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  • 5/5 Shana D. 2 years ago on Google
    The brown hotel is at Old historical Hotel and is extremely nice. A lot of cultures in the hotel and it is also very big. Nice location downtown close to Many Shops, fooderies, and easy access to multiple different gyms. The Bellman are really really nice and always open the door for guests as they enter and exit. Also good at providing information on where to find different places. The hotel rooms are very spacious and the beds are really comfortable. The bathroom looks to be updated and it is really nice with glass showers. The front desk attendance are also really sweet and welcoming. If I have another layover I will definitely come back and stay at the brown Hotel.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Janine H. 1 year ago on Google
    This hotel is the perfect blend of sophisticated elegance and modern convenience. A difficult task that the Brown has achieved. From the moment i walked into the door I was captivated by its architecture and history not to mention the piano playing softly in the background. Our room was clean comfortable and well appointed. Our dinner was superb and our server Kris was excellent. The staff was warm and inviting. I can only hope the next historic hotel we choose to stay at (as we have a list) will be as wonderful as this one. Thanks for a wonderful experience.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dean G. 1 year ago on Google
    Very nice service. Our server in the lobby bar was super, friendly as possible in a fully packed room. We had a salad and a Hot Brown. The salad was nice and the hot brown was something I am glad I had at the original location, but I cannot recommend it as any more than an iconic dish to check off your bucket list. Other food looked good. Great rye and bourbon list.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Janty C. 2 years ago on Google
    My first impression was significantly negative when the bell hop male at the side entrance of the hotel was rude and asked me to move my car before checking into the hotel, after having driven for hours from out of town. First impressions are huge, and having someone represent the hotel that has sub-par interpersonal skills was a mistake that was just the beginning of a negative overall experience. The room was run down (TVs not working, electricity that went in and out and flickered off and on, and a coffee maker that would be fit for a room that cost $50 a night, NOT $700 a night when all expenses were added up)! Speaking of which, what is a $30 Enhance Your Stay Fee? I did not receive any enhancement. Furthermore, the hotel charged us $26.50 a night for self-parking, when the parking garage itself had a $20 a night maximum charge for 24-hour parking. Seriously!?! Truly low-class scam for extra dollars and just unprofessional. I also had to email and call repeatedly to even get my final invoice emailed to me after our stay. For $1,400+ for two nights, I expect more professional service and better accommodations. Your experience may be different than ours, in fact I hope it is. But our family experience at The Brown Hotel was truly negative and I felt compelled to review the property here to ensure people know what they're likely going to receive for their money. I think you can stay at other establishments in the Louisville area for half the price that will provide a significantly better experience. As a side note, dinner at the Lobby Bar and Grill in the hotel was great, the service was outstanding, and we enjoyed an evening there.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Skye B. 7 months ago on Google
    As someone who worked in housekeeping at a historic hotel for many years, The Brown leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to their rooms. While they are spacious, there are so many things that could do with a deep clean or even a replacement. The AC unit in the bathroom was COATED in dust, the mattress sagged towards the middle and needs to be replaced, the curtains looked as if they hadn't been cleaned since the hotel opened...etc. We were only there for one night, so there wasn't much use in saying anything, but I wouldn't have been comfortable staying there for our entire trip. I understand wanting to preserve the historic feel, but a yearly round of deep cleaning isn't to much to ask. The service at the front desk was great though- everyone was very friendly.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kyle James W. 4 months ago on Google • 61 reviews
    Keep in mind this is a century old property when judging the rooms. Some are odd shaped, the decor is more my grandmother's style, and while well kept the rooms could use a refresh. Yet, I feel this is easily overlooked considering the rich history of the building. Delightful employees, gorgeous lobby, and excellent restaurant set the bar for a historic property.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Private S. 6 months ago on Google
    Stayed for a second time, everything that I thought was good on my last visit was just as good the second time around! We had dinner (again) in the Lobby Bar and Grill and it's possible that the food was even better than during our first visit. I've stayed in a fair number of "historic" hotels in the past. Most are indeed "historic" but functionally, most lack any real history and attempts to restore historic conditions have been limited to the outside of the building and at most, to the lobby and reception area. This is not the case of the Brown! Through and through, top to bottom, anywhere that a guest can peer into or to enter, has been meticulously restored or maintained. Outstanding rooms. Well appointed. The only item that was not actually restored was the US mail drop system on each floor near the elevators. I'm sure this is simply from preventing people from dropping trash down the letter chute. Overall, a very good stay and a hotel that I will be happy to return to for another visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brian K. 1 year ago on Google
    Great hotel. Great location. Great Stay. I found out, right before leaving, that this place is well known to have paranormal activity. Would of loved to learned that prior to my visit but better late than never. This place has an amazing atmosphere that I would be happy to experience again. Staff and guests were all amazing and friendly. The only complaints I could think of would include a weak ac unit in my room and pillows/mattresses that could use an upgrade. The decor is also impressive. Thanks a lot to all the Brown hotel staff for giving my family an amazing experience.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Holly R. 2 years ago on Google
    I, nor my boyfriend originate from the area, we, together decided to follow some of our friends that have visited, recommended The Brown Hotel for their well known 'Brown Sandwich. Bourbon Barrel fries, Cesar salad, adult beverages, Kris was our server, Harold, very cute woman, I suppose manager, by far the most prompt, accurate, THE BEST service, atmosphere, conversation, assistance w/great knowledge concerning the history of location in full details. Simply, very welcoming from 3rd shift bell hop, he has been employed 29 years. The best customer service, atmosphere, I, we have experienced. I am happy to have visited n will definitely recommend, return sooner than later. It is a entire day event w/out enough time. Staff rocks thank you to all provided such a wonderful, never forgotten memory! They are all assets to your company. See you again soon!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Liz W. 2 months ago on Google • 132 reviews New
    The pros: An absolutely gorgeous historical gem of a hotel. The architecture and the decor were so grand. And since we stayed in December, the place was extra festive, all decked out for Christmas. The parking garage is tucked next to the hotel, and they even have a connecting tunnel, so you don't have to walk outside when taking your luggage from your car to the hotel. They have a valet service, but we opted for self parking. As for the room, the bed and pillows were very comfortable, and it felt very spacious. The gift shop was nice and had lots of unique trinkets, clothing, and even artwork. We checked out the restaurant as well, and the server was very friendly. We had appetizers and dessert, and both were delicious. The cons: Upon first walking into the bathroom in our room, there was a long black hair on one of the towels. Definitely did not use that one. And although the bed was comfortable, the HVAC system was loud. It emitted a high pitched sound that only ear plugs could dampen. It didn't make for a very restful sleep. After check out, and before leaving for a long car ride, I went to the public restrooms in the hotel. Two of the stalls were completely clogged with feces. Yuck.

