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16 Must-visit Kentucky Distilleries

These Kentucky distilleries offer tours, tastings, and more for the ultimate trip through Bourbon Country.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Most of the world's bourbon comes from Kentucky. All of the big bourbon names are here: Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve, Maker's Mark, Wild Turkey. The state's natural environment and weather are perfect for growing corn, an essential ingredient in bourbon, and distilling, so when spirit-savvy European immigrants settled in Kentucky in the 1700s, it was a match made in whiskey heaven.

Now, hundreds of years later, people can visit the state to experience the top Kentucky distilleries — some which have been crafting spirits for generations — including those along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail , a route with 42 distilleries offering tastings and tours.

Kentucky distillery tours, tastings, and experiences show visitors how spirits are made. Tour-goers walk away with a better grasp on the process, a more refined palate, and probably a few bottles to take home. Those looking for a well-rounded whiskey experience should start their journey at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center in Louisville. Here, visitors can learn more about bourbon history and plot their distillery stops.

Make Louisville your home base for a multiday trip along the trail — the city is home to its own Urban Bourbon Trail . The bars on it serve at least 60 kinds of bourbon and have trained staff who can answer questions, so you're sure to leave Kentucky with a new appreciation for the brown spirit.

Here are 16 Kentucky distilleries all bourbon fans should visit — and don't worry, some even offer gin or vodka for those hoping for variety.

Wild Turkey, Lawrenceburg

With an award-winning visitor center designed with the traditional silhouette of a Kentucky tobacco barn, a tasting room that looks out over the Kentucky River, and a gift shop selling souvenirs and Wild Turkey bourbon (of course), this is the perfect place to learn how the famous brand's spirits are made. You might even spot Hall of Fame distillers Jimmy and Eddie Russell hard at work.

Bulleit Distilling Co., Shelbyville

Bulleit Distilling Co. opened its distillery to visitors in 2017, making it a relatively new addition to the Kentucky distillery scene, but the bourbon made here is based on family tradition dating back to the 1800s. A "high-rye recipe" sets the spirit apart from others in Kentucky Bourbon Country. Stop at the Shelbyville distillery to give it a taste and learn about the brand's history through an interactive, multisensory experience.

James B. Beam Distilling Co., Clermont

Jim Beam is one of the most recognizable names in Kentucky bourbon, which makes the James B. Beam Distilling Co. a must-experience for many. The distillery is located in Clermont, where the first Jim Beam was distilled in the late 18th century. Guests can take a tour, dine on Kentucky burgoo and hot honey fried chicken in The Kitchen Table Restaurant, and sample its signature cocktails at the bar.

Maker's Mark Distillery, Loretto

An iconic brand known for its red wax-dipped bottles, the Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto is a National Historic Landmark. It also claims to be the largest distillery in the world and the first in Kentucky's Bourbon Country. On tours, guests can learn about the history of the brand, dating back to the 1950s, its makers, and its centuries-old recipe. You can even Make Your Mark by hand-dipping a bottle to take home in the classic red wax at the DIY dipping station.

Woodford Reserve Distillery, Versailles

Visit Woodford Reserve's historic distillery in Versailles for tours and tastings in a beautiful pastoral environment speckled with pre-Prohibition warehouses and made serene by trickling Glenn’s Creek. Another National Historic Landmark, the distillery is where Woodford Reserve says the "art of making fine bourbon first took place" in 1812.

Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort

This family-owned distillery has traditions dating back to the late 1700s. Now a National Historic Landmark, Buffalo Trace Distillery welcomes whiskey drinkers to sip and learn about the history of bourbon production on a tour. It's not all about the brown beverage here, either: Buffalo Trace also makes some tasty vodkas and refreshing sodas.

Four Roses Distillery, Lawrenceburg

Take a tour or enjoy a guided tasting at this Lawrenceburg distillery . Built in 1910, the unique Spanish mission-style facility is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, so you can enjoy a history lesson while learning about Four Roses' unique recipes. After your tour, you can sit down with a seasonal cocktail at Bar 1888 (fun fact: 1888 was the year "Four Roses" became trademarked).

Angel's Envy Distillery, Louisville

Located on Louisville's Whiskey Row, this distillery offers unique tours and tasting experiences. The Bottle Your Own Single Barrel option, for example, gives visitors the chance to bring home a bottle they filled themselves. Besides tours, you can also take courses here, including a fun Manhattan or rye cocktail-making class that puts you behind the bar.

Castle & Key Distillery, Frankfort

Often regarded as one of the best distilleries in the country, Castle & Key offers tours and tastings in the Old Taylor Distillery in Frankfort. The Castle itself stands as the main attraction, but the grounds also include a sunken garden and beautiful springhouse. Exploring the property is as fun as tasting the bourbon in a cocktail from Counter 17. And if you tire of bourbon (hey, it happens), then try a Castle & Key-distilled gin or vodka instead.

Bardstown Bourbon Company, Bardstown

This innovative distillery , located on 100 acres in a small town south of Louisville, offers experiences ranging from blind tastings and blending demonstrations to food pairings and mixology classes. There's also an on-site restaurant with boozy milkshakes, poutine, chicharrónes, and bourbon-spiked bread pudding.

Green River Distilling Co., Owensboro

Learn how whiskey goes from grain to barrel, partake in a custom called barrel "thieving" (tasting bourbon straight from the barrel), or sit with the experts at Green River Distilling Co. while you sip. The distillery is in Owensboro, just across the Ohio River from Indiana. Without a tour, you'll still have a great experience sampling a flight at the cocktail lounge.

Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Bardstown

Founded in 1935, Heaven Hill Distillery maintains more than a million barrels aging in 60 warehouses across Kentucky for a portfolio of brands. Go for a tour at Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, in the maker's birthplace of Bardstown, for a behind-the-scenes look at its production process, stroll through the on-site museum, and enjoy a tasting at the Five Brothers Bar.

James E. Pepper Distillery, Lexington

Named for the Kentucky colonel and third-generation distiller who advocated for his family's whiskey recipe in the 1800s, the James E. Pepper Distillery reopened in 2018 after being dormant for half a century. Now at the heart of the Lexington Distillery District, it welcomes bourbon lovers in for tastings and a casual history lesson on the distillery, the family, its ties to horse racing, and how the American Revolution played a role in Pepper-made bourbon.

Limestone Branch Distillery, Lebanon

Keeping family bourbon and moonshine recipes alive for more than 200 years, Limestone Branch is run by a couple of seventh-generation distillers. The Lebanon location is a tranquil place to visit for an old-fashioned tour and a cocktail of the highest quality from the Minor's Lounge on site. It's particularly worthwhile if you also have an interest in gin, as the clear spirit is produced here, too.

Old Forester Distilling Co., Louisville

Take a tour of Old Forester 's Whiskey Row facility to learn how the 1870-founded brand ferments, distills, matures, and bottles its bourbon. Per usual, each tour ends with a tasting. However, if you miss out — this place gets busy and books tours months in advance — you'll still walk away with a higher whiskey IQ after trying the bourbon varieties at George's Bar.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company, Louisville

Housed in a former tobacco warehouse at the end of Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, Kentucky Peerless is really into making rye whiskey, but it also does bourbon. A visit to the distillery can be enhanced by a guided tasting, distillery tour, or private VIP Heritage Experience. A bonus to your visit: meeting the distillery cat, aptly named Rye.

Related Articles

14 Best Distilleries To Visit Along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail

There may not be another drink more mysterious than bourbon. It's known for caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, yet each bottle is unique, carrying different tastes, aromas, and surprising finishes. The amber-colored whiskey has been around since the 1700s when settlers in Kentucky (mainly Scottish, Irish, and German) realized they had the perfect soil for growing grains that would eventually be distilled as bourbon, according to History.com . Today, Kentucky still reigns as the number one producer of bourbon, claiming 95% of all bourbon distilleries. 

It seems Kentucky was destined for the job. It isn't just the soil that makes the land perfect. Fred Minnick, author of "Whiskey Women" and "Bourbon Curious: A Simple Tasting Guide for the Savvy Drinker" tells History.com  that the water plays a big factor because of how the natural limestone works to filter out minerals. That's right — even the water is perfect. All of that is to say if you love bourbon, Kentucky's Bourbon Trail is the place to be. With 37 distilleries, there is truly nowhere else on earth where you will find more bourbon within a 250-mile radius. Feel free to visit them all, but if you find it tough to choose, read on as we look at the best distilleries to visit along Kentucky's Bourbon Trail. Pack your bags and get started.

Evan Williams

According to Explore Kentucky History , Evan Williams is said to be the first commercial distillery in Kentucky. Evan Williams himself came to Louisville, Kentucky from Wales in 1780. You'll find a historical marker (#2445) in his honor in Louisville. Just three years later, after realizing he'd settled in a land where the soil and water were perfect for distilling bourbon, he opened a distillery. 

The brand's website  explains that its bourbon, named after Evan Williams himself, is aged even longer than required by law, creating a Kentucky Straight Bourbon with bold character. As the first distillery in Kentucky, placed along the banks of the Ohio River way back in 1783, Evan Williams is proud to still be delivering one of the smoothest bourbons for novices and connoisseurs alike to enjoy. Today, Evan Williams bourbon is distilled at Heaven Hill Distillery, and you can enjoy the Evan Williams experience in downtown Louisville where they offer tours, tastings, and a fun speakeasy area as well (via Bourbon Trail Tours ).

Angel's Envy

If anything, you've got to visit Angel's Envy to hear the story of such a fantastic name. During the aging process of bourbon, some alcohol evaporates. It's said that the missing bourbon is the "angel's share," per Vine Pair , hence what's left is the angel's envy. You'll notice that Angel's Envy has a beautifully shaped bottle that is inspired by Angel's wings. Angel's Envy distillery is one of the youngest on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, as it began in only 2011. Today, you'll find the distillery in downtown Louisville, as the first full-production distillery to open its doors in that city. 

If you are looking for one of the smoothest bourbons in the world , you'll be in the right place at Angel's Envy. The distillery is known for bending rules in a good way, such as using second-barrel finishing techniques, which are usually only seen in the making of Scotch. Gentleman Ranter's explains that Angel's ages its bourbon in charred American oak barrels for up to six years and in the last few months it is moved to port wine casks, creating a drink that is ridiculously smooth and easy to sip.

According to Michter's , George Washington bought bottles of their bourbon straight from the distillery back during the Revolutionary War to keep his men warm through the long winter at Valley Forge. If President Washington visited, you probably should as well. Michter's began its journey in Pennsylvania back in 1753. It was founded by a Swiss Mennonite farmer named John Shenk.

It wasn't until the 1990s that Michter's found its home in Kentucky, after a long history of dealing with issues such as prohibition, bankruptcy, and the near disappearance of the Michter name. This delightful and sometimes hard-to-find bourbon owes its rareness to barrels that are toasted before they are charred, which helps to expose deeper layers of the interior of the barrels, offering greater levels of flavor to the bourbon, per Cocktails and Bars . You can visit Michter's distillery along the Bourbon Trail in Louisville, right across from the Louisville Slugger Museum.

