of Louisville to walk around. Covering an area of around 10 acres, Old Louisville contains one of the largest collections of attractive Victorian-era homes in the USA.

While it's perfectly easy to explore at your own pace, informative one-hour guided tours are available that provide an excellent insight into this unique and well-preserved corner of Louisville.

Tours start at the Historic Old Louisville Neighborhood & Visitors Center located in Central Park and just steps away from Conrad-Caldwell House Museum. Bookable in advance and available twice daily from Monday to Friday, your guide will point out the most notable landmarks along the way.

Even if not taking the tour, be sure to spend a little time exploring the Visitor Center and Central Park. Set in a magnificent mission-style former home, it contains interesting exhibits and displays about Old Louisville. Central Park is also pleasant to spend a little time in and features charming gardens and meandering pathways. Come summer, it's home to the longest-running Shakespeare festival in the country .

Feeling peckish? Old Louisville is also home to Ollie's Trolley, a famous burger joint serving delicious takeout hamburgers from, you guessed right...an old trolley car.

Address: 1340 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Running parallel to the wide Ohio River and built up around West Main Street, Historic Downtown Louisville is well worth spending time exploring. In addition to the city's biggest attractions, including the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, and the Frazier History Museum, there are numerous eateries and shopping opportunities here, too.

West Main is a wide, shady one-way street, meaning it's safe, which is a good thing as there's so much to gawk at here. From interesting outdoor artworks like the tall, golden Statue of David to the appealing façades of the old store fronts, there's also lots to take photos of here, too.

And keep an eye out for little Fort Nelson Park. Though small, it's significant, as it was the site of the very first settlement here, founded in 1781.

Taking the time to cross the Big Four Bridge into the state of Indiana is one of the top free things to do in Louisville. This pedestrian and cyclist bridge crosses the Ohio River from the city's Waterfront Park area and can be easily accessed by those following the Louisville Loop trail network.

Built in 1895, this six-span steel edifice originally served the railroad before becoming a foot- and bike-only river crossing in 2014. Stretching a mile across the river, the two-mile trek is well worth it for the spectacular views back over Louisville.

Three other notable bridges close by that make for a good photo include the Abraham Lincoln Bridge, a six-lane affair that only opened in 2015; the John F. Kennedy Memorial Bridge, also six lanes and built in 1963; and the George Rogers Clark Memorial Bridge, a four-lane highway bridge constructed in 1929.

Address: 1101 River Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Spread out over 134 acres and one of the city's top family attractions ever since it opened in 1969, the Louisville Zoo today features more than 1,500 exotic animals and a variety of award-winning exhibits.

Formally known as the Louisville Zoological Gardens, resident animals include gorillas, lions, tigers, polar bears, penguins, and birds in various indoor and outdoor habitats. Animal interaction is available, from camel or pony rides right through to giraffe and parakeet feeding.

Seven exhibit zones are represented in the park, including areas dedicated to Africa, South America, and Australia. The zoo is a great family destination, with many rides and tourist attractions for all ages, such as the Papa John's Splash Park, a butterfly garden, and two full-size playgrounds.

The Louisville Zoo has recently opened a brand new sloth exhibit for their two resident Linnaeus sloths, Sebastian and Sunni. They also have a four-year-old elephant named Fitz, who was born and raised at the zoo. A vintage restored carousel is also fun to check out, and when your kids get hot, turn them loose in the zoo's splash park.

Address: 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, Kentucky

Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville was established in 1848 and serves as both a cemetery and arboretum . In addition to its more than 16,000 graves, this beautiful green space features more than 500 different trees and shrubs, including over a dozen trees that are the largest of their species in the state.

Covering an area of 296 acres, the grounds have benches, lakes, fountains, and monuments to enjoy. A good way of getting a feel for the place is via a fun guided walking tour available at various times throughout the year. The cemetery is open to the public during daily operating hours; though not a public park, visitors are welcome but should exercise an awareness of their surroundings

Notable graves here are those of Louisville boxing star Muhammad Ali; Colonel Harland Sanders, founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken; and soldiers from both sides of the American Civil War.

Address: 701 Baxter Avenue, Louisville, Kentucky

Since it opened in 2004, the massive Fourth Street Live! complex has been keeping visitors and locals alike busy with its fun mix of retail and entertainment experiences. Covering somewhere in the region of 350,000-square-feet in the heart of Louisville, it's named for the now pedestrian-only section of 4th Street that it occupies.

In addition to its many stores, 4th Street Live! is also home to a wide variety of dining options worth checking out, including many well-known brand-name eateries. Concerts are regularly scheduled here, with big names including Justin Bieber and Jake Owen being among past performers. Performances are also projected onto the attraction's many large TV screens.

Address: 411 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Locust Grove is a historic property containing a circa-1792 house set on the grounds of the original William and Lucy Clark Croghan estate.

Three US presidents, Monroe, Jackson, and Taylor, were just a few of the distinguished visitors at the farm. It was also a stopping point for famed explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark.

The mansion has been restored and furnished to its original appearance and is open to the public. Special events occur throughout the year including an Independence Day celebration , history camps, and other community events.

Address: 561 Blankenbaker Lane, Louisville, Kentucky

The Louisville Palace Theatre was designed by John Eberson, a prominent architect who was known for his atmospheric theaters. The Palace opened in 1928 as a movie theater and has been restored to highlight the ornate plasterwork and Baroque décor. These days, it hosts a variety of live entertainment, including local, national, and world-touring acts.

Events at the palace range from Broadway performances to stand-up comedians and include contemporary gospel, R&B, and country artists. Whatever performance you see, the unique architectural style of the 2,800-seat auditorium really adds to the experience.

Notable past performers include an eclectic mix of talent including Frank Sinatra; James Taylor; Alison Krauss; and British new-wavers, A Flock of Seagulls.

Address: 625 S 4th Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Since it opened in 1927, the Speed Art Museum has undergone significant changes including a major addition to the building. It is one of Louisville's most popular museums. The collections include 17th-century Dutch and Flemish painting, 18th-century French art, Renaissance and Baroque tapestries, and American painting and sculpture.

New temporary exhibits are unveiled frequently at the museum. Admission is free for members and they also receive discounts at the Speed Cinema and other events and programs, including summer camps.

Address: 2035 South Third Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Farmington is a restored brick Federalist-style mansion on 18 acres of land that once served as a hemp plantation in the early 1800s. The now-historic mansion was completed in 1816 and housed members of the Speed family.

It was the childhood home of Joshua Fry Speed, who was considered to be Abraham Lincoln's closest friend. There is even evidence to suggest that the house was built with plans from Thomas Jefferson. Open daily for self-guided tours, Farmington also offers docent-led tours throughout the winter.

Address: 3033 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Another popular downtown Louisville attraction, the Louisville Science Center is housed in a restored 19th-century warehouse with three floors of hands-on exhibits and a four-story movie screen. Displays are intended for all ages, making it a great facility for children, and regular events for teens and adults make it fun for the whole family.

The seven permanent exhibits are: Science in Play, Who Forted, The Makerplace, Uniquely Human, The World we Create, Discovery Gallery, The World Around Us, and One World by Air Cargo. It also hosts a regular program of visitings exhibits.

The movie theater features both documentary films and Hollywood blockbusters. Special programming at the Kentucky Science Center includes family camps, overnight adventures, and adult-oriented science seminars and discussions.

Address: 727 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Thomas Edison House was once home to the inventor during his brief stay as a Western Union telegrapher after the Civil War. On display in the home are a collection of his inventions including phonographs, incandescent light bulbs, and the first home motion picture projector.

The building, located in the Butchertown area of Louisville, was constructed in the 1850s and is one of the last remaining shotgun-style duplexes in the area. Guided tours are available mid-day Tuesday through Saturday, and it is recommended to book in advance.

Address: 729 East Washington Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Located beside the Kentucky Science Center , the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft (KMAC) deserves an add-on visit, if not the entire day. Founded in 1981 to highlight the state's rich craft heritage, KMAC hosts changing exhibitions throughout the year in three galleries.

The work of approximately 200 artists is displayed, featuring everything from folk art to furniture. Signature and regular events at KMAC include yoga sessions, weekly poetry slams, and the annual KMAC Couture , a wearable art runway show that supports the efforts of the museum.

Address: 715 West Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

Formerly called the Jefferson County Courthouse, Louisville Metro Hall was built in the late 1830s and designed by Kentucky native, Gideon Shryock. Of particular interest are two statues: one of Thomas Jefferson by Moses Ezekiel in the front of the Metro Hall and one of Henry Clay by Joel T. Hart located in the rotunda.

The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. On the first Thursday of each month, the Mayor's Music and Art Series takes place on the West Lawn of Metro Hall and features local music performances.

See the Kentucky Medal of Honor Monument on its east side. Erected in 2001, it honors Kentucky residents who received this important medal since the Civil War.

If visiting near lunch time, the excellent Potbelly sandwich joint is just a block away on South 4th Street. Dine-in and takeout options are available.

Address: 527 W. Jefferson Street, Louisville, Kentucky

The Belle of Louisville is the oldest of its kind, built in 1914 with steam engines made in the 1880s. Still running on steam power, the historic Belle is a National Historic Landmark that the public can still enjoy in its full glory.

One of the world's best-traveled steamboats, this fun riverboat has certainly led an eventful life. After starting off as a cargo ship named the Idlewild in Pittsburgh, she spent the 1930s in Louisville before traveling as far as the Gulf of Mexico and even north to Canada. In the 1940s, it hosted USO concerts, and in 1963, she was part of the first Great Steamboat Race.

Cruises run from April through October, including narrated sightseeing cruises, as well as themed excursions, kid-centered family cruises, and dining cruises. If the Belle is booked up, consider a cruise on the Mary M. Miller , her sister ship named after the first licensed female American steamboat captain.

Address: 401 West River Road, Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville's Waterfront Park occupies 85 acres along the Ohio River, with the Big Four Bridge dominating as its biggest landmark. Joining Louisville with the city of Jeffersonville, Indiana, this former railroad bridge is now open to pedestrians and cyclists and is a beacon at night, with its iron frame lit with colorful LEDs.

The park has several public picnic areas and offers two playgrounds , as well as a large spray and splash area, with plenty of trees throughout for shade. It is also home to a Lincoln Memorial and a selection of public art, and all walkways are ADA accessible.

The dock for the Belle of Louisville is located within the park, and it also offers public docks, as well as a boat launch with kayak, canoe, and rowing rentals. During the warmer months, the park hosts a variety of special events, and visitors will find plenty of food trucks and vendors with cool treats in the evenings and on weekends.

Address: 129 River Road, Louisville, Kentucky

The Louisville Loop is an ambitious plan currently underway to connect the city's many parks and green spaces. Known simply as the "Loop" to locals, once complete, this impressive trail network will stretch for over 100 miles around the city and will provide walkers and cyclists with a year-round route to explore and enjoy.

While not yet finished, a large section is currently usable and connects already existing trails including the popular RiverWalk and the Ohio River Levee Trail . Around 30 percent complete, that means you already have an impressive 25 miles of paths to explore that take in the downtown core and riverside.

Although located a 25-minute drive from downtown Louisville, the old Waverly Hills Sanatorium is well worth a visit. Built in 1910 as a tuberculous hospital, it was later abandoned prior to its current owners taking over in the hopes of restoring this architecturally important building.

While restorations are ongoing and the property is not open to the general public, interesting tours are available, including their popular ghost-themed offerings. Lasting between two to six hours, these paranormal and history tours do often sell out, so plan ahead accordingly.

Address: 4400 Paralee Drive, Louisville, Kentucky

Located in the downtown core close to many of the city's top hotels and restaurants, The Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts has played an important role in cementing Louisville's reputation as Kentucky's leading cultural center. Built in 1983, this large, 2,377-seat multipurpose venue serves as home to the Kentucky Opera , the Louisville Orchestra, as well as Louisville Ballet, to name but a few.

In addition to concerts by the likes of Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, and James Taylor, the center has seen everything from ex-presidents to comedians to writers grace its stages. Check the venue's website for news of future events and festivals .

Address: 501 W Main Street, Louisville, Kentucky

One of the most important Catholic churches in the southern USA, the Cathedral of the Assumption is a picturesque landmark on 5th Street that's worthy of a visit. While the church itself was founded in 1811, the current building was constructed on the site of an earlier church in 1852.

It was here, in 1856, that the city's notorious "Bloody Monday" occurred. During a riot against immigrant Irish and German laborers, most of them of the Catholic faith, the cathedral was very nearly destroyed, with 22 unfortunates killed.

One of the most important works is currently on display at the Speed Art Museum : The Dead Christ Mourned by Matthew Harris Jouett hung above the cathedral organ for many decades before being fully restored.

Address: 433 S 5th St # 101, Louisville, Kentucky

Located near the Ohio River and the city's waterfront parks, the KFC Yum! Center opened to great fanfare in 2010 and serves the University of Louisville's women's and men's basketball teams. Boasting seating for over 22,000 ticketholders, it's the USA's largest basketball arena . It's also used for lacrosse and volleyball tournaments.

The arena also serves as a state-of-the-art concert venue, with past shows featuring such music stars as Phil Collins, Kiss, and Celine Dion. Visit the Yum! Center website for details of future concerts, events, and games. Ample on-site parking is available.

Address: 1 Arena Plaza, Louisville, Kentucky

The best place to stay in Louisville is in the historic downtown area where much of the city's history is centered. This is also where some of the city's best restaurants and museums are located. Some of the key areas and attractions here are the Slugger Museum, the 4th Street Live area, and the Kentucky Science Center. Below is a list of highly rated hotels in convenient locations that are perfect for a fun Kentucky weekend getaway .

