Two of the Coolest Hotels in Louisville KY: 21c Museum Hotel & Hotel Genevieve
The two coolest hotels in Louisville, KY, are definitely the 21c Museum Hotel and Hotel Genevieve. Why? Well, they’re both boutique hotels and not part of any big chain. Both places exude their own vibe and charm, and both feature amazing art. If you’re like me and feel bored with the usual cookie-cutter hotel rooms that lack personality, keep reading! I’m about to share two amazing hotels that can really bring some life back into your stay!
21c Museum Hotel
700 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
The red penguin mascot
The bar
The lobby
It’s no secret that 21c is one of my favorite hotel brands. My first 21c stay was in Louisville, and that’s where I got to try Pappy’s for the first time—specifically the 20-year Family Reserve. The hotel quickly became one of my favorites from the brand, at least among the ones I’ve experienced so far. I still have a few more to check out!
As soon as you arrive, the giant gold David (inspired by Michelangelo) greets you from the sidewalk, and it’s clear this place has its own vibe. Standing a massive 30 feet tall, you might catch a glimpse of his backside from your room. Don’t be surprised if you spot these cute little 4-foot red penguins wandering around the hotel. A staple at every 21c with each location having its own color.
The 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville transforms an old 19th-century warehouse into a vibrant hotel. It even has a whole area set aside for art exhibits that change regularly.
The art extends into the stylish and comfortable rooms, with cool pieces hanging on the walls and above the beds. You can snag a bite and cocktails at Proof on Main, or if you’re feeling adventurous, go for Pappy’s if it’s still in stock!
The 21c Museum Hotel is located in the heart of Louisville at 700 West Main Street, just a short walk from bourbon tasting rooms, restaurants, museums, and the KFC YUM! Center, among other attractions.
Hotel Genevieve
730 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202
A vanity in a guest room
A guest room
A door hanger in French on a guest room door
I found out about Hotel Genevieve thanks to a friend on Instagram, and it’s such a delightful find! This charming boutique hotel has only 122 rooms, and it really gives off those Parisian vibes right in the heart of Bourbon City. Plus, it’s impressive that this little gem earned a MICHELIN Key in 2024!
Not only are the rooms fun and full of whimsy (pick your color: blue, marigold, or pink!), but they’re also super comfy and pretty. On top of that, there’s a rooftop bar as well as a nondescript door that leads to a hidden room, perfect for those looking for a little adventure and a tasty Old Fashioned.
Hotel Genevieve sits in the convenient NuLu district (short for New Louisville), near bourbon tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops at 730 E. Market Street. Read more about Hotel Genevieve here.
Final Thought
You can’t go wrong with either of these hotels. The 21c Museum Hotel and Hotel Genevieve are two of the coolest hotels in Louisville, KY.
My Louisville Hotel Bucket List
The Brown Hotel is a historic landmark, built in 1923, and is currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Seelbach Hilton inspired F. Scott Fitzgerald to write his famous novel, ‘The Great Gatsby’. Legend has it that the hotel staff kicked him out several times after he overindulged in bourbon.
The Grady Hotel was once home to a pharmacist who made medicinal bourbon bitters and elixirs in the 1800s.
The Trail Hotel was formerly a Holiday Inn and has recently reopened. This hotel is located in Bardstown, just south of Louisville.
For more unique, take-your-breath-away hotel stays, check out A Boutique Hotel in Indianapolis, IN, Hotel Peter and Paul, One of the Most Unique Hotels in New Orleans, and A Luxury Hotel in the Orlando Area with a Focus on Art.