  • 5/5 Karl Borns (Kar E. 2 years ago on Google
    The Brown is a very classic hotel. The room was well maintained. The only thing that I have to say that would appear negative is that one side of the bed did not have an outlet so I couldn't plug in my phone. Other than that everything was great.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Romeo 4 months ago on Google
    The hotel is historic. You do get that feel as you walk to their version of the gated receptionist desk. The room I had was a decent size with newer type shower in the bathroom. Very old and small screen tv hanging on the wallbwas fine with me because I had no intention on watching it that night. The hotel restaurant definitely makes it's own Cesar dressing. It was overloaded with anchovies so make sure you love them before you order it. The chicken was delicious. Cooked perfectly. Nice and moist with great flavor Enjoy
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 1/5 Dylan R. 5 months ago on Google
    Room was fine. Clean, but a bit outdated. Took me a while to find the check in counter because it's on another level than the entrance. Doorman didn't mention it. I didn't find it until another guest pointed the way. Lastly- location. It was ROUGH. When we first pulled up, a whole side of the hotel was boarded up and had lots of homeless sleeping against it. They have to keep police in the lobby. When I went next door to the coffee shop, 3 separate homeless guys walked past, shouting and yelling about something. (Not even at each other, just shouting in general). I would definitely not feel comfortable walking anywhere at night. And that's coming from someone who regularly walks around the streets of DC at night. Overall, this deserves 2 stars. But when factoring in the price, the hotel gets one star.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Carla 1 year ago on Google
    The room is spacious, Very dirty. Our blanket had piss stains on it. I had to clean our bathroom. The bathroom floor was black, shower had black film layer, and inch of dirt on the window seals and blinds. The hotel is beautiful and we would stay there again, I just need to bring cleaning supplies. For the price of the room, it should have been immaculate. I did ask the cleaning lady for help and she did not speak one word of English. I went to the front desk, I asked to speak with a manager about the situation and he never came and spoke with us. Someone did send up 2 men to change our bedding; Which should be changed after every guest. The front desk lady attitude was "I just work here; I don't care". Our first bartender was not so great as to I gave him my drink order and he served people whom arrived after us. (Rude) The wedding we attended there was beautiful, it was top of the building, so we did get a great view. A shout out to the Most friendliest person, The gift shop lady, What a doll she is.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cheryl H. 2 years ago on Google
    I absolutely loved The Brown, I actually won a night there. Upon arrival I couldn't believe the architectural design inside. It was like going back to the 1920's. Staff couldn't have been any nicer. The food was so delicious I even tipped my waiter $100 for my outstanding service. My bedroom was so cozy I slept like I was at home.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 William T. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful hotel. Extremely loud surroundings. Massive engine noise in adjacent busy street. Didn’t feel safe staying here. Lots of drugs outside around block. People laying face down during day. Approached by people asking for money was tiresome. We made mistake of giving money and were followed after that by others asking for money. Gorgeous hotel but sketchy location. I realize nothing happened to us while staying here. I’d say after 9 pm you’re taking your life into your hands venturing outside this hotel depending on direction. I don’t care what others say. We heard gunfire at night nearby and police sirens all night. This is a beautiful hotel that was once in a nice area. The bellboys don’t monitor anyone going into basement area. You check in on floor above. I’d not stay here again because of the location. Then again, I’d not visit Louisville again either. Lots of tents , people strung out within 4 blocks of hotel. Very luxurious hotel. Great staff. Not worth the risk.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nick D. 11 months ago on Google
    I traveled all the way from Michigan to enjoy a Hot brown, asked the host at check-in how late I can order one and she told me the kitchen closed at 11 o’clock. The kitchen actually closed at 10 o’clock so I didn’t get to eat anything. Very disappointing to say the least. They did make up for the next morning as we got to enjoy it for lunch but a to little to late situation in my opinion. Very nice staff and elegant rooms.