Old Forester

In case you haven't noticed, most bourbon is steeped in history and heritage, and that's one of the reasons bourbon drinkers love it. Old Forester doesn't disappoint in this area. The founder, George Garvin Brown of Munfordville, Kentucky, created the first bottle of Forester in 1870, according to the brand's website . After purchasing the Mattingly Distillery, George created the first double-barreled bourbon, called "Very Old Fine Whisky," in 1910. A fire shut down production, so the whisky was all dumped, and although it was ready to bottle, he decided to put it all into second barrels. The stories just get better. In the 1940s, during World War II, the Old Forester distillery converted the entire production line so they could produce industrial-grade alcohol. This was done to help out the troops and the entire war effort. You just have to love bourbon stories. 

A fun tidbit about Old Forester is that it is the only bourbon that has remained in the same company before, during, and after prohibition. Tour Old Forester and hear all the great stories about George Garvin Brown on Whiskey Row in Louisville, Kentucky.

Everything you need to know about Bulleit bourbon is summed up by the distillers on its website , which reads "Our aging philosophy is simple: We wait until our bourbon is ready." Simple, yet essential words that describe a bourbon known for its extra spice and smoothness. Bulleit's claim to fame is their higher use of rye in the mash.

As with many bourbons, the story starts out a bit sad but has a happy ending. The Rum Howler Blog writes that Augustus Bulleit, the creator of Bulleit bourbon back in 1830, disappeared while transporting the bourbon across the country, and Bulleit bourbon disappeared as well for over 100 years. Thankfully, generations later, Thomas E. Bulleit, Jr. said enough is enough and brought Bulleit bourbon back to life. According to Bourbonr , it's not a whiskey that is difficult to run across. You'll see it in most bars and liquor stores; however, as a common shelf bourbon, it gives novices and connoisseurs a unique taste, unlike some of the others on the shelf. Check out Bulleit bourbon at the Bulleit Distilling Co. in Shelbyville, Kentucky.

Ready for a little romance? Four Roses has you covered. It starts with a tempting beauty and ends with a "yes" to a proposal. According to Four Roses Bourbon , Paul Jones, Jr. fell in love with a Southern belle and had to have her. In the most romantic gesture ever, he wrote a letter to her, asking for her hand in marriage. To top his amorous proposal, she replied by writing that she would wear a rose corsage to the grand ball they would both be attending if her answer were "yes." And, you guessed it — she wore four roses. Jones was certainly relieved to not be humiliated with a "no" and we are all relieved he continued to make fine bourbon, aptly naming it Four Roses.

Four Roses is known for the fact that it has 10 different bourbon recipes, and each has its own notes. This is done by creating different yeast strains and separate mash bills. The distillery is as gorgeous as the romantic rose label and can be toured along the Kentucky Bourbon trail in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Woodford Reserve

If you drink bourbon, you've heard of Woodford Reserve. It's one of the most popular bourbons out there. And although the price point is a decent one at around $50 a bottle, Woodford Reserve is considered a premium bourbon. 

According to The Spirits Educator , the story of Woodford Reserve begins in the cute little Kentucky town of Versailles. There, a man named Elijah Pepper began to distill corn into whiskey in 1797. His son would then take over in 1835 and hire a Scottish scientist to help with the distilling process. That scientist, Dr. James C. Crow, is credited with inventing the sour mash that is still used in bourbon fermenting today. After a few more changes in hand, the distillery would eventually end up with Brown-Forman in 1994 and the bourbon was named Woodford after the county in which it resides.

The distillery, which is along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, is considered one of the most beautiful ones to see. Woodford Reserve's website  explains that they offer several different tour options and you should aim to book them a few months in advance because they sell out.

The history of Jim Beam began with the American dream and some corn. The Boehm family hailed from Germany and arrived in America in 1740 when the country was still 13 colonies. Fast forward 48 years and the family not only moved to Kentucky to take advantage of government incentives that were offered for farming corn, but they also Americanized their name as many immigrants did back then, to Beam (via JimBeam.com ). 

Whiskey, namely rye whiskey, was already popular by then, but Jacob Beam made the decision to start using up excess corn and turned it into a mash for distilling. Their bourbon whiskey was born and folks all over loved Jim Beam. He sold his first barrel in 1795, and the story continues today. By the way, Kentucky already had 2,000 distilleries by the early 1800s, so selling a barrel of a new one you've made was no easy task.

Bourbon law says you must age the whiskey at least two years for it to be considered bourbon. However, Jim Beam is known for its four-year aging process to bring bourbon fans a satisfyingly smooth spirit. Seeing the Jim Beam distillery is seeing a business that began two centuries ago. You'll find them in Clermont, Kentucky where they offer tours and Kentucky hospitality.

Maker's Mark

Maker's Mark begins with Bill Samuels, Sr., who is quoted as saying he wanted a bourbon "that won't blow my ears off," per the brand's website . And that's what happened, but let's back it up a little first. Bill's family already had a bourbon recipe that was 170 years old. He decided to experiment with it, determined to create a bourbon that wouldn't blow his ears off and he, well ... set the drapes on fire, along with the ancient family recipe, while doing so. Thankfully, Bill had spunk and he continued on. He wisely used bread making to experiment with grains and soon he'd find the secret that would make Maker's Mark stand out amongst the bourbon crowd — red winter wheat instead of rye. Brilliant.

It's the red winter wheat that gives Maker's its sweet notes, making it an excellent bourbon in cocktails like the Old Fashioned , and also perfect for sipping neat so you can enjoy Maker's Mark's delicately sweet notes.

