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

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.

Budget-Friendly Fun: 2 Days in Louisville

A trip to Louisville on a limited budget would still include plenty of activities to enjoy. Visiting the Louisville Slugger Museum, exploring the Churchill Downs racetrack, and walking along the waterfront are all affordable and interesting options. For cheap eats, the city is known for its barbecue and bourbon, and there are many food trucks and local joints to grab a bite.

A Fairy Tale Romantic Getaway in Louisville

Experience a fairy tale romance in Louisville, United States as you explore its unique blend of history, culture and charm. Savor Kentucky's famous bourbon and indulge in its mouth-watering cuisine at some of the city's top-rated dining destinations. Take long walks through its picturesque neighborhoods, or enjoy a sunset cruise on the Ohio River, making memories to last a lifetime.

Louisville Love: A Romantic 2-Day Getaway

Visit Louisville to experience the ultimate romantic getaway in the heart of Kentucky. Indulge in local bourbon tastings, explore the historic architecture, and enjoy a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming downtown district. Take in live music, jazz, or blues while savoring the delicious regional cuisine.