By James Mulcahy
Louisville is a cosmopolitan town that provides the charm of traditions like the Kentucky Derby with the chic style of a bustling downtown. The two best hotels in the city are on opposite ends of this spectrum. If you're all about tradition, stay at the Brown Hotel. Located in the heart of downtown, it's the perfect place to have a mint julep and bask in the city's history. The 21C hotel gives you a glimpse of the city's future. It's decked out in modern design, and it also serves as a contemporary art museum.
Wows and Woes
The art at the 21C is stimulating and different. The hotel's mascot is a gigantic orange penguin statue. You'll see them perched around the guest floors and on the sides of the building.
The 21C's walls are thin. Each room comes equipped with an iPod, and the noise trickles through the walls.
The Brown attracts an older crowd. If you're looking for a hip group, stay elsewhere.
Insider Tips
Those penguin statues at the 21C hotel aren't just for show. You can request one to show up at your door in the morning, or you can make a reservation to dine with one at the 21C's restaurant Proof.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
I got a glass of wine at Proof and brought it into the lobby of the 21C Hotel. Exploring artistic installations while walking around a beautiful space and sipping wine didn't feel like a hotel in downtown Kentucky. It felt like a trendy spot in New York.
Bottom Line
If you like old time class, stay at The Brown. If modern chic is your style, get a room at the 21C.
Resources
About the Author:
James Mulcahy is a New York City-based licensed massage therapist with more than 1,500 hours of training in anatomy, myology and pathology. He currently works as a freelance writer and has contributed to Huffington Post, New York Press, British Airway’s High Life, Metromix and many other publications.
