Louisville has been described as a cool city with a warm welcome, and trip to our industry’s largest annual event isn’t complete without getting out and exploring. The city was recently named a Top Guy's Getaway Weekend by Conde Nast Traveler and a Best American City for Fall Travel by Travel & Leisure Magazine. It is within a day's drive of more than 60 percent of the nation's population and the airport is serviced by nearly every major and regional airline.
A few hometown favorites you might want to check out include bourbon, hot browns and the Big Four Bridge.
When you’re in Bourbon Country, you can expect the area’s restaurants and bars to be serving up this spirit in all kinds of creative ways. Get your Bourbon Passport stamped while visiting at least six of the Urban Bourbon Trail stops around Louisville and get a free T-shirt! You can get your very own Urban Bourbon Trail passport at the Louisville Visitors Center (corner of 4th and Jefferson streets) or at any location on the trail. For more information, visit www.bourboncountry.com. (Remember, you don’t have to complete the trail in one night, so drink responsibly.)
If you’re interested in the history and process behind the drink, tour some of the city's increasingly popular bourbon distilleries right in the heart of downtown, including the newly resurrected Peerless Distilling and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience.
Ready for a savory, delectable and delicious meal? If you’re in Louisville, you must have a Hot Brown. Originating at the Brown Hotel in downtown Louisville, many restaurants, diners and bars now have their own take on the hot brown – from pizza to soup and even a Bloody Mary. Visit a stop on the Hot Brown Hop while in town. Check out www.hotbrownhop.com for a list of venues serving up this culinary delight.
If your feet aren’t too tired after walking the trade show floor, a walk across the Big Four Bridge provides beautiful views of the Ohio River, Waterfront Park and the city. The former railroad truss bridge is now a pedestrian bridge that connects Louisville to Jeffersonville, Indiana.
Very Important Badges!
If you are looking to explore Louisville, use your VIB (Very Important Badge). By showing your GIE+EXPO or HNA badge at any of the local restaurants, bars or entertainment venues on the VIB list, you will receive select discounts. To view discount information, visit http://www.gotolouisville.com/play/gie-expo-vib/index.aspx.