Bourbon, Baseball, and Art: Louisville on a Budget

Discover affordable charm in the heart of Kentucky with a trip to Louisville.

21 June 2023

Visiting Louisville on a limited budget is possible with affordable accommodations and free activities. Enjoy the city's rich history by visiting the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Muhammad Ali Center. Take a stroll in the Cherokee Park and indulge in local cuisine at the popular food trucks and farmers markets.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Bourbon, BBQ, and Baseball

  • Check into the boutique 21c Museum Hotel Louisville, which features contemporary art exhibits and a unique rooftop bar.
  • Visit the neighboring Evan Williams Bourbon Experience for a taste of Kentucky's signature spirit.
  • Head to Feast BBQ for some delicious Southern-style barbecue.
  • Catch a Louisville Bats minor league baseball game at Louisville Slugger Field, complete with fireworks and fun promotions.
  • End the night with a cocktail at Proof on Main, named one of the Best Bars in the South by Southern Living magazine.
Day 2

Churchill Downs and City Sights

  • Start the day with breakfast at Gralehaus, a cozy bed and breakfast that serves up tasty pastries and sandwiches.
  • Take a tour of Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby, and learn about the history of this iconic horse racing venue.
  • Visit the Muhammad Ali Center, a museum dedicated to the legendary fighter and Louisville native.
  • Stroll through the beautiful waterfront area and Louisville Waterfront Park, which offers stunning views of the Ohio River.
  • Enjoy dinner at Hammerheads, a funky spot known for its delicious and creative comfort food.
Day 3

Art, Architecture, and Bourbon Bars

  • Start the day at the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory to see how the famous bats are made and view memorabilia from baseball's greatest players.
  • Explore the historic district of Old Louisville, with its beautiful Victorian homes and charming streets.
  • Visit the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft to see the state's finest contemporary art.
  • Have a drink at some of Louisville's best bourbon bars, like The Silver Dollar, Haymarket Whiskey Bar, and The Seelbach Hotel's Old Seelbach Bar.
  • End your trip with dinner at Mayan Cafe, which offers unique Latin-American inspired cuisine with local ingredients.

Length of stay

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Type of trip

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Louisville by plane is to fly into Louisville International Airport, which is served by numerous airlines including Delta, American, and Southwest.

Car

Driving to Louisville is an easy option, as the city is conveniently located at the intersection of several major highways including I-65, I-71, and I-64.

Train

While there is no direct train service to Louisville, you can take an Amtrak train to a nearby city such as Cincinnati or Indianapolis and then take a bus or drive the rest of the way.

Boat

If you're traveling by boat, you can take a riverboat cruise on the Ohio River and dock in Louisville at the Belle of Louisville or Spirit of Jefferson boat docks.

Bus

Taking a Greyhound bus to Louisville is a convenient and affordable option, with bus stations located throughout the city.

Destination

Louisville

Welcome to the land of hot brown, betting on horses, and never-ending bourbon. You know you're in Louisville when you have more mint than you know what to do with.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

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More travel plans

Weekend of Southern Charm in Louisville

Louisville is a charming southern city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of attractions for tourists. Visitors can take a scenic stroll along the Ohio River, explore historic landmarks like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and the Muhammad Ali Center, and savor delicious southern cuisine at local restaurants. Whether you're interested in history, sports, or simply soaking up the local culture, Louisville is definitely worth a visit.

4-Day Adventure Guide: Discovering Louisville, USA

Louisville, located in the state of Kentucky, is a charming city that offers visitors a variety of attractions. Tourists can explore the world-renowned Kentucky Derby racing event at Churchill Downs or indulge in a taste of southern hospitality by visiting the Muhammad Ali Center, dedicated to the life and legacy of the legendary boxer. Additionally, visitors can take a stroll through the vibrant downtown area, which is home to many trendy restaurants, bars, and shops.

5 Days of Romance and Bourbon in Louisville

Louisville, located in Kentucky, offers a perfect romantic getaway experience filled with beautiful attractions and activities. Take a stroll through the lush green parks, explore the art galleries, and indulge in a Bourbon Trail tour. Enjoy the flavors of Southern cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the Ohio riverfront.

Louisville's Family-Friendly Adventure: 3 Days of Fun!

Visit Louisville, the vibrant city located in the heart of Kentucky, for an unforgettable family-friendly trip. Explore the famous Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where kids can see the iconic baseball bats being made, and even take home a miniature souvenir bat. Delight in the thrilling rides at Kentucky Kingdom and Hurricane Bay, an exciting amusement park with something for all ages. Finally, embrace the beauty of nature at the Louisville Zoo, where families can get up close with animals from around the world and enjoy interactive exhibits.