Get some fresh air (and maybe a little Bourbon) on this walkable journey for juleps.
April is affectionately known as Mint Julep Month and in addition to bourbon-infused and Derby-inspired happenings around town, here's one more way to soak up this spirited celebration. Below are 5 different art installations around town to search for, visit, and selfie with this April 1 – 30. This 2.5 mile loop can be driven or walked and takes you through parts of Downtown Louisville as well at the East Market District (NuLu).
Mural at Quills Coffee Firehouse (802 E. Main St.)
Painted by Louisville based independent designer & commercial artist Bryan Patrick Todd, this minty mural resides on the side of an 1897 fire station turned coffee shop, Quill’s Coffee. Order online ahead of time or sip inside on hot espresso, cold brew, or a variety of teas.
“A Day at the Distillery” Julep at Merle’s Whiskey Kitchen (122 W. Main St.)
Created by artist Casey McKinney, this Julep was sponsored by and showcases the Maker’s Mark Bourbon brand. Originally located at 280 W. Jefferson near Marriott Louisville Downtown, this waxy whiskey art is now showcased on Louisville’s Whiskey Row. It was designed for the Galapalooza campaign which was a civic pride initiative that began as a way to beautify the streets, encourage local exploration, increase tourism, showcase local artists, and generate civic pride. Stop inside Merle's for food or a drink to get and make sure to get a stamp on your digital Urban Bourbon Trail passport.
Mint Julep Month Wall at the Louisville Visitor Center (301 S. 4th St.)
Up for April only, this minty photo op is patiently waiting for you to take a selfie with it, while you and your friends on your journey for juleps. Upload your photo (with the Mint Julep Month wall OR oversized "All about Lou" julep cup at the Visitor Center entrance) to your social media with the hashtag #MintJulepMonth and earn a free gift by showing your post to the Visitor Center staff.
Hint of Mint Mural on South 3rd Street (3rd & Jefferson Streets)
Reading “Southern Hospitality with a Hint of Mint” this colorful mural by The Art Cartel and Wilfred Seig depicts what may be a common sight during a typical April in Louisville. Hot air balloons and steamboat races are both parts of the revelry leading up to the Kentucky Derby, which is typically held the first Saturday in May.
Metallic Mint Julep at Taj (807 E. Market St.)
Created by artist Ray Jarrell, this Julep showcases a rick house and a trio of copper stills out front on the streets of NuLu. One neighborhood over in Butchertown is Vendome Copper & Brass works, who are known world-wide for producing copper stills like you see pictured. This metallic masterpiece was also designed for the Galapalooza campaign. Stop inside Taj to celebrate the completion of your journey with a drink and get a stamp on your Urban Bourbon Trail passport.