On the first weekend each May, horse-racing enthusiasts and tastemakers flock to Louisville, Kentucky (and, more specifically, to Churchill Downs) for the fastest two minutes in sports: The Kentucky Derby. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Derby, making the city a huge draw for tourists in 2024. That said, Louisville has so much more to offer than just horse racing. Whether you’re a design or art lover, an antiques enthusiast, a sports fanatic, or a bourbon aficionado, it’s worth spending a leisurely weekend in this charming city along the Ohio River.
To get the scoop on the best things to do in Louisville, we tapped interior designer Bethany Adams, who has lived and worked there for over a decade. Here’s how she recommends spending a perfect weekend in The Derby City.
Your first order of business after arriving is checking into 21C Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville. Designed by Deborah Berke of TenBerke Architects, Adams says, “Part hotel, part art gallery, it is always interesting, and the museum is always free to the public—so even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth it to stop in and see what is on exhibit.”
If you need a pick-me-up after your flight, head to NuLu (short for ‘New Louisville’). Adams says “Louisville is spoiled by a wealth of local coffee shops that are all outstanding,” but this neighborhood is home to three of her favorites: Quills on Main Street, Butchertown Grocery Bakery, and
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