Mixing Business and Pleasure: Quick Escapes in Louisville

by  Darren Murph | Mar 19, 2013
Louisville
Louisville / Sean Pavone Photo/iStock

Spring: It's more than a term, and it's more than a season. It's a word that spells relief for much of America that has grown tired of shoveling snow and yearning for sunshine. There aren't too many locales in the country that shine like Louisville in the spring, and if you're headed to the heartland for a conference, allow us to help you make the most of it. In an effort to get you outside the boardroom and into the wilds of the Derby City, we’re offering up two restaurants, two attractions, and one bar that you can hit with just a few extra hours between meetings.

EAT:
If you're looking for a quick bite at lunch, Bistro 301 is good way to get out and stretch your legs. It's as upscale as a casual place gets, and the menu is chock-full of local flair. Shrimp and grits come highly recommended, and if you're just angling for a salad, they've got plenty of options.

For something a bit more suitable for a client dinner, there's Proof on Main. It's in a trendy, happening part of town, and there's plenty of southern influence to be found in the options. It's also open for breakfast, for those keen on rising early.

DO:
I don't often recommend a typical tourist trap, but the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory is no trap. Even if you're completely uninterested in America's favorite pastime (shame on you!), a tour of this place should be high on your list. It takes just a couple of hours to enjoy, and it's truly an impressive feat to construct as many precision baseball bats as they do. Yes, there's a science to it, and yes, your little ones will definitely appreciate a souvenir from here.

If you end up with a free afternoon, be sure to bring along your bathing suit. Around 45 minutes west (and just over the border in Indiana) sits Cave Country Canoes. This outfit rents out boats and lets you paddle down some of the most serene waterways surrounding the city, and if you're up for it, you can rent a pole and try to snag dinner while floating along. Just be sure not to tip over – the water's still a bit chilly this time of year!

DRINK:
Before jetting back to wherever it is you call home (or your next appointment), feel free to blow off some steam at EiDERDOWN. It's a German-inspired place that boasts appetizers which are nearly as stellar as the brews. Pretzel sticks and duck fat popcorn? What's not to love?

This is a recurring feature exploring must-visit locales in a variety of cities. If you find yourself traveling to a place for business, why not venture out and enjoy your surroundings?

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