Louisville, Kentucky, is known for many things. From the bustling bourbon scene to the fastest two minutes in sports. Local's say it's a big small city, it's warm and welcoming and you are sure to get a warm smile or wave from strangers on the street. Louisville is also a very underrated foodie city, there are so many amazing restaurants, both casual and high-end, that are worth a visit. So use this as your guide to some of the top spots in Louisville and things to do around the city while you are planning your trip or spending your time here!
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For the Thrill Seekers and Sports lovers:
Thunder Over Louisville: This is an event that take's place mid-late April. Witness the heart-stopping spectacle of the air show and fireworks extravaganza during this iconic Kentucky Derby Festival event, dubbed as the largest firework show in North America. You will not be disappointed.
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory: Step into the world of baseball at this iconic museum, where you can learn about the history of the Louisville Slugger bat and even take a swing in the batting cage.
Louisville Slugger Field: A few blocks away from the museum, you can catch a game at Louisville Slugger Field and cheer on the Louisville bats team! The bats is a Triple A team affiliated with the Cincinnati Reds. It's very centrally located in downtown Louisville and walking distance from distilleries, restaurants, there's a brewery on-site, and more.
Churchill Downs: Feel the adrenaline of thoroughbred racing at the legendary track of the Kentucky Derby. Take a behind-the-scenes tour, watch a live race, or simply soak in the historic atmosphere. Save the date, the Kentucky Derby is the always the first Saturday in May, go ahead and get your tickets now!
Louisville Soccer Game at Lynn Family Stadium: Both the men and women's Louisville soccer teams are pretty good. The women's team typically has several players that play in the World Cup. Get your purple on and head over to the world-class Lynn Family Stadium and cheer on the Louisville City mens team, or Louisville Racing women's team.
Derby City Gaming: Test your luck at one of the two Derby City gaming locations. The first located in downtown Louisville is in the heart of the city. The second is located close to the Louisville airport. With restaurants, slots, sports books, bars, live entertainment and more, you are sure to have a great time!
KFC YUM Center: Grab tickets to the latest concert, University of Louisville sporting events, shows and more at the Yum Center. Also located in the heart of downtown, you can grab dinner at the amazing restaurants close by, or grab a beverage at a local bar.
For the Culture Lovers:
Muhammad Ali Center: Celebrate the life and legacy of the "Greatest of All Time" at this interactive museum, showcasing his impact on boxing and social justice.
21c Museum Hotel: Immerse yourself in contemporary art at this unique hotel-museum hybrid, where rotating exhibits and thought-provoking installations add a touch of cultural flair to your stay. Book your stay at the hotel!
Kentucky Center for the Arts: Catch a captivating performance at this historic theater, offering Broadway productions, musicals, and local productions in a stunning setting.
Kentucky Derby Museum: Get your Derby fix at this museum, where you can learn about the history of the race, witness the "Riders Up!" ceremony, and even try your hand at mounting a virtual jockey.
Kentucky Science Center: Ignite your curiosity at the Kentucky Science Center, featuring interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and even a simulated coal mine experience.
Old Louisville Historic Tours: Want to hear about Louisville's haunted history? Or just marvel at the beautiful architecture and learn about the history? Well Old Louisville Historic Food Tours is a must visit. It's a great way to explore the city on food as you walk through Louisville's oldest neighborhood and hear tales of the past. Did you know that this neighborhood actually has the largest collection of restored Victorian homes in the country? And they truly are beautiful to see.
Frazier History Museum: The Frazier always has some unique and extremely interesting displays. Boasting that "The Frazier History Museum is where the world meets Kentucky. Explore cultures past and present through an extensive collection of historical items displaying what makes Kentucky cool, famous weaponry, historical information on America's native spirit Bourbon, and much more."
The Belle of Louisville: Take an authentic steamboat ride on the Belle of Louisville. Cruise downth the Ohio and take in the beautiful views, wave at passing boats and enjoy the wind in your hair. They offer food and drink on board, as well as a dinner service. We love their specialty cruises, we did a Mothers Day cruise in 2024 and it was a great time! Make sure you book your tickets in advance for specialty cruises.
For the Foodies:
NuLu Eateries: Explore the trendy NuLu neighborhood, standing for "New Louisville" with diverse flavors and types of eateries, you are sure to find something you love. We love La Bodeguita De Mina serving Cuban, Guacamole serving Mexican, Lou Lou on Market serving Cajun, Nami serving Korean, Byrdie's serving French, and make sure to check out Hulu Marketplace.
West Main Street: Further down Main Street downtown, check out spots closer to the Yum Center and Derby City Gaming. Like steakhouses including Steak and Bourbon, Jeff Ruby's and Mortons. Mussel and Burger Bar, Vincenzo's Italian, and Proof on Main are also staple must-visit spots.
