The NuLu (East Market Street) district of downtown has experienced a renaissance of commerce, livability, and activity in the past decade. Previously home to several run-down business with crumbling facades, significant economic investment has helped to bring a boom of restaurants, fair-trade shops, and art galleries to the district, earning the fitting moniker New Louisville, efficiently reduced to “NuLu.” With all of the glamor of downtown living and few of the parking or astronomical costs associated with it, NuLu is an excellent place to cut one’s teeth on the Louisville scene. Within walking distance to Waterfront Park, KFC Yum! Center, Louisville Palace, and many more cultural staples as well as the Highlands and entertainment districts, NuLu is ideally positioned for the city’s newcomers. Bike lanes and easily-navigable street grids make NuLu a perfect destination for cyclists and other fitness fanatics, although you’ll still need a car to get to the nearest grocery store, since downtown is a bit anemic in the retail arena.
Perfect For
- Singletons
- Local business supporters
- Your first “grown-up” apartment
- Picking up take-out on your way home
- Cyclists and joggers
Entertainment/Nightlife
- Mayan Cafe
- Garage Bar
- Please & Thank You
- Galaxie
- Play Louisville
- Butchertown Grocery
- Local Speed Gallery
- NuLu Fest
- Flea Off Market
The Trade-Off
The lack of nearby grocery and everyday retail options is disheartening, but there are plenty of grocery and retail options within a short drive.
Bonus
The First Friday Hop every first Friday of the month and annual NuLu Fest in September.
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