Discover the rich history and beautiful architecture of Old Louisville as you embark on a walking tour through the city. Walk past impressive Victorian homes, once owned by wealthy families from the bourbon, tobacco, and racetrack industries, and learn about their history. You also stop at several points of interest including the Witches' Tree, Conrad's Castle, the Filson Historical Society, and Central Park.
- Explore the historic neighborhood of Old Louisville
- Upgrade to include a guided tour of Conrad’s Castle
- Choose from two tour times to suit your schedule
- A central meeting point makes for a seamless start
What To Expect
Old Louisville
With more than a thousand structures spread out over 40 square blocks, Old Louisville is one of the largest historic districts in the United States. This is a transitional neighborhood and you should expect to encounter things you would in any larger city. Panhandlers and homeless people, for example, are often found along Fourth Street at the north edge of the neighborhood. This is a walking tour and we do not enter any structures, as most of the houses in Old Louisville are private residences. We do stop in front of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, and you can arrange with them to tour the mansion for a fee.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Witches’ Tree
A gnarled tree rose up on the spot where a tree cherished by local witches once stood. When the city chopped down the original tree, townsfolk incurred the wrath of the crones, who sent a tornado to destroy the city in revenge. Visitors often leave offerings on the twisted trunk to make amends.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Conrad-Caldwell House Museum (Conrad’s Castle)
This is a walking tour and we do not enter any structures, as most of the houses in Old Louisville are private residences. We do stop in front of the Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, and you can arrange with them to tour the mansion for a fee.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
Louisville
At the heart of the old Millionaires Row, the Bernheim Mansion features green men arranged around a triple Roman-arched porch. This is just one of the features that sets this impressive Richardsonian Romanesque mansion apart.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
The Filson Historical Society
Built in 1905, the Ferguson Mansion once counted as the grandest home in the city. A splendid example of Beaux Arts architecture, it today is headquarters for the Filson Historical Society. Visits can be arranged separately.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
Central Park
Just like its famous cousin in New York City, Louisville’s Central Park was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. With 14 acres of native tree species and shaded walkways, this four-square-block space counts as the green heart of the neighborhood. It’s also where Shakespeare in the Park takes place each summer, since 1961, making it the nation’s oldest free outdoor Shakespeare event.
5 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Highlight
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
FYI The starting point is in a transitional area where you might encounter panhandlers, homeless people, and people who don’t look like you.
MUST BE ABLE TO WALK 90 MINUTES WITHOUT A BATHROOM BREAK!
Not recommended for visitors with mobility issues
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 25 travelers
Max group – 15
