Location: Old Louisville
Top Things to do in Old Louisville
Top 10 Things to do in Old Louisville, Kentucky (KY)
Each year, horse enthusiasts hoof it to Louisville and Churchill Downs, the legendary home of the Kentucky Derby. In addition to equestrian endeavors and bluegrass roots, Louisville boasts a range of exciting attractions the whole family can enjoy. Stroll through Central Park, in the historic district, to people-watch and get a real feel for the city. Visit other nearby parks for hiking, biking and fossil finding. Baseball fans will love the Louisville Slugger Museum, a celebration of the sport's legends. The museum is easy to spot, just look for the humongous bat that leans against the building.
Restaurants in Louisville
1. Louisville Historic Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 260 reviews
As recommended by The New York Times, this tour is the best way to discover America's Grandest Victorian Neighborhood. Seven days a week from March 15-November (and select off-season dates) we highlight the eye-popping architecture and fascinating history in one of the country's largest historic districts, Old Louisville. In the late 1880s, as the famous Southern Exposition drew hundreds of thousands of visitors to Kentucky's largest city, bourbon barons, racetrack royalty, and titans of tobacco constructed impressive Gilded Age residences. They left a visual legacy of stone and brick mansions and townhomes that run the gamut of Victorian architectural splendor. Italianate, Richardsonian Romanesque, Châteauesque, Queen Anne, Renaissance Revival, Georgian—these are just some of the styles scattered over 40-square blocks just a mile from downtown Louisville. Daytime tours focus on architecture; evening walks highlight haunted history and legends. Since 2004, we are the ORIGINAL. 90 min.
2. The Chateau Gallery
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
The Chateau Gallery is a contemporary art gallery, set within a Chateauesque Victorian mansion, in the heart of the Historic Old Louisville Preservation District. With over 5000 square feet of beams, brick, and mortar, the Chateau is the largest independent art space in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
3. Conrad-Caldwell House Museum (Conrad's Castle)
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 622 reviews
The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum is a historic, Victorian mansion located in the heart of Old Louisville on St. James Court. It is one of the finest examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture and was the masterpiece of famed local architect Arthur Loomis of Clarke & Loomis. Surrounded by a beautiful courtyard neighborhood at the center of the largest collection of Victorian Homes in the US, "Conrad's Castle" featured all the latest innovations of its day, including interior plumbing and electric lighting. Known for its beautiful woodwork and parquet floors, this massive Bedford limestone home, covered with gargoyles, beautiful archways, and elaborate stone designs, incorporated 7 types of hardwoods and magnificent stained glass windows in the interior design, making it one of the most stunning homes in Old Louisville. The Museum has been lovingly restored to the Edwardian Age, housing a massive collection of period items including many original pieces.
Reviewed By mhume
Beth Caldwell, a great granddaughter of the second owner of the home, led our tour and it was the best home tour I have ever done, due in large part to her engaging personality and personal stories! The framing woodwork and staircase, as well as the different parquet flooring pattern in each room are remarkable examples of craftsmanship from the past. Seeing the Acousticon (a hearing aid from the early 1900s) which Grace used, her life size doll, a sewing machine from the era, mechanical pencils and tools used by the Caldwell men, the large hidden wall safe, and more were all interesting. The exterior is constructed of limestone, and with its indoor plumbing and electric light bulbs, it was one of the most remarkable homes of its day! It is a treasure to have such a beautifully preserved home to tour in Louisville.
4. The Filson Historical Society
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 14 reviews
The Filson was founded on May 15, 1884, by ten Louisvillians with a common love of history. The primary founder and first president was Reuben T. Durrett. The Filson’s mission is to collect, preserve, and tell the significant stories of Kentucky and Ohio Valley history and culture.
Reviewed By jgbtravels - Louisville, United States
After a year and a half absence we have rejoined The Filson Historical Society just in time for Sandra Day O’Connor lecture. It was very informative and we were able to learn a bit more about her life and career as a Supreme Court Judge. Of course we came away with a better appreciation for her work and career. We also have signed up for future lectures that are of interest. Of course you don’t have to be a member to attend the lectures but do remember that most lectures are free to members. Many of the lectures/events take place in the Ferguson Mansion in Old Louisville which is not only lovely but historic. And yes, the Filson does have parking which is a bonus in Old Louisville.
5. The Witches' Tree
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 7 reviews
A twisted tree at the corner of Sixth and Park in Old Louisville is a popular destination for history buffs and fans of the paranormal. According to legend, today's tree sprang up magically on the spot where a different tree once stood. That tree was the favored meeting spot for a coven of local witches. When the city chopped down their tree, their curse destroyed Louisville with a tornado.
Reviewed By 9melissagail
I took an evening tour with David Domine. I loved learning the history tree and being able to see all the trinkets others have left behind.
6. Old Louisville
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 519 reviews
Welcome to the official TA tour page for Old Louisville. All of our tours are brought to you by Louisville Historic Tours. LHT is the oldest and most well-known tour company in Old Louisville. Our tours have been recommend by the New York Times and we've guided over 50,000 visitors through beautiful Old Louisville. Please click on the specific tour on the right hand side or email us for more information. Operating hours are below.
7. Louisville Free Public Library
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
8. Historic Old Louisville Neighborhood & Visitors Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 87 reviews
The Historic Old Louisville Walking Tour is offered through the Historic Old Louisville Visitors Center located in Central Park. This is your gateway to visit the nation's largest collection of Victorian mansions. Exceptional architectural and historical tour showcasing the highlights of the Historic Preservation District.
9. Central Park
10. Asia Institute Crane House
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2 reviews
Asia Institute – Crane House is the Kentucky and Southern Indiana's Asian cultural center. The organization offers dynamic arts and cultural programming and outreach for all ages and interests that provide opportunities to engage with Asian culture in our region and abroad.
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