Old Louisville

Welcome to Old Louisville

For those who appreciate historical Hollywood blockbusters, enjoy collecting rare artifacts, or simply admire stunning architecture, Old Louisville will not disappoint. With impressive Victorian-era homes, tree-lined streets and manicured pedestrian courts, Old Louisville embodies a lost period of refinement in Louisville history. Located in central Louisville, Old Louisville is the third largest historic district and neighborhood in the United States, offering visitors a walkable window into the past. 

What to Love

Architectural digest: From lavish turrets and high towers to ornate stairwells and colorful stained glass windows, Old Louisville’s stunning architectural elements offer residents the rare opportunity to own a private piece of local history. Known as the largest preservation district of almost exclusively Victorian architecture and featuring the highest concentration of single family homes with stained glass windows in the United States, Old Louisville’s residences are living art. With incredible architectural styles ranging from Romanesque to Italianate to Victorian Gothic, aficionados of historical homes will rejoice. 

Parks and Rec: Designed by nationally acclaimed landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmstead, Central Park is the green jewel of Old Louisville’s crown. Originally a country estate of an affluent Louisville family, the park now offer 17 acres of mature trees, walking trails, sports courts and more. Bonus: In summer evenings, Central Park’s amphitheater hosts free performances of Shakespeare’s best work during  the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival. 

Arts and crafts: While Old Louisville’s abundance of Victorian manors certainly offers residents their daily dose of beauty, Old Louisville is also home to Louisville’s vibrant and growing art scene. Residents will enjoy easy access to one of Louisville’s best art collections at the nearby Speed Art Museum, a newly remodeled museum host to jaw-dropping exhibits and galas. Old Louisville also features the St. James Court Art Show, where nearly 300,000 people gather during the first weekend of October to appreciate and purchase stunning local creations in a bustling setting. Note: It’s been known to rain a time or two during the art show, so make sure to bring an umbrella! 

Revitalized restaurants: Prepare yourself for a diverse trip of culinary experiences. From 610 Magnolia, the masterpiece of acclaimed chef Edward Lee, where menus are changed nightly and a guest’s only choice is whether they’d like to order the four or six-course meal, to a more casual gastropub experience at the Old Louisville Tavern, residents of Old Louisville have a wide selection of mouthwatering menus to choose from. Bonus: Several Old Louisville restaurants feature al fresco dining, with elegant outdoor spaces to enjoy your favorite local bourbon and freshly prepared meal. 

What to Expect

Old Louisville features picturesque and historic residences with rich embellishments, often restored to their original splendor. In the past century, the neighborhood has undergone waves of growth and development, making it not uncommon to spot the occasional, more contemporary Craftsman-style home among a row of Victorian residences. New development of any kind is rare with the stringent preservation policies enforced. Because of Old Louisville’s proximity to Downtown Louisville and University of Louisville, it is a favorite spot for young professionals, professors and college students to live. Note: Be prepared to have a short drive to any large shopping center or major grocery.