The Traveling Man: Louisville, Kentucky

Bianca Teixeira July 28, 2015

Kentucky is famous for a few things— a few things they do exceptionally well. There’s bourbon, of course. Kentucky is where the stuff was born, and it still responsible for about 95 per cent of the world’s supply. And there’s horseracing, too—no doubt you’re familiar with a little derby named after the state. Driving through Kentucky’s biggest city, Louisville, you’re likely to encounter your share of grazing thoroughbreds and whisky bars. But you’ll also find a strikingly modern city, one that’s exciting, without any pretention. There’s a lot to like here.

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610 Magnolia

There are only 50 seats available, and each one is only sat once. That means if you get in, you’re welcome to sit and enjoy your food until closing. You’ll need the time : choose either a four- or six-course tasting menu available that focuses on local ingredients and changes weekly.

610Magnolia.com

Eat: Bistro 1860

Bistro 1860 is a little bit French, a little bit down home American cooking. That means dishes like lobster hushpuppies and a duck comfit strudel, alongside classics like beef tenderloin drizzled with a Béarnaise sauce. And while you’re clearly expecting some bourbon, take advantage of the Bistro’s renowned wine bar, which has one of the largest cruvinet preservation systems in the US.

Bistro1860.com

Drink: Buffalo Trace Distillery

If you want the best, go right to the source. Established in 1836, Buffalo Trace is a national historic landmark. At any given moment, there are over 200,000 barrels of bourbon aging on the grounds, some that you can stake a claim in and buy right then and there. Take a tour, sip some samples and don’t leave without a bottle under your arm.

Buffalotracedistillery.com

Do: Churchhill Downs

As the home of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs has everything a serious horserace enthusiast needs: beautiful thoroughbreds and luxury boxes from which to watch them race. As long as it’s sunny and you have a mint julep in your hand (they make some of the best, anywhere), it’ll be a good day.

Churchilldowns.com

Joe Ley Antiques

Housed in an 1890 schoolhouse, the antique store covers approximately two acres of floorspace—and even then it’s crammed full. We’re talking one-of-a-kind pieces of hardware, signs, railings and doors. It’s the kind of place you go to look, then end up driving home with a new fireplace mantle strapped to the roof of your car.

Joeley.com

The Silver Dollar

The Silver Dollar feels like the kind of place you might stumble into along a dusty horse trail. It’s a reimagined juke joint, with growly bluegrass blasting from the speakers (or up on the stage) and one of the best selections of bourbon anywhere in town.

Whiskeybythedrink.com

Stay: The Brown Hotel

Built in 1923, The Brown is all about old Southern charm: ornate millwork, stupidly high ceilings and miles of plush carpets and carved mahogany. It has played host to all kinds of legends, from Harry Truman to Elizabeth Taylor to Jimmy Carter, but we recommend spending the night in the Muhammad Ali Suite, stocked with autographed memorabilia.

Brownhotel.com