Saint Matthews Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Saint Matthews, Kentucky. Plan your trip with our detailed travel guide.


Introduction to Saint Matthews

Located in the heart of the Kentucky Derby Region, Saint Matthews is a charming city located in South Kentucky. It offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment that draws visitors from around the world.

Saint Matthews is centrally located and well-connected with other cities and towns in Kentucky, making it a great place to start your adventure in the Bluegrass State.

In this comprehensive travel guide, you will find information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and much more. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or relaxation and comfort, you will find it all in Saint Matthews.

List of Places to Visit in Saint Matthews

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Saint Matthews boasts a rich history that dates back to the 18th century. There are numerous museums and historical places that you can visit to explore the region’s heritage.

  • The Locust Grove Historic Home. This 55-acre historic site was built in 1790 and was home to William and Lucy Clark Croghan. Today, it serves as a museum that provides insight into their lives and the history of Kentucky.
  • The Kentucky Derby Museum. Located in nearby Louisville, this museum documents the history of the Kentucky Derby, including the horses, jockeys, and owners.
  • The Muhammad Ali Center. Also located in Louisville, this cultural center celebrates the life and legacy of boxing legend Muhammad Ali.
  • The Frazier History Museum. This museum in downtown Louisville offers exhibits and artefacts from Kentucky’s history.

Natural Attractions of Saint Matthews: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Saint Matthews is a nature lover’s paradise, with a wide range of outdoor activities and breathtaking natural beauty to enjoy.

  • Cherokee Park. Located in Louisville, this 409-acre park offers hiking and biking trails, a fishing lake, scenic views, and playgrounds.
  • The Parklands of Floyds Fork. Spanning over 4,000 acres, this park offers hiking trails, fishing, kayaking, bird watching, and more.
  • Mammoth Cave National Park. Located about 90 minutes away, this park is home to the largest cave system in the world and offers tours, hiking trails, and other outdoor activities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Saint Matthews

Saint Matthews has a range of hiking and biking routes, from easy strolls to challenging treks.

  • Louisville Loop. This 100-mile trail connects parks and attractions throughout Louisville and offers a variety of routes for bikers and hikers.
  • The Parklands Trail System. This network of trails covers 22 miles and connects the four parks within the parkland.
  • Cherokee Park Scenic Loop. This 2.4-mile paved loop offers scenic views of the park and the Louisville skyline.

Best Things to Do in Saint Matthews: Activities and Tours

Saint Matthews offers a range of fun activities and tours, suitable for all ages and interests.

  • Louisville Mega Cavern. Explore this underground attraction on a guided tour or try your hand at ziplining or ropes courses.
  • Churchill Downs. Home of the famous Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs offers tours of the track and stables.
  • Waterfront Park. Located in Louisville, this park has walking trails, playgrounds, and a splash park, making it a great place for families.

Week-Long Itinerary for Saint Matthews

If you’re planning to spend a week in Saint Matthews, here’s a suggested itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore the Locust Grove Historic Home and Museum.
  • Day 2: Visit the Kentucky Derby Museum in Louisville.
  • Day 3: Spend the day at the Parklands of Floyds Fork, hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
  • Day 4: Take a tour of Churchill Downs and then spend the evening watching a horse race.
  • Day 5: Visit the Frazier History Museum in Louisville to learn more about Kentucky’s history.
  • Day 6: Take a trip to the Mammoth Cave National Park.
  • Day 7: Spend the day at the Louisville Mega Cavern.

Food and Drink Scene of Saint Matthews

Saint Matthews offers a range of dining options, from local cuisine to international fare.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bourbon-Glazed Pork Belly. This dish, made with local Kentucky bourbon, is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Kentucky Hot Brown. This sandwich, invented in Louisville, is made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce served over bread.
  • Burgoo. This stew is made with a combination of meats and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Bourbon. Kentucky is famous for its bourbon, and there are numerous distilleries and tasting rooms to visit.
  • Ale-8-One. This soda, made in Winchester, Kentucky, has been a local favorite for over 90 years.
  • Mint Julep. This iconic Kentucky cocktail is made with bourbon, sugar and fresh mint.

Where to Stay in Saint Matthews: Hotels, Hostels and Guesthouses

Saint Matthews offers a range of accommodation options, catering to various budgets and preferences.

  • Aloft Louisville East. Located in Saint Matthews, this hotel features modern rooms and amenities, including an indoor pool and fitness center.
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton. This all-suite hotel in nearby Louisville offers free breakfast and evening receptions, as well as a fitness center and indoor pool.
  • SpringHill Suites Louisville Hurstbourne/North. This hotel, also in Louisville, offers spacious rooms, free breakfast, and a fitness center.

What to Buy in Saint Matthews: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Whether for a memento of your trip or as a gift for a loved one, Saint Matthews has a range of local products to purchase.

  • Bourbon. Kentucky bourbon is a popular souvenir, with many distilleries offering tastings and bottles available for purchase.
  • Derby-related souvenirs. Many gift shops sell souvenirs related to the Kentucky Derby, including t-shirts, hats, and commemorative items.
  • Local arts and crafts. The Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft in downtown Louisville is a great place to find unique and handcrafted gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Saint Matthews

Kentucky is known for its southern hospitality, and Saint Matthews is no exception. It’s polite to say ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and also consider holding the door open for other people.

Best Time to Visit Saint Matthews

The best time to visit Saint Matthews is from March through May and then from September through November. These months feature mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful fall foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Saint Matthews

Do:

  • Enjoy the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Respect the local customs.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Smoking indoors is prohibited, except on certain designated areas.
  • Be rude.

Safety and Health

Safety in Saint Matthews

Saint Matthews is generally a safe city. Just like other cities, there are some precautionary steps you can take to ensure your safety. Keep your valuables safe and secure, always lock your rooms and vehicles when unoccupied, and pay attention to your surroundings.

Health in Saint Matthews

The state law requires that children should receive a certain list of vaccines to attend day-care, preschool, and school.

Getting to Saint Matthews: Transportation Options and Logistics

Saint Matthews is well-connected to other cities and towns in Kentucky, making it easy to get there and to travel around. A rental car is the most efficient way to get around, but there are also other options.

Airports Near Saint Matthews

  • Louisville International Airport. Located about 15 minutes from Saint Matthews, this airport serves multiple airlines.
  • Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport. Located about two hours away, this airport offers more flight options than Louisville.

Bus Stations Near Saint Matthews

  • Greyhound Station. Located in Louisville, this station offers bus service to many cities throughout the country.

Other Options

  • Train. Amtrak serves Louisville, with connections to other cities throughout the country.
  • Car rental. Major rental car companies have locations at both the Louisville and Cincinnati airports.

How to Get Around in Saint Matthews

The most efficient way to get around Saint Matthews is by car. There are car rental agencies at both the Louisville and Cincinnati airports.

Where to Go Next from Saint Matthews: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Louisville. With its many attractions and history, Louisville is a must-visit destination for travelers in the region.
  • Elizabethtown. Located about an hour south of Saint Matthews, this city offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
  • Cincinnati. Located about two hours away, Cincinnati offers world-class museums, attractions, and dining experiences.

Conclusion

Saint Matthews, Kentucky is a hidden gem that is not to miss. With its beautiful scenery, rich history, and warm hospitality, Saint Matthews is sure to capture your heart.