by Bridget Kulla
3/2/2017
Photos courtesy of Norton Commons.
Nestled in the farmlands of Kentucky, there’s a neighborhood that harkens back to the old days and is filled with traditional Southern charm. Located just outside of Louisville, Norton Commons is the kind of place where neighbors sit in rocking chairs on the front porch, sip sweet tea and swap stories until it’s time to head in for supper. And though it feels like it’s been here forever, this neighborhood is relatively new.
Norton Commons is a planned community that emphasizes a walkable lifestyle and a close-knit community. The homes are set close together with wide front porches, and there’s a vast system of parks, squares, plazas and trails all connected by a lively town center with a stream of neighborhood activities that includes concerts, block parties, festivals and movie nights to name a few. If you’re in the Norton Commons area, be sure to check out these charming neighborhood spots.
VISIT THE TOWN CENTER.
With over 60 independently-owned businesses in the town center, six parks, two dog parks, two swimming pools and a brand-new YMCA, there’s always something to do and see in Norton Commons. Adding convenience to the comfort of home, the town center at Norton Commons seamlessly connects the residential homes with the neighborhood’s upscale amenities, and brings everything within walking distance. The close-knit neighborhood feeling is really emphasized in the town center, making you feel like a part of the family from the moment you arrive.
TRADITIONAL HOME STYLES, MODERN MATERIALS.
To capture that Southern Louisville charm, many of the homes have wide, welcoming porches and each one feels more inviting than the next. The homes range in style from antebellum architecture to farmhouse revival and classic Southern cottages. Though the home styles replicate classic looks with authenticity, they’re built with modern materials, like Hardie® siding and trim, that emphasize the classic Southern look and feel. If you’re visiting Norton Commons during the summer, be sure to grab tickets to the annual Homearama where a variety of beautiful homes are featured and you can get an up-close look at the homes’ gorgeous interiors and exteriors.
Photos courtesy of Citizen 7.
GRAB A BITE FROM SOUTH AMERICA.
Explore the tastes of South American street food at Citizen 7 restaurant. Known for outstanding tacos, guacamole and queso, as well as craft margaritas, this local favorite serves delicious dishes that transport you to South America, if only for lunch and dinner. Step inside to find a comfortable environment where new, old, and undiscovered friends gather and admire the beauty in getting to know their neighbors. And be sure to order the Flaming Asadero, it’s a starter that’s on fire – literally! This appetizer shows up at your table aflame, and is a sight to see and devour.
ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS.
Dinner, live music and a gorgeous sunset view across the lake, what’s not to love? Once a month, from May until October, you can catch a concert and devour a grab-and-go dinner from local food trucks at the Norton Commons Amphitheater during the Music by the Water series. These outdoor concerts showcase up-and-coming artists as well as established local favorites, and the music ranges from brass bands and percussion groups to southern party rock, bluegrass and everything in between. Make sure to grab your spot early by setting out your tailgating chairs the morning of the concert because over 2,000 people show up to every concert!
GET YOUR FRESH FOOD FIX AND SEASONAL GOODIES.
It’s hard to feel more like a Norton Commons’ local than when you shop at the weekly Farmers’ Market. The market takes place every Wednesday afternoon from June 1 until the middle of September and was started in conjunction with neighboring farms Foxhollow Farm and Rootbound Farm. At the market, you’ll be sure to find something completely unique to the Louisville area with local farmers and artisans selling everything from local produce and wildflowers, to local honey, candies, meats, artisan dog food and locally made soaps and lotions. And since it takes place on Wednesdays, the Farmers’ Market is a great time for neighbors to catch up mid-week while shopping for some fresh goods.
CATCH A FLICK ON THE LAWN WITH THE FAMILY.
End your day watching a family-friendly film on the lawn in the Norton Commons town center. Shown once a month from June through August, the movies are always recently-released, crowd-pleasers that are even more fun to watch in the open air. Movie-goers should bring chairs and blankets, and scout out a good spot a few hours before the film starts because the lawn fills up fast. Though there are usually sweet treats, freshly-popped popcorn and other goodies available during the movie, families can also grab a quick bite to eat before the show at one of the fantastic local restaurants in the town center.
