The Kentucky Derby (this year, May 4) is the “greatest two minutes in racing,” which gives you just enough time to drain your mint julep. Afterward, step out and spend a few hours enjoying Louisville brew.

By Amy Lynch

Against the Grain Brewery & Smokehouse
One of the country’s most buzzed-about breweries, Against the Grain scores with major-league brews from self-proclaimed categories like hop, whim, malt and session. The menu highlights smoky ’cue in traditional and innovative variations; you can’t go wrong with Old Hickory Nachos made with kettle chips and pulled pork.

Bluegrass Brewing Co.
Locals crowd into BBC’s three locations each week to celebrate Firkin Fridays—small-batch tappings with a side of live music. The list of catch-’em-while-you-can seasonals is constantly evolving; fortunately, the coppery, hyper-hopped American Pale Ale, malty Altbier and silky Dark Star Porter are always on tap.

Louisville Beer Store
Located in the funky NuLu District, the Beer Store leads the charge for Louisville craft beer devotees. This standing-room-only tasting room rotates eight taps and a dizzying inventory of 400 bottles from around the world, including a tasty selection of sours.

DAY TRIP: As the world’s only all-underground zipline course, the Mega Cavern gets adrenaline racing with five lines and three challenge bridges that cross depths of up to 70 feet. Just try to keep your knees from knocking as you take the first plunge; after that, you’re hooked.