  • 5/5 Jessica 4 months ago on Google • 5 reviews
    I adored this hotel. It’s absolutely gorgeous inside and out. It is so much more beautiful on the inside. The “Hot Brown” plate is great! I would definitely visit again. I’ve been 2 times in a year. Since I’m originally from Florida I don’t know when I’ll see it again but I’d love to visit it for an anniversary. You will not be disappointed. Everything was very quiet in the hallway my room was on and I stared out of the window because of the beautiful view well into the early morning hours. I even took a walk to get a look at the different floors and the Ballroom was stunning. I walked down the hall briefly just taking the paintings and decor in. The beds are adorned with a Kentucky Derby racing horse throw at the bottom and the room has such a nice and older feel to it. The bathroom and the showers are even beautiful. They’ve really kept up with this hotel making it feel like you’re in the early 1900’s! Every detail is paid attention to here. This hotel has a certain old smell that made it antique but not bad at all. That’s what you want from something historic like this. The decor is old fashioned but then again that’s probably one of the reasons that people will want to stay here. I have some more pictures on my external hard drive that I will upload here as soon as I can. If you want historical then “The Brown” is all of that. It’s great for weddings too. The rooftop has an area adorned with lights for special occasions and you can overlook the entire city of Louisville. The elevators are made up of mirrors. As I stated before. Every detail is paid attention to. I will be back when I’m in Louisville visiting family again. The staff was incredible and the rooms were too. The people playing the piano during the day just added a wonderful touch to that experience. My entire stay on both occasions was amazing to me.

  • 3/5 Mrs R. 10 months ago on Google
    Beautiful, historic hotel, with a great staff. The bed was the absolute worst I ever tried to sleep on. I think maybe someone stole the mattress that belonged there and put one from a dump in it's place - it was literally painful to lie on. I didn't ask for a room switch b/c I was too exhausted to pack up and move. But I did send the manager a note in lieu of this review. No response from the manager - so here it is. Don't stay in room 1335 (and suggest you check out the mattress before you unpack).

  • 3/5 Dale C. 8 months ago on Google
    Stayed at The Brown as we were going to shows 2 nights in a row at The Louisville Palace. Chose The Brown as it’s a 5 minute walk. The good. The service is outstanding. From the Bell Stand, to the Front Desk, to the restaurants, to the cleaning staff I just can’t say enough about the service. Outstanding. The food is tremendous. Again 5 stars here. The rooms. Well that’s a different story. The furniture is old and chipped. (Even some do the lobby furniture could use new varnish and refinishing.) The HVAC system is terrible. Room felt humid with the air tuned down as low as it would go. The bed was hard as a rock. For the price you’d think the rooms would be in better shape.

