Louisville - a nice surprise

When traveling for work I rarely get to really experience the city I'm in, but usually can get a feel if it's "my kind of town". I almost always flip through the city guide magazine or book that's in most hotel rooms to see what's big. Some cities are exactly like you expect - Orlando is pretty disappointing with extra-high humidity, very cookie-cutter and touristy. Philadelphia has so many things to see and do you can't begin to pick your options. But sometimes a town really surprises you. 

I just got back from Louisville, KY and heading in was very bland about the idea, sort of a "whatever, I go where I'm needed, not like I'm there for vacation anyway". I was only there for a day, but the town really impressed me to the point I'd like to take a trip there for a visit sometime. And not many places I've been to have been added to my re-visit list, so that's saying something. There's a big art scene and lots of museums, and a very cool sounding downtown shopping area. It's also home to pretty much all the major bourbon distilleries there are (Maker's Mark, Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve, etc). Bourbon is only made in Kentucky, and they take it VERY seriously. Speaking of drinking, whenever I have a beer while traveling I always ask what local brews they have - it's an interesting way to experience a bit of the local flavor, so to speak. I was lucky enough to have a glass of Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale while walking by the Ohio River one evening in perfect summer weather. The ale is matured in freshly decanted bourbon barrels from the local distilleries. It was really excellent, the aroma and flavor of the bourbon was unmistakable, but it complemented the ale rather than detracting or seeming gimmicky. Distribution sounds pretty limited, so I might not get to taste this again until I go back to Kentucky.