Louisville, KY Attractions

Although the Northwest is the BEST place on Earth (I am a little bias), I do like to travel. Most people who visit Louisville, Kentucky already know to visit Six Flags Kentucky Kingdom and the Louisville Slugger Museum, but I sometimes like to take the road less traveled. Here are a couple of ideas for those who like to see some of the lesser known attractions. 

The Thomas Edison House

Edison's Door

Nestled amongst the tall buildings of downtown and the clanks of near-by industry, is the unassuming, but charming, Thomas Edison House.  I visited this great little gem a few years ago for a research for a paper I was writing, but this time, I was strictly there as a tourist.  Thomas Edison lived in this humble home just after the Civil War.  His room has been decorated in period furniture and curiosities.  According to Edison's journal, he read a lot  while he was living in this house.  His book shelves are filled with many of his favorite books, as well as popular reads of the era. 

Move on to the next room to explore some of Edison's other inventions.  Some of his well known inventions are there, but others may surprise you.  I don't want to spoil your fun by telling you about it.  I'll let you discover them on your own.  There is lots to read and some things to touch as well.  A wealth of information is available to you.  Whether you are a history buff or you just want a fun tourist experience, you won't be disappointed in the Thomas Edison House.  Don't forget to stop by the gift shop on your way out.  We picked-up some pencils and light bulb erasers. 

The Cracker Barrel

If you come from an area that has not been blessed with a Cracker Barrel, let me tell you about it.  Cracker Barrel is a southern favorite and is a must for me anytime we visit a city that has one.  Down home cooking meets Southern charm and you get the Cracker Barrel.

My kids particularly like the Country Store.  There are interesting local and regional items as well as unique decorations, old fashioned candy and wonderful decorative items and decor.  Clothes, tourist type memorabilia and country living goodies can all be found.  Although there is sometimes a few minute wait to be seated, you will always find something to do.  I found the store to be a wonderful distraction for hungry little kids who were waiting to be seated.  If you're tired, you can always find comfort in the old fashioned style wood rockers that line the porch at the front of the restaurant. 

Once seated, you will see that the Southern Charm can be seen everywhere.  Every table is set with a game.  What a great way to keep the kids busy while waiting for their food.  The prices are very reasonable (some may even say "cheap") but the portion sizes are anything but skimpy.  I always enjoy the egg sandwich, but every meal I've had at Cracker Barell has proven to be as scrumptious as you would imagine home style southern food to be! 

One of the wonderfully odd things I've found about the Cracker Barrel is that no matter how busy they seem to be, the food always comes out in a timely manner and the staff is always friendly.  Not sure how they are able to pull that off, but that is probably a big part of why this chain is so very successful. 

Stay tuned for more information about Louisville and other fun destinations.