By Bella Portaro – who blogs at www.bellaoflouisville.com
Southern Indiana offers more than enough to keep us on this side of the Ohio, but sometimes you just want to take a day trip or pop across the bridge on the hunt to find something new. So, we asked Bella Portaro – who blogs at www.bellaoflouisville.com – to share a list of 9 reasons to venture to Louisville.
Cherokee Park
745 Cochran Hill Rd. | 502.456.8100 www.louisvilleky.gov
There is nothing comparable to walking the scenic, 2.4-mile loop of this 389.13 acre park on a sunny day. It’s exactly what I do to recharge myself after work most days.
Louvino
1606 Bardstown Rd. | 502.365.1921 www.louvino.com
This sweet local spot is a must when you’re in search of the perfect brunch. It’s my favorite place to go on the weekends with girlfriends. I suggest ordering the small plates and sharing so everyone can sample all they have to offer.
Revelry Boutique Gallery 742 W. Market St. | 502.414.1278 www.revelrygallery.com
It’s a boutique. No, it’s a gallery. Actually, it’s both. Located in NuLu, Revelry supports local artists and carries many Louisville-centric items, including my favorite Louisville grid necklace.
Wiltshire on Market 636 E. Market St. | 502.589.5224 www.wiltshirepantry.com
Make reservations for a date night or girls’ night out at Wiltshire. You won’t regret it. The menu is fresh and local; they have great cocktails; and it’s romantic, quiet and intimate.
Clique Waxing Boutique 2846 Frankfort Ave. | 502.895.3993 www.cliquelouisville.com
With all of the events and skin-showing occasions coming up this summer, Clique Boutique is a must for your beauty needs. Owner Janna Flowers’ amazing team has you covered from waxing to sunless tanning. You’ll walk out of there feeling and looking beautiful.
Garage Bar
700 E. Market St. | 502.749.7100 www.garageonmarket.com
Drop by Garage Bar and have a Lavender Lemonade. It is one of my favorite cocktails. You’ll find the atmosphere is lively on spring and summer evenings with ping pong tables and a crowd that exudes positive energy. What more can you ask for?sample all they have to offer.
VINT Coffee
2309 Frankfort Ave. | 502.894.8060 www.heinebroscoffee.com
Running from place to place can be exhausting, but Louisville has a lot of great coffee shops to save the day. Try Vint. The location on Frankfort Avenue is fantastic for a cup of java or sip a glass of wine on the front patio. Vint serves Heine Brothers Coffee, which is a Louisville local favorite.
Louisville Mega Cavern 1841 Taylor Ave. | 502.855.6342 www.louisvillemegacavern.com
If you’re feeling adventurous, I challenge you to go zip lining at the Louisville Mega Cavern. It’s the world’s only fully underground zip-line and a completely unique experience. I did it – once – and highly recommend it to anyone, including those afraid of heights. If I can do it, you can too.
Vines & Canines
1985 Douglass Blvd. | 502.409.5141 www.vinesandcanines.com
Do you love wine and your fur-kid dog? Of course you do! I have recently found this amazing spot, Vines & Canines, located in the Highlands. The wine bar-liquor store carries unique pet items (and people items), welcomes furry family members, holds regular wine tastings and assists area animal rescue organizations. What’s not to love?
Wiltshire on Market photo courtesy of Eat Love Louisville; Louisville Mega Cavern photo courtesy of Louisville Mega Cavern; All other photos by Bella Portaro.