Luxury Hotels:

• With creatively and tastefully designed rooms, the pet-friendly 21c Museum Hotel is a boutique establishment, complete with a contemporary art museum. The Louisville Slugger Museum is just steps away, and the Muhammad Ali Center and Frazier History Museum are nearby.
• The opulent Brown Hotel is a landmark luxury hotel, in operation since 1923, with a great central location. This hotel has been recently renovated and is known for outstanding service.
• The Louisville Marriott Downtown is conveniently connected via skywalk to the Kentucky International Convention Center and has recently been fully renovated.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A short stroll from the 4th Street Live area, the Hilton Garden Inn Downtown features a rooftop indoor/outdoor restaurant with stunning views over the downtown area.
• Close to the baseball stadium, the downtown Residence Inn Louisville Downtown features extra-large rooms and mini kitchens, perfect for families.
• Nearby is the Hampton Inn Louiseville Downtown , with large rooms and suites and an indoor pool.

Budget Hotels:

• Within walking distance of the main attractions and the convention center, the basic but comfortable Econo Lodge Downtown is a great choice of budget hotel in Louisville.
• Five miles out from downtown but close to the famous Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, is the Comfort Inn .
• Six miles outside the downtown area and near the Fairgrounds is the Red Roof Inn Fair and Expo , with newly renovated rooms and several restaurants within walking distance.

More on Kentucky

Your ultimate guide to tours in Louisville

Explore river city through its history, food, drink, and art on these tours..

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Local author David Dominé leads a tour through Old Louisville based on his true-crime memoir “A Dark Room in Glitter Ball City.”

Photo by LOUtoday

Whether you’re a lifelong Louisvillian longing to embrace your inner tourist, or you have a limited amount of time in Derby City, here are 20+ tours guaranteed to show you the sights you want to see.

Note: Price estimates are based on individual adult rates available at the time of publishing. Check each company’s website to see current pricing.

Barn and Backside Tour | $50 per person | April-November Hop in a van and ride through the community of caretakers that live behind Churchill Downs + see horses they care for in action on the track and the famous green-roofed barns.

See thoroughbred horses on the Kentucky Derby Museum’s Barn and Backside Tour.

Bat Factory Tour | $0-$22 per person Included in your admission to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, this guided tour takes you into the plant where Louisville Slugger baseball bats are made to see the production process from tree to swing + leave with your very own mini-bat.

Trolley City Tour | $30 per person | April-December Board an old-time trolley car at the historic Galt House Hotel downtown and enjoy a narrated tour of Derby City’s history, architecture, and culture.

The Secrets and Scandals of Old Louisville | $65 per person Walk through the largest contiguous collection of Victorian Mansions in the US and hear tales of the people who lived in them, making stops at famous sites like the Conrad-Caldwell House and Witches’ Tree.

Belle of Louisville Riverboats | Prices vary | April-December Choose your own steamboat adventure via 5+ different cruises, including dining voyages and kids trips, on either the Belle of Louisville or the Mary M. Miller.

Dip into Kentucky’s history of beer cheese on the NuLu Food & History Walking Tour by Louisville Food Tours.

Eat and drink

NuLu Food & History Walking Tour | $94-$159 per person Take a bite out of Louisville history on this three-hour tour that makes six stops throughout the East Market Street district and includes a taste of Louisville’s iconic foods like bourbon balls, fried chicken, and the Modjeska.

The Highlands Food & History Walking Tour | $94-$159 per person See colorful murals and Victorian homes in between five stops to taste local specialties including the Hot Brown and bourbon.

All-Inclusive Craft Beer Experience | $55-$75 per person Shuttle between three different local breweries and try a flight of four beers at each stop.

Boozy Brunch & Bourbon Adventure | $179 per person Start your tourist day with a meal at one of Louisville’s classic breakfast spots, The Cafe, before heading to Bourbon Country for a tour + tasting at Kentucky Artisan and Bulleit distilleries.

Historic Locust Grove is a 55-acre 18th-century farm site and national landmark.

Photo by @agentanthony_

All in on history

Oxmoor Farm | $0-$12 per person Choose between one of eight offered tours that explore the history of this estate — from learning about the enslaved people that lived there to the architecture of the farmhouses and manor on the property.

Locust Grove | $0-12 per person Learn about the lives of the Croghan and Clark families that lived in the Georgian-style house on this farm during this docent-led tour.

Whitehall House | $0-$10 person A guide will lead you through this two-story, Italianate-style mansion that was built in 1855 to see its ornate rooms with many kinds of wallpaper and fine art.

See nine NuLu murals outlined in an illustrated walking guide by local artist Liz Richter.

Art is all around

NuLu Mural Tour | $7 suggested tip Download this local artist’s illustrated map of nine murals with notes on each + scavenger hunt and walk at your own pace to view them.

The Little Loom House | $5-$10 per person Get hands-on learning of past and current weaving practices at this historic site where founder Lou Tate lived and where the Hill sisters wrote the “Happy Birthday to You” song.

On the Phantoms of Prohibition tour, guests will visit local haunts with haunts.

Get ghosted

Glitter Ball City Walking Tour | $90 per person Join author David Dominé for a drink at an antique store before a 150-minute walk through Old Louisville to see some of the houses featured in his true-crime memoir “A Dark Room in Glitter Ball City” about a recent murder in a mansion and the decades of secrets and corruption before it.

Phantoms of Prohibition | $139-$159 per person Sit in a booth at Patrick O’Shea’s where many have seen a resident ghost + hear other haunting stories as you eat and drink your way down Whiskey Row — including Al Capone’s secret getaway.

Waverly Hills Paranormal Tours | $30 per person If you’ve got the guts, book this after-hours experience in a former tuberculosis hospital pegged as one of America’s most haunted places.

What did we miss? If you know a tour that’s not on the list, guide us in the right direction using this survey .

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12 Prettiest Day Trips From Louisville

Louisville sits on the northern border of one of the prettiest regions in the country. Our city is surrounded by four national forests within a two-hour scenic drive, the largest US collection of historic buildings from the 19th century, and gorgeous distilleries dotting the landscape. We’re proud to be Louisvillians, but as much as we love our city, we all need to get out and explore a little bit from time to time. We’ve compiled our favorite day trip destinations from Louisville within a two-hour drive and what month to go!

Planning a road trip? Here are a few other posts to help you plan!

• 100 Best Louisville Murals: City Guide & Map
• Rattlesnake Saloon: Alabama’s Restaurant In A Cave
• A ‘Machine Gun Kelly’ Themed Cleveland, Ohio Roadtrip

Owensboro, Kentucky

Owensboro is a two-hour road trip from Louisville and a perfect destination for January! As far as quaint Kentucky towns go – Owensboro has all the makings of a perfect winter getaway. ** Another great thing about traveling to Owensboro is that because Louisville is on Eastern time and Owensboro is on central time – you’ll get there an hour earlier to start your trip!

One of our favorite things to do in the winter is walking historic streets lit up with twinkly lights while snagging some coffee. Owensboro, Kentucky has one of the longest historical main streets perfect for taking a stroll with your loved one under the lights! As for what else to do out of the cold, Owensboro is home to a few great museums and great local Southern restaurants!

• The Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame – As music junkies, this museum is top on our Owensboro bucket list! Artists like The Stanley Brothers and Earl. J.T. Gray have been being inducted into the Hall of Fame since 1991. For a schedule of live music events at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame – see here . Address: 311 West 2nd St. Owensboro, KY 42301 Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 11 AM – 5 PM Sunday – Tuesday:  Closed

Owensboro, Kentucky, is the BBQ mecca of the Midwest!!

There’s something special about BBQ in Owensboro. If you like juicy brisket, spicy, succulent sausages, smoked mutton dripping in house-made BBQ sauce, and burgoo – you need to be in Owensboro as soon as possible! Three restaurants have been running for best BBQ in Owensboro: Moonlite Bar-B-Q Inn , Old Hickory Bar-B-Q , and Ole South Bar-B-Q .

As the 4th largest city in Kentucky and only 2 hours away, Owensboro is for a perfect winter weekend getaway from Louisville!

Get our full guide to all the fun things to do in Owensboro, Kentucky here!

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

In the month of February, another great day trip from Louisville is to head down I-65 South to Mammoth Cave.

There are a few places in Kentucky that can take your breath away, and Mammoth Cave is one of them. Not only is it the world’s longest cave system – but it’s also the only internationally recognized UNESCO World Heritage site in Kentucky ! The first humans on record to have explored Mammoth Cave are from 5,000 years ago. While Mammoth Cave isn’t the only ancient human archeological finds in Kentucky, Mammoth Cave’s findings are certainly the oldest!

Best Tours at Mammoth Cave

With various ranger-led tours both above ground and in the cave – it’s a perfect day trip destination from Louisville. Since Ev is actually from the area, here is the low down on the best Mammoth Cave tours that we would spend our time doing again!

• The Broadway Tour – This is the best tour for someone who has never been to Mammoth Cave before. You’ll want to take this guided tour for an explanation of all the best parts of the cave, like the Rotunda, Broadway Avenue, and the historic ‘Tuberculosis Huts’. Duration: 2 Hours | $18 Adults, $13 Youth, $9 Senior Pass Holder, $9 Access Pass Holder
• Wild Cave Tour – This one is actually on our bucket list. Not only are only adults (18 and over) allowed, you’re also required to wear above the ankle hiking boots, and you’re provided with coveralls, helmets, knee pads, and headlamps. The National Park Service even lists this tour as ‘very physically demanding’, with long periods of time getting through tight crawl spaces and difficult climbing areas. Duration: 6 Hours | $66 Adults, $33 Senior Pass Holder, $33 Access Pass Holder
• Violet City Lantern Tour – The best combination of hiking and history. Not only will you be carrying lanterns to see the cave by, but it’s also a true hiking experience up and down steep hills! We highly recommend hiking boots for this one!! Duration: 3 Hours | $25 Adults, $20 Youth, $12.50 Senior Pass Holder, $12.50 Access Pass Holder

Mammoth Cave is 1 of 24 Unesco World Heritage sites in the United States.

Photography at Mammoth Cave

If you’re interested in photography, you’ll want the Frozen Niagara Photo Tour or the non-guided Discovery Tour. Just remember that there is no flash photography allowed. There are many species of bats and other nocturnal animals that flash-photography would disturb. Leave no trace principles mean more than just not leaving trash behind!!

To make a full day when you want to do all the things on your mini road trip from Louisville, there are a few other things to do in the area! You’re also close to Onyx Cave , hiking, rivers for kayaking, and a ton of campgrounds .

Address: 1 Mammoth Cave Parkway, Mammoth Cave, Kentucky 42259 Distance from Louisville: 1.5 hours from Louisville

Bowling Green, Kentucky

We know what you’re thinking… What is there to do in the tiny town around Western Kentucky University? For a fun, relaxing day trip from Louisville, see WKU’s campus cherry trees bloom, the Corvette Museum, Lost River Cave, and visit Amish territory. This tiny Southern slow-time town makes for a charming destination! (And we’re not biased just because Shelb’s went to school here or that Ev is from here!) Distance from Louisville – 1 hour and 45 minutes.

So what will you do on a beautiful spring day in Bowling Green, Kentucky?

• The Corvette Museum : Normally we’re not big auto- museum folks but one of the coolest parts of the Corvette Museum is that you can see the cars that fell into ‘the sinkhole’. Doesn’t it almost sound like some sort of Biblical tragedy? The sinkhole happened in 2014 and now they’ve left parts of it open as an exhibit ! Address: 350 Corvette Dr, Bowling Green, KY 42101 Hours: 8 AM -5 PM Monday – Sunday
• Lost River Cave : Just like it sounds – a river flowing through a cave is pretty amazing to see! You can even take underground river boat tours here . Address: 2818 Nashville Road, Bowling Green, KY 42101 Hours: Monday – Sunday (Tour times vary.)

If you haven’t gotten enough of racecars at the Corvette Museum, head over to the NCM Motorsports Park. You can drive sports cars or ride along with a professional driver on a racetrack in a sportscar! Would there be anything better than feeling the wind through your hair on a zero – humidity perfect 70-degree day in the Bluegrass? We think not.

WKU’s Cherry Tree Row

WKU’s Cherry Tree Row : It might sound silly, but every year in March, people come from all over to walk down the middle of campus and see the cherry trees bloom! ** If you’re looking forward to doing this – we highly recommend going in the afternoon when the sun sets around 6 or 7 pm.

• Address to WKU Cherry Tree Row: 1906 College Heights Blvd. Bowling Green, KY 42101

P.S. Since March is officially when our beautiful home state wakes up, and the weather warms up. Make sure to visit Chaney’s Dairy Barn for that ice cream you’ve been waiting for all winter long!!

Lexington, Kentucky

If we were planning a day trip to our favorite neighbor city Lexington, we would spend a whole day surrounded by the prettiest parts of the countryside here in April. Not only are the cherry trees still in full bloom until around mid-April, but this is also horse country.

When you think of Kentucky and its gently rolling fields, white picket fences, and barns bigger than most people’s homes… you’re thinking of Lexington. April in Lexington really is amazing because the countryside starts to wake up, and you’ll see fields start to turn that vibrant ‘blue-grass’ color.

What’s the best way to enjoy a leisurely day trip from Louisville? Plan your visit around horses !

• Kentucky H orse Park : More than just a place to see horses, the Kentucky Horse Park provides a campground and access to a truly immersive equine experience. Horseback riding, the International Museum of the Horse, horse shows, and ‘stall-side chats’ are all available during your stay or for the day-trippers! Address: 4089 Iron Works Pkwy, Lexington, KY 40511 Hours: Wednesday through Sunday 9 AM-5 PM
• Keeneland Spring Meet : We’re sure you’ve heard of Churchill Downs? Home to the Kentucky Derby and the ‘fastest two minutes in history’? Keenland is the smaller and more local version of Churchill Downs. You’ll spend the afternoon playing cornhole, sipping bourbon and gingers with your friends in brightly colored clothes… it’s really and truly a perfect afternoon!! Address: 4201 Versailles Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40510 Hours: **Keeneland Spring Meet is from April 3- April 23rd.**

If you’re looking to be in nature a little away from the city, head to the Lexington Cemetery for a stroll to see the cherry trees or Raven Run Nature Sanctuary .

