On streets lined with marvelously restored Queen Anne, Federal and Greek Revival homes in New Albany's Mansion Row District, the Culbertson Mansion, a three-story Second French Empire mansion is probably the most spectacular of all. More than 20,000-square-feet, the 25-room residence is restored to its former glory with such touches as hand painted fabric wallpaper, chandeliers dripping crystal, elaborately plastered and frescoed ceilings, a grand rosewood staircase winding its way up three stories and marble fireplaces and is open for tours.

Just blocks away, downtown New Albany offers distinctive dining including Havana Blues, a Cuban restaurant, French cuisine at Louis Le Francais and fare such as Duck Confit Mac and Cheese and Chocolate Creme Brule to accompany handcrafted artisan beers like Cask-conditioned Bob’s Old 15-B Robust Brown Porter at The New Albanian Bank Street Brewery.