We can't end without discussing the dripping red wax that seals the bottle. It's purely decorative and was designed by one of the first women in the bourbon industry, Margie Samuels, whose name resides in the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. The red wax makes Maker's Mark stand out on the shelves and consumers can't help but be curious. Visit Maker's Mark in Loretto, Kentucky along the Bourbon Trail. 

Heaven Hill

Prohibition ended and the Shapira family got busy making bourbon. Heaven Hill Brands writes that the family was taking quite a risk. The Great Depression was at its peak, the family had no whiskey at the time, and no brand of their own. Today, something people often don't realize about Heaven Hill is that it's the largest, independent, family-owned distillery in the world today, making 19 different bourbons and whiskeys, including Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. The distillery makes a whopping 1,300 barrels a day. Hard work and a dream pay off.

Heaven Hill Distillery explains that the business began in Bardstown, Kentucky by a gentleman named William Heavenhill. The name was misspelled one time as "Heaven Hill" while filling out official paperwork as the business was being formed. It would have cost $10 to fix it, so the separated words of the name remained.

One of the Shapira brothers, Max, was once quoted as saying, "When you're in the business of making products that you can't sell for four years or longer, it takes patience and perseverance" (via Heaven Hill Distillery ). It certainly does. Eventually, the Jim Beam family entered the picture and helped make Heaven Hill the world-renowned distillery it is today. You can visit this amazing place in downtown Louisville, Kentucky.

Willet Distillery is one of the last truly family-owned distilleries in Kentucky. They are very proud of it and believe so highly in their family-owned business that they regularly turn down investors. At one point, the distillery closed because of the financial pressures that came in the 1980s when clear spirits, such as vodka, were king. Fast forward to 1984, when the Kulsveen couple purchased the property from the Willets and brought the Willet Distillery back to life. From there, Willet would become seriously premium. It's one of the most expensive bourbons in the world , with some bottles selling for $4,000.

Willet is known for its willingness to share things, such as its mash bill, with the public. Most distilleries keep those numbers a secret. Because of the past history of Willet, especially having to close the doors at one time, Drew Kulsveen was quoted in Whisky Magazine as saying that customer tastes dictate their business. If people have a change of taste, we have to protect ourselves." That's why they are now seeking the distilling of other spirits as well. Visit the Willet Distillery, rich in history, in Bardstown, Kentucky.

Wild Turkey

It took three different stories to merge and bring us the beloved American bourbon called Wild Turkey, according to The Whiskey Jug . It includes the Ripy family who began a distillery called Old Moore in 1850. Then the story continues with a change in name to Austin Nichols, since the Ripys merged with that distillery, and finally, in 1940 we see the first bottle that's named Wild Turkey, which Austin Nichols came up with while hunting turkeys. By the way, in 2016, Matthew McConaughey became the creative director for the distillery.

Wild Turkey prides itself in using only non-GMO corn in their mash bill (which is kept quite secretive). Bourbon Obsessed points out that Wild Turkey is a classic bourbon, delivering those bourbon notes you'd expect while also hitting your nose and palate with a surprising spiciness.

The distillery is located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and offers plenty of tours for Kentucky Bourbon Trail visitors. Wild Turkey writes that its new visitors' site is something to see, and it has even received several awards.

Green River

Along the bourbon trail, you'll find craft distilleries, which are smaller distilleries that are motivated by innovation and creativity, obeying the laws of bourbon production, of course, but also looking for new ways to make it even better. When it comes to innovation today, Green River Distillery is at the forefront. 

Green River believes in doing things correctly because bourbon is bourbon. Master distiller at Green River Distillery, Jacob Call explains that making good bourbon doesn't require a magic bullet. There are certain processes that have to be followed and the right ingredients have to be used. On the other hand, the distillery also believes in shaking up the bourbon world by trying new things, such as aging bourbon in unique barrels. Green River is currently experimenting with wine and rum barrels. 

If that isn't enticing enough, all of Green River Distillery's corn is locally sourced, often within just a few miles of the distillery. On top of that, they give 1% of their sales to environmental causes. It's not just a distillery in Kentucky. It's a part of Kentucky and cares about the environment. Visit this innovative craft distillery along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in Owensboro, Kentucky.

Castle and Key

The distillery, Old Taylor, which once housed the infamous bourbon Colonel G.H. Taylor, was left abandoned until Castle and Key purchased the property and restored it into something beautiful, according to Sipping History . It was Will Arvin, in 2012, who visited the grounds of the old distillery and found roofs caving in, weeds growing wild, and, all in all, a historical place that was falling apart. He fell in love and the site for Castle and Key was born. Castle and Key is another new craft distillery, but the building and grounds that house it are full of rich history. Thanks to the restoration, tours are now happening again, and visitors hear not only the new Castle and Key story but the stories of Old Taylor as well. 

Castle and Key writes that quality is of the utmost importance to the distillery. After all, it's practically on hallowed ground. The distillery make this promise clear by encouraging customers to let them know how they feel about the bourbon and their experiences. Although this craft distillery is along the bourbon trail, Castle and Key offers more than bourbon. It also distills gin, vodka, and rye whiskey. There's something for everyone. Visit Castle and Key in Frankfort, Kentucky. 

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Bourbon Tours

Bourbon country done right..

​Let us show you around Kentucky’s Bourbon Country on one of our fully ​custom and private experiences. You choose the distilleries, we do the rest!

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Custom bourbon tours.

