Get ready for a day trip to the NuLu Neighborhood of Louisville in the East Market District. NuLu is a compact and creative neighborhood perfect for a day trip. From cozy coffee shops and independent boutiques to rotating art galleries and great places to eat, NuLu invites slow strolling and discovery. This guide shows you how to spend a perfect NuLu day: grab coffee, browse local shops, pop into TRIM NuLu for a mid-day blowout, then enjoy drinks at Evergreen Liquors and dinner at La Bodeguita before capping the night with a walking tour. Book your salon stop and build your own NuLu itinerary.
A Day Guide to the NuLu Neighborhood of Louisville
NuLu, the East Market District, is one of Louisville’s most walkable, creative neighborhoods. Packed with coffee shops, independent boutiques, art galleries, and great places to eat, it is the perfect place to plan a half-day that mixes local flavor with a little self-care. Start with coffee, stroll the boutiques, pop into TRIM NuLu for a mid-day blowout, then enjoy drinks at Evergreen Liquors, dinner at La Bodeguita, and an evening walking tour to cap the day. Here is how to make the most of your NuLu outing.
Morning: Coffee and Browsing
Begin on the 800 block for coffee and planning. For a relaxed bakery-cafe vibe, stop by Please & Thank You at 800 E. Market Street in the NuLu neighborhood. If you prefer a memorable café in an old firehouse, visit Quills Coffee at the Firehouse location. With caffeine in hand, wander East Market Street and pop into local boutiques, galleries, and makers. NuLu’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, so take your time and enjoy window shopping and local art.
Mid-Day: Pop into TRIM NuLu
Book a mid-day appointment at TRIM NuLu for a blowout, a precision trim, or a quick color refresh. A salon stop during your NuLu day is an ideal reset; leave feeling camera-ready for photos and dinner. We recommend booking ahead for weekends, NuLu Fest, First Friday gallery nights, and Derby-season crowds. Book now: https://trimnulu.co/book
Art Stops: Galleries Worth Visiting
While you stroll, look for local galleries and pop-up exhibits. Notable NuLu neighborhood spots include Revelry Boutique + Gallery at 742 E. Market Street and Paul Paletti Gallery at 713 E. Market Street. If you time your visit for First Friday gallery hops, you will find openings and extra pop-ups that make the day even more interesting.
Post-Salon: Bourbon, Beer, and Small Plates
After your appointment, walk to Evergreen Liquors for their bourbon and beer bar, where you can relax with a carefully selected pour and toast your fresh look. When you are ready for dinner, head across the street to La Bodeguita at 725 E. Market Street for Cuban-inspired small plates and creative cocktails. It is a great way to finish the evening before heading out on a local tour of the NuLu neighborhood.
Evening: Walking Tour of Downtown Louisville
Cap your NuLu day with a guided walking tour. The Misfits and Mayhem walking tour of downtown Louisville is a fun, local option that starts in the evening and gives you a different view of the city after dark. Check details and book here: https://www.gotolouisville.com/events-calendar/the-misfits-and-mayhem-walking-tour-of-downtown-louisville/
NuLu Walkable Route (Easy 1-Mile Loop)
Suggested loop with relaxed timing:
- Coffee: Please & Thank You (800 E. Market) or Quills Coffee (Firehouse on 802 E. Main). 20–30 minutes.
- Shop and galleries: Stroll east along East Market of the NuLu neighborhood, visit Revelry Boutique + Gallery and Paul Paletti Gallery. 30–45 minutes.
- Salon: Mid-day appointment at TRIM NuLu. 60–90 minutes depending on service.
- Drinks: Evergreen Liquors tasting bar. 30–45 minutes.
- Dinner: La Bodeguita. 60+ minutes.
- Evening: The Misfits and Mayhem walking tour. tour times vary, check the link above.
Quick Tips
• Book TRIM NuLu early for weekends and event days.
• Check the NuLu Neighborhood events calendar for NuLuFest and First Friday gallery nights; those days are lively but busier.
• Bring a lightweight scarf or hat if you plan to be outside after styling.
Ready to plan your NuLu day?
Book a mid-day appointment at TRIM NuLu and make the most of a perfect neighborhood outing: https://trimnulu.co/appointments