Distance from Louisville: 1 Hour

Explore our guide to 50 Fun Things to Do In Lexington, Kentucky for all ages!

Bernheim Forest, Kentucky

Speaking of scenic drives in Kentucky, Bernheim Forest is one of the most serene forests near Louisville. Typically when we’re looking for a little outdoor time in Louisville, there are a ton of city parks . If we’re looking to try a few harder trails, though, Bernheim Forest is only about 40 minutes from Louisville and a perfect day trip escape.

There are over 40 miles of hiking trails to explore so we’re going to break down our favorite trails:

• Elm Lick Trail – We hike this one every time we go to Bernheim because it’s so pretty! Crossing over and around multiple streams, listening to the giant bullfrog’s screech, and a few steep scurry-up-the-hill climbs, it’s far from a boring trail. There isn’t a ‘destination’ per se but it’s beautiful nonetheless. P.S. It may not sound peaceful to hear bullfrogs screech but we can assure you it’s a good laugh once you hear it! Duration: 5.0 Miles Difficulty: Hard
• Lake Nevin Loop – This is a gravel trail so really better for walking than actual hiking – but it’s so pretty! You’ll be walking around a lake which would be perfect after a harder trail like Elm Lick Trail. Duration: 1.5 miles Difficulty: Easy
• Millennium Trail – Millenium trail will probably require its own day trip from Louisville to complete. You’re also required to register at the Visitor Center before starting this trail so that the forest service can keep track of who’s hiking in and out on this trail. (For your safety!) Duration: 13.75 miles Difficulty: Hard

Even if you’re not a big hiker, there is plenty of space to stretch out for a picnic; visit the forest learning center and Bernheim’s Edible Garden & Research Building. Don’t forget to snag a picture with the forest giant sculptures from our Kentucky Spring Bucket List !

Address: 2075 Clermont Road, Clermont, Kentucky 40110 Park Hours: Monday through Sunday 7 AM – 8 PM

Spring Mill State Park, Indiana

Heading out of state, Spring Mill State Park in Indiana is another scenic destination for a day trip from Louisville. Spring Mill State Park is a preserved Pioneer Village from the early 1800s. You can take a boat tour of the Twin Caves, walk the pioneer village to see the grist, sawmill, and 20 other preserved buildings, or hike the preserve. If you decide to extend your stay – make sure you try out staying at the Spring Mill Inn !

The weird & wonderful part of this park is that it’s also home to the Gus Grissom Memorial Museum , honoring Gus Grissom, a local NASA astronaut? So after you’ve gotten your fill of the black from the past – head over to the museum and get a little futuristic!

Address: 3333 IN-60 E, Mitchell, IN 47446 Hours: Monday through Sunday 7:30 AM – 11 PM

Shaker Village, kentucky

Heading back into Kentucky for another preserved village day trip from Louisville is Shaker Village. Home to waterfalls, an incredible farm-to-table restaurant, and the largest collection of 19th century preserved buildings in the US – it’s sort of picture-perfect . Being an hour and ten minutes from Louisville means it’s also attainable picture perfection!

Here’s how to have the perfect summer day at Shaker Village: hike or bike the trails, eat, and listen to live music. Sans cell phone if you can help it!

• Live Music at The Meeting House – Free admission on the lawn near the Trustees’ Office Restaurant , with drinks and specialty cocktails available. They even have fire pits for those late chilly spring evenings! Fridays and Saturdays @ 6:30

Whenever we’re visiting these historic villages, the best part about them is how quiet they are. Chances are if you’re looking to escape for the day, it’s because you need to let your mind flow and relax. There really is no better place than some of these historic towns. The water, the landscaping, and the plush picnic-worthy grass.. take our word for it!

The Best Trails at Shaker Village

• Hike Fulling Mill Falls Loop – Starts near the west lot wash house and continues to the waterfall! Duration: 1.3 Miles Difficulty: Moderate
• Hike Shakertown at Pleasant Hill Trail – This waterfall trail has a ton of wildflowers on it! Duration: 1.3 miles Difficulty: Easy
• Shaker Village Shawnee Run, Anderson, and Heritage Loop – You’ll be able to pet horses along this trail. Duration: 6.6 miles Difficulty: Moderate

Address: 3501 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg KY 40330 Hours: Sunday – Saturday 10AM – 5PM

Holiday World & Splashin Safari, Indiana

As a kid, Shelbs went to Holiday World a ton with her family. Our family isn’t a huge fan of theme parks, but this is one park we’d go back to all the time! Holiday World is the best kind of day trip because you can totally escape. You don’t have to worry about a thing, and in our experience, your day is so much more pleasant than Disneyland, etc. With the well-maintained, super safe rides and the cleanest water park we’ve ever been to – it’s enjoyable even for adults!!

Our favorite water rides were always the Mammoth Water Coaster , the Zinga , and the Wildebeest Water Coaster over in the Splashin’ Safari. As for the park’s non-swimming side, we always loved the Hallowswings and the Thunderbird Steel Roller Coaster .

**Tip: If you’re just in the mood to relax – you can hit up the wave pool over in Splashin’ Safari!

Perks of spending the say at Hoiday World:

• It’s the cleanest theme park we’ve ever been to! Employees are constantly cleaning even pre-Covid.
• Non-alcoholic beverages and sunscreen are free all day long.
• Theme park and waterpark all in one.

Address:452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus IN 47579 Drive Time From Louisville: 1 Hour 20 Minutes

Clifty Falls, Indiana

Clifty Falls is the perfect day trip from Louisville if you’re looking to spend the day outdoors in September .

It’s hot but not miserable during this time of year, so where you’re sure to get wet along the trails will be more fun! Usually, by this time of year, the water will have warmed up, and you’ll have an easier time in the water crossings.

If you’re the competitive type – you can also participate in the Four Falls Challenge of Clifty Falls State Park ! The competition is simple: you pick up your map from the Nature Center and take photos of 7 specific waypoints along your hike. The hike should take you 2-3 hours along the old railroad tracks, a 600-foot-long tunnel, and 4 different waterfalls!

Best Trails at Clifty Falls State Park

• Clifty Falls, Hoffman Falls, Tunnel Falls Loop Trail – You’ll see three separate falls and cross over the different trails on the official Clifty Falls map. Duration: 5.4 miles
• Tunnel Falls to Lily Memorial – This one has really steep stairs but pretty! (Good for those of us wanting a workout!) Duration: 1.5 miles
• Hoffman Falls Loop – Good views and shorter than the other hikes if you’re pressed for time! Duration: 0.8 miles

*The trails at Clifty Falls don’t have names marked on the map – they have numbers. In other places, we’ve found the names, though!

Get Your Clifty Falls Map Here!

Address: 2221 Clifty Drive, Madison, Indiana 47250 **This is the entrance at the North Gate! Driving Distance from Louisville: 1 hour

Huber’s Orchard & Winery- Indiana

We can’t tell you how many October’s we’ve spent cruising through the countryside to this hidden gem tucked away in Indiana. Huber’s is the picture-perfect day trip from Louisville that we all need! And we mean need… every year .

If you’re in the area, Huber’s is best for soaking in all things fall-fun in this region of the country. Imagine picking your pumpkins, eating pumpkin ice cream, and sipping on delicious blackberry wine from the winery? All while a cool breeze from the Appalachian mountains rolls across your favorite fuzzy sweater as you sip your wine.. you can practically feel the stress melting off of your body, right?

• Tours & Tasting Experiences – Loved doing a tasting and even took our giant German Shepherd inside while doing it! Granted, he just laid at our feet the whole time, but it was amazing! We are also excited to do the Starlight Winery’s entire tour, including seeing their still room. Something about a copper still makes us Kentuckians feel at home!
• Apple Picking – The most Instagrammable and actually fun activity in the fall! Perfect for girls’ groups or date days! Highly recommend going home and baking an apple pie when you’re done. The market offers their homemade ice cream for sale. Literally drooling at the thought of apple pie and ice cream as we write this!
• Pumpkin Picking – You’ll definitely ride a tractor and get covered in hay from the haybale seats – so don’t try to go crazy with your outfit . Just have fun with your day!

For us city slickers..

As Louisvillians, many of us are used to city life and don’t know what ‘country life’ feels like. That slower pace of life, where tractors drive down the road, and you get to go 20 miles an hour for a few miles? You will not realize how fast-paced your life has been until you’re starting at a tractor butt for 20 minutes. This kind of reflective break comes free of charge when you visit Huber’s!! And we say that with love because we could all probably use a little more of that!!

Address: 19816 Huber Rd, Borden, IN 47106 Hours: Monday through Saturday 10 AM to 6 PM

Berea, Kentucky

One of the prettiest areas within 2 hours of Louisville is Berea, Kentucky. Not only is the drive to Berea scenic, but some of the prettiest hikes in Kentucky are in Berea .

There really is so much to see and do in the mountains in the Eastern portion of Kentucky. You have Red River Gorge, Cumberland Gap, Big South Fork, Daniel Boone National Forest – all apart of the Appalachian Mountain Range. The Appalachian mountains are stunning, but to really explore them the way they deserve to be explored – you’ll need to break them up into bite-sized pieces.

Berea is always a good introduction to mountain life because it sits on the edge of the Daniel Boone National Forest, in what we call ‘the Foothills.’ The foothills of any mountain range are basically the mountains’ baby portions before you drive deeper into the taller, windier sections of the mountain range.

Best Hikes in Berea

• East and West Pinnacles of Berea – Sweeping, unforgettable views!! You’ll actually also get to see Indian Fort Lookout and Eagle’s Nest. All 4 are equally beautiful. **Please take water no matter what time of year! We saw people attempting this without bringing water, and that seemed semi-crazy! Duration: 6.6 miles Difficulty: moderate
• Indian Fort Lookout – This is basically the hike to do if you want to see views and be done within two hours. You won’t get to see all of the pinnacles, but the views will be worth the hike still! Duration: 2.0 miles Difficulty: moderate
• Anglin Falls – This is a harder hike but well worth the efforts! When you get to the falls, you’re rewarded with one of the most picturesque fairy tale scenes we’ve ever seen in Kentucky. Duration: 1.7 miles Difficulty: moderate

When you head to Berea in mid-October to early November – you’ll hit prime leaf-peeping time as well as some of the best views close to Louisville! If you decide to stay a little longer and need a place to stay – try staying at the historic Boone Tavern ! It’s so beautiful and perfectly embodies the spirit of this artsy mountain town.

Bardstown, Kentucky

Bardstown is Kentucky’s second oldest city, established in 1780, and has over 300 historically preserved buildings! Voted one of the most beautiful small towns in America by three different publications, we saved this one for last, and most certainly not the least!

When choosing a road trip from Louisville, this is the one we highly recommend in the winter because it’s decorated so beautifully for winter festivities! Not to mention that it’s the start of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and has 7 different distilleries. This includes the incredible new age brewery the Bardstown Bourbon Company !

There really is nothing better than bourbon to warm you up in the frosty December weather!

Our Favorite Bardstown Distilleries

• Bardstown Bourbon Company – Basically the most ‘ boujee ‘ gorgeously industrial distillery we’ve ever seen. It’s hard even to explain but watch our Instagram reel here to get a sense of how fun your day can be! Address: 1500 Parkway Dr., Bardstown, KY 40004
• Preservation Distillery – The only craft bourbon distillery of its kind in town. They do small batches, and this quaint setting is great to go off the beaten trail from where people normally go in Bardstown. Address: 426 Sutherland Rd., Bardstown, KY 40004
• Jim Beam – One of the oldest distilleries in the area, the Jim Beam family has worked in the distillery for 7 generations since 1795! Address: 568 Happy Hollow Rd., Clermont, KY 40110

If you time your day right you can do more than one distillery in a day!

The Best Day Trips From Louisville, Kentucky

Whether you’re going leaf-peeping or soaking in historical sights, there is a trip for every month of the year in Kentucky that makes a day trip worthwhile. If you have any questions about what to do in the area – feel free to reach out! We love sending our restaurant recommendations, and we have friends from all over the state who love to eat too!

Make sure to subscribe to our blog , snag all of your road trip basics (below), get your travel insurance , and have fun jamming to a new playlist !

Until next time friends,

Thanks for sharing!

Evan and Shelby

Sharing beautiful places, sustainable & slow living tips, + good food from across the globe. You can probably find Shelbs creating a new playlist or editing photos, and Ev researching the latest and greatest in all manner of travel gear and tech. We're so happy you're here taking a moment to read and slow down a little.

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These are some absolutely beautiful places! Definitely on my to visit list

Martha Knight

Wow, sounds like an interesting place! If I’m in the area, I’ll remember this post!

wow Kentucky looks so beautiful ?

I live in Louisville and have done a few of your day trips, but certainly not all. Shame on me. I do love all your hiking suggestions and will start checking them out. Mammoth Cave is a fantastic day trip, as is Red River Gorge. Thanks for the nicely organized list!

Nice to meet a fellow Kentuckian!! All of these trips are amazing and we’re so excited mammoth cave has opened back up!

Monica Woerner

It’s been on my bucket list to check out the Mammoth caves. Now I‘ll have to add a few more things to my wishlist! ? thanks for the awesome write-up!

I love the idea of hiking in a cave. I’ve put it on my list of things to do

What an amazing guide! On this list I’ve only visited Mammoth Cave, but I would love to visit them all. Especially Berea, Kentucky, it looks so so pretty!

I had no idea there was so much to see close to Louisville. I’m driving cross the US and looking for interesting and beautiful places!

This is dealy helpful article

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Louisville Visitor Center

Let our destination experts help you plan your visit to Bourbon City.

