I mentioned a few weeks back that we had family from California visit + so it only feels right to share some of my favorite things to do in Louisville!
Never been to Louisville? Kentucky’s largest city sits right on the Ohio River, was named the best city to start a road trip from, features a wide variety of eclectic restaurants, and overall is just a cool place. Best known as the home of the Kentucky Derby and the heart of the Bourbon Trail, Louisville has a wide variety of places that fit a wide variety of interests.
Things to do in Louisville | Churchill Downs & Kentucky Derby Museum
The biggest event in Louisville each year is the Kentucky Derby; in fact I even have a blog series dedicated to what to wear to Derby each year! With Derby being the “postcard event” here, Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum tend to top my list of places to visit.
The guided tour walks you through the racetrack, explains the history of both Churchill Downs and the Derby, and my personal favorite: introduces you to Winston, the mini horse. Afterwards, you can walk through the museum at your own pace. The museum features a collection of Derby hats won by celebrities, locals, and horse owners as well as some of the more intricate outfits.
Things to do in Louisville | Yew Dell Gardens
Off the beaten path in Crestwood about twenty minutes outside of downtown Louisville is Yew Dell Botanical Gardens. The botanical garden stuns with it’s combination of greenhouses and outdoor plants so be sure to bring your camera and wear shoes that are comfortable to walk in.
Things to do in Louisville | Visit a Bourbon Distillery.
Finally, be sure to visit one of the distilleries! There are several in town that you can tour and do tastings at including: Angel’s Envy, Evan Williams, Jim Beam, Copper & Kings and Heaven Hill.
We stopped by Kentucky Artisan Distillery and did the hour-long tour as well as a tasting. The smaller distilleries can be nice if you like a quieter atmosphere, smaller tour groups and a more personalized experience.
