Fourth Street Live!

You don't have to travel all the way to Las Vegas to find a busy city street with plenty of shopping, attractions, and events. 4th Street Live in Louisville has been called the "Fremont Street" of Kentucky, with good reason. At over 350,000 square feet, 4th Street Live is centered conveniently in the heart of the city, is easily accessible from any downtown hotel, and is a mecca for those looking for afternoon and evening events and nightlife in Louisville.

Parking and public transportation at 4th Street Live
4th Street Live is located in the heart of downtown and has public transportation from both TARC and the Louisville Trolley, operating between the Galt House Hotel and the landmark. For those who drive, parking is easy to manage. The adjacent parking garage for 4th Street Live does charge an hourly fee, and additional parking can be found at other local parking garages which are a quick walk away. Valet is also available.

Best and worst times to go to 4th Street Live
Since 4th Street Live is a music venue, the area is packed on nights when concerts are playing. It is possible to get turned away during very busy times, so be sure to check the calendar. The free summer Saturday concerts are the busiest times. If you're just looking for dining options, it's better to go during the week or during the days on the weekend. Winter months are also quite slow, even though there are activities and events planned for most weekends.

Admission to 4th Street Live
Admission prices will depend on if there is a special event or concert, which may have a cover charge. For general purposes, though, there are no admission prices just to walk around and dine. Be aware that there are security gates at either end which are heavily patrolled and monitored. It is possible to be denied admission for improper behavior and dress.

Must see or do at 4th Street Live
Although the venues and restaurants do change, some local favorites are the world's first Maker's Mark Bourbon House and Lounge, where chefs create food masterpieces with bourbon as a central ingredient. Some of the restaurants have outdoor seating and people watching during busy events is always popular. Also, the area has half a dozen music and bar venues with tastes ranging from country to tango.

Other places to visit at 4th Street Live
4th Street Live is home to Louisville's only dueling piano bar at Howl at the Moon, where guests can request songs and sing along with the performers. If bourbon isn't your thing, some other premier restaurants are Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, as well as the ever-popular Hard Rock Cafe and TGI Friday's.

Insiders tip for visitors to 4th Street Live
4th Street Live has a Code of Conduct which is taken very seriously by security. Visitors who come during times when alcohol is served must be 21 years old and provide an ID as proof. The Code of Conduct includes a dress code which limits clothing with profanity, excessively torn clothing, exposed undergarments, sleeveless shirts for men, sweat suits, sweat pants, excessively long shirts, athletic shorts, and sunglasses worn after 9 pm. Anyone in violation of the rules will not be admitted and may be escorted from the area.

Author's bio: CC Thomas is freelance writer and Kentucky native who loves to travel. Follow the adventures at www.iknowfuntravel.blogspot.com.