  • 5/5 John D. 4 months ago on Google
    We came for lunch and stayed an extra hour to enjoy the beautiful classic architecture. I will start with lunch. The service at each step was friendly, attentive to detail, and excellently accommodating for our party of 8. The room I. Which we were seated was perfectly appointed, and we were immediately comfortable and at home. The cocktails were excellently crafted, and bourbon barrel fries a delicious start to the meal paired with our perfectly made old fashioneds. We, of course, mainly all ordered the hot brown, which was an experience in itself: the turkey was in thick slices, beautifully smoked and juicy, the sauce had wonderful flavor, and all in it was a unique and delightful experience. Highly recommend! As to the interior of the hotel, I was awestruck. The beauty of the millwork, the artfulness of the murals, the thought and craft of every detail. It’s like a doorway to a different era of elegance and value of craft.

  • 5/5 Mitchell G. 4 months ago on Google
    The restaurant within the hotel is phenomenal. Every staff member is determined to provide the highest quality service. I have eaten there multiple times now and Kat has gone above and beyond each time to ensure that the experience is as good as the first. Not to mention, when in Louisville having a Hot Brown at the place that invented it is a MUST.

  • 5/5 Valerie O. 4 months ago on Google
    We chose to celebrate our anniversary here at The Brown for dinner while we visited Louisville. We got the short rib and hot brown (obvs). The service was impeccable and the food was delicious. Thanks for making a special night even more amazing!

  • 5/5 Jayne 7 months ago on Google
    If I could give this place 10 stars I would! Absolutely perfectly dated and historic. Every single staff member was truly a blessing. As someone with a servants heart I could feel the dedication and class with everyone we encountered. We had dinner at the restaurant inside (upstairs) and It was one of the best dinner experiences I've ever had. My husband and I celebrated our 5 year anniversary here and are now making it a tradition to come back. Will be returning as often as we can to louieville JUST for this place! I love history and could feel in this place. This is a MUST see one of a kind place!

  • 5/5 molly m. 5 months ago on Google
    Great hotel! Staff are so sweet! Whenever I needed something they were on top of it. Bar looked very cute and both the restaurants seemed reasonably priced for a hotel. The gym is clean and has a decent amount of workout machines.

  • 4/5 Laurencio R. 1 year ago on Google
    This is on edge of downtown so getting to it os somewhat easy. Plenty of food options around hotel. Note the hotel is very classic, so it is elegant in a traditional old way. Staff is fantastic and it has a very live bar area. Menu could be updated and the hot brown is a great comfort entree to taste once. Their wings were the star of our meal as was the service.

  • 4/5 Michael G. 2 years ago on Google
    Accommodations were nice. I'm really surprised the dining area was not open for dinner or breakfast because there were many Alabama and Georgia fans staying there. Instead of having coffee only available behind the front desk, there should be Keurig Coffee Machines and K-cups in each room or at least in the lobby. Real impressed with the architecture and detour. Overall wonderful stay.

  • 4/5 Thomas L. 2 years ago on Google
    I love coming here when our band is on tour. Staff is great and the hot brown is famously great. KAT our server at the restaurant was A-1 . The only draw back is the beds have seen better days so check the indents from body's on each side. But that's it.

  • 5/5 Laureen H. 2 years ago on Google
    It is a wonderful hotel with employees that really care about their guests. The restaurants were both excellent. The sleeping rooms are very cozy and feel like home. The lobby is very pretty. It is close to all the things to see in downtown.

  • 5/5 Michael R. 1 year ago on Google
    What an amazing Hotel and Staff. Bartender Ben is one of the most knowledgeable and professional bartender I have encountered in a long time. After a brief stay at the bar and coming back few hours later he remembered my name which is impressive.Our server ( I believe Chris) was also great, attentive and very professional and yet fun. Harold who has worked at this hotel for 29 years is great. The rest of the Staff was very pleasant and professional also. I would highly recommend this hotel. Food is also amazing here.

  • 5/5 Terry H. 1 year ago on Google
    I love the location, architecture and atmosphere. Attended several events and meetings. The food was amazing. The steak I ate at dinner was divine. Some of the BEST steak I ever have eaten in fact. The staff was incredible and went out of their way to make me feel welcomed. I thoroughly love coming here. The historic photos and stories make this place one of a kind. Thank you!

  • 5/5 Rachel Land N. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful hotel! Wonderful staff! The food is really excellent and Ben, the bartender, was great. We stayed for 3 nights and the staff is friendly and very helpful. There was a mix up with the valet and the hotel took care of it right away and didn't hesitate to help us get to our destination. Stay here -- it's a gem!

  • 5/5 Alexis A. 1 year ago on Google
    This was the best hotel my family has stayed at! Family of 4 with 2 children (one child is under 12) and we were a little bit hesitant when booking because we didn’t think it would be family friendly, but the staff definitely changed that view for us. The staff was incredibly friendly and helpful, including the bartender, the men at the door, as well as the woman at the front desk. Overall family friendly and a beautiful hotel!