The Louisville Visitor Center, located downtown at 4th & Jefferson Streets, is temporarily closed for renovation, the first full-scale overhaul in the Visitor Center’s nearly 20-year history. Reopening in Spring 2024, just in time for the 150th Kentucky Derby and PGA Championship, our reimagined Downtown Visitor Center will provide a more immersive and authentic Louisville experience to drive deeper engagement with community residents and visitors alike. During the closure, our Visitor Experience staff will be tabling across the city at various attractions and hotels to provide destination information services. The rotation will begin this month at the Kentucky Derby Museum and Evan Williams Bourbon Experience. Louisville Tourism staff will be on-site during the following dates & times:

Kentucky Derby Museum:

• Monday - Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience:

• Monday - Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM

Details on Louisville Tourism’s Mobile Visitor Information tables will be made available on an ongoing basis during the temporary closure each month via:

• Signage in the front windows of the Downtown Visitor Center
• Louisville Tourism's Website
• The Bourbon City Brief E-Newsletter
• Monthly Update Emails

For additional details or questions, please contact our Visitor Center Manager, Mike Attebury, by email at [email protected] .

301 South 4th Street Louisville, Kentucky 40202

1.888.LOUISVILLE (1.888.568.4784)

10 Unique Things to Do in Downtown Louisville

Perched on the banks of the Ohio River and dotted with eye-catching Victorian-era buildings, Downtown Lousville is a hub of cultural activity, packed full of top notch things to see and do.

The distinctive red brick facades of Museum Row (Photo: Ken LundFollow via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Whether it’s world class museums that explore the city’s legendary boxing heritage, live entertainment venues, casual restaurants or buzzing bars, there’s something for every predilection in Louisville’s compact downtown district. To help you plan your trip, we’ve picked out 10 of the most unique things to enjoy here.

Explore an assortment of neighbouring cultural venues

Located on Main Street, Museum Row comprises nine museums spread over five historic blocks. They specialise in everything from science to boxing to whiskey, so there’s something for every interest. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory should be on any baseball fan’s bucket list, with its galleries packed full of memorabilia, including the world’s biggest baseball bat, measuring an impressive 120-foot tall. If antique armoury and arms are where your interests lie, visit the home of the US Royal Armouries at the Frazier History Museum.

Book at GetYourGuide.com

Admire downtown from the splendor of an historic steamboat

Recognised as the oldest steamboat in operation today, the iconic Belle of Louisville is said to hold the all-time record in her class for miles traveled, years in operation and places visited. Now open to the public, guests can hop aboard and cruise along the Ohio River on a variety of sightseeing tours. The team has added another boat to its fleet too, the Mary M. Miller which is named after America’s first steam boat captain. The company also offers sunset sight-seeing, private dining and the weekly ‘Throwback Thursday’, a two-hour cruise accompanied by old-school tunes and vintage-inspired cocktails.

The Belle of Louisville set against a downtown backdrop (Photo: William Alden via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0)

Traverse Louisville on a Tuk Tuk tour

They might be better associated with Asia, but the three-wheeled motorised rickshaws known as tuk tuks have begun to make their way onto the streets of cities around the world as a practical – and fun – form of urban transport. In Louisville visitors can explore the city this way by joining a 2.5-hour tuk tuk tour that lets you take in the sights, sounds, and history of downtown while picking up insights and stories from your driver as they point out significant landmarks and places of interest as you pass

A Louisville tuk tuk navigates a street (Photo: GetYourGuide.com)

Discover how bourbon is made

Louisville is big on Bourbon — and Evan Williams Bourbon Experience offers one of the best insights into the popular tipple in the city. Explore the extraordinary life and contributions of Evan Williams, the man behind Kentucky’s iconic drink and the state’s first commercial distillery. Tours last for approximately an hour and include a historical tour, a viewing of the artisanal still and an expert-led guided tasting. Keep an eye out on the schedule as events take place throughout the year, including blind tastings and speakeasy movie screenings. There’s also an excellent on-site store, selling booze, merchandise and high-quality barware for you to recreate the experience at home.

LOCATION 528 West Main Street

Corn mashing machinery as seen during the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience (Photo: PunkToad via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Delve into the life of the Louisville Lip

Created in honour of Louisville’s most iconic son, the Muhammad Ali Center is a shrine to the legendary late boxer’s incredible life and career. Spread over two-and-a-half levels of exhibits, the venue explores Ali’s momentous contributions to the sporting as well as social and political worlds through six core values: respect, confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, and spirituality. Highlights include historic Civil Rights era media footage, an interactive timeline of Ali’s life, videos of Ali fights, two art galleries, and hands-on boxing fun.

LOCATION 144 North 6th Street

An exterior shot of the Muhammad Ali Center (Photo: local louisville via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Have a nose around a stunning 19th-century Italianate townhouse

The Brennan House is the last remaining Victorian mansion along what was once a residential street. The extraordinary three-story Italianate townhouse was built by the tobacco wholesaler Thomas Brennan in 1868. The family lived in the historic house until 1969, when it transferred to Louisville Inc., a non-profit whose mission is to protect and promote the cultural heritage of the community. Featuring 16-foot ceilings, stained glass windows and original furnishings and flourishes, the house provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the wealthy in late 19th-century Kentucky. Visitors can book onto a group tour or visit by special appointment.

LOCATION 631 South 5th Street

Discover one of Kentucky’s finest whisky distilleries

With a legacy dating back to 1889, today Peerless Distilling Company operates under the same DSP-KY-50 with the same outstanding standards, crafting whiskey from grain to bottle in Louisville’s Bourbon District. In contrast to standard practice, Peerless starts with fresh grain every cook, never recycling or reusing mash. Their whiskey is always bottled at barrel proof, leaving the authentic robust flavors of genuine Kentucky whiskey. Nationally recognised for its superior quality and taste, the company welcomes you to join their legacy and taste the difference. Behind-the-scenes distillery tours and tasting experiences are offered Monday through Saturday.

LOCATION 120 North 10th Street HOURS Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Closed Sun

An exterior shot of the Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co (Photo: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co)

Join a Louisville foodie tour

For a comprehensive introduction to everything Louisville does best, hop on the City Taste Tours wacky bus. You’ll learn about everything from bourbon to beer and ghosts to glassworks. Tours stop off at Churchill Downs and its famous Twin Spires, as well as the Cast Iron District, Chocolate Bourbon Truffle Company and St James Court, with its gas-lit streets. Along the way, you’ll get to try lots of traditional Louisville light bites, like chocolate truffles, pizzas, beers, wines and bourbons. Tours last for around 3.5 hours and food and drink is included in the price.

Learn the art of glass blowing

Flame Run is the largest privately owned glassblowing studio in the midwest. Offering a unique interactive and artistic experience, guests can walk around the roaring fires of the hotshop and explore feature works from national talents. You can try your hand at glass blowing too, at one of three hands-one courses designed to teach you how to craft your own glass creations. A huge balcony overlooks all the hotshop action, so visitors can see resident artists transform the molten glass into breathtaking masterpieces first-hand. There’s a gift shop too selling a wide range of goodies, from souvenirs to high-end pieces.

LOCATION 715 West Main Street HOURS Weds-Sun 10am-4pm Closed Mon-Tues

Scalding hot equipment in use at Flame Run gallery and studio (Photo: Anthony via Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0)

Jump aboard Louisville’s original trolley tour

Tour the best of the ‘ville aboard an old-time trolley. Trolley De’Ville offers fun and informative city tours exploring the history and highlights of the city. The tour ticks off downtown’s best museums and attractions, including the Ohio River Wharf and classic riverboats, the home of the Kentucky Derby, the University of Louisville campus, Museum Row and the beautiful architecture of the old town. If it’s bourbon you’re interested in, you can hop on a specialized private tour that explores the best Bourbon distillers across Kentucky state.

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Class Schedule

Murphy's camera learning center.

Murphy's Camera has been helping photographers of all skill levels get the right gear for over 60 years. Our photo classes are a great way for photographers to expand their knowledge base and take their photography to the next level. Every digital camera purchased from Murphy's Camera includes free admission for two to one of our introductory classes. Murphy's Camera offers photography related classes from beginner to advanced, covering everything from basic composition to professional studio lighting. We limit class sizes to ensure the best learning experience possible, so be sure to check out our class schedule and reserve your spot today.

Most classes are held at our main Louisville location: 1440 Bardstown Rd Louisville, KY 40204 502-485-1500

This introductory class is geared for the Digital Interchangeable Lens Camera beginner. This class covers both Digital SLR and Mirrorless cameras. Go beyond the basic auto settings and begin to explore the functions your camera offers you to help you create and achieve the results that you want. We'll discuss exposure modes, metering and other camera options that will help you capture more creative images.

Admission for two is FREE with purchase of a camera from Murphy's Camera or $50.00 per person.

All Intro to ILC classes are held at our Louisville location at 1440 Bardstown Road

Start to take more control of your Interchangeable Lens Camera (DSLR or Mirrorless) in this in-depth 3-hour course. You will learn how to master your camera's light meter, use apertures and shutter speeds and ISO settings to your advantage, how and when to use exposure compensation, selecting the right lens for your needs, and start to explore shooting with flash. File formats and filters will also be discussed.

Admission is $75 per person.

All Advanced ILC classes are held at our Louisville location at 1440 Bardstown Road

We're going to Churchill Downs !

We will have an exclusive photography tour of the backside, the frontside, and the museum.

The backside offers a unique behind-the-scenes perspective. You can capture candid moments of the workouts essential to care and training. There will be no shortage of compelling subject matter. This tour offers a wealth of photographic opportunities for both seasoned professionals and amateur enthusiasts alike. This is a rare opportunity to bring a interchangeable lens camera into Churchill Downs, where they are typically not allowed.

We will have staff on on hand to offer assistance with your settings if needed. We hope to see you there!

Registration closes on April 8th at 12:00 noon.

Tickets are $100 per person.

This event takes place at Churchill Downs , in Louisville, KY.

Join us for a very special tour of Cave Hill Cemetery !

We will receive a brief overview of the cemetery, then take a three-hour guided golf cart tour stopping along the way to photograph the unsurpassed beauty of the 300-acre historic burial grounds. We will make stops on a pre-planned tour of the exquisite monuments, historic markers and various sculptures on the way. You will have the freedom to explore as you’d like after the tour. Murphy’s Camera staff will be on hand for your photography questions.

This tour will be limited to 12 guests so get your tickets early!

Tickets are $40 per person.

This event takes place at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, KY

Join us for an exclusive photography tour of Castle & Key Distillery and Ruins in Frankfort, Kentucky. Castle & Key was built in 1887 and became the birthplace of bourbon hospitality and tourism. The property features a Castle inspired by European architecture, a classical Springhouse, and a Sunken Garden. Join us as we explore and photograph this beautiful property. Our tour will end with a charcuterie board and a drink of your choice! All attendees must be 21+ years old.

This event takes place at Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, KY.

Join us on Friday, April 26th for a Photowalk at sunset!

We will take a guided tour of the lovely Blackacre Homestead, stopping along the way to photograph it's beauty and end the day with a beautiful sunset!

This class is open to everyone, regardless of skill level. This class is limited to 30 guests.

This event takes place at Blackacre Nature Preserve & Homestead in Louisville, KY

Join us for a Louisville City FC match!

Do you have aspirations to be a sports photographer? Join us at Lynn Family Stadium to photograph like a pro! You will be able to bring your equipment to take photos of a match from the sidelines. Need a long lens for the occasion? Ask us about our rental options.

We will have staff from Murphy’s Camera on hand to help you with your camera settings.

This event is limited to a very small number of participants. Register early to reserve your spot!

This event takes place at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, KY.

Murphy’s Camera will be at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens for another Garden Photography Basics workshop. We will have the opportunity to photograph Yew Dell’s gorgeous spring flowers. We’ll start with an overview of camera basics such as framing and lighting, then take a walking tour of the gardens with docents spotlighting Yew Dell’s history and highlighting their favorite garden spots. You’ll see the gardens in a whole new way while capturing amazing images!

Admission is $30 for Yew Dell members, or $40 for non-members.

This event takes place at Yew Dell Botanical Gardens in Crestwood, KY

Join us for a Racing Louisville FC match!

Adobe's Lightroom (Lr) and Lightroom Classic (LrC) combine powerful tools for organizing, editing & sharing images. This three-hour course explores how to get started with Lr and LrC, best practices for import, organization, and more. We will explore the Library, Develop, and Slideshow modules in LrC and the Cloud and Local options in Lr. We will also discuss the unique characteristics of RAW vs JPEG files. We will go over both Lr and LrC.

BOTH Lr and Lrc need to be installed BEFORE class.

All Intro to Adobe Lightroom classes are held at our Louisville location at 1440 Bardstown Road

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25 Best Things To Do in Louisville, Kentucky

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Louisville is a gem of a destination! Best known for the Kentucky Derby, there are so many more things to do in Louisville, Kentucky than “The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports.”

Boasting notable attractions and numerous entertainment opportunities, the best Louisville things to do appeal to a wide range of visitors. Welcoming tourist with it’s classic charm, plenty of outdoor space, an epic food scene and delicious local libations; Louisville comes ready to play!

What Is There To Do in Louisville, KY?

One of the best things about Louisville is that the city has something for everyone.

Art museums, bourbon distilleries and green parks are just a few of the things to do in downtown Louisville, KY. Historic mansions stand in enchanting Old Louisville, while chic eateries and hip breweries line the streets of the Nulu District.

Visitors planning a trip to Louisville for the first time (or those visiting for the first time in a long time) will find that there are numerous fun places to go in Louisville, Kentucky – and we are highlighting the best of the best so that you can easily plan your trip.

In fact, in addition to detailing the top things to do in Louisville, Kentucky, we also provide a helpful Louisville Weekend Itinerary so that you can effortlessly plan your perfect getaway.

FAQs: Louisville, Kentucky Things To Do

Before we jump to our list of fun things to do in Louisville, let’s cover the basics by answering a few of the most frequently asked questions.

