Bourbon distilleries, craft breweries, amazing food, and plenty of history.
Looking for a charming Southern city with bourbon distilleries, craft breweries, incredible food, and plenty of history to explore? Look no further than Louisville, Kentucky! This city has something for everyone, from bourbon lovers to foodies to outdoor enthusiasts. With 48 hours to explore, you can taste all that Louisville offers. Whether planning a weekend trip or just passing through, here’s a guide to the best things to see, do, and eat during your 48 hours in Louisville.
Day 1:
Breakfast at Wild Eggs
Start your morning with breakfast at Wild Eggs, one of Louisville’s best breakfast spots. From their famous “Kelsey Cakes” to delicious omelets and sandwiches, the restaurant’s diverse menu will satisfy every taste.
Louisville Distillery Tour at Angel’s Envy
Next, head to Angel’s Envy Distillery for a tour of the bourbon-making process. You’ll have the chance to taste their award-winning whiskeys and learn about the brand’s unique history.
Lunch at Royal’s Hot Chicken
For lunch, check out Royals Hot Chicken, a local favorite that serves up Nashville-style hot chicken. Everything on the menu is delicious and flavorful, from sandwiches to tenders to wings.
Shopping in NuLu
Take a stroll down Market Street in the NuLu (New Louisville) neighborhood for some shopping. You’ll find unique boutiques, vintage stores, and art galleries. The neighborhood has an artsy vibe you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Afternoon Wine & Charcuterie at Nouvelle Bar & Bottle
Enjoy an afternoon of wine and charcuterie at Nouvelle Bar & Bottle. This wine bar offers a great selection of wines, craft beers, and small plates to share. It’s a cozy spot that’s perfect for unwinding and relaxing.
Old Louisville Historic Home Tour
For a glimpse of Louisville’s rich history, take a tour of the historic homes in Old Louisville. The neighborhood features some of the best-preserved Victorian architecture in the country, and you’ll be transported back in time as you walk down the beautiful streets.
Dinner in NuLu at Guaca Mole
For dinner, head to Guaca Mole for some authentic Mexican cuisine. The menu features traditional dishes with a modern twist, and the margaritas are excellent.
Late Night Karaoke at NoraeBar
End your night with some late-night karaoke at NoraeBar, a popular karaoke spot in the city. The vibe is fun and energetic, and the extensive song selection will keep you singing well into the night.
Bourbon Tasting Nightcap at Evergreen Liquor
If you’re still in the mood for bourbon, head to Evergreen Liquor for an ultimate bourbon nightcap. The store has an impressive selection of bourbon and other spirits, and the staff is knowledgeable and friendly.
Day 2
Breakfast at Con Huevos
Start your morning with a delicious Mexican breakfast at Con Huevos. This Latin-inspired breakfast spot serves up some of the city’s best huevos rancheros and chilaquiles. The menu also features some creative twists on classic breakfast dishes.
Coffee at Please & Thank You
Next, head to Please & Thank You for a coffee, a pastry and one of the best chocolate chip cookies in Louisville. This cozy coffee shop has a great selection of baked goods, sandwiches, and coffee drinks. The atmosphere is warm, welcoming and hip, and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.
Morning Walk along the Louisville Waterfront
After breakfast, take a morning walk along the Louisville Waterfront. The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists, offering scenic views of the Ohio River and the downtown skyline.
Must See Museum, the Muhammad Ali Center
No visit to Louisville is complete without a visit to the Muhammad Ali Center. The museum offers an immersive and inspiring experience highlighting the legendary boxer’s life and legacy. It’s a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in sports, history, or civil rights.
Vietnamese Lunch at Pho Ba Luu
For lunch, check out Pho Ba Luu for some delicious Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant serves up some of the best pho in the city and other tasty dishes like banh mi sandwiches and crispy spring rolls.
Visit the best breweries in Louisville
In the afternoon, visit some of Louisville’s craft breweries, such as Mile Wide, Atrium, and Monnik. These breweries offer a great selection of craft beers and a fun atmosphere. You can even tour the breweries and learn about the brewing process.
Italian Dinner at Bar Vetti
For dinner, head to Bar Vetti for some delicious Italian cuisine. The restaurant offers a great selection of antipasti, pasta dishes, and pizza. The atmosphere is elegant and cozy, making it the perfect spot for a romantic dinner.
Live Music at Old Forester’s Paristown Hall
End your night with some live music at Old Forester’s Paristown Hall. This venue offers a great selection of live music performances, ranging from indie to country to blues. The sound quality is excellent, and the atmosphere is electric. It’s a great way to end your weekend in Louisville on a high note.
Final Thoughts
Louisville is a somewhat overlooked travel destination in the midwest. Still, with its mix of Southern charm, rich history, delicious food, and exciting nightlife, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, a foodie, a craft beer lover, or just looking for a fun weekend getaway, Louisville has it all! If you liked this post, you might enjoy reading about the best Louisville breweries.
Where to Stay in Louisville
The Story of Butchertown is a cozy historic home in the Butchertown neighborhood of Louisville, minutes from NuLu, downtown, and all major attractions. Book now.
