Planning on spending a day in New Albany? There are many things you won’t want to miss, or couldn’t miss if you tried, in this small town. Being a New Albany native, there is a lot to love about Southern Indiana: the “Sunny Side” of Louisville. This is by no means a comprehensive list, there are too many amazing businesses in New Albany to include! If we missed your favorite, please leave it in the comments!
Shopping:
The perfect place to pick up your Derby hat, ladies!
Pearls on Pearl: Pearls on Pearl offers natural items that support healthy lifestyles that are perfect gifts for bridal showers, wedding gifts, thank you gifts, or any occasion. This local and family owned business gives that added thoughtful touch and handmade that makes a must to check out when visiting New Albany.
J.O Endris And Son: A fine jewelry store that has been active for more than 100 years. Endris offers fashion and bridal jewelry through custom design and the latest triends.
Colokial: Colokial is a boutique that offers clothing, handmade accessories, jewelry, handbags and gifts with an international flavor. Customers can purchase products from all around the world using natural resources. Their chunky necklaces and unique handbags are a must-see.
Bush-Keller Sporting Goods: A favorite of mine for all my sporting needs, Bush-Keller is a local equipment and apparel needs store for athletes in Southern Indiana. They have equipment from Louisville Slugger, Rawlings, and Schutt and sportswear from Under Armour and Majestic Athletic. They also carry footwear and local school apparel. Bush-Keller is the place to go for your all of your athletic needs!
Outdoors:
Riverfront Amphitheater: The Riverfront Amphitheater is home each spring and summer to numerous free concerts, productions, festivals and other events.
New Albany Bicentennial Park:
Last year, New Albany opened this venue for summertime public productions. The park hosts musical exhibitions on Friday during the summer. These productions can be enjoyed while shopping downtown.
Attractions:
Culbertson Mansion State Historic Site: Take a step back into 1867 as you walk through the Culbertson Mansion’s hand-painting ceilings, carved rosewood staircase, marble fireplaces, and crystal chandeliers. This home, a three- story French, Second-Empire mansion is a part of the Mansion Row district on E. Main Street and really is a beautiful building. If you are from Southern Indiana, you have been to the Culbertson Mansion at least once. Whether it has been for a school field trip, the yearly Halloween Haunted House each October, or if you were feeling brave and believe that the home is haunted. Visiting New Albany and seeing this home is a must.
Carnegie Center for Art & History: The Carnegie Center for Art & History is a local history museum and contemporary art gallery. There are exhibits for all ages and an assortment of media for all visitors. Check out their calendar for upcoming events, exhibits and art shows.
Scribner House: The first frame house built in New Albany in 1813, this home is a beautiful site. Located near the YMCA, you have to squint your eyes so you don’t miss this small, yet remarkable and historical structure.
New Albany Public Library: Relax and grab a good book while visiting the New Albany Public Library. The library offers new titles weekly and events that welcome the whole family. They also offer computer access for members, a full selection of books for students, and an area for younger kids to enjoy reading while exploring the web, relaxing on couches, or playing games.
Dining out:
Feast BBQ: In the mood for good BBQ? Go to Feast while in New Albany. This BBQ is worth the wait, as they do take the time it takes to make perfect barbeque. Take your friends, grab some drinks, and sit back and be patient for you will be eating the best barbeque you’ve had, ever.
Toast on Market: Toast on Market is the perfect stop for a early breakfast or brunch. Their omelettes and pancakes are delicious, as are their variety of teas. Come by for lunch, too and try their famous tomato basil soup.
The Exchange Pub and Kitchen: The Exchange offers many different dining options and a 15-seat bar, 120-seat dining room, 16-seat outdoor café, and a private dining space. This is the epitome of a neighborhood pub. American craft brews are available on draft and bottle and the wine is of smaller boutique wines, so the possibility of new taste is endless. The food menus rotate seasonally, so check out The Exchange for their new, exciting, and yummy, menus.
River City Winery: Known for their brick-oven pizza, yummy appetizers, and extensive wine list, River City Winery is the perfect stop for dinner after a day of shopping downtown. Their limited Bicentennial red wine is delicious and their seasonal wines are a must-try. You can’t just drink one glass of wine here, so be prepared to try them all!
Nightlife:
The Irish Exit Pub: A small and welcoming bar with cheap, cheap drinks and an awesome patio. Did we mention cheap drinks? It's the perfect small town bar that isn't too far from downtown Louisville, and they even have giant Jenga and a checkerboard.
Billow: A cigar shop with premier cigars and accessories, Billow also has a smoking lounge that's open until 12:30 on the weekends.
Wicks: The Wicks location in New Albany is consistently hopping on weekend nights. Though their pizza is great, their occasionally rowdy weekend crowd is wildly entertaining.
There are many things to do in New Albany and the city is making efforts to expand the Downtown district and scene. More art, restaurants, consignment shops, bakery's, and small businesses are sprouting as the city expands itself. Come check out New Albany for yourself and see what it is all about!
Photos courtesy of New Albany's city website, WFPL.org, and Pearls on Pearls website.