Where is Louisville, KY?

Before you can go have fun in Louisville, KY, you need to know where it is!

Louisville, the largest city in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, is located on the Ohio River just south of Indiana. The city is a sprawling metropolis, but most of the Louisville, Kentucky tourist attractions on our list are located in or near downtown.

How To Get To Louisville?

The city can be reached by car, plane or bus. Although we typically like to fly, our trip to Louisville was part of a road trip from Columbus, Ohio with previous stops in Newport  and Covington, KY .

Louisville is conveniently located within driving distance from several major cities. It is just a 5-hour drive from Chicago , 2 hours from Cincinnati and Indianapolis , and about 2.5 hours from Nashville .

Visitors flying to the city will arrive at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF). The Louisville Airport is 7 miles south of downtown. Before you buy plane tickets , read our tips on finding the best airfare deals !

To get from the Louisville Airport to the city, you can take a taxi, Uber or pre-arranged transport . 

Travelers can also go to Louisville, Kentucky by Greyhound bus. There is a centrally located bus station in downtown Louisville.

Do I Need a Car to See Louisville, KY Attractions?

Many of the Louisville attractions on our list can be reached on foot, by city bus or with a short Uber/Lyft ride. However, a few of the top things to see in Louisville, Kentucky are located further afield and are best reached by car or on an organized tour.

At the end of the post, we include a map of Louisville top attractions to help you determine if you will need a car during your stay.

Pro Tip: If you decide to rent a car , use our Top Tips for Car Rentals .

Are There Free Things To Do in Louisville?

YES! There are several fun, free things to do in Louisville, KY! We are budget conscious travelers, so we tend to seek out attractions that are cost-free. That said, our list includes both free (or cheap) things to do in Louisville and ticketed attractions.

Are There Things To Do in Louisville, KY with Kids?

YES! There are tons of things to do with kids in Louisville! While our list is not specifically geared toward to families, we include many fun things for kids in Louisville.

Is Louisville considered Southern or Midwestern?

It’s a little bit of both! Louisville has been influenced by both Southern and Midwestern cultures – and the top things to do in Louisville, KY reflect that.

Historically, all states south of the Ohio River have been considered to be part of the Southern United States – so Louisville is in the most northern reaches of the South – or the Upper South.

Technically not part of the Midwest (which only includes states north of the Ohio River), Louisville feels midwestern with a down-to-earth spirit and friendly locals.

One of the best things about Louisville is that visitors get to experience the beautiful blend of two American cultures.

Pro Tip:  Be sure to get (and stay) organized for your vacation to Louisville by using our Trip Planning Printables !

25 THINGS TO DO IN LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY

Our list includes the best Louisville things to do! Whether you are traveling as a family, a couple, a group of friends, solo or even for work, you can use our list of the fun places to go in Louisville, Kentucky to plan your trip.

After we list our top picks for fun places to go in Louisville, KY, we share a Louisville Itinerary as an example of how you can plan your trip. Plus we provide helpful Louisville travel tips for where to stay and what to pack.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our Top Louisville Places To Visit so that you can easily plan your vacation to Kentucky!

#1 Explore Downtown Louisville

Topping our list of the best activities in Louisville is exploring downtown. Set off on foot to scout out historic sites, statues and Louisville’s famous cast iron buildings.

Fun Fact: Louisville has the second-largest collection of cast iron buildings outside of Soho in New York City . Bring a magnet with you to find out which buildings are made of cast iron!

Downtown Louisville Tour

If you are wondering what to do in downtown Louisville, start where the city originated: the Riverbank. The Riverfront Plaza (also called Belvedere Park) is an elevated park overlooking the Ohio River. A statue of George Rogers Clark (founder of the city) and plaques that detail the Lewis and Clark Expedition are found in the park.  

Next, wander down West Main Street, which runs parallel to the Ohio River a block south of the waterfront. Marvel at the historic buildings and stroll down Museum Row (more on which museums to see in a minute).

Finally, walk south on 4th Street to Fourth Street Live (an entertainment district in the city center) and past more beautiful Louisville architecture.

Creating your own self-guided walking tour of downtown is one of the many free things to do in Louisville, Kentucky. However, if you would rather follow in the footsteps of a Louisville local, you can download a tour to your phone.

#2 Stop at the Louisville Botanical Garden

One of the top things to do in Louisville, KY for couples, families or friends is visiting the gorgeous Waterfront Botanical Gardens.

Built in one of Louisville’s oldest neighborhoods (called The Point), the Botanical Gardens are evidence of the city’s continual effort to reinvent itself. The gardens are just in the beginning stages of development – with much more expansion (like a Japanese garden) planned in the years ahead.

Beautiful in bloom, the top things to see at the garden – in addition to the plants – are the Beargrass Creek Walk, sculptures and water features.

Just outside of the park entrance is one of the peculiar Louisville, Kentucky attractions: The Heigold House Façade. The elegant stone and brick façade is all that remains of the house, which was built in the 1850s. The house front is fun for photo ops – but don’t miss the plaque describing the house’s interesting history.

Pro Tip: Put the gardens on your list of Free Things To Do Louisville, KY – as of 2023, there is no charge for entry into the Waterfront Botanical Garden!

#3 Swing a Bat at the Louisville Slugger Museum

Hands down, one of the fun things to do in Louisville, KY is to visit the Louisville Slugger Museum. The history of the Louisville Slugger baseball bat brand dates to the late 1800s – and it still dominates the market today.

Baseball fans will love the Louisville Slugger Museum for the extensive collection of historic baseball memorabilia. We could have easily spent hours looking at the collection!

That said, even visitors who are not baseball fans will enjoy the history of the Louisville company and the factory tour, where participants learn how the wooden bats are made. As a bonus, every Louisville Slugger tour participant gets a free miniature bat souvenir.

Visitors who do not want to take the Louisville Slugger Factory tour should still make their way to the museum to see the world’s largest bat – it’s a must-see in Louisville, KY! The bat marks the entry way into the museum. It is a replica of the Louisville Slugger that Babe Ruth used – but this one is made of steel, weighs 68,000 pounds and stands 120-feet-tall!

Top Tip: The Louisville Slugger Baseball Museum is not the only place to see replica Louisville Sluggers. One of the top things to do in downtown Louisville, Kentucky is to keep your eye out for replica bat sculptures displayed throughout the city.

#4 Walk to Indiana on the Big Four Bridge

The Big Four Bridge that spans the Ohio River is one of the top attractions in Louisville, KY. The bridge, which was constructed in 1895, is open to pedestrians and cyclists. Not only are the views spectacular, but the bridge marks a historic place in the city.

The former railroad truss bridge connects Louisville to Jefferson, Indiana – and it is one of the cool places in Louisville to learn about the region’s history.

Named after the “Big Four Railroad” (the moniker for the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis Railway), rail service ceased in 1968 and the ramps to the bridge were removed. The bridge stood for many years without land connections – earning it the nickname, The Bridge That Goes Nowhere.

However, rather than tearing the bridge down, in 2013, it was re-opened to pedestrians as part of the city’s Waterfront project. Walking across the bridge is now one of the unique things to do in Louisville, KY. 

History of the bridge is detailed on informational plaques along the walkway. Learn more about the Big 4 Bridge in this interesting facts and a fun Q&A for families.

The Big Four Bridge is a particularly nice place to watch sunset…and then you can stay to see the colorful LED lights illuminate the iron framework.

Walkers, joggers and cyclists can make the 2-mile roundtrip journey from end-to-end and back. So, go ahead – join the locals, lace up your shoes and take a leisurely walk to Indiana; it’s a must-do in Louisville, KY!

#5 Hop Aboard the Belle of Louisville

A National Historic Landmark, the Belle of Louisville should most definitely be on your Things To Do Louisville list!

The all-steel paddlewheel boat was built in 1914 – and was originally named Idlewild. The boat has served as a passenger ferry, a cargo ship and even a nightclub for soldiers. In 1962, the boat came to Louisville; and was renovated and renamed the Belle of Louisville.

The Belle of Louisville is the oldest river steamboat still in operation – and visitors can hop on board the historic vessel for a Ohio River Cruise. Passengers can choose between an interesting Harbor History Cruise, a Picnic Lunch Cruise or a fun Sunset or Moonlight Cruise!

#6 Visit the Muhammad Ali Center

More than just a museum, the Muhammad Ali Center is one of the best cultural attractions in Louisville, Kentucky.

The center is dedicated to Muhammad Ali – the world famous championship boxer, activist and Louisville native. The six-story cultural center features a large collection of Ali’s boxing memorabilia, a theater and two art galleries.

Additionally, the center details his efforts as an activist and an advocate for humanitarian causes. The cultural exhibitions at the museum focus on Ali’s six core principles of life: Confidence, Conviction, Dedication, Giving, Respect and Spirituality.

The award-winning Louisville museum was founded by Ali and his wife and opened in 2005. 

#7 Attend a Theatrical Performance in Louisville

Louisville has a strong connection to the performing arts – which is proven by the many theaters that are found in the heart of the city. Naturally then, one of the top things to do in Downtown Louisville is to watch a theater performance.

Louisville Theaters

There are numerous places in Louisville to take in a show and enjoy performing arts. We are highlighting a few of the best venues for performing arts entertainment in Louisville. Whether you are looking for evening entertainment or a rainy day matinee experience, a performance at one of these popular Louisville theaters might just be the ticket!

Actors Theater

Located on Main Street in a National Historic Landmark building that dates to 1837, the Actors Theatre of Louisville is known for their Humana Festival plays.

Louisville Palace

The Louisville Palace is a gorgeous performing arts theater located on Fourth Street. The magnificent theater was opened in 1928 – and, today, the 2,800-seat theater still hosts an array of musical, theatrical and cinematic shows.

Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts

Considered by many to be the premier place to watch a performance, the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts is home to the Louisville Ballet, Louisville Orchestra, Broadway and other community theatres. Performances also include musicals, comedy acts and concerts.

#8 Appreciate Artworks at a Louisville Museum

When it comes to what to see in Louisville, KY, there is a lot more than performing arts – there are numerous art museums in Louisville, too! Modern art and ancient artworks are found in the city’s finest galleries. Visiting one of these art museums is one of the top things to do in Louisville, Kentucky.

Louisville Art Museums

Going to an art museum is a must-do in Louisville (and it also happens to be an ideal indoor activity on foul weather days). We are featuring a few of the best places to go in Louisville for art.

Speed Art Museum

The highly acclaimed Speed Art Museum is one of the top attractions in Louisville, KY. Founded in 1925, the Speed Art Museum ranks as the oldest and largest art museum in the state.

The Speed displays art that spans thousands of years – from European sculptures to African art to contemporary American paintings.

21c Museum Hotel

Going to the 21c Museum Hotel is one of the fun things to do in Louisville, KY! The hip, interactive art museum hosts contemporary exhibits and a rotating selection of artworks.

Visitors are greeted to the museum by the 30-foot-tall golden David replica statue (you can’t miss it; it’s a must-see Louisville, KY sight!). The artwork is housed in renovated 19th century warehouses. Best of all: 21c Museum is one of the fun, FREE things to do in Louisville, KY!

Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft (KMAC)

Focusing on regional art and craftworks created by local Kentuckians, the KMAC features an excellent collection of American Folk Art. Ceramics, woodworking, glass, film and photography are just a few mediums displayed in KMAC.

The KMAC is a non-profit museum that is dedicated to connecting people to art and the creative practice. While there is a small fee for adults, KMAC is one of the free museums in Louisville for kids and students.

#9 Cheer on a Louisville Home Team

If you are looking for fun activities in Louisville, KY, check to see what teams are playing! The city is home to several sports teams – including a minor league baseball team, a professional soccer team and two college basketball teams.

Louisville Bats

The Louisville Bats are a minor league baseball team – the triple-A affiliate for the Cincinnati Reds – that plays at Louisville Slugger Field in downtown Louisville.

Solidly on our list of fun things in Louisville, KY to do on warm summer nights, the ballpark is a big hit with both locals and tourists. In addition to games, the park hosts other events – like movie nights – throughout the summer season.

Louisville City FC

Established in 2015, the Louisville City soccer team – or LouCity, as they are called locally – is a sanctioned Division 2 soccer team and part of the United Soccer League.

The team plays in the Lynn Family Stadium in the Butchertown neighborhood – which is just east of downtown.

University of Louisville Cardinals Basketball

College sports are highly entertaining – and, in Louisville, you can watch collegiate sports in the downtown KFC Yum! Center Arena.

In addition to hosting major concert events, KFC Yum Arena is also home to the University of Louisville men’s and women’s basketball teams and the women’s volleyball team. 

#10 Take a Stroll in Old Louisville

Taking a walk through the historic Old Louisville neighborhood is like stepping back in time. Elegant brick homes with stained-glass windows, old-fashioned gas streetlamps and a square city park are classic features of the district, which dates to the 1870s.

Old Louisville hosts the largest number of preserved Victorian mansions in the United States – and getting a look at them on a stroll through the neighborhood is one of the cool things to do in Louisville.

What To See in Old Louisville

While aimless wandering is highly encouraged in Old Louisville, where wide streets are canopied by leafy trees, there are a few sights you won’t want to miss.

Central Park Louisville

A 17-acre park in the middle of Old Louisville, Central Park was originally part of the wealthy DuPont family estate. Opened to the public in 1872 by the DuPonts, it didn’t become an official city park until 1904.

The park has hosted numerous events – from Shakespeare plays on an outdoor stage to the 1883 Southern Exposition, where Thomas Edison’s light bulb was on display. Today, the park still hosts the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival and part of the St. James Court Art Show – but the park is always open to visitors who want to take a walk under the shady trees (in fact, it’s one of the top Louisville, KY things to do!).

Conrad – Caldwell House Museum

Perhaps the most beautiful house in all of Old Louisville, the Conrad-Caldwell House – or the Conrad’s Castle, as it is sometimes called – is a must-see in Louisville, Kentucky.

