An Insider’s Guide to Louisville

Few American cities feel as storied—and as stylish—as Louisville. Rooted in history yet constantly evolving, this Kentucky icon is home to Churchill Downs, the birthplace of bourbon, and legends like Muhammad Ali. It’s a place where tradition is celebrated, hospitality is instinctive, and style is everywhere.

It’s also the perfect backdrop for our February Collection. Shot in Louisville, the campaign reflects everything we love about the city: gracious architecture, expressive interiors, time-honored rituals, and the art of slowing down. We sat down with Sarah Barker, Louisville maven and style aficionado, to hear her take on the bluegrass state’s sweetest city. Whether you’re planning a weekend away or simply traveling through the pages, here’s Sarah’s guide to experiencing Louisville the J.McLaughlin way.

Where to Stay - Stately hotels, expressive interiors, and gracious neighborhoods set the tone for a weekend well spent. Begin your mornings with coffee at local favorites like Fante’s or Chez Marcelle, where old-world charm meets thoughtful design. Wander through Cherokee Park or Central Park—both designed by Frederick Law Olmsted—for a slow, sunlit reset.

21c Museum Hotel - A modern boutique hotel housed in a historic building. Thoughtful, unexpected, and very Louisville.
The Grady Hotel - Warm, inviting, and quietly elegant—perfect for a relaxed but refined stay.
Hotel Distil - Bourbon-forward luxury on Whiskey Row with beautifully tailored interiors.
Hotel Genevieve - European-inspired charm with a distinctly Kentucky point of view.
The Bellwether Hotel - Intimate and stylish, ideal for travelers who love thoughtful details.

Coffee Stops Worth Lingering Over - Because every great day starts with a proper cup.

Heine Brothers - A beloved Louisville-born coffee shop serving organic coffee and espresso drinks in a cozy, community-focused setting. 
Fante’s Coffeehouse & Private Label Coffee Roasters - In the Cherokee Triangle, this European-style café pairs beautifully roasted coffee with an old-world atmosphere.
Nook & Nowhere - A bookstore, café, and bar rolled into one. Opened in early 2025, it’s a place for coffee, cocktails, and conversation—day into night.
Chez Marcelle (Special Shout) - Coffee and wine by day, intimate gatherings by night. Inspired by the comforting nostalgia of a grandmother’s home, Chez Marcelle is intentional, warm, and endlessly charming.

Where to Eat - When it’s time to dine, Louisville delivers. Spend the evening in NuLu, where historic streets house some of the city’s most exciting restaurants and shops.

Bourbon Barrel Foods - A Louisville artisan food producer and shop where you can taste and buy small-batch sauces, spices, and barrel-aged gourmet foods inspired by Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.
Steak and Bourbon - A lively Louisville steakhouse known for expertly cooked steaks and a strong bourbon lineup.
Volare - A local institution serving classic Italian fare with effortless sophistication.
MeeshMeesh Mediterranean - Vibrant, fresh, and perfect for sharing—an easy favorite.
211 Clover Lane - An intimate St. Matthews restaurant serving seasonal, farm-driven dishes in a cozy, refined setting.

Nightcap:
Hotel Genevieve Rooftop Bar — Paris-meets-Kentucky vibes with skyline views.

Where to Shop - Louisville’s shopping scene is a mix of local boutiques, vintage gems, and stylish home shops, and larger retail centers, spread across several fun lively neighborhoods and districts.

J.McLaughlin, of course!
Nitty Gritty - Two floors of eclectic vintage clothing and costume treasures spanning decades of style, perfect for unique outfits and statement pieces.
Magnolia - “My favorite local spot is Magnolia because they have so many unique species available year round.” - Sarah Barker
Fleur de Flea - A massive indoor vintage and antique market with hundreds of vendors selling everything from retro décor and vinyl to mid-century gems and collectible finds.
Revelry Boutique - Artistic boutique and gallery in NuLu showcasing locally made jewelry, prints, home gifts, and rotating art exhibits — a lovely stop for curated, handmade treasures.
Louisville Stoneware - A longtime local pottery maker known for handcrafted stoneware pieces with classic Kentucky charm.

No visit is complete without a nod to Louisville’s legends. Tour Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum, stroll Whiskey Row for a taste of the city’s bourbon heritage, or explore the Muhammad Ali Center—an inspiring tribute to one of America’s greatest.

Louisville feels familiar yet special, classic yet alive. Much like our February Collection, it’s rooted in Americana, designed for modern life, and best enjoyed at an unhurried pace.