Family Owned & Operated Since 2011

Three Distilleries

Enjoy tours and tastings at two distilleries, plus a tasting at a third! You pick the distilleries, we'll take care of setting up the tour/tasting reservations!

Southern-Cooked Meal

Lunch is included! Based on the distilleries chosen, we'll set up a reservation (and pre-pay) for lunch at a local restaurant the day of your tour.

Private Shuttles

Your tour with us includes private transportation with one of our guides for your group to/from your lodging, and to all distillery stops and lunch venue.

= One Incredible Experience

We are a group of bourbon loving individuals who also just so happen to be related. Since the start, Kentucky Bourbon Boys has been family owned and locally operated with one goal in mind - sharing Bourbon Country with the world.

Our passion is helping expose visitors and locals alike to the beauty of Kentucky and foster their own love of bourbon on an incredible adventure. So whether you're new to the world of bourbon, or been a devout fan for many years like us, we can't wait to show you Bourbon Country done right!

Three Regions Covered

Plan your tour.

With KBB, every tour is different. When you book a custom private tour, you'll choose three distilleries from one region and then our team will take it from there!

South Region Distilleries

The Bourbon Capital of the World

Frankfort / Lexington

East region distilleries.

Beautiful Horse Country

Downtown Distilleries

Distilleries in downtown Louisville and the surrounding area

• Bardstown Bourbon Company
• Boundary Oak
• Heaven Hill
• Kentucky Cooperage (Barrel Factory)
• Limestone Branch
• Log Still Distillery
• Maker’s Mark
• Preservation
• Maker's Mark
• Barrel House
• Bluegrass Distillers
• Buffalo Trace
• Bulleit Distilling Co.
• Castle & Key Distillery
• Fresh Bourbon
• James E. Pepper Distilling Co.
• Jeptha Creed
• J Mattingly 1845
• Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company
• Lexington Brewing & Distilling
• Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.
• Wild Turkey
• Wilderness Trail
• Woodford Reserve
• Wild Turkey (Currently closed)
• Angel’s Envy
• Bardstown Bourbon Company Louisville Tasting Room
• Buzzard’s Roost
• Evan Williams Experience
• Kentucky Artisan
• Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery
• Neeley Family Distillery
• Old Forester
• Old Louisville Whiskey Co.
• Pursuit Spirits
• Rabbit Hole
• Stitzel-Weller
• Uncle Boojie’s
• Angel's Envy
• Buzzard's Roost
• Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery
• Uncle Boojie's

An Experience Unlike Any Other

We are striving to be the innovative leader in bourbon tourism, by providing memorable, unique experiences and first-class customer service.

You might say we know bourbon...

We are honored to be named as Trip Advisor's Travelers' Choice for 2023 (for the 6th year in a row!), be a recognized member of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association, and be an official transportation partner of the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail®! Many of our owners and drivers are also Executive Bourbon Stewards of the Stave & Thief Society, likened to a sommelier in the wine world!

Have questions about how this works?

Check out our How It Works page or visit our FAQ page. Still need help planning the perfect experience? Reach out to our booking team – they’d be happy to help!

We are a group of bourbon lovers who also just so happen to be related. Since the start, Kentucky Bourbon Boys has been family owned and locally operated with one goal in mind - sharing Bourbon Country with the world.

Find out what all the fuss is about!

Our team prides ourself on our responsiveness and communication with our guests. But don’t take our word for it…

First time going to Kentucky and KBB provided us one of the better trips my family and I had in a while. The first call with Tyler to set up the weekend was smooth and effortless with a peace of mind. Throughout the weeks to the final day prior to this past weekend, I would call with a few questions and every person I spoke to felt like it was the owner. Extremely patient and knowledgeable with outstanding customer service. Our driver Ethan really took our initial experience and elevated it into two fantastic days. We went to four roses, Buffalo, Woodford, whiskey thief, willet, makers, and bardstown. Besides the tours and tastings being outstanding, seeing other KBB tours having the same experience as us was reassuring that we found the right company. I really appreciate KBB and the experience they provided. If you’re looking to go to Kentucky, do it right, Book KBB.

Kentucky Bourbon Boys would get six stars if I could rate them that high!! We’re already planning our trip back to Louisville & can’t wait to use them again.  They were super helpful in the planning process and truly made our trip amazing. Our driver Rusty was so knowledgeable & went above and beyond for our group. We visited Limestone Distillery, Maker’s Mark and Bardstown.  We had lunch at the Cozy Corner which our group thoroughly enjoyed. The tour was all inclusive and I literally cannot say better things about this tour service!!!

Rachelle J.

We used KBB for a bachelor party. First booking was very smooth and the coordination team was very prompt with communication about the tour. You also get more flexibility to pick distilleries that you want to visit vs just a set itinerary. They also pick you up from where you are staying so it is incredibly convenient. Larry W. was our tour guide and he was so kind, took pictures for us throughout the day, and shared fun facts and bourbon history on top of the tours we were able to take.

I can not stress enough how great of an experience we had and would 100% use them again for future bourbon country tours.

Katheryn K.

Had a great day with KBB on a custom tour. Have been on other bourbon tours, and it was so great to be able to customize our experience, Friendly, reliable, accommodating. Larry D was our driver and made it a wonderful day for us!

Great communication from start to finish. Our Driver Bobby was a great guy, very informative and helpful.

Our guide Justin was on time / professional / fun to be around. Everything was on schedule – he gave great recommendations on other things to do while we were in Lexington.

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Top 10 Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tours

This post contains affiliate links. as an amazon associate i earn from qualifying purchases..

