Old Louisville
Old Louisville, located just south of downtown, is the largest Victorian neighborhood in the country. Take a stroll down the tree-lined streets to admire the ornate architecture and colorful cast-iron façades. Be sure to stop in at Central Park, a beautiful 35-acre green space featuring winding paths, fountains, and tennis courts. While you’re there, check out the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum to learn about the history of Old Louisville. After soaking up the sights, stop for a bite to eat on Bardstown Road. This stretch of restaurants, bars, and shops offers an eclectic mix of cuisines and boutiques. Don’t miss The Old Seelbach Bar, located in the historic Seelbach Hotel, for a quintessential Louisville experience. Sip on a mint julep while listening to live jazz in this storied bar that dates back over 100 years.
NuLu
The East Market District, better known as NuLu, is Louisville’s artsy, up-and-coming neighborhood. Home to many art galleries, boutiques, and some of the city’s hottest restaurants, NuLu has a vibrant, creative vibe. Start your visit at the Frazier History Museum, which features exhibits on Kentucky history and military arms. Then head over to Art Eatables, a charming café and gallery space, for lunch. Be sure to browse the local art for sale as you dine. After refueling, take some time to wander along East Market Street and check out the many unique shops. Some favorites include Red Tree, which sells art and home goods by local makers, and Mood, a boutique with chic women’s clothing. End your day in NuLu with dinner at Decca—this trendy restaurant serves creative takes on Southern cuisine in a rustic-chic setting.
Germantown
Tucked just north of downtown, Germantown is one of Louisville’s most historic neighborhoods. Many of the brick homes and buildings here date back to the mid-19th century. Strolling along the streets, you’ll notice charming Italianate and Federal style architecture. Start your visit at the Peterson-Dumesnil House, an 1864 Italianate mansion that offers guided tours. Then walk over to Nachbar, a popular beer hall, for refreshments. With a spacious indoor beer garden as well as a lively patio, it’s a great place to unwind. For dinner, head to Check’s Café, a Germantown institution. Housed in a former railroad passenger depot, it’s been serving up delicious Southern comfort food since the 1920s. Be sure to try their famous fried chicken!
The Highlands
Situated just east of downtown, the Highlands is a vibrant community known for its eclectic shops, hip bars and diverse dining options. The neighborhood centers around Bardstown Road and Baxter Avenue, where you’ll find boutiques, art galleries, coffee shops, and restaurants ranging from casual to upscale. Start your visit at the Douglass Loop Farmers Market. Open year-round on Saturday mornings, it’s a great spot to browse fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors. Then walk over to Highland Coffee Co. for an expertly brewed cup of joe. Further down Bardstown Road, stop in at some of the fun shops like Red Tree, which sells gifts and home goods by local artisans. When hunger strikes, grab a table on the patio at Jack Fry’s, a Louisville staple known for upscale Southern cuisine in an elegant setting. From bourbon cocktails to shrimp and grits, they do not disappoint.
Crescent Hill
Situated between the Highlands and Old Louisville, Crescent Hill charms with its mix of shops, restaurants and historic architecture. The commercial corridor along Frankfort Avenue serves as the neighborhood’s main drag. Lined with an array of locally owned businesses, it makes for a pleasant stroll. Start your visit at Black Dog Gallery, which sells contemporary Kentucky-made art and gifts. Then grab an iced coffee at Day’s Espresso & Coffee Bar, a cozy neighborhood spot. When it’s time for a bite, head to The Village Anchor, a gastropub dishing out creative pub fare and an extensive list of local brews. Walk off your meal with a stroll down Peterson Road, where you can admire some beautiful historic homes. Crescent Hill is also home to several lovely parks, including the 15-acre Belknap Park which features hiking trails, tennis courts and an old-growth forest.
Clifton
Home to the University of Louisville, Clifton buzzes with youthful energy. Students and locals alike flock to the neighborhood’s laid-back bars, cafes, and eclectic shops. A highlight is Bardstown Road, stretching from the Highlands into Clifton, where you’ll find boutiques, bookstores, and a wide array of dining options from take-out joints to white tablecloth restaurants. Start your visit at the Speed Art Museum located on the university’s campus. This art museum houses an impressive collection of artwork spanning 6,000 years. Grab lunch nearby at V-Grits, a popular vegan eatery serving up tasty Southern comfort food. After, take some time to explore the shops along Bardstown Road. Pop into Dot Fox Vintage Shop for curated mid-century modern finds. Or browse the large selection at Carmichael’s Bookstore, a beloved local indie. When evening rolls around, grab a craft brew and burger at Holy Grale, a laid-back gastropub with 30+ beers on tap.
Phoenix Hill
Phoenix Hill is Louisville’s entertainment district, making it a hot spot for nightlife. Located just east of downtown, the neighborhood boasts a variety of bars, concert venues, and restaurants ranging from casual to upscale. Start your visit at Copper & Kings American Brandy Company, where you can tour the distillery and enjoy a tasting of brandy and cocktails. Then walk over to Against the Grain Brewery for beers and brick-oven pizza. As the sun sets, head to Jimmy Can’t Dance, a lively speakeasy-style bar located downstairs in an old Louisville mansion. For some live music, Phoenix Hill Tavern is a legendary venue that’s hosted acts like the Black Keys, Kings of Leon, and My Morning Jacket. And for late-night revelry, Nowhere Bar draws crowds with its dance club vibe. So whether you’re looking for craft cocktails or an all-out rager, Phoenix Hill delivers good times.
Nulu
Anchored by Market Street in downtown Louisville, Nulu (New Louisville) is the city’s trendy arts and dining district. You’ll find a vibrant mix of restaurants, boutiques, galleries and creative businesses housed in historic brick buildings. It’s a great spot for a night out. Start with a show at Actors Theatre, Louisville’s renowned regional theater. Housed in a striking Gothic Revival building, it produces a mix of contemporary works and classics. Afterwards, stop into Garage Bar for a uniquely Louisville experience. Housed in…you guessed it, a former parking garage, this popular spot serves up local brews and sharable plates in an industrial-chic setting. For a romantic dinner, Mayan Café wows with its artfully presented Latin fusion cuisine. And to cap off your night, stop by Meta for expertly mixed cocktails in a sleek, modern lounge. From theater to nightcaps, Nulu offers a fabulous arts and culture scene.
Book a Bus With Us
At Charter Bus Company Louisville, we want to make exploring Louisville easy and fun for your group. Our charter buses and minibuses are equipped with amenities like WiFi, TVs, power outlets, and restrooms to keep everyone comfortable on the road. And our experienced drivers know Louisville like the back of their hand—they can recommend the best places to go and share insider tips. Whether you need a ride for a family reunion, church group outing, school field trip, or nights out with friends, we’ve got you covered. Our diverse fleet of vehicles can accommodate any group size. And with special rates for long-term rentals, we can arrange transportation for extended stays or events like weddings. Ready to book your Louisville adventure? Call Charter Bus Company Louisville at (859) 800-4703 for a free quote. Our team is available 24/7 to help customize the perfect transportation for your group. Let us handle the driving while you sit back and experience the best of Louisville’s neighborhoods.