Home of that stalwart of prime Americana, the Kentucky Derby, Louisville is also something of a hidden gem. Despite being so far in land, it actually grew up as a port town on the Ohio River and still retains some of the relaxed cosmopolitanism that such a history implies, and accordingly brims with cool bars, organic restaurants, and an open-minded vibe.
Hotels here are clean, comfortable, and efficient. In the four star realm, they do tend to cater more to business travellers than more classic tourists, but that doesn’t mean there’s not plenty to enjoy – albeit at something of a price. We’ve picked the most stylish and charming for you to choose from.
Galt House Hotel
From $134/ night
With stunning views out across the Ohio River, this hotel is positively overflowing with modern conveniences: not least the staggering six restaurants on-site. Yep, you didn’t read that wrong: six! There’s also a full service spa, and WiFi available throughout. Rooms are bright and airy, and of course, come complete with such necessary luxuries as TVs, coffee makers, and air conditioning.
Hyatt Regency Louisville
From $211/ night
Right next door to Kentucky International Convention Center, you can come to this hotel to relax, or you can come here to exercise: there’s an indoor swimming pool and tennis courts on site. And once you’ve burnt those calories, why not head to the local-produce onsite restaurant, Sway, which gets terrific reviews. With stylishly comfortable rooms that feel more like mini-apartments, what’s not to love?
Omni Louisville Hotel
From $160/ night
Set to open in March 2018, this hotel has had people talking since its exciting ultra-modern architecture began to take shape on the Louisville skyline. And though usually we at TravelMag would hesitate to recommend a place with no previous customer reviews to go on, just looking at the amenities and the interiors this place offers, it seems hard to imagine how a stay here could be anything but fabulous. With nods to an almost European glamour in places, and sumptuous American standards in others, it really promises everything you could want form a four star stay.
Louisville Marriott Downtown
From $249/ night
With direct, skywalk access to Louisville Convention Center, that this is primarily a hotel for business travellers is warn on its sleeve. But with that in mind, this Marriott specialises in offering homely comfort in its rooms and a kind of effortless glamour in its public spaces. A gym, and indoor pool, and a hot tub are all part of its stunning array of onsite facilities, while its own restaurant and sports bar cater for business people and holiday makers alike.
Embassy Suites Louisville East
From $160/ night
With rooms set up like homes away from home, this hotel is a kind of choose-your-own holiday destination. There are refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers in every suite, meaning that if you don’t want to head out for a meal, you simply do not have to. Equally, there’s also an onsite restaurant for the more flamboyant evenings, high speed internet throughout, likewise, cable TVs, and impossibly comfortable beds.