Things to Do in Louisville

If you’ve never been to Louisville, the easiest way to stick out like a sore thumb is your pronunciation. The unseasoned traveler will say “Louie-ville.” Now this isn’t incorrect, but to blend in with the locals you’ll need to add a little drawl. Kentuckians pronounce the city “Loo-a-vul.”

I spent a good year travelling to Louisville for work. As a business traveler, I am constantly trying to find the unique, local parts of the city I’m staying in. If you are looking for more things to do than go to the KFC museum this is your post. Here are the Top 5 Things in Louisville.

Top 5 Things to Do:

1. Kentucky Derby Museum & Churchill Downs. Even if it’s not Derby time, it’s worth a visit.
2. Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Go on a scavenger hunt to get bourbon stamps. Visit nine for a free t-shirt.
3. Seelbach Hotel. Known for hosting celebrities from Presidents to gangsters. Make sure to visit the rathskeller.
4. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. No, this isn’t home to Carrie Underwood.
5. Big Four Bridge. Enjoy the views from the riverfront park.

Top 5 Places to Eat:

1. Garage Bar. An old auto service garage serving unique pizzas and craft beers.
2. Holy Grale. Church turned restaurant and beer garden.
3. Proof on Main. Labeled Esquire magazine’s “Best New Restaurants.”
4. The Brown Hotel. Try Louisville’s famous “hot brown.” An open-faced turkey sandwich with bacon and Mornay sauce.
5. Hammerhead’s. Eclectic pub food on a budget.

If you have the time and room in your belly, try a hot brown. My co-workers and I made a reunion trip to Louisville for the Kentucky Derby. Check out my Kentucky – Louisville (Derby Edition) to get the inside details of what it’s really like at Churchill Downs during the Derby.