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About Louisville

Dubbed the ‘Gateway to the South’, Louisville has long been underrated, as visitors have swept through on their way into Kentucky and towards Tennessee. This vibrant, historic city is, however, becoming increasingly popular for its elegant architecture, wonderful museums and lively farm-to-table foodie scene. Accommodation options range from intimate B&Bs in Victorian mansions to slick city hotels, perfect for couples, families, friends or business travellers. Many of the best places to stay in Louisville are appealingly close to the downtown area, which sits right alongside the picturesque Ohio River.

Louisville’s biggest annual event is the world-famous Kentucky Derby, which takes place in early May. Even if you don’t happen to visit at this time of year, do venture to the racecourse to see the Kentucky Derby Museum. Horse-mad visitors will also find myriad places to go horse riding on the outskirts of the city. There's cycling, hiking, kayaking and fishing to try in the area, too.

Much of Louisville’s cultural life centres around its fabulous museums. Make time for the Speed Art Museum, the KMAC Museum, and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory. The Muhammad Ali Centre is also a standout, whilst the Kentucky Science Centre is a family favourite. History buffs should head to the Conrad Caldwell House Museum or take a guided walking tour of charming Old Louisville, to admire striking architecture and delve into the city's intriguing past.

Louisville's beautiful parks are a great place for a stroll, and the Louisville Water Tower Park, perched on the banks of the Ohio River, is particularly lovely. Spend your evenings feasting on fantastic seasonal dishes or tasting superb Kentucky bourbon in the city’s many bars and eateries before catching a live gig or theatrical show. With the best places to stay in Louisville nearby, you can kick back in style after big days out — and prepare for your next adventure!

The Best Places to Stay in Louisville

For an Intimate Hideaway

  • Inn at St James Court was built as a family home in the 1890s, and now houses three carefully-decorated suites. This owner-run inn is ideal for those looking to delve into Louisville's past, and to enjoy plenty of privacy. The pretty porch overlooks the area's iconic fountain. For couples or families.
  • Dupont Mansion sits in Old Louisville and features seven Victorian-style suites, some of which come with four-poster beds. An Italianate mansion with a pretty garden for unwinding, this spot is great for romantics, history buffs or intimate weddings and elopements.
  • Louisville Bourbon Inn is a grand Victorian residence overlooking Louisville's Central Park. The eight guestrooms feature period furnishings, fireplaces and lots of charm. Many also have balconies and jetted bathtubs. A heritage retreat for couples.
  • Vu Guesthouse features 34 rooms, making it larger than most Louisville B&Bs. This boutique spot offers a relaxing, adults-only base for couples near the city centre, complete with bright, funky decor in a renovated former tobacco factory. Think lots of pink, orange and black. A quirky choice.
  • Chateau Bourbon is an upscale B&B with four individually-designed suites in vibrant Norton Commons, a short drive from downtown Louisville. Sip top Kentucky bourbon and taste bourbon-inspired treats at the daily 5pm happy hour. One for couples or groups of friends, who can also book out the whole house. Very intimate.

For Historic Grandeur

  • The Brown Hotel is a grand property with a Georgian Revival façade, impressive public spaces and almost 300 comfortable, elegant rooms. A downtown spot promising excellent value and the chance to experience the city's heritage. For couples or families.
  • The Seelbach is an imposing historic hotel in downtown Louisville. Think stately shared areas — including a striking marble lobby — as well as traditionally-appointed rooms and suites offering space for couples or families. Children under 18 stay for free in their parents' rooms, and pets are welcome. The drinking & dining options are wonderful — as is the vaulted events space.

