The “most exciting two minutes in sports” is right around the corner and EPR, headquartered in Louisville for 20 years, knows how to Derby like a local. We want to make sure you know how to do Derby the right way! Here are a few tips on how to spend it.
Searching for a few attractions to see before the big race? It wouldn’t be right to visit the bourbon capital of the world without sipping on a few of Kentucky’s finest. Embark on a bourbon adventure along Louisville’s Urban Bourbon Trail, where you can sample some of the finest bourbons in the world. Wanting to tour a distillery? Visit Copper & Kings where you can get an inside look of the distilling process and enjoy a drink at their rooftop bar.
Before heading to the races, start your day brunching with a famous Kentucky Hot Brown at The Brown Hotel’s J. Graham’s Cafe. While you’re there, check out the gift shop to find a last-minute party hat or fascinator! Looking for a lighter bite or an infield munchie? Enjoy delicious pastries and coffee at Blue Dog Bakery that are sure to keep you fueled throughout your day at the track.
Before you head home after a full day of races, consider dining at a few local staples! Taste the finest Italian cuisine at Porcini Restaurant, home to Louisville for over 31 years; dine in a beautifully restored cathedral at Noche Mexican BBQ; enjoy farm-to-table dining at Barn8 Restaurant on Hermitage Farm; try out the famous hot-honey pepperoni pizza at Pizza Lupo; or look over the beautiful Louisville skyline and grab a bite at 8UP Elevated Dinery & Kitchen. If you are interested in a fine dining option, visit Pat’s Steakhouse, a community staple for over 65 years! For a more casual outing, check out Frankfort Avenue Beer Depot Smokehouse.
End the night on a high note with a nightcap cocktail. Sip on a wide selection of curated cocktails at Trouble Bar; catch a glimpse of the world’s largest bourbon collection at Watch Hill Proper; escape to a speakeasy at Black Rabbit; or head to Louisville’s hotspot, NuLu, to experience Gertie’s whiskey lounge.
If you’re traveling through Northern Kentucky — or flying through CVG — don’t leave the bourbon state without grabbing a bottle of New Riff Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey to take home with you. Of course, you can find this award-winning whiskey at retail locations across Louisville, too.
While these are just a few of our favorite spots in Louisville, the city offers a wide selection of unforgettable experiences.
Hats off to you and your time at the Kentucky Derby!
