Welcome to NuLu—Louisville’s most vibrant neighborhood where history meets modern flavor, and every street corner has a story to tell. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover the city or a first-time visitor eager to experience the best of Louisville, NuLu offers a perfect blend of southern charm, award-winning eats, and locally crafted drinks.
If you only have one day to explore NuLu, here’s how to do it right.
Morning: Coffee & Curiosities
Start your day with a perfectly brewed coffee from Quills Coffee or Please & Thank You—two of NuLu’s most beloved coffee spots. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, grab one of Please & Thank You’s famous chocolate chip cookies (trust us, they’ve been called the best in the United States!).
With caffeine in hand, take a leisurely stroll down East Market Street and pop into some of the unique shops that make NuLu so special:
- Mahonia – A dreamy plant and home décor store that feels like stepping into a Pinterest board.
- Why Louisville – A quirky gift shop where you can pick up a funky “Keep Louisville Weird” tee.
- Muth’s Candies – A Louisville institution since 1921, famous for the Modjeska—a gooey caramel-covered marshmallow treat that’s a local legend.
Midday: A True NuLu Lunch
By now, you’ve worked up an appetite, and NuLu delivers when it comes to incredible lunch spots. If you’re craving classic Louisville flavors, you can’t go wrong with a Hot Brown pizza from Garage Bar or a bourbon-smoked brisket sandwich from Feast BBQ.
For a light yet flavorful dining experience in NuLu, consider Mayan Café—a restaurant that brings the vibrant flavors of the Yucatán to Louisville. Their menu features unique, veggie-centric offerings made from fresh ingredients. A standout dish is their tok-sel lima beans, a traditional Mayan recipe that has become a local favorite.
Looking for a liquid lunch? We don’t judge! Stop by Rabbit Hole Distillery for a bourbon tasting with skyline views. This architecturally stunning distillery is right in the heart of NuLu and offers guided tastings that walk you through the history (and deliciousness) of Kentucky’s signature spirit.
Afternoon: Art, History, and a Sweet Treat
After lunch, it’s time to explore NuLu’s artistic side. The neighborhood is home to some of Louisville’s best murals, street art, and contemporary galleries. Snap a selfie in front of the iconic “Before I Die” wall, then check out the Revelry Boutique Gallery for a mix of handmade art, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind gifts.
For history lovers, a walking tour of NuLu offers a deeper dive into the area’s past. Once a bustling industrial district, NuLu has transformed into Louisville’s trendiest hotspot, all while preserving its historic charm. (Pro tip: If you love a side of history with your food, check out the NuLu “Sites & Bites” Walking Tour—you’ll learn all about NuLu’s evolution while sampling some of its best eats!)
Before you move on to dinner, grab an afternoon treat. You can’t visit NuLu without stopping at Macaron Bar—where delicate, colorful French macarons are the star. If you’re craving something cold, Louisville Cream serves up some of the creamiest, most decadent ice cream in the city. (Try the Bourbon Smoked Pecan flavor—it’s a local favorite!)
Evening: Dinner & Drinks in NuLu
As the sun sets, NuLu’s nightlife begins to shine. Whether you’re in the mood for elevated dining or a laid-back dinner, this neighborhood has it all.
For a refined yet relaxed dining experience in Louisville, consider Nami Modern Korean Steakhouse. Opened in 2023 by acclaimed Chef Edward Lee, Nami offers an elevated take on Korean cuisine within a modern steakhouse setting. The menu showcases premium cuts of meat alongside traditional Korean flavors, providing a unique culinary fusion. Nami was recognized on USA Today’s Best Restaurants list in 2024.
If you prefer a bustling atmosphere, Butchertown Grocery offers an upscale yet approachable menu, where dishes like duck fat fries and bourbon-glazed pork chops steal the show.
After dinner, keep the night going with a cocktail or bourbon flight at one of NuLu’s standout bars:
- Hell or High Water – A speakeasy-style bar with dramatic decor and masterfully crafted cocktails.
- Garage Bar – A laid-back neighborhood bar housed in a former garage, with a killer Old Fashioned.
- Copper & Kings – A brandy distillery with a rooftop bar and stunning views of the city skyline.
The Perfect Nightcap
No NuLu adventure is complete without one last sweet treat. For a delightful dish in NuLu, consider visiting Louisville Cream—a small-batch gourmet ice cream shop known for its inventive flavors and rich, creamy textures. Located at 632 East Market Street, this local favorite crafts unique offerings like Bourbon Smoked Pecan and Salted Caramel Swirl, providing a memorable end to your NuLu adventure.
Or, if you want a classic Louisville experience, sip on a Bourbon Ball cocktail—a dessert-inspired drink that blends bourbon, crème de cacao, and cream. You’ll find a great one at The Silver Dollar or Meta.
Final Thoughts
NuLu isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s an experience. From historic charm and bold flavors to craft cocktails and boutique shopping, this little district packs a big punch. Whether you’re eating your way through the city, sipping on Kentucky’s finest, or uncovering Louisville’s artistic gems, NuLu is the place to be.
And if you want to make the most of your visit? Join a guided NuLu tour to taste, sip, and explore like a true insider. Because once you experience NuLu, you’ll understand why it’s Louisville’s most exciting neighborhood.