The stunning 19th century home is impeccably decorated in period pieces, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there.

St. James Court and Belgravia Court

A landmark of the city, St. James Court and Belgravia Court are the most attractive streets in Old Louisville. St. James Court is marked by a large fountain, while Belgravia Court is a pedestrian-only alcove in the city.

More Old Louisville Things To See

Above, we highlight just three of the best Old Louisville area attractions – but there is so much more to see and history to learn!

Old Louisville Walking Tour

One of the fun activities in Louisville for architecture fans, history buffs and people who love beautiful homes is the highly-rated Old Louisville Walking Tour. The 1.5-hour guided tour is led by a local author who loves to share the charm, beauty and a few secrets of Old Louisville with visitors. Reserve your space!

Old Louisville Ghost Tour

Ghost stories abound in Old Louisville, which is known to be one of America’s most haunted neighborhoods – and taking a tour to learn about the ghosts is one of the fun Louisville outdoor activities. Book it now to reserve your spot!

#11 Sip Bourbon at a Louisville Distillery

No doubt about it, one of the most fun and unique things to do in Louisville, KY is to drink bourbon! While it is possible to walk into any bar in Louisville and order a bourbon drink, we think the best experience is to taste it from the source.

The city is home to more than a dozen distilleries – several of which are located along a stretch of road dubbed, “Whiskey Row”. Old Forester, Kentucky Peerless, Angel’s Envy, Michter’s Fort Nelson and Rabbit Hole are all distilleries in or near downtown Louisville. 

Most of the city’s distilleries offer tours and tastings – like the popular Evan Williams Bourbon Experience – although they tend to fill up quickly! Taking a tour and getting a tasting is one of the fun, cheap things to do in Louisville. 

I was fortunate to snag a single spot at a short tasting class at Angel’s Envy. After learning about the production of bourbon, we learned how to expertly taste-test bourbon (just like the judges do) and tried the utterly incredible pairing of bourbon and chocolate.

More Tasting Opportunities

If all distillery tours are fully booked during your trip, we recommend going to Taj on Market Street in Nulu where they stock a huge selection of bourbon and make hand-crafted creative (and classic) bourbon drinks in a jovial atmosphere.

For a truly unique taste of bourbon, stop into Art Eatables – where they make bourbon and whisky chocolate truffles. The odd combination is strangely satisfying!

If bourbon isn’t your thing, go to Copper and Kings Distillery. There, they break from the tradition in Kentucky; instead of bourbon, they specialize in American brandies. At their modern, industrial distillery, they offer tours, a designer lounge and an outdoor rooftop bar.

Fun Fact: The Mint Julep – a concoction of bourbon, sugar and mint – is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby. Meanwhile, the Old Fashioned – made with bourbon, sugar and bitters – is the official drink of Louisville. Our recommendation: Try them both when you visit Louisville!

#12 Place a Bet at Churchill Downs

Churchill Downs – the racetrack for the famous Kentucky Derby – is a top Louisville landmark. The racetrack dates to 1875 and the Derby ranks as the longest continuously running sports event in the USA.

The Kentucky Derby – a festive occasion of fabulously large hats and heaps of debauchery with a two-minute horse race – takes place the first Saturday in May.

However, the Derby isn’t the only time to visit Churchill Downs. In fact, visiting Churchill Downs should be on your Louisville to do list any time of year! Visitors can wager a bet on live horse races and other simulcast events – and even tour the Churchill Downs track facilities on certain days.

#13 Learn about the Legacy of the Kentucky Derby

Adjacent to Churchill Downs is the fantastic Kentucky Derby Museum. It is one of the absolute best places to go in Louisville, KY to learn about the history of the Derby, the horses and the tradition.

The museum features two floors of interactive displays and informational exhibits. However, the highlight of the museum is the “The Greatest Race” film projected in a 360-degree theater (that puts you in the center of the action on Derby Day!). Buy your tickets in advance!

#14 Relax at Louisville Waterfront Park

When you are ready to take a break from sightseeing in Louisville, KY, make your way down to Waterfront Park. Ranked as one of the top things to do Downtown Louisville, the public park is an urban green space on the south bank of the Ohio River.

Many city-sponsored events – like Thunder Over Louisville, Kentucky Derby Festival events, Fourth of July fireworks and community concerts – are held in the park. However, visitors who just want to enjoy a touch of nature can walk along the shoreline trails or rent a bike to explore on two wheels. 

#15 Indulge in a Kentucky Hot Brown

Just like drinking bourbon, eating a Kentucky Hot Brown should definitely be on your Louisville, KY to do list!

The decadent dish – an open-faced turkey sandwich on crustless bread topped with tomato, bacon and Mornay sauce that’s broiled to bubbly perfection – was created in a Louisville hotel kitchen in 1926.

There are different tales about why the sandwich was created and what original ingredients were used, but it remains a Louisville culinary tradition.

The Hot Brown can be found on restaurant menus around the city – but we think it is best to eat it where it was created: The Brown Hotel in Old Louisville.

#16 Drink Local Louisville Craft Beer

It’s hard to believe that in a bourbon-loving city like Louisville there would be room for craft beer – yet, the craft beer business is booming. Getting a taste of the local product is one of the fun things to do in Louisville, KY.

Local craft breweries are now dotting the landscape – and they are proving to be fun places in Louisville to have a drink. The breweries – each with a distinct style – offer a range of craft brews and cocktails.

Pro Tip: Use our guide to the Best Craft Beer in Louisville to find a local brewery that fits your style!

#17 Creep through Cave Hill Cemetery

Some might think this is one of our odd outdoor activities in Louisville, KY, but visiting the Cave Hill Cemetery is one of the most interesting things to do in the city!

The nearly 300-acre cemetery, with sloping hills, shaded paths and ponds, can feel more like a park than a burial ground. Some of the ornate tombstones and ancient markers are works of art, so it’s a bit like going to an outdoor art museum, too.

Dating to the 1800s, Cave Hill Cemetery is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Plus, it’s one of the things to do in Louisville, KY for free.

What To See at Cave Hill Cemetery

Some of Louisville’s most famous residents are interred at the cemetery. Visitors can find the burial sites of Muhammed Ali, Colonel Harland Sanders (founder of the Kentucky Fried Chicken fast-food chain) and the Hill sisters (who wrote the Happy Birthday song).

George Rogers Clark (founder of Louisville) is also buried at Cave Hill. Hundreds of servicemen are buried in the Cave Hill National Cemetery and The Bloedner Monument – considered to be the oldest existing Civil War memorial – stands in the National Cemetery, as well.

Pro Tip : “Cave Hill” is not a misnomer; there is an actual hillside cave on the grounds of the cemetery. Located on the east side of the northern Twin Lake, the cave entrance is big enough to walk into…although, it is officially off limits to visitors.

#18 Shop, Eat and Drink in the Highlands

Bardstown Road in the Highlands neighborhood is a mecca of fun activities. The street is lined with eclectic shops, divine dining establishments and trendsetting bars. It is the perfect place to spend a leisurely afternoon shopping, eating and drinking when visiting Louisville.

Top Tip: While Bardstown Road is where the first restaurants set up shop long ago, some of the best things to do in the Highlands Louisville, KY are along the stretch of Baxter Road that extends north of Bardstown.

Where To Eat on Bardstown Road and Baxter Avenue

The Highlands has long been known as a foodie haven – and eating at one of the Baxter Ave or Bardstown Rd restaurants is one of the top things to do in Louisville, KY!

Established in 1933, Jack Fry’s restaurant is the most well-known eatery on Bardstown Road. Serving high-end Southern fare in an intimate atmosphere, the throw-back restaurant is delightfully charming (but also incredibly expensive!).

Meals at Seviche are cooked to perfection by award-winning Chef Anthony Lamas, who blends Southern ingredients into Latin fare. While not a budget meal, it is a memorable one!

Mark’s Feed Store

A favorite local chain, Mark’s Feed Store has been serving up classic Bar-B-Q since 1988. The secret BBQ sauce – made with 26 ingredients and 13 spices – has earned the restaurant the title of Best Barbecue in Louisville by raving fans.

Agave and Rye

We fell in love with Agave and Rye when we dined at the original restaurant in Covington, KY  – so we were stoked to see a location on Baxter Avenue. Perhaps best described as hipster tacos, the portions are huge, the taste is phenomenal and the bourbon-inspired cocktails are excellent, too!

Nightlife in The Highlands

If you are looking for nightlife in Louisville, the Highlands is home to several bars and drinking establishments – many of which stay open into the wee hours of the morning. The Hideaway Saloon, Nowhere Bar, Highlands Taproom and Outlook Inn are all good bets for a good time!

#19 Spend an Afternoon in the Kentucky Science Museum

The Kentucky Science Center is the perfect place to go for an afternoon of family fun! Featuring interactive, hands-on exhibits for toddlers and kids, the museum aims to encourage children to “explore science in everyday life.”

One of the best indoor activities in Louisville, KY for families, visitors are encouraged to play, touch and experiment in order to rouse curiosities. From the mirrored entrance on Main Street to the Discovery Gallery to the IMAX theater, the Kentucky Science Center is a place for family entertainment.

#20 Bar Hop in Germantown

An old, historic neighborhood, Germantown is one of the fun places to go in Louisville for exploration and a few cold beers.

The district was settled in the 1800s by German immigrants – and although the neighborhood is in a period of gentrification, the strong German roots are still evident.

Shotgun homes line the streets and local pubs occupy corner spots. Funky thrift stores (like The Fat Rabbit), nostalgic cafes (like Seidenfaden’s) and fun bars (like Four Pegs) are all part of the Germantown community. For a good meal, don’t miss Hammerheads!

Monnik Beer Company, which has a heavy focus on traditional German-style beers, is located in Schnitzelburg – the next neighborhood to the west of Germantown.

Fun Tip: For an entertaining afternoon of beer drinking in Germantown, join a guide to the best spots on a Beer Tour !

#21 Learn Louisville History in the Frazier Museum

The Frazier History Museum ranks as one of the top Louisville, KY tourist attractions. Located on Museum Row and featuring three stories of exhibits, the Smithsonian-affiliated Frazier is an excellent place to learn about the history of Louisville and the region.  

Top exhibits in the museum include The Founder’s Gallery (a collection of weapons and war artifacts), the Spirit of Kentucky (a history of bourbon) and The Stewart Collection (a collection of rare toy soldiers and figurines). The Lewis and Clark Experience is another top attraction at the museum.

Fun Fact: The Frazier Museum is the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The museum’s first floor – which is open to the public free of charge – houses the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center (which is a must-see in Louisville!).

#22 Eat, Drink and Be Merry in Nulu

The east end of downtown – called the East Market District, but now better known as Nulu (short for New Louisville) – is one of the best places to see in Louisville, KY.

Originally developed in the 1800s as a marketplace for produce and locally produced goods, the area fell to disuse in the mid-1900s and was derelict by the early 2000s. Since then, however, developers, small business owners and artists have ushered in a revitalized spirit to the district.

Things To Do in Nulu

Market Street is once again the place to go for shopping, food and fun. Fashionable and cool, Nulu is the place to be!

Shopping in Nulu

Local artist galleries, boutique shops and antique stores are top places in Nulu for shopping. WOW (Women Owned Wallet) is a fun shop for products produced by women, Revelry Boutique is good for unique gifts and Red Tree is fun and funky.

Eating in Nulu

One of the main reasons to go to Nulu is for the food! It’s hard to find a bad meal in Nulu – the district is chock full of the best places to get a bite to eat in the city.

Market Street is lined with some of the best restaurants in Louisville. The tantalizing scent of slow-cooked barbecue and fried chicken wafts through the air.

Not just limited to Southern comfort classics, Nulu hosts a range of international eateries, too. Places – like The Mayan Café (upscale Mexican with amazing house lima beans) and La Bodeguita (a colorful Cuban restaurant with excellent empanadas) – get rave reviews and are always packed.

To be honest, so many of our favorite Louisville restaurants are in Nulu. We cover the top Louisville places to eat in more detail next!

Drinking in Nulu

Fun bars abound in the Nulu neighborhood! Garage Bar on Market Street is housed in a former auto shop and features a huge patio, lawn games and chill vibe. Taj – the bourbon bar we recommended earlier – is just down the street.

Beer lovers (like us!) will love that there are three breweries in Nulu – which we detail in our Louisville Craft Beer article.

Street Art in Nulu

One of the cool things to do in Louisville, KY is to seek out decorative and colorful street art murals – and the Nulu District hosts numerous artworks. Gracing building exteriors in all shapes and sizes, street art is definitely part of the Nulu culture.

The latest mural at the Nulu Marketplace – two colorful horses thundering out of the side of the building – shouldn’t be missed!

#23 Eat Seriously Good Louisville Food

While Louisville sightseeing is a must on any trip to the city, one of the top Louisville, KY activities is eating – because there is just so much amazing food to eat!

We already covered the Louisville must-eat Kentucky Hot Brown, but there are a few other epic dishes you will want to taste on your trip!

Louisville Barbecue

Succulent, smoked, barbecue meats are one of the best things to eat in Louisville – and Feast BBQ in Nulu is the place to get a heaping plateful of utterly delicious pulled pork. Pair your meal with classic Southern sides – like mac-and-cheese, collard greens and baked beans. Complete the meal Kentucky style (with a twist!) with a bourbon slushie!

Where to Eat Hot Chicken in Louisville

A quintessential Southern comfort food, fried chicken is a staple food in Louisville. While the famous Kentucky Fried Chicken is headquartered in the city, there are so many more phenomenal Louisville restaurants serving amazing fried chicken.

Our top pick is Royals Hot Chicken, a Nulu restaurant on Market Street that cranks out scrumptious fried chicken platters. At the counter-service establishment, you choose your spiciness level and your favorite Southern sides – plus, you can get bourbon milkshakes to accompany your meal.  

