With the Kentucky Derby just around the corner Caitlin Tudor, the powerhouse Marketing Director at Semonin Realtors marketing, shares her top picks for experiencing Louisville in style—from trendy neighborhoods and iconic dining to the best bourbon pours and Derby-day musts.
BY ANETTA NOWOSIELSKA
THE NEWEST AREA EVERYONE IS EXCITED ABOUT
Paristown and NuLu. Paristown has transformed into a vibrant hub for live entertainment, local dining, and outdoor events, anchored by Old Forester’s Paristown Hall, which offers an intimate yet electric concert experience. From Southern comfort food at The Café to handcrafted pottery at Stoneware & Co. and winter fun at the Fête de Noël Ice Rink, this district delivers year-round charm. Just a few blocks away, NuLu—Louisville’s hotspot for trendy restaurants, art galleries, and boutique shopping—buzzes with eclectic energy. From fine dining at Decca and craft brews at Against the Grain to bourbon tastings at Rabbit Hole Distillery, this walkable district is the heartbeat of modern Louisville, blending artistic flair with vibrant nightlife.
MOST AUTHENTIC NEIGHBORHOOD
If you want to experience the true essence of Louisville, head to The Highlands and Butchertown. The Highlands is where Louisville’s vibrant character shines, with Bardstown Road offering quirky coffee shops, vintage stores, and top local restaurants. From burgers at Grind Burger Kitchen to live music at Headliners Music Hall, this neighborhood pulses with energy, complemented by Victorian homes and scenic strolls through Cherokee Park. Meanwhile, Butchertown blends history with modern flair, featuring Copper & Kings Distillery, elevated dining at Butchertown Grocery, and lively nights at Play Louisville, the city’s iconic LGBTQ+ venue.
HOT SPOT FOR COCKTAILS
Hell or High Water in downtown Louisville offers a cozy, Prohibition-era vibe where expertly crafted cocktails take center stage, while Proof on Main at the 21c Museum Hotel pairs bourbon cocktails with contemporary art. For bourbon lovers, Watch Hill Proper in Norton Commons boasts the world’s largest bourbon selection, offering rare pours and creative cocktails with a bourbon twist. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a curious newcomer, their knowledgeable staff ensures a memorable journey through Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.
CAN’T LEAVE LOUISVILLE WITHOUT EATING AT
Jack Fry’s, a Louisville institution, known for its elevated Southern cuisine, warm ambiance, and rich history dating back to 1933. Walking into Jack Fry’s feels like stepping back in time, with black-and-white photographs lining the walls and live jazz music setting the mood. The shrimp and grits are legendary, the steaks are perfectly prepared, and the service is impeccable—making it a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.
BUT BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THIS DURING THE DAY
No visit to Louisville is complete without experiencing the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs. More than just a museum, this immersive attraction takes visitors deep into the history and excitement of the “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports.” From interactive exhibits and historic artifacts to a breathtaking 360-degree film that puts you right in the middle of Derby Day, the museum offers an inside look at what makes the Kentucky Derby so legendary.