For Contemporary Cool

  • The Galt House offers smart and spacious contemporary rooms for families, couples or business travellers right on the waterfront in downtown Louisville. A big hotel with something for everyone, including a pool, gym, spa and mutiple dining options. Also pet-friendly.
  • Hotel Distil is a slick, modern property featuring minimalist interiors with crisp, clean lines and sleek industrial touches. Expect striking river views, a glamorous bar and restaurant, and a fun rooftop terrace. A swish, central choice for couples, friends or business travellers on Whiskey Row.
  • 21C Museum Hotel boasts its own contemporary arts space, as well as showcasing its eclectic art collection in both the guestrooms and communal areas. The 90 rooms are modern and indulgent, and you’re right in the heart of the action. Couples, friends and business travellers will love the great restaurant, gym, spa and sauna. A hip city pad for art & design lovers.
  • Omni Louisville promises family-friendly luxury in a stylish city-centre hotel, complete with its own bowling alley, kids club and rooftop pool. The trendy speakeasy is a top spot to start or end the night, the steakhouse has a good buzz and the rooms & suites are beautifully appointed. Also romantic.

For Great Value

  • Moxy Louisville Downtown is a hip downtown hotel for sociable travellers visiting Louisville for business or leisure. There are funky spaces to work or unwind, as well as a lively bar and taco restaurant. Families can stay too! Friendly and affordable.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR COTTAGE

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Louisville International Airport, and travel to your hotel by bus or taxi.
  • Kentucky is a wonderful state for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel between June and September for temperatures averaging between 26°C and 30°C, or come in the spring or autumn for cooler weather. The annual Kentucky Derby, in May, is the busiest time of year — book well in advance if you're visiting for the race and festival.

STILL NOT SURE?

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Best Hotels in Louisville

  • Myriad Hotel Louisville (Kentucky) 65 rooms from £105

    Value chic  -  If you're travelling with friends and are on a tight budget, the bunk/dorm rooms are ideal
    Local exploring  -  The Highlands is a walkable district that includes numerous bars, shops and restaurants
    Groups  -  Bunk suites accommodating 6 or 10 guests are a fun way to holiday together
    Sights nearby  -  Churchill Downs is one of the most famous horse racing complexes in the world and home to the iconic Kentucky Derby race
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Former disco ball factory turned hip hotel in the Highlands neighbourhood. Swish, minimalist rooms with warm wood and bright artwork, the best with balconies overlooking the pool. Metropolitan-style restaurant with wood-fired stove and all day bar for coffee and cocktails. A cool city getaway. See More

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  • Inn at St James Court Louisville 3 rooms from £116

    Local exploring  -  Perfect base for exploring Old Louisville, experiencing Kentucky Derby or attending St James Art Show
    Sights nearby  -  Book a guided tour of Old Louisville to admire impressive historic buildings and learn about the neighbourhood's rich past
    Views  -  Overlooks the neighbhourhood's Venus Rising from the Sea statue. It's even more stunning lit up at night
    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 12 years old are welcome and can sleep on airbeds within the suites
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    Beautiful Victorian mansion in leafy St James Court. Traditional suites & a pretty sit-out porch overlook tree-lined streets & the iconic fountain. Expect grand yet homely spaces for relaxing, including a breakfast room & fireside lounge. An intimate owner-run inn ideal for reliving the past. See More

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  • The Galt House Louisville 1314 rooms from £116

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located in downtown meaning that museums, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues are right on the doorstep
    Spa  -  A full-service Xhale Salon and Spa offers a good range of massages, facials, and beauty treatments
    Restaurant  -  A range of seven lounges and restaurants offering everything from casual to fine dining
    Swimming Pool  -  Seasonal outdoor pool
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A swish modern hotel set on the waterfront in downtown Louisville. Spacious contemporary rooms are simply styled with picture windows overlooking the water stealing the show. With endless facilities including seven dining and lounge areas, a pool, and a spa — you have everything you need here. See More

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  • Vu Guesthouse Louisville 34 rooms from £124

    Local exploring  -  Well located near downtown meaning that there are theatres, restaurants, museums, and shops in abundance nearby
    Boutique
    Adult Only
    Air conditioningDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    A stylish boutique hotel set in a converted tobacco warehouse near downtown Louisville. Unique throughout; trendy rooms are moody and romantic with dark hues, dramatic bed heads, and heavy drapes. An atmospheric cocktail bar is a lively spot. An adult-only stay, ideal for city exploring. See More