Other votes for the best fried chicken in the city go to Chik’n & Mi and The Eagle.  

It sounds weird, I know, but Louisville has incredibly fresh seafood. With a UPS hub in the city, seafood flies in direct from the coasts and around the world.

The Seafood Lady (in a new location in Nulu) is a top pick for southern-style seafood (like shrimp and grits and Po-boys).  

The city has fun seafood fusion food experiences, too. Mussel and Burger Bar (specializing in mussels as an appetizer, followed by a burger) comes highly recommended! At Dragon King’s Daughter, classic sushi is the star of the menu, but their Mexican-Japanese fusion food offers a unique taste.

Where to Eat Breakfast in Louisville

There are so many delicious breakfast restaurants in Louisville!

We think the best place for the first meal of the day is a satisfying feast at Biscuit Belly in Nulu. Featuring biscuit breakfast sandwiches and divine biscuits and gravy, Biscuit Belly covers all of the favorite Southern classics.

The Silver Dollar on historic Frankfort Avenue, open for brunch (on weekends only), is a local favorite hangout for really good Southern food.

Please and Thank You (also in Nulu) provides the perfect morning pick-me-up with fresh hot coffee and baked goods. The chocolate chip cookies – which some claim to be the best in Kentucky – are a big hit, but we preferred the indulgent Derby Bars!

If you are just looking for a morning sweet treat, head to Hi-Five Doughnuts. The female-owned donut shop cranks out a line of creatively-topped treats – which can be customized to your liking!

#24 Specialty Louisville Museums and Galleries

The big museums in Louisville are well-established tourist attractions. That said, there are smaller, off the beaten path museums that just might be a highlight of your trip!

Thomas Edison House

For more than a year, Thomas Edison lived in Louisville – and the house he rented is now a museum. It’s one of the fun Louisville attractions for families. Edison’s inventions are on display and visitors are guided through the home on a docent-led tour.

Roots 101 Louisville Museum

This relatively new museum features displays and information about the history of African Americans. In addition to self-guided museum tours, visitors can attend special events at Roots.

Flame Run is an art gallery and studio specializing in the art of blowing glass. Visitors can view intricate glass art, watch artists at work and even commission their own work of art to take home!

#25 Logan Street Market

A community space for shopping and eating (yes, more food!), visiting Logan Street Market is one of the cool things to do in Louisville, KY. The modern concept market brings local vendors under one roof for an exceptional dining and entertainment experience.

From coffee bars to a brewery and chili to cheesecakes, the Logan Street Market has something that will please every palate. Plus, they offer fun events for kids and adults.

Things To Do Louisville Map

Use this link to Google Maps for an interactive, online version of our map of Louisville, Kentucky. 

More Things To Do Louisville, KY

We have highlighted the absolute best things to do in the heart of the city – but there are more Louisville attractions around the region that we want to cover, as well.

Louisville Mega Cavern

Visiting the Mega Cavern is one of the top things to do in Louisville with kids (but it’s fun for adults, too!).

The massive underground – earning it the name Mega Cavern – began as a quarry in the 1930s. Today, however, the 100-acre cavern can be explored by visitors. Ziplining through the cavern is one of the most adventurous things to do in Louisville, KY.

In addition to the zip line, other Mega Cavern attractions include a tram ride, a walking tour and an aerial ropes challenge course.

Cherokee Park

With rolling hills and natural landscapes, spending time in Cherokee Park is one of the top outdoor things to do in Louisville.

The 2.4-mile scenic drivable loop is the park’s top feature, but the park is also a prime destination for walking, biking and picnicking.

Beckley Creek Park, a Louisville park on the east side of Louisville Metro, is another green space for hiking, biking, kayaking and fishing.

Louisville Zoo

Located just north of the Mega Cavern, the zoo is one of the fun Louisville family activities. Although not a particularly large zoo, there are a variety of exhibits and animals from around the world – and other attractions and events throughout.  

Historic Locust Grove

A Georgian mansion built in 1792, Locus Grove is an important part Louisville’s history. The estate was home to the city’s founder, George Rogers Clark, and hosted US presidents and a parade of other famous guests.

The National Historic Landmark building is located on the eastern end of the city. Touring the estate is one of the interesting things to do in Louisville, KY – as visitors can get a look inside the home and explore grounds – as well as attend special events.

Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay

Looking for exciting things to do in Louisville, KY? Look no further than Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay – two of the top attractions in Louisville for thrill-seekers and a day of family fun.

The amusement park – complete with roller coasters, kids’ rides and a classic carousel – also incorporates a fun waterpark – which has slides, a wave pool and lazy river.

Waverly Hills Sanatorium

Established in 1926 as a hospital, the Waverly Hills Sanitorium is one of the most interesting places to see in Louisville – especially for the paranormal.

Join a guided tour to hunt for ghosts and learn about the fascinating history of the gothic-style sanitorium.

Bourbon Day Trip

Spending a half day or longer exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is one of the fun things to do in Louisville, KY for adults!

The trail is a road trip – a 70-mile journey – through the Bluegrass state to 38 bourbon-producing distilleries. Visitors can take on the entire trail at once or pick and choose just a few of the bourbon distilleries to see.

Louisville visitors without a car can join a popular tour to 3 iconic distilleries. Make sure to reserve your spot in advance!

Falls of the Ohio State Park in Indiana

A favorite Indiana State Park that sits on the Ohio riverbank just north of Louisville, the Falls of Ohio Park is a fun place for outdoor enthusiasts and families. In addition to the walking trails, amazing fossil beds and interpretive center, the park also offers fabulous views of the Louisville skyline. It’s a great place to watch the sunset, too! 

Beckley Creek Park

A fantastic park on the far east side of Louisville, Beckley Creek Park is a perfect destination for sunny summer days and one of the fun places to go in Louisville when the weather is nice outside. With miles of trails, ponds for kayaking and fishing, a raised boardwalk and picnicking areas, visitors could easily spend an entire day at the park!

American Printing House for the Blind Museum

One of the unique places to go in Louisville, KY, the American Printing House Museum is dedicated to literacy for the blind. The small but informative museum features displays and artifacts that are engaging and encouraging! 

Mammoth Cave National Park

Located about 100 miles south of Louisville, Mammoth Cave is the longest cave system in the world. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours – including one that takes passengers on an underground river boat ride.

Another regional park for outdoor activities is the Daniel Boone National Forest – which is about 140 miles from the city.

3 Days in Louisville Weekend Itinerary

Okay, so now you know all of the fun things to do – but how do you plan your trip? We are outlining how to spend a weekend in Louisville to help you plan your time in the city.

We think 3 days in Louisville, KY is just enough time to get acquainted with the city and see the highlights. In this example, we are sharing what to see, do and eat on a 3-day weekend in Louisville, KY – but this same trip plan should work just as well for any day of the week! 

Friday  

On the first day of your 3-day Louisville Weekend Getaway, get settled into your hotel (tips on where to stay below) and then set off to see the sights!

Start by exploring Downtown Louisville on foot. Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum – or any other place on Museum Row that interests you (but definitely stop in Art Eatables for a bourbon truffle!). Eat lunch at Mussels and Burger Bar.

Midday, go to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum, but be back in the city for evening entertainment.

Catch a baseball game at Louisville Slugger Field or a theater performance and then go to Nulu for a late-night snack (like Royals Hot Chicken) and a few drinks.

On Day 2 of your Louisville Itinerary, you will have a full day of exploration!

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Biscuit Belly. With a full stomach, head toward the river. Relax at Waterfront Park or work off your breakfast with a walk across the Big Four Bridge. Next, hop aboard the Belle of Louisville for a riverboat ride.

In the afternoon, partake in one – or more – bourbon tastings at one of the local distilleries. Spend the rest of the afternoon in Nulu popping into the shops.

Stay in Nulu for more iconic eats (like Feast BBQ) or go south to Logan Street Market for dinner – or the nearby Hammerheads.

On the last day of your Weekend in Louisville Itinerary, spend a leisurely day sightseeing neighborhoods and end your time with a delicious meal.

For breakfast, grab some donuts from Hi Five Doughnuts and eat them on your way to the Waterfront Botanical Gardens and Heigold House Façade.

Next, discover the lovely Old Louisville. Start by eating a classic Kentucky Hot Brown at The Brown Hotel. Work your way south to see the mansions, Central Park and the St James Court Fountain. If time allows, tour the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum.

In the afternoon, choose between seeing Germantown or walking through Cave Hill Cemetery. Either way, make your way to Bardstown Road for dinner, craft beer and cocktails!

Top Travel Tips for Your Louisville Trip

Now that you know what to do in Louisville, Kentucky and how to plan your trip itinerary, we have a few final suggestions that will make planning your trip a breeze.

Where to Stay in Louisville, KY

Visitors have an amazing choice of places to stay in Louisville, KY! We typically like to stay in Airbnb Apartments when we travel – because we tend to stay in one place for a long time and we like being able to cook a few meals at home.

However, on short trips – especially where you want to eat all the food – we think it is best to stay in a hotel .

Hotels in Louisville, KY

There are many Louisville hotels located throughout the city. To find the best hotel in Louisville for your trip, find a place that is centrally located to the activities that interest you most. For us, that meant staying near Nulu – but that doesn’t mean that staying in the heart of downtown or in Old Louisville won’t be right for you! We have Louisville hotel suggestions in all three areas.

The AC Hotel by Marriott in NULU

A modern, chic hotel in the heart of Nulu, AC Hotel gets rave reviews for the superb location, comfortable beds and overall cleanliness. Check rates and availability!

More than just a hotel, staying at 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville is an experience! In addition to artistically decorated spaces, guests love the attentive service and stellar on-site dining and bar options. Find rates for your stay!

The Grady Hotel

A luxury hotel housed in a renovated historic building, The Grady impresses guests with attention to detail. The excellent location on West Main puts guests in the center of Downtown Louisville sights. Check Availability!

The Brown Hotel

The historic Brown Hotel is located in the northern end of Old Louisville – making it ideally located to several area attractions. The iconic hotel is opulently decorated – and guests love that the rooms are comfortable and the staff is helpful. Get rates and book it!

What To Pack for your Trip to Louisville, KY

We have just a few final tips about what to pack for your trip ! You can find all of our packing hacks and more on our dedicated Travel Packing page.

Walking Shoes

The sights in Louisville are spread across the city – so you will want to make sure you pack a good pair of walking shoes. I like to wear lightweight sneakers – but you can read our post, The Best Travel Shoes , for more advice.

Travel Camera

If you are anything like us, you will be taking heaps of photos on your trip – Louisville is actually quite photogenic so make sure you have a real camera ! For our travels, we use a Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens that is perfect for capturing all the sights. We offer tips in this article on finding the Best Budget Camera for Travel .

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , make sure you have a good day pack to carry everything you will need! On our long days of city exploration, we carry daypacks to stow our keys, phones, camera, jacket and other everyday travel items . Find the perfect day bag for your trip with the tips in our article, The Best Day Pack for Travelers .

US Travel Insurance

Even the best laid plans for an epic trip can go awry. Planes can get delayed, travelers can fall ill and luggage can get lost . When you insure your trip, however, you may be able to recoup some of the costs. Check the affordable plans at World Nomads for your trip to Louisville.

We Want To Know: What are your favorite things to do in Louisville, Kentucky? What Louisville activities would you add to our list? Tell us in the comments!

Start planning your trip to Louisville ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides page !

More United States Travel Guides

Going on more USA trips? We have guides that make planning your next vacation a cinch!

Big US Cities

The US is home to some of the best big cities in the world! We have travel guides to help plan your trip to New York City , tips for spending a day in Philadelphia and ideas for what to see in Chicago , Boston and Washington DC .

US Road Trips

We love iconic road trips! Find our tips for driving the California Coast , what to see at the Columbia River Gorge or on the Oregon Coast and how to plan the Ultimate Road Trip in Montana .

USA Weekend Trips

Looking for ideas for weekend trips? Use our guide to the Best USA Weekend Getaways ! If you want an off-the-radar destination, read our recommendations for Underrated USA Destinations .

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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Aerosmith Announce Rescheduled Dates for Peace Out Farewell Tour

The rockers postponed their remaining Peace Out tour dates in September 2023 after Steven Tyler fractured his larynx in addition to vocal cord injury

Aaron Perry

Aerosmith  is back at it.

On Wednesday, April 10, the rockers announced rescheduled dates for their Peace Out farewell tour , which was postponed in September 2023 .

Produced by Live Nation, the 40-date North American tour will feature three news shows in addition to the rescheduled dates. It is set to kick off in Pittsburgh at PPG Paints Arena on Sept. 20 and will make stops across the U.S. and Canada, including Los Angeles’ Kia Forum, New York’s Madison Square Garden, Austin’s Moody Center, Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena, Chicago’s United Center, Toronto’s Scotiabank Arena, and more before concluding in Montreal's Bell Centre on Jan. 26, 2025. There will also be a special hometown show in Boston on New Year's Eve 2024.

Zack Whitford

The Peace Out tour, which will celebrate 50 years of the band's hits, will also feature special guests The Black Crowes and a one-night-only performance from Teddy Swims at the tour kick-off show in Pittsburgh. Tickets that were previously purcased will be honored a the rescheduled shows.

The rescheduled and newly added dates will go on sale Friday, April 12 at 10 a.m. local time on  ticketmaster.com .

Tommaso Boddi/Getty

Aerosmith announced that they would be postponing their tour on Friday, Sept. 29 with a statement on Instagram , citing frontman Steven Tyler 's recovery from a newly discovered fractured larynx. The news came just two weeks after the  "Dream On" group announced  that the frontman “sustained vocal cord damage” and that they would need to reschedule six of their September concerts.

Aerosmith's current lineup of original members  Brad Whitford ,  Joe Perry , Tom Hamilton and Tyler, as well as new drummer John Douglas, opened up about the singer’s condition in a post dedicated to their fans.