Love bourbon?  Come with me on my Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour (plus my favorite off-trail distillery)!  The Bourbon Trail is easy to navigate and a fantastic getaway for bourbon lovers!

If you're a bourbon-fan, make sure to check out these posts too: The BEST Bourbon Recipes and How to Drink Bourbon: A Beginner's Guide

What Is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

If you, like me, enjoy tours of vineyards, distilleries, and breweries — listen up!

Most people know that the winery clusters in California, Italy, and France make for spectacular vineyard-hopping getaways.

But wine isn't the only beverage that has outstanding geographic regions! Major bourbon distilleries are also clustered together. These form the Kentucky Bourbon Trail , which has been growing by leaps and bounds in popularity recently.

Kentucky's native limestone rock makes bourbon production easier, and 95% of all bourbon is made in Kentucky.

A Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour

As of 2024, the Bourbon Trail has EIGHTEEN official stops.

There are dozens more small distilleries on the " Craft Tour ," including Whiskey Thief , James E. Pepper , and Log Still .

Here are some tips to help you plan a visit through nine distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and one that's off-trail!

What else is nearby?  While you're visiting Kentucky, make sure to go hiking at Natural Bridge near Lexington! If you're exploring during early summer, check out Woodstock Lavender Company near Somerset.

Bourbon Trail Tours: Are They Expensive?

Tours, as of early 2024, run in the $15 to $30 range per person. Specialty tours and tastings cost more.

If you're on a tight budget, I recommend visiting Buffalo Trace . They're off the official trail, but they had a fantastic tour.

How Long Do the Bourbon Tours Take?

Most tours are around an hour and tend to run on a set schedule.

Online reservations are highly recommended (and sometimes required).

How Many Distilleries Can I Tour in One Day?

Plan on doing 1-3 distilleries per day, since most of them require some driving to get to.

What's the Best Time + Day for a Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour?

The best bourbon tours I've had, with smaller crowds, have been on weekdays. Especially the first tour of the day .

Whatever you do, remember that the first weekend in May is Derby Weekend .

If you plan your trip then, be prepared for major crowds . Book your hotel FAR in advance, and call the distilleries ahead to find out what their touring schedule is for that weekend.

Keep in mind that distilleries can get quite warm in some sections, and so a mid-summer tour could potentially be a bit uncomfortable if you're sensitive to heat.

How Much Bourbon Will I Get to Taste on a Tour?

It depends on the distillery, but somewhere from 3 to 6 tastings. Kentucky law limits the amount they can give out.

Some of the tours give you loot in addition to the tastings.

You might get a bourbon ball candy , a souvenir glass , or even a bourbon bottle label .

Do I Have to Be 21 to Go on a Bourbon Trail Tour?

U.S. law says you have to be 21 to drink alcohol, so any tastings obviously require you to be old enough to drink.

Many distilleries do still allow underage people to tour, sometimes at a cheaper price. (They just aren't allowed to drink anything!)

Their websites will let you know for sure when you're booking a tour.

1. Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co./Town Branch (Lexington)

$13.78 per person tour and tasting.

The Town Branch distillery is small, but it's one of my favorite tasting experiences .

The short tour includes not only the distillery but also Lexington Brewing Co. across the street, where they make  Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale.

The tour includes four tokens that let you choose which drinks you want to sample, from both distillery and brewery drinks.

I’ve visited this distillery three times, and it’s still one of my favorites!

This is a nice stop if you’d like to shake up your bourbon experience with some  local brews .

2. Woodford Reserve (Versailles)

$32 per person tour and tasting ; $25 per person for tasting only ; specialty tours and tastings available.

Woodford Reserve is like the country club on this distillery tour.

The distillery grounds are gorgeous, with  limestone buildings and lush green countryside .

The tour takes you through the large distilling area and the  rickhouses  (where they store the bourbon barrels).

At the end of our tour, we enjoyed four tastings and a bourbon ball. For a more detailed look at the tour, see our full guide to Woodford Reserve .

3. Wild Turkey (Lawrenceburg)

$11 per person.

Note: As of early 2024, The Wild Turkey Visitor Center is temporarily closed for renovations. Tours and tastings are suspended, but y ou can still make purchases at the Station Master’s House gift shop.

The Wild Turkey Distillery is surrounded by beautiful Kentucky countryside.

The tour includes  four samples , and we went home with an extremely  high-quality, heavy-bottomed tasting glass .

As for the tour itself, we had bad timing – a Saturday afternoon in August, just as university students came back into town.

Our tour group was huge, and the tour guide was pretty soft-spoken with a broken microphone.

I’d definitely recommend heading to this extra-popular spot on a weekday morning.

I’ll be back, Wild Turkey!

4. Four Roses Distillery (Lawrenceburg)

$22 per person tour and tasting; $16 for tasting only. 

The Four Roses Distillery , unlike most Bourbon Trail stops, doesn’t actually age ANY of their bourbon at this location.

This location distills the grains, and then they’re aged at the Four Roses Warehouse.  So you'll see the distilling vats, but not any rickhouses or aging barrels.

We were able to sample  three bourbons and keep the tasting glass .

Four Roses Warehouse

$22 per person tour and tasting; $16 per person for tasting only.

The Four Roses warehouse is where Four Roses ages all their bourbon.

It’s located near the Jim Beam distillery.

We opted for a 30-minute tasting here, which included three bourbons and the tasting glass.  It was short, sweet, and a nice side trip while we waited for our Jim Beam tour.

5. Maker's Mark (Loretto)

$26 per person tour and tasting; specialty tours available.

In my opinion, Maker’s Mark was  one of the best tours of the actual distilling process . Here is a more in-depth post on the tour .