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  • Inn at Woodhaven Louisville (Kentucky) 8 rooms from £132

    Local exploring  -  Explore nearby Brown Park and Beargrass Nature Preserve, a popular birding area and of course the Bourbon Trail!
    Romantic Break  -  Rose Cottage offers the perfect retreat with fireplace, double spa bath and private porch
    Restrictions on children  -  In some instances children may be accommodated but prior arrangements must be made
    Sights nearby  -  Head underground and visit Louisville Mega Cavern, a former limestone mine
    Air conditioningGardenPet friendlyDisabled access

    Historic B&B in downtown Louisville comprising 3 beautiful buildings with huge arched doors, 14-foot ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and original shutters. Situated on the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail and close to eateries serving the best local fare. A charming property for business or leisure See More

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  • The Brown Hotel Louisville 293 rooms from £132

    Sights nearby  -  Minutes from Brown Theatre, the Palace Theatre, Kentucky International Convention Center
    Landmark  -  Comes with a reputation.
    Opulent
    Traditional
    Air conditioningRestaurantDisabled accessParking

    A grand hotel with a striking Georgian Revival facade which embodies Old World elegance complemented by top notch modern conmforts. Classic decor in the rooms and OTT interiors in the public areas. Prime location in downtown Louisville. Enjoy southern hospitality in historic grandeur. See More

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  • Hotel Distil Louisville 205 rooms from £137

    Business meetings  -  Spaces include a grand ballroom, meeting rooms, and private dining, plus it's only 10 mins walk to Kentucky Convention Center
    City Style  -  Perfect base to dip into the infamous prohibition past with all the conveniences and comforts of the present
    Restaurant  -  Head to Repeal for atmospheric steakhouse with popular wrap-around bar; it takes inspiration from the prohibition era
    Sights nearby  -  Watch the races at nearby Churchill Downs, home of the famous Kentucky Derby
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Luxury hotel on famous Whiskey Row with a rich past and historic facade. Contemporary rooms feel warm and welcoming with sleek industrial touches and fab river views. Indulge in glam dining at the steak restaurant or enjoy a bourbon or two on the stylish rooftop bar and terrace. City-centre cool. See More

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  • Moxy Louisville Downtown Louisville 110 rooms from £138

    Business Centre  -  In addition to a high-tech working space, rooms have been designed for work; enjoy LED TV, USB outlets & super fast free Wi-Fi
    Business meetings  -  In addition to 11,000 ft of function space, you're next to KFC Yum! Center & two blocks from Kentucky Intl Convention Center
    Bar  -  The heart of the hotel. Check-in (with complimentary cocktail), meet friends, enjoy craft beers and small sharing plates
    Local exploring  -  Fab central location on Whiskey Row means that sites, night life, dining, museums, parks and shopping surrounds you
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    Downtown boutique-style hotel offering a fun, affordable & well-located stay. Cleverly designed rooms with river views offer what you need for both work & leisure. A happening bar, lounge & workspace provide endless opportunities for mingling, as do the haunts of Whiskey Row. A hip modern choice. See More

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  • The Seelbach Louisville 308 rooms from £147

    Local exploring  -  The downtown location means that some of the city's best museums, theatres, shops, restaurants and nightlife are nearby
    Restaurant  -  Three dining options include a breakfast room, a traditional Kentucky bar serving regional cuisine, and Starbucks
    Full of character
    Traditional
    RestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A landmark historic hotel set in downtown Louisville. Traditionally styled rooms keep their original features and are filled with antiques. A range of dining and drinking venues offer casual dining, fine dining, and standout cocktails. An atmospheric and well-positioned stay. See More

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  • Dupont Mansion Louisville 7 rooms from £153

    Local exploring  -  The historic local neighbourhood - “Old Louisville” - is the country's second-largest National Historic Preservation District
    Romantic Break  -  Be transported back into the past with a stay in the Hattie Bishop Speed Room; the four poster bed is to die for
    Weddings  -  Offers a range of affordable packages for sophisticated weddings of all sizes; from elopments to formal affairs
    Sights nearby  -  The owners can help organise a fantastic Bourbon Country Tour featuring an 8-hour tour of three local Bourbon Distilleries
    Air conditioningGardenParking