“Unfortunately, Steven’s vocal injury is more serious than initially thought,” the band wrote. “His doctor has confirmed that in addition to the damage to his vocal cords, he fractured his larynx which requires ongoing care.” 

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famers added, “He is receiving the best medical treatment available to ensure his recovery is swift, but given the nature of a fracture, he is being told patience is essential.”

Tyler, 76, also said he was“heartbroken” by the change of plans for the group and their openers, The Black Crowes.

He added, “I am heartbroken to not be out there with Aerosmith, my brothers and the incredible Black Crowes, rocking with the best fans in the world. I promise we will be back as soon as we can!”

See the full list of tour dates below.

Fri Sep 20 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena (NEW SHOW)*

Mon Sep 23 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center (NEW SHOW)

Thu Sep 26 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center    

Sun Sep 29 – Cleveland, OH – Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse 

Wed Oct 02 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center

Sat Oct 05 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena 

Tue Oct 08 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

Fri Oct 11 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena

Mon Oct 14 – St Louis, MO – Enterprise Center

Thu Oct 17 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Arena

Sun Oct 20 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena

Thu Oct 31 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center

Sun Nov 03 – San Antonio, TX - Frost Bank Center 

Wed Nov 06 – Austin, TX – Moody Center

Sat Nov 09 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

Tue Nov 12 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center

Fri Nov 15 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center

Mon Nov 18 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena    

Thu Nov 21 – Portland, OR – Moda Center 

Sun Nov 24 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

Wed Nov 27 – Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center

Sat Nov 30 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center

Wed Dec 04 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center               

Sat Dec 07 – Los Angeles, CA – The Kia Forum

Sat Dec 28 – Newark, NJ - Prudential Center 

Tue Dec 31 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

Sat Jan 04 – Detroit, MI - Little Caesars Arena       

Tue Jan 07 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena 

Fri Jan 10 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre

Mon Jan 13 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center  

Thu Jan 16 – Indianapolis, IN – Gainbridge Fieldhouse 

Sun Jan 19 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Wed Jan 22 – St Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center

Sat Jan 25 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center

Tues Feb 11 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center (NEW SHOW)

Fri Feb 14 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena

Mon Feb 17 – Sunrise, FL – Amerant Bank Arena

Thu Feb 20 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena 

Sun Feb 23 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Wed Feb 26 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center  

 *Teddy Swims Joining as Special Guest, The Black Crowes not appearing

Related Articles

In town for the Kentucky Derby? Here are 10 places to get a mint julep in Louisville

If you’ll be in Louisville for the 150th Kentucky Derby , you might be in the mood for a mint julep. This is the town where you’ll see a “ You’re the mint to my julep” mural , where you can join a tour via a company called Mint Julep Experiences or graduate from Mint Julep University.

At its most basic, the mint julep is a cocktail made with bourbon, mint and simple syrup. You can find iterations at various bars, but if you've never had one, go for the classic.

Still, mint juleps don’t grow on trees year-round around here. Some bars proudly do not serve the cocktail long associated with Kentucky and its famous horse race, even during Mint Julep Month , celebrated each April in Louisville.

As the historic running of the Derby gets closer to kicking off, you can expect plenty of places to get in on the julep game. Here are several bars to taste a little bit of Louisville lore. 

Angel's Envy Distillery

500 E. Main St., angelsenvy.com/us/en/bourbon-distillery-tours-louisville

Angel's Envy opened the first full-production whiskey distillery along Whiskey Row in the heart of downtown Louisville in 2016. Since then, it's been a tourist destination and its Toasting Bar, one of the newer features at the distillery, is no exception.

Sip on a Ramble On at Angel's Envy this Mint Julep Month, a take on a Bramble cocktail influenced by a Kentucky-style mint julep and inspired by Led Zeppelin's 1969 hit, "Ramble On."

The Brown Hotel

335 W. Broadway, brownhotel.com

Visiting the century-old Brown Hotel in downtown Louisville will inevitably bring up stories about the Hot Brown, the famous sandwich invented here , made with roast turkey, lightly charred tomatoes, creamy Mornay sauce, crisp bacon, and melted cheese. There’s something else to try, though.

The Brown Hotel is known to make a mean mint julep, with a side of history. Its version, priced at $14, is made with Jim Beam bourbon, simple syrup, and fresh mint. Enjoy sipping this classic cocktail while taking in the tradition seeping through the walls of the hotel that opened in 1923. 

Buzzard's Roost

624 Main St., buzzardsroostwhiskey.com

This new addition to Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville will add a Cucumber Mint Julep to its bar menu starting April 10. If you want to dig deeper into the julep journey, the distillery offers a “Superfecta Cocktail Class,” in which you can learn the process of making three variations of the julep.

For more information on the class, which costs $75, visit buzzardsroostwhiskey.com . 

Derby Cafe & Bourbon Bar

704 Central Ave., derbymuseum.org/plan-a-visit/derby-cafe.html

After learning about all things Derby during a tour of the Kentucky Derby Museum , enjoy your newfound knowledge by sipping something from the museum’s cafe and bar, where the $16 mint julep is printed on the top of the cocktail menu. This traditional take comes with Old Forester, house-made mint syrup, and fresh mint. You’ll be close to where the action happens, with Churchill Downs just a few steps away.

The cafe is open 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. 

Doc Crow's Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar 

27 W Main St., doccrows.com

Doc Crow’s brings its own spin with a Mint Julep Lemonade, made with Elijah Craig small batch, lemon juice, and simple syrup. The $14 drink is served, of course, over crushed ice. This spacious Southern eatery is worth a visit for more than just a cocktail, as it serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Down One Bourbon Bar

321 W Main St., d ownonebourbonbar.com

While the mint julep isn’t on the official menu at Down One, you just have to ask. The cocktail is always available at this cozy bar and restaurant next to KFC Yum! Center, which also boasts a super long list of bourbon options. The house mint julep costs $12 and is made with fresh mint and handmade simple syrup.

You can learn more about the classic cocktail during a Derby-themed Cocktail Class at Down One Bourbon Bar on April 30. A $40 ticket includes three cocktails and light appetizers. You'll learn to make an Old Forester Mint Julep, a Tito’s Lily, and a Woodford Spire, all drinks served during Kentucky Derby Week at Churchill Downs.

Old Forester Distillery

119 W. Main St., oldforester.com/distillery/

Celebrate Mint Julep Month at the Old Forester Distillery, home of the Official Mint Julep of the Kentucky Derby. This year, sip on the classic or try one of three new riffs featured all month at George’s Bar.

The traditional mint julep, $16, is made with Old Forester 86 Proof, simple syrup, and fresh mint leaves. The distillery is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Old Seelbach Bar

500 S. 4th St., seelbachhilton.com/dining

There’s more than one reason to visit Old Seelbach Bar, one of which is you can recreate a photo of F. Scott Fitzgerald on the steps. The historic hotel bar with a deep bourbon collection and ties to the early 1900s is a great idea if you're visiting Louisville, but no bets on whether it’ll live up to "The Great Gatsby."

The bar’s mint julep might be the icing on the cake.

528 W Main St., evanwilliams.com/visit-us

Here’s another option on Whiskey Row , the one-block entertainment district once home to Kentucky's thriving bourbon industry. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience has re-staked its claim there as “the first distillery to return to downtown since Prohibition.” In honor of Mint Julep Month, ON3 Bar will feature a traditional version of the drink along with a mint julep with a lavender twist.

900 Baxter Ave., paseolouisville.com

This new-ish restaurant in the Highlands neighborhood plans to offer a Moroccan Mint Julep, made with Angel’s Envy bourbon, fresh Moroccan Mint Tea, and Demerara Simple Syrup. The $15 drink will be served frozen, which should pair nicely with a view of the restaurant’s next-door pool. Both are part of The Myriad Hotel .

Reach food reporter Amanda Hancock at [email protected].

Music | Classic rock icons announce rescheduled…

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Music | big rig overturns on connector to i-880, commute a mess, music | classic rock icons announce rescheduled farewell tour dates, aerosmith visits san francisco, san jose, inglewood.

Aerosmith has announced rescheduled concert dates for its Peace Out farewell tour.

So, fans in the Golden State can get ready to bid adieu to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame act when it visits Chase Center in San Francisco on Nov. 30, SAP Center in San Jose on Dec. 4 and the Kia Forum in Inglewood on Dec. 7.

The Black Crowes open the shows.

Tickets for the original dates, back in 2023, will be honored at these rescheduled shows. Ticketholders should be receiving an email today with more information.

Remaining tickets for the rescheduled dates, as well as for the few newly added shows, go on sale at 10 a.m. (local time) April 12, ticketmaster.com .

The iconic rock band was forced to scuttle its Peace Out tour in 2023 as singer Steven Tyler received treatment for was Rolling Stone said was a fractured larynx.

AEROSMITH PEACE OUT™ 2024 TOUR DATES:

Fri Sep 20 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena (NEW SHOW)*

Mon Sep 23 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center (NEW SHOW)

Thu Sep 26 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center

Sun Sep 29 – Cleveland, OH – Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse

Wed Oct 02 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center

Sat Oct 05 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena

Tue Oct 08 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

Fri Oct 11 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena

Mon Oct 14 – St Louis, MO – Enterprise Center

Thu Oct 17 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Arena

Sun Oct 20 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena

Thu Oct 31 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center

Sun Nov 03 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center

Wed Nov 06 – Austin, TX – Moody Center

Sat Nov 09 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

Tue Nov 12 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center

Fri Nov 15 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center

Mon Nov 18 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena

Thu Nov 21 – Portland, OR – Moda Center

Sun Nov 24 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

Wed Nov 27 – Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center

Sat Nov 30 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center

Wed Dec 04 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center

Sat Dec 07 – Los Angeles, CA – The Kia Forum

Sat Dec 28 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center

Tue Dec 31 – Boston, MA – TD Garden

Sat Jan 04 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena

Tue Jan 07 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena

Fri Jan 10 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre

Mon Jan 13 – Columbus, OH – Schottenstein Center

Thu Jan 16 – Indianapolis, IN – Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Sun Jan 19 – Chicago, IL – United Center

Wed Jan 22 – St Paul, MN – Xcel Energy Center

Sat Jan 25 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center

Tues Feb 11 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center (NEW SHOW)

Fri Feb 14 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena

Mon Feb 17 – Sunrise, FL – Amerant Bank Arena

Thu Feb 20 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena

Sun Feb 23 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

Wed Feb 26 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center

*Teddy Swims Joining as Special Guest, The Black Crowes not appearing

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Aerosmith announces new dates for ‘2024 Peace Out’ tour that starts in Pa. with 2 shows

• Updated: Apr. 10, 2024, 11:33 a.m. |
• Published: Apr. 10, 2024, 11:32 a.m.

Steven Tyler of Aerosmith performs during night one of their "Peace Out: The Farewell Tour" on Saturday, Sept. 2, 2023, at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Aerosmith has announced additional shows on the tour that was postponed in September 2023. The new tour starts in Pittsburgh, Pa., on Sept. 20, 2024, and includes another show in Philadelphia on Sept. 23, 2024. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP) Amy Harris/Invision/AP

• Deb Kiner | [email protected]

Iconic rock band Aerosmith has announced rescheduled and new tour dates for its “2024 Peace Out” farewell tour that includes two concerts in Pa. at the start of the tour.

The band will start the tour on Friday, Sept. 20, 2024, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh , and on Monday, Sept. 23, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. on Friday, April 12, on Ticketmaster.

Aerosmith had postponed the original “Peace Out” farewell tour after Steven Tyler, 76, said he had vocal chord damage in September 2023. Tyler needed time to recover. All previously purchased tickets for postponed shows will be honored, the band said. Aerosmith did perform on Sept. 2, 2023, in Philadelphia. In late September, the tour was postponed.

The tour runs through February 2025 with the last two shows being on Feb. 23, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York City and Feb. 26 in Buffalo, New York.

Special guests will be The Black Crowes.

The farewell tour dates are:

Sept. 20 - Pittsburgh

Sept. 23 - Philadelphia

Sept. 26 - Louisville, Kentucky

Sept. 29 - Cleveland, Ohio

Oct. 2 - Charlotte, North Carolina

Oct. 5 - Knoxville, Tennessee

Oct. 8 - Washington, D.C.

Oct. 11 - Atlanta, Georgia

Oct. 14 - St. Louis, Missouri

Oct. 17 - Cincinnati, Ohio

Oct. 20 - Nashville, Tennessee

Oct. 31 - Phoenix, Arizona

Nov. 3 - San Antonio, Texas

Nov. 6 - Austin, Texas

Nov. 9 - Dallas, Texas

Nov. 12 - Tulsa, Oklahoma

Nov. 15 - Omaha, Nebraska

Nov. 18 - Denver, Colorado

Nov. 21 - Portland, Oregon

Nov. 24 - Seattle, Washington

Nov. 27 - Salt Lake City, Utah

Nov. 30 - San Francisco, California

Dec. 4 - San Jose, California

Dec. 7 - Los Angeles, California

Dec. 28 - Newark, New Jersey

Dec. 31 - Boston, Massachusetts

Jan. 4, 2025 - Detroit, Michigan

Jan. 7, 2025 - Toronto, Canada

Jan. 10, 2025 - Montreal, Canada

Jan. 13, 2025 - Columbus, Ohio

Jan. 16, 2025 - Indianapolis, Indiana

Jan. 19, 2025 - Chicago, Illinois

Jan. 22, 2025 - St. Paul, Minnesota

Jan. 25, 2025 - Kansas City, Missouri

Feb. 11, 2025 - Orlando, Florida

Feb. 14, 2025 - Tampa, Florida

Feb. 17, 2025 - Sunrise, Florida

Feb. 20, 2025 - Raleigh, North Carolina

Feb. 23, 2025 - New York, New York

Feb. 26, 2025 - Buffalo, New York

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