  • 5/5 Cuzndupre 1 year ago on Google
    My recent visit was to the marvelous small bar (near the garage entrance) for the opera after-party and our experience was very enjoyable. We were unfortunately too late for the short menu which looked quite inviting; we settled for a cheese tray which was both fresh and fine for the occasion. This is a nice place to unwind quietly after a show, particularly the Brown Theatre due to proximity. Last overnight there was also pleasant and luxurious, and it appears there have been updates since. Pricey, but lux usually is.

  • 5/5 James S. 10 months ago on Google
    Very elegant atmosphere. Beautiful decor and friendly staff, especially Elizabeth in the restaurant. She had a very professional courtesy, hospitality, and demeanor you don't find very often these days. Also, the nightly piano music set the tone for a relaxing, pleasant evening.

  • 5/5 Diana N. 1 year ago on Google
    My company uses this hotel but I had never stayed here before. It was a wonderful surprise. I love everything old fashioned so this place was perfect. It is huge and beautiful and cozy and welcoming. There were so many special things about it. Many exquisite paintings on the walls along with historical artifacts displayed. Everything good about society one hundred years ago can be found here although it was also very modern with the latest technology etc. I just felt like I was in a refined atmosphere. I had some trouble trying to print something on the computer and Zack from the front desk went out of his way to help me. He was very nice. The security guard downstairs also helped me! Anyway this was a great experience and I hope to return soon.

  • 5/5 D G. 1 year ago on Google
    I did not stay in the hotel, just stopped by for food and drinks. This hotel looks immaculate!!! The marble floors, beautiful wallpaper and ornament ceiling was just breathe taking. The hot brown sandwich is a must!! I've heard for years about the hot brown sandwich, it did not disappoint. If you are in Louisville, stop by here for this meal experience

  • 5/5 Fe S. 1 year ago on Google
    A stunning historical hotel! I walked in and immediately was captured by the beauty of the atmosphere. Adoring the beautiful architecture, the music was a pleasant surprise. I am looking at the detailed ceiling and bar thinking the music was an audio track played throughout the venue. Just moments after pondering this, I look to my left to see the pianist smiling at me. A simple gesture, but a memorable one. I had dinner in the lobby that night and it was nothing short of amazing. J. Graham Café was lovely as well, the staff were so personable and delivered when it came to hospitality. Kat, Phoebe and Elizabeth really made my time there special and of course, I tried the Petite Brown- it was exceptional! There a so many reasons to go back, I can’t wait to revisit The Brown.

  • 5/5 David G. 10 months ago on Google
    A wonderful old grand hotel. The Brown has great history and design with upgrades that make it totally modern and comfortable. The rooms are spacious, elegant and extremely comfortable. The public areas display all of the wonderful designs of a bygone era with the modern touches you would expect in a five-star hotel. The service from the staff is efficient, friendly and courteous. The food is outstanding, and don't miss the famous Hot Brown. It was invented here and no one makes it better. If you are going to Louisville, this is the place to stay.

  • 5/5 Brent S. 11 months ago on Google
    We had never been to Louisville and came here for a quick weekend trip. We hadn't heard of the Brown hotel but so glad we chose to stay here. The history and elegance of 100-year-old hotel is very apparent in every corner of this property. The grand lobby and lobby bars were great places to hang out during our trip. What was most impressive is that every member of the staff was super pleasant and helpful. Within 20 seconds of arriving the gentleman working the door began to explain all the great things going on in the city this weekend. Everyone we encountered had just as much information to share in just as pleasant of a tone. The rooms are older, but very nice and reminiscent of all the amazing history this hotel has seen. It is centrally located to the water and only 10 minutes from Churchill Downs. If you are in the city I would highly recommend a visit here.

  • 5/5 Merle B. 11 months ago on Google
    The Brown Hotel is so much a large part of our 3 day mini getaway. Excellent food, charm and beauty are credited to your excellence in caring for your guests. The very best of the Brown are the people you employ. The service we received could not have been better. Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. We all wanted to steal Sue“s enthusiasm. She gets the gold medal!! Thanks again for hospitality and grace.

  • 4/5 A. M. 9 months ago on Google
    You can't go to Louisville without staying at The Brown. It looks so cool because of the historic architecture. It is nicely located downtown as well. Great restaurants in the hotel too. The rooms are big. I will say that the curtains wouldn't completely close, so I was very glad that I brought a sleep mask, just in case. Otherwise the downtown lights would have kept me up all night. Also the A/C wasn't quite working and it was a bit hot - but it was a holiday weekend and I know they were busy.


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