Today marks the first day of fall, and there’s plenty of ways to celebrate in and around the city of Louisville. There’s a lot more to look forward to than pumpkin spice lattes, so don’t pass up the chance to see the city at one of its most beautiful times of year. Here are some standout fall destinations:
Joe Huber’s Family Farm and Restaurant | Starlight, IN
While not in the city of Louisville, this annual favorite attraction is just a short drive across the river. Pumpkin picking is a given for this time of year, but you can make a day out of your trip to the farm. The “U-pick” pumpkin season lasts from September 12th until October 31st, but that’s far from the only activity. Huber’s also maintains its own family restaurant as well as a store selling a variety of fall favorites, from fresh apples to pumpkin donuts. If you’re looking for a more mature outing, Huber’s Orchard and Winery is only a few minutes away.
NuLu Fest | Downtown Louisville
NuLu Fest has quickly become a major centerpiece of Louisville’s fall events schedule. Taking place on Saturday, September 26, from 11 AM until 11 PM, the festival shuts down East Market St. and fills it with local food, bands, craft beer, and trademark vendors. Celebrate what all NuLu has to offer in the revitalized East Market District. Louisville is a city of diversity, and there’s no better chance to check out all of the unique foods, drinks, and people than NuLu Fest this fall.
La Grange Railroad & Bluegrass Festival | La Grange Railroad Crossing
If you’re hoping to get out of the city, venture out to the La Grange Railroad & Bluegrass Festival on October 9th and 10th. Downtown La Grange is rich in history, and it’s the perfect time of year to listen to authentic music and wander through the Farmer’s Market. Bluegrass Jams take place on Friday, October 9th as well as 7-9 PM and Saturday, October 10th from 3-5 PM, and there’s a host of exhibits and seminars as well.
Irish Fest | The Highlands
Taking place in the heart of the Highlands on Bellarmine University’s campus, the 2015 Irish Fest will be on Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27. Louisville loves celebrating its Irish heritage, and Irish Fest is the perfect showcase of that. Performers will include the Louisville Irish Dancers, the Louisville Pipe Band, Ladies of Longford, and a variety of other musicians and performers. Snag some Shepherd’s Pie, Fish and Chips, Irish Stew, or Bangers & Mash from local favorites like Molly Malone’s, O’Sheas, Shenanigans, and Flanagans Restaurant.
Harvest Restaurant | NuLu
A landmark on East Market St., Harvest offers an ever changing menu that changes with the local seasonal produce. Harvest boasts that its ingredients come from local farms, which is reflected in the quality and creativity of its menu. As Louisville transitions into fall, Harvest will be tailoring its menu to fit the flavors of the season.
Fall Antiques Market | Locust Grove
Locust Grove is far more than a field trip destination, especially in the fall. Their schedule is packed with different music events and lectures series, but one standout is the Fall Antiques Market on September 27 from 10:30 AM until 4:30 PM. Admission to the Antiques Market includes a tour of the beautiful Kentucky home, a must for every Louisvillian.
Vint Coffee House | Frankfort Avenue
A branch of the Hiene Brothers Organic Fair Trade Coffee, Vint offers some unique spins on fall coffee speciality drinks. With unique drinks like the White Pumpkin Latte, it’s worth the visit. Frankfort Avenue looks beautiful in the fall, so grab a seat outdoors and take advantage of Vint’s wine selection while you’re at it.
