Scout is located in Louisville's hip NuLu district, and since 2004 it has plied cool little trinkets and things for the home that are hard to find anywhere else. It's more than just home furnishings however, because the shop has other items that make great gifts. Scout also carries some trendy brands that still have a small, non-exposed presence in the U.S. like Goorin Bros., Surya and Hobo Handbags, to name a few. If you find yourself on East Market Street, saunter inside, you won't regret it.
Evolve is another cool shop on Frankfort Avenue that has devoted its entire selection of items to men. From jackets, wallets, belts and socks to full suits and ties, Evolve is a consignment store that relies on recycling gently used menswear. Oftentimes some great steals can be found on the racks, where designer shirts and jeans are always found at better-than-retail prices. If you join their mailing list, the shop keeps you in the know about what is coming-and-going through the doors.
Fourth Street Live is one of the main attractions for nightlife and dinner in downtown Louisville. Its a mega-entertainment area that primarily features restaurants and bars all under one roof. The dining options run the gamut, from Brazilian BBQ at Brazeiros to American fare at Gordon Biersch Brewery, there is usually something for everyone. Club options are also varied, from the hip Marquee Bar to Country Western camaraderie at PBR Louisville, all crowds are welcome.
Frankfort Avenue is a thoroughfare that starts in the suburb of St. Matthews and ends at the conjunction with Brownsboro Road near the Ohio River. Along the way, visitors will find many hip restaurants, bookstores, boutiques, bakeries and much, much more. Most of the shops are locally owned and operated; in fact, there is nary a trace of a big-box store. The Avenue also traverses through the historic, charming neighborhoods of Crescent Hill and Clifton, which are treasures in themselves.
This shop on busy Frankfort Avenue features a curated collection of women's clothing and accessories. The upscale designers on the racks include the popular Anna Sui and Helmut Lang as well as some lesser known ones like Malene Birger and Rachel Pally. Many of the designs are quite eclectic and sometimes garish, but then again the store prides itself on the idea that it's always good to "ruffle some feathers."
Carmichael's is a book store that has bucked the national trend of declining mom-and-pop stores in lieu of digitized media and commerce. In fact, the bookstore has three locations (one in Frankfort) and another outlet for kids down the street at 1313 Bardstown. The stores carry literary journals, magazines, work by local authors, autographed books, fiction, non-fiction and much, much more. In addition to great tomes, Carmichael's is also Louisville's bookstore for author events and signings.
Surface Noise opened its doors to the folks of Louisville in 2016 and has been a local favorite since then. Touted as the city's leading vinyl record store, their collections include albums from various eras. It also functions as a used bookstore, an art gallery, and a venue for small-scale music performances.
A fast favorite with Louisville natives, as well as the occasional tourist, Nord's is a Germantown institution known for its decadent donuts and sweet treats. Locals head here for their early morning sugar high - the bakery opens at 6a - of fresh-made donuts that fly off the shelves. Regulars swear by the maple bacon, cherry cinnamon, french fry twist, and pineapple danish. The neighborhood charm and friendly service make it an enjoyable visit, but be forewarned, lines can get long in the mornings and favorites sell out quickly.
Frank's is a wonderful meat market with reasonably priced fresh produce and daily specials including the best of sandwiches, pork burger, pasta salad, fresh soups and many other delicious lunch items. Get quality meats here all well stocked in their awesome freezer. This place is often busy during lunch hours, it is advisable to visit early or on time to grab your meal.
Cultured - Cheese and Charcuterie Bar is known to offer delightful farmstead cheese varieties that will only keep you wanting for more. Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese is offered here and some of the perennial favorites include Kenny's Cheese, Wells Made Nuts and Nut Butters, Red Hog Charcuterie and Capriole Goat Cheese. To make the most of your experience, pair your cheese with fine wine. Cultured – Cheese also offers an event space and is a great place for groups.
If you are a music buff, this is a place you'll want to visit. This 2013 addition to the Louisville music scene has been welcomed by all since the closing of the popular Ear X-tacy. Guestroom Records is a haven for all those who love music as they have an impressive collection. Featuring a vast genre of music which covers the old and the new, it is indeed a small treasure trove of musical gems. They also host concerts occasionally.
This shop on busy Frankfort Avenue features a curated collection of women's clothing and accessories. The upscale designers on the racks include the popular Anna Sui and Helmut Lang as well as some lesser known ones like Malene Birger and Rachel Pally. Many of the designs are quite eclectic and sometimes garish, but then again the store prides itself on the idea that it's always good to "ruffle some feathers."