Bardstown Road: There are so many amazing spots on Bardstown road. Check out the Irish pubs like Molly Malones, O'Shaes and Flanagans (Literally all in a triangle). Sushi at Dragon Kings Daughter, Havana Rumba Cuban, Epiphany for cocktails and light bites, Jack Fry's American, and Seviche serving Latin, are just a few of the top spots to try.
Frankfort Ave: Another "hot" district of Louisville is Frankfort Avenue. Known for its bars and nightlife, they also have amazing restaurants including Blue Dog Bakery and Cafe, Please and Thank you....voted America's best chocolate chip cookie, Volare Italian, Varanese and Red Hog are all top rated.
Paristown: This small area has several shops and restaurants within a block or so, cornerstones by the iconic Louisville Stoneware Company and the Cafe. The Cafe is an amazing spot, perfect for lunch, that severs sandwiches, salads and more. You also have to check out their desserts. The Paristown area is anchored by the The Village Market Food Hall and the amazing concert and events venues including Christy's Garden, an outdoor amphitheater.
Address: 731 Brent St, Louisville, KY 40204
Logan Street Market: Imaging 25,000 square feed filled with over 25 locales owned and operated food, beverage and artisan shops. Well that is what Logan Street Market is. Often with events, and just a cool space to hang out, you've got to check them out.
Address: 1001 Logan St, Louisville, KY 40204
Experience the best of Louisville's culinary scene through a Louisville Food tour. With several options in different culinary hot spots across the city, it's a great way to get to try several restaurants while hearing interesting history or facts about Louisville.
Don't forget to grab a "Hot Brown" - Louisville's iconic open-faced sandwich. Our favorites are at the Brown Hotel and Village Anchor but you can find them on the menu at almost any Louisville restaurant.
Check out our full list of best Louisville restaurants here:
Best Restaurants in Germantown area
Louisville's Best Restaurants for any occasion (Coming Soon)
Best Restaurants on Bardstown Road, Louisville (Coming Soon)
Best Restaurants on Frankfort Ave, Louisville (Coming Soon)
I know, I know. You are thinking....what about the bourbon. Do not fret, we've got a whole post dedicated to both the Bourbon scene in Louisville and the Urban Bourbon Trail AND Louisville's thriving brewery scene, the Louisville Ale Trail. Check them out here:
Louisville's Bourbon Scene (Coming Soon)
Lousiville's Urban Bourbon Trail (Coming Soon)
Louisville's Brewery Scene (Coming Soon)
Louisville's Ale Trail (Coming Soon)
For the Outdoor Lovers
Big Four Bridge and Waterfront Park: Enjoy outdoor recreation and stunning views of the Ohio River at Waterfront Park, offering bike paths, paddleboat rentals, a dog park, and live music events. Walk the Big Four bridge across the Ohio River to the Indiana side in Jeffersonville. Jeffersonville is a cute little town with some great local eats and shops. The best part, as you get to the end of the bridge there's an ice cream shop waiting for you!
Bernheim Arboretum & Forest: Escape the city's bustle and find serenity in this expansive arboretum, boasting hiking trails, scenic gardens, and a tranquil atmosphere. This is about 30 minutes from downtown Louisville, but certainly worth the trip! Hang out with the forrest giants and hear about their story, or let the kiddos play on the natural playground.
Falls of the Ohio: Witness the power of nature at the Falls of the Ohio State Park, where the Ohio River plummets over rock ledges, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. This is technically on the Indiana side of the river, but it's a fun activity to check out the fossilized rocks and look out over the Louisville skyline. Fun fact, this is where Reid and I did our engagement photos and they turned out gorgeous so don't forget your camera!
Louisville Parks: In General, Louisville has many parks that are top notch that offer kayaking, walking trails and more. Some key notable parks also worthy of your visit include Cherokee park and Beckley Creek park.
Louisville Mega Cavern: Embark on an unforgettable underground adventure exploring this awe-inspiring cavern system on a guided zipline tour, tram tour, or even a human-powered bike exploration.
Visit a Horse Farm Tour: Can you really come to Louisville, or Kentucky for that matter, and not experience the horse culture? One way to do that is to visit a horse farm and take a tour. Many of the close by farms are homes to past derby racers, and winners. One of the most popular horse farms is Hermitage Farm, where you can take a tour and hear about the history of the farm. If you visit here, you MUST go to Barn8, their onsite restaurants, but make sure to book in advance.
Visit the Louisville Zoo: Who doesn't love a good zoo? The Louisville Zoo has incredible animal exhibitions, a ropes course, a splash pad and more. Several times a year they also do special events like Wild Lights at the Zoo, an asian glow lantern festival, Boo at the Zoo, a halloween themed event, Brew at the Zoo, and more.
This is just a glimpse of the endless possibilities that await in Louisville. Let us know your favorite spots!
