Secrets of Louisville: Food & History Walking Tour in NuLu
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore vibrant NuLu & historic Butchertown with locally-owned Louisville Food Tours on the original Nulu food tour to taste the flavors of Louisville! Over the course of 3 immersive hours, you'll visit 6 local eateries and enjoy 8 delicious bites that showcase Louisville's culinary heritage. Dishes include biscuits & gravy with roots in the foothills of Appalachia, Kentucky-style fried chicken, a Louisville BBQ dish, bourbon balls, and a Prohibition-era Hot Brown gravy.
You'll also enjoy tastings of barrel-aged craft beer and a refreshing alcoholic slushy featuring Kentucky's beloved Ale8 soda.
As you wander through the historic streets of two of Louisville's oldest neighborhoods, you’ll uncover the stories behind the city’s rich history, visit a historic home once occupied by Thomas Edison, sample a unique confection inspired by a Victorian actress, and trace the paths of the immigrants who shaped Louisville.
This tour typically sells out. Reserve your spot early and come hungry!
Available options
Standard Food Tour Ticket
Food & Drinks: Enjoy delicious drinks and bites paired with fascinating stories from Louisville's checkered past.
Premium Bourbon Upgrade Ticket
Premium Bourbon Pours: Elevate your experience with 4 rare, top-shelf bourbon pours served throughout your tour.
What's included
Authentic Kentucky cuisine served at multiple stops, equivalent to a full lunch
Small group for a more personalized experience
Taste bourbon balls, Kentucky-style fried chicken, Hot Brown gravy, sorghum BBQ sauce, and more
Fun & knowledgeable local guides
Barrel-aged craft beer and 2 refreshing alcoholic slushies (mocktails also available)
Detailed itinerary
1
The NuLu District is Louisville’s trendiest neighborhood. Historic brick buildings painted with vibrant murals line the streets, art galleries and eclectic shops feature locally made goods, and hip local restaurants & bars pour craft beer and bourbon.
This food tour explores the history of Louisville, NuLu, and Kentucky cuisine. You’ll taste Kentucky classics like bourbon balls and fried chicken and try out a few local brews and spirits.
2
Learn about Thomas Edison's time in Louisville, and the Southern Exposition's impact on the city.
3
Learn the ridiculous origin story of 2 of Louisville's most bizarrely nicknamed alleys.
4
Try two Kentucky confections at this historic candy shop, including a Louisville original named after a Victorian-era actress.
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
4.9
384 reviews
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Mocktail options available for non-drinkers and under-21 guests
This tour can accommodate vegetarian options. Please notify us in advance at least 24h before the tour start time if you have any dietary restrictions.
This is an all ages, family-friendly tour. Children under the age of 2 are welcome to join this tour free of charge without a ticket.
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels, but please note that this tour covers roughly 1.5 miles of walking.
Please note that the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.
Tours run in rain, shine, or snow unless weather becomes severe or constitutes a dangerous situation.
Louisville Food Tours is proudly locally owned and operated!
Meeting point
Please arrive 15 minutes before the tour start time.
Please meet us outside, at the picnic table on the corner of E Main and Clay. You'll find plenty of street parking nearby. The tour will end two blocks away. (Note that there are 2 Goodwoods - don't go to the one downtown on Whiskey Row!)
About Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and the famous Kentucky Derby. Nestled along the Ohio River, it offers a unique blend of Southern charm and Midwestern hospitality, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Churchill Downs
Home of the Kentucky Derby, this historic racetrack offers tours and year-round racing events.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours for a tour
Free to enter, tours from $18
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
A must-visit for baseball fans, this museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Louisville Slugger bats.
Museum
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, $15 for children
Muhammad Ali Center
Dedicated to the life and legacy of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, this museum offers interactive exhibits and a glimpse into his personal and professional life.
Museum/Cultural
1-2 hours
$22 for adults, $15 for children
The Frazier History Museum
This museum offers a comprehensive look at Kentucky's history, with exhibits ranging from frontier life to modern times.
Museum
1-2 hours
$14 for adults, $10 for children
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
A beautiful arboretum and forest offering hiking trails, scenic views, and a chance to see wildlife.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free entry, parking fee for non-members
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hot Brown
An open-faced turkey sandwich topped with mushrooms, bacon, and a rich cheese sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains dairy, meat
Bourbon Ball
A chocolate truffle-like candy filled with bourbon-infused cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy, alcohol
Bourbon Chicken
Chicken marinated in a bourbon-based sauce, often served with rice and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat, alcohol
Derby Pie
A chocolate and walnut pie, a traditional treat during the Kentucky Derby.
Dessert
Contains nuts, dairy
Popular Activities
Cave exploration
Hiking
Horseback riding
Spa treatments
River cruises
Park picnics
Museum visits
Art gallery tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The Kentucky Derby in May is a major highlight.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Louisville is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs at night
Getting there
By air
- Louisville International Airport • 10 miles (16 km) from downtown
By train
Louisville Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with various routes covering major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
The Highlands
Nulu (NuLu District)
Old Louisville
Day trips
Mammoth Cave National Park
90 miles (145 km) • Full day
The world's longest known cave system, offering guided tours and stunning underground landscapes.
Bardstown
35 miles (56 km) • Half day to full day
A charming small town known for its historic sites, bourbon distilleries, and beautiful architecture.
Kentucky Horse Park
10 miles (16 km) • Half day to full day
A working horse farm and educational theme park dedicated to horses and horse-related activities.
Festivals
Kentucky Derby • First Saturday in May
Louisville Jazz Festival • July
Bourbon & Beyond • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Kentucky Derby Museum even if you can't attend the Derby itself
- Explore the NuLu District for unique shopping and dining experiences
- Take a bourbon distillery tour to learn about Louisville's rich history in bourbon production
- Check out local events and festivals for a taste of Louisville's vibrant culture
- Use the TARC app for easy navigation of the public transportation system
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