Our tour included a walk-through of the large distillery area, a chance to  taste the mash of fermenting grains , a view of the production line, a bottle label, four tastings, and a chance to  hand-dip a bourbon bottle in their signature red wax .

Quick Tips: This is one of the most popular spots on the Bourbon Trail – if you can go on a weekday morning, I’d recommend it.  I also recommend checking the Maker’s Mark website for directions, because our GPS took us the wrong way.

6. Heaven Hill (Bardstown)

Tasting $18; specialty tastings available.

Heaven Hill does not have an on-site distillery, but you can learn about the history of Heaven Hill, see the on-site rickhouse, and (obviously) have a bourbon tasting.

On a recent visit , we decided to go for the  connoisseur  experience. It included a brief video "tour", five tastings and a bourbon ball.

This stop was really just a tasting and not a full tour, and we were only there about 30 minutes.

7. Jim Beam (Clermont)

$28 per person tour and tasting; specialty tastings available.

The Jim Beam Distillery was one of the most well-run, informative tours on the trail.

If it's been a while since you've visited, know that Jim Beam has opened an expanded visitor center, with new tasting rooms and a restaurant!

The tour included their distillery and rickhouses, a chance to  taste the mash of fermenting grains , and a chance to  smell or taste undiluted bourbon straight from the barrel .

We could also clean an empty bourbon bottle (by washing it with bourbon, of course) , set it on the bottling line, and then add the wax seal, if purchasing a bottle.

Jim Beam definitely had  the most tasting options — including their classic bourbons, single barrel bourbons, and flavored whiskeys.

The  tasting glass  is included in the tour price.

8. Bulleit (Shelbyville)

$25 per person tour and tasting; $20 per person for tasting only ; specialty workshops available.

We went to the Bulleit Distillery on a Monday morning, and had a tiny tour group and a fantastic tour!

The most enjoyable part (other than sampling four bourbons) was listening to the guide tell us about the history of the bourbon industry .

I’d highly recommend this tour!

9. Evan Williams (Louisville)

$18 per person tour and tasting; specialty tours available.

Evan Williams provides the  most unique Bourbon Trail tour I’ve been on .

There’s no large distillery on site, and you only get a brief glimpse of the small artisan distillery.  Even so, it's an enjoyable, incredibly interesting tour.

The entire tour felt like walking through an  interactive play, with rooms turned into reproductions of old Evan Williams buildings and historical Louisville .  A lot of the tour was via videos shown as the guide led you from room to room.

The tasting included  three bourbons and a bourbon ball .

The Speakeasy experience was sold out when we got there, but seemed similar to the Heaven Hill connoisseur tour (which makes sense, because Heaven Hill is the parent company for Evan Williams).

You’ll see a lot of the same bourbons available to buy at both locations.

New Distilleries on the Bourbon Trail

So much for the nine original distilleries on the Bourbon Trail!

Before we get to my favorite off-trail experience, here's a round-up of the newest distilleries that have been added to the official trail in the past few years.

Michter's (Louisville)

$25 tour and tasting at Fort Nelson Distillery, specialty tours available.

Stitzel-Weller (Louisville)

$25 tour and tasting; specialty tastings and classes available.

Old Forester (Louisville)

$32 tour and tasting; specialty tour available.

Rabbit Hole Distillery (Louisville)

$25 tour and tasting.

Angels Envy (Louisville)

$25 tour and tasting; specialty tours and tastings available.

Bardstown Bourbon Company (Bardstown)

$22 tour and tasting; specialty tours, tastings and classes available.

Specialty tastings and programs available at new Louisville tasting room.

Lux Row Distillers (Bardstown)

Complementary rickhouse tour and tasting; specialty tour and tasting available.

Wilderness Trail (Danville)

$15 tour and tasting.

Green River (Owensboro)

$20 tour and tasting; $12 tasting ; specialty tour and tasting available.

10. Off-Trail: Buffalo Trace (Frankfort)

While I was researching the Bourbon Trail, one distillery kept popping up – the  Buffalo Trace Distillery .  It wasn’t on the trail, but it did look exciting!

I contacted Buffalo Trace, and they had me over for a tour and for one of their über fancy  Craftsman Dinners .

It’s in an incredibly nice area downtown, perfect for strolling and visiting local shops.

All the tours at Buffalo Trace are – get this – FREE!

And of course, you get to sample a few spirits, and Buffalo Trace’s version of Irish cream.  (Faaaabulous!)

Complementary tours and tastings in this day and age almost seem too good to be true — but it IS true, and that's why the Buffalo Trace calendar books up ridiculously quickly when a new month's worth of tours are released. If you're not able to snag a spot, you can go on the waitlist.

What Tours Does Buffalo Trace Offer?

Buffalo Trace has THE BEST tour variety of any other distillery we visited.

They have a standard Trace tour, a Hard Hat tour, a Historic Landmark tour, and the Old Taylor tour.

We did the Old Taylor tour, which included a tour of the archaeological ruins of an old bourbon distillery!  It was – without question – the most unique distillery tour I’ve been on!

I will be back, Buffalo Trace!   I’ve got my eye on the hard hat tour!

What about you?  Have you been on a Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour?  What did you think?  Let me know in the comments!

Want to see EVEN MORE bourbon?  Browse all of my bourbon recipes!

↓ Bourbon Trail Basics ↓

More Kentucky Food + Drink Destinations

About Sarah Trenalone

Sarah is the primary creator at Champagne Tastes. She's a photographer, food writer and traveler, and is certified in Backcountry Kitchen and Backcountry Navigation from the Colorado Outward Bound School and Identifying Wild Plants from Backpacker.

