The Basics

Sitting along the Ohio River, which divides the northern and the southern U.S., Louisville is a modern metropolitan area steeped in tradition. Each neighborhood offers unique things to do and carries its own dialect. While Louisville certainly exudes the charm befitting a southern area's reputation, the vibrant music and performing arts scene, desire for competitive innovation and farmers markets superseded fried chicken a long time ago.

The two-week Kentucky Derby Festival enhances the region's appeal, attracting visitors from all over the world to gamble and drink mint juleps. Meanwhile, locally owned restaurants and coffee shops make Louisville a culinary destination, with restaurants serving bourbon, produce, meat and dairy products sporting the "Kentucky Proud" label identifying them as Kentucky-grown or Kentucky-made. And bumper stickers that unapologetically carry the "Keep Louisville Weird" slogan, show Louisville residents' strong support of independent businesses.

Learning to pronounce Louisville correctly is the first step to becoming a real Louisvillian. "Lou-uh-vull" (with the "Lou" and the "uh" slightly combining) is the correct pronunciation. Try swallowing the word as you say it.

The details---or some of them

Louisville offers all of the amenities of a major city: shopping, dining, lounges, museums, and the exciting energy of city-living. There’s no mistaking that it’s a much different experience than living in the suburbs and sprawl. But for all of its city qualities, Louisville still manages to partly feel like a small town. And that is mainly due to the awesome people who keep this a close-knit community instead of turning cold. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or just a few months, you won’t be able to go to the mall without running into someone you know and it will begin to feel like everyone you meet knows someone you know. With a ton of families, parks, and people who look out for each other, it’s a great place to raise a family. And with a ton of excitement, things to do, culture, and growth potential, it’s a great place for singles. Living in Louisville literally has the best of both worlds.

Louisville Flavor

You might know the Kentucky Derby from what you’ve seen on the TV. But until you’ve lived in Louisville, you don’t know the Kentucky Derby at all. This completely Louisville-unique event at Churchill Downs is one of the things that makes this city so special. Some never miss it, some stay home and throw parties of their own to avoid the crowds and traffic, but there’s no getting away from it when you live here. And while you’re at it, buy yourself a hat that reflects just hot original Louisville is. You know, like everyone else! But really, the style of the Kentucky Derby is just as important as the Kentucky Derby and makes this one of the classiest cities around. You’ll also learn about the Kentucky Oaks, which is another horse race held the weekend before the Derby and is super popular with locals who like to be able to enjoy their unique traditions without tourists trampling all over them.

Louisville Ky Sports

College BASKETBALL is King, Club/intramural/adult league VOLLEYBALL is Queen

Make a decision because the question will be asked....Kentucky or Louisville?   Most everyone bleeds blue or red.   Be prepared for the bragging right discussion.

With multiple outlets for Team volleyball sports the sport thrives indoors and out (weather permitting). 

Adult outdoor and some covered sand courts

The iconic Baxter Jacks

R-Place Pub

King Louie's Volleyball

Six Pack Volleyball reopening and in 2018 Formerly Bearnies location

Stooges

Indoor Local Club Teams under 18

Union Volleyball club

MAVA

KIVA

Local Pioneer Region list of club teams.

CYCLING

Louisville KY provides some beautiful scenic rides including the newer 19 miles Parklands of Floyds Fork portion of the 100 mile Louisville Loop on paved (non-motorized traffic) trails or mountain biking for the off road types.  

With the  hills of Kentucky ever present, road cycling is a common sight through the back country roads and city roads.   Bike lanes are becoming more and more prevalent through the city streets for commuting or exercise.

FOOD

This list could go on forever but some highlights are here:

Louisville Originals is a great collection of one of a kind restaurants in the area.   Some award winning dishes are available

Louisville Nightlife

Let’s face it. Louisville isn’t a city that never sleeps like, say, Manhattan or Vegas. But, it is a city that doesn’t get to sleep until pretty late thanks to its vibrant nightlife and 4 a.m. closing time. There are plenty of ways to get your kicks in after the sun goes down here.

From the famous and pretty touristy places like 4th Street Live Howl at the Moon to the open mic nights at smaller gems like Good Brewing Co. and bands and games at the Zanzabar, you’ll always be able to find some great music and fun. You’ll also get to have fun in charming, little dives like Sergios World Beers, The Blind Squirrel with indoor sand volleyball from teenagers to senior citizens (me)n at King Louie's volleyball.  

Whatever you’re up for, Louisville’s got it. Just don’t schedule any early meetings the next day.

Image courtesy of tcimagesframedphotography.com

Troy Key 502-938-1905