Whether you’re in Louisville for the world-famous Kentucky Derby, a bluegrass experience, sightseeing or business, you’ll encounter Southern hospitality and a growing awareness of
sustainability. Kentucky ranks fourth in the nation for its number of farms, and that local bounty is sold at Louisville’s 20-plus farmer’s markets and is served in many of the city’s restaurants. Look for the “Kentucky Proud” logo on menus.
Sleeping
Inn at Woodhaven
Renovated with salvaged vintage materials, this elegant 1853 house serves organic breakfasts and emphasizes recycling. Its popular “Going Green” special offers a 20 percent discount to guests who travel less than 45 miles. 401 S. Hubbards Lane (888) 895-1011
Galt House Hotel & Suites
On Louisville’s downtown waterfront, this 1,300-room hotel is partly heated and cooled by an energy-saving geothermal exchange system. 140 N. 4th St. (800) 843-4258
Eating
Browning’s Restaurant & Brewery
Baseball fans nosh on local, sustainable pub fare without leaving Slugger Field ballpark—and they celebrate with organic-grain brews. Chef Anoosh Shariat relies on the freshest locally grown produce to create memorable dishes and considers a partnership with local growers an integral part of the restaurant. 401 E. Main St. (502) 515-0174
Lilly’s Bistro
Serving fine, sustainable cuisine, Lilly’s pays homage to seasonal produce. Its “God Bless Our Local Farmers” menu is filled with options featuring local ingredients. 1147 Bardstown Road(502) 451-0447
Limestone
Nouveau Southern-style food showcases Kentucky lamb, pork, stone-ground grits and veggies. 10001 Forest Green Blvd. (502) 426-7477
The Patron
Enjoy seasonal, organic and local fare at chef/owner Amber McCool’s hip, eclectic eatery. 3400 Frankfort Ave. (502) 896-1661
Exploring
Kentucky Derby Festival
Before the Derby, Louisville starts celebrating with fireworks, a paddle-wheel steamboat race and the Pegasus Parade. Festival organizers are offsetting the carbon used in their operations, making collectible Pegasus Pins from recycled plastic, and deploying recycling crews at public events. (502) 584-6383
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
Hike or stroll the canopy tree-walk at this nature sanctuary south of Louisville. Its Visitor Center, designed by William McDonough’s green architecture firm and built to the U.S. Green Building Council’s highest standards, features passive solar and geothermal power, rainwater collection and a green roof.(502) 955-8512