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Cynthia Rusincovitch

September 14, 2016 at 3:54 am

This sounds like an amazing adventure. My hubby and I would have a blast.

November 09, 2016 at 8:25 pm

Ok, I honestly didn't even know this existed! My hubby would LOVE to do something like this (although quite a ways for us from Canada lol) Perhaps an anniversary gift!!!

champagne-tastes

November 09, 2016 at 8:26 pm

Ooo it's so fun!! It would be an amazing anniversary trip! (Actually- it's one of our top anniversary vaca spots lol)

November 10, 2016 at 1:18 pm

Ah you love Bourbon too! It's not always that I find my women friends who like bourbon. Such a cool post. <3 Such a cool trail.

November 10, 2016 at 1:48 pm

Haha yes I do!!! And thanks!

Go check it out!!

Lisa | Garlic & Zest

February 19, 2018 at 9:27 am

Sarah -- I had no idea they gave tours of the distilleries in Kentucky, but now that I know, it's a destination spot for me. My extended family is from Martinique in the Lesser Antilles and it's where the acclaimed Rhum Agricole is distilled. We were there a few years ago and did rum tours for a solid week. It was so much fun. I would love to experience this tour -- and the countryside looks beautiful!

February 19, 2018 at 9:30 am

Ooo rum tours in the islands sounds amazing! And yes!!! Come on over and tour the distilleries here- it’s so much fun! (And I’m partial but I’ll agree that the countryside is gorgeous ????????)

Dawn - Girl Heart Food

February 19, 2018 at 12:13 pm

How fun is this?? Hubby really enjoys bourbon and I do too! The prices for the tours are really reasonable too ????

February 21, 2018 at 10:33 am

Such a very informative item you did here Sarah. My husband and I love bourbon from time to time, especially Four Roses, we would love to visit the distillery. The surrounding countryside looks beautiful too, seems like a wonderful journey to make.

February 24, 2018 at 10:16 am

This has always been on my bucket list, and someday it will happen, right?! Thanks for sharing all this information, and I will be keeping it it mind for when we finally do go! Bourbon lovers unite!

March 21, 2018 at 9:48 am

Make it happen Leah!!! lol

February 25, 2018 at 6:14 am

I haven't heard of this before. It sounds fantastic. I'm with you on the hard hat tour. Exploring is probably my favorite thing to do of all time so if it requires a hard hat, I'm there. Do you go underground for that tour?

Megan Marlowe

February 25, 2018 at 8:15 pm

Holy cow, I had no idea the Kentucky bourbon trail existed. I mean I knew you could tour some distilleries but I didn't know there were several! This would be a fabulous, romantic trip for my husband and I (we love brewery tours) and we have always wanted to go to Kentucky and check out the scenery, eats and people! Thanks for planning out next vacation!

February 26, 2018 at 10:16 am

I had no idea that 95% of bourbon was produced in Kentucky! That's kind of amazing! I think these kinds of tours, especially being able to see behind-the-scenes, are a great experience and so fascinating to learn about. Especially since the bourbon production must have significantly shaped the culture of the surrounding area! Love the pictures you shared!

February 27, 2018 at 9:15 am

I have wanted to do this for SO long! This is such a fantastic guide and I'll definitely be referencing it when I finally plan my trip. I can't believe how affordable it is, too! I assumed the tours and tastings would be much more expensive. I absolutely love that little perk at Maker's Mark where you can have your name engraved in a barrel. How fun is that?!

March 21, 2018 at 9:46 am

It's super fun! We signed up for the barrel engraving.. but I have no idea how many years I have to wait LOL

March 13, 2019 at 12:20 pm

Hi there - Handful of questions: What did you do for transportation? Did you hire a driver? Where did you stay? Any recommendations? And do you have any more recommendations on where to eat? Thanks!

March 13, 2019 at 3:42 pm

Great questions!! I'll see if I can help 😀 1- We drove. They don't give you more than maybe one shot total (if that) at any of the distilleries (the samples are pretty small, maybe 1oz). Most of the distilleries have really pretty grounds or neat gift shops, so you could always walk around in there for a little while before driving again! 2- Most of the distilleries are nearby either Louisville or Lexington. Louisville has some really cool old (but expensive) hotels, like the Galt House, the Brown, and the Seelbach. If you're on a budget, I'd look for a deal on a hotel in Lexington for part of the time, and Louisville for other half of the distilleries. 3- It depends on what you're looking for! There's a little Korean place in Lexington that I LOVE (Han Woo Ri), but there's also some cool chef dinner experiences at a few of the distilleries (I know Maker's Mark and Buffalo Trace both do them).

I hope that helped a little!! Let me know if you've got more questions 🙂

March 14, 2019 at 5:58 pm

Thanks so much! I'm planning a big group trip for Memorial Day Weekend and these tips will go a long way as I narrow down our itinerary.

March 14, 2019 at 10:13 pm

Have fun!!! Try to book distillery tours online where they let you- that’ll be a busy weekend. Let me know if you have more questions!

13 Best Bourbon Trail Tours: A Regional Travel Guide to Kentucky’s Distilleries

Ready, Set, Bourbon! Check out this guide to the best bourbon trail tours in Kentucky including Maker's Mark, Evan Williams, Woodford Reserve, & more...

Ready to sip your way through the best bourbon trail tours in Kentucky? This in-depth bourbon distillery tour guide will take you through 13 of the best Kentucky bourbon distillery tours like Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Old Forester, Evan Williams, Buffalo Trace, Jim Beam, & many more