    Elegant historical mansion turned into a sophisticated owner-run B&B. Opulent suites decorated in Victorian style boast four-poster beds, fireplaces & gigantic whirlpool tubs. There's a library, lounge & large garden for relaxing after breakfast in the dining room. A charming base to explore from. See More

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  • Louisville Bourbon Inn Louisville 8 rooms from £161

    Local exploring  -  Well located to explore both the neighbourhood's rich array of historic buildings and the city's top sites
    Sights nearby  -  Take a guided tour of Old Louisville - the neighbourhood is America's second largest National Historic Preservation District
    Whirlpool Bathtub  -  Most rooms come with jetted tubs, some are oversized and ideal for couples
    Views  -  Certain rooms overlook the city's Central Park
    Air conditioningGardenViewsParking

    Grand Victorian mansion turned into an elegant owner-run B&B. Rooms have been decorated in line with the building's origins; think ornamental fireplaces and antique furnishings - many have jetted tubs and balconies. A bourbon-inspired breakfast is served in a smart dining room. Historic city haven. See More

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  • 21C Museum Hotel, Louisville Louisville (Kentucky) 90 rooms from £180

    Sights nearby  -  Louisville Slugger Museum Factory and the Science Centre are short walking distance.
    Full of character
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Lively  -  Hip and happening.
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Tablet

    Home of a popular contemporary art space this hotel is modern, lively and luxurious in the heart of the city. Rooms have every comfort, and all spaces mirror the museum with works of art. Proof on Main brings sophisticated dining and is frequented by locals. Gym, Spa and Sauna-truly has it all! See More

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  • Chateau Bourbon Louisville 4 rooms from £202

    Sights nearby  -  Visit Kentucky Kingdom a seasonal amusement & water park with both thrill & children's rides, plus waterslides & wave pools
    Great walks  -  Walk around Cherokee Park's with a 2.4-mile Scenic Loop
    Restrictions on children  -  Children over 6 are welcome
    Whirlpool Bathtub
    Air conditioningDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    An upscale B&B in the heart of the vibrant area of Norton Commons, Louisville. Rooms are elegant, some with four-poster beds, fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. Enjoy all things bourbon with on-site tastings while at breakfast sample homemade bourbon granola! Simple, impeccable, Southern-hospitality. See More

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  • Omni Louisville Louisville 612 rooms from £210

    Local exploring  -  Set in historic downtown close to Main Street where you will find Louisville's bourbon culture at many popular distilleries
    City Style  -  With atmospheric bars, a chic rooftop pool, and stylish contemporary design - this is well suited to the young and trendy
    Spa  -  The full-service Mokara Spa & Salon offers soothing facials, body treatments, massages, salon services, manicures or pedicures
    Restaurant  -  Choose from casual American dining or a steakhouse
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    A luxury hotel offering excellent amenities and an ideal downtown location. Contemporary rooms have plush beds, picture windows, and stylish fixtures. Dining options include easy American cuisine and a steakhouse. With a hip speakeasy, a spa, and a rooftop pool — this is a chic stay. See More

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  • The Grady Louisville 51 rooms from £231

    Local exploring  -  Ideally located for both business & leisure stays - attractions, sites & nightlife are all walking distance
    City Style  -  A becoming mix of vintage-inspired decor, modern sophistication & on-trend amenities
    Restaurant  -  Fireside Wild Swann restaurant & bar serves drinks & light bites from 3pm onwards (closed Sunday & Monday evenings)
    Great walks  -  Just metres away, the city's Waterfront Park offers a great place to stretch your legs with a river view
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking
    Recommended by  -  Small Luxury Hotels

    Perfect downtown option for boutique hotel lovers. At once cool & contemporary, the building's history is played out in fun architectural features and unique design. Feel instantly at home across open-plan public areas while the rooms feel effortlessly chic. The spot for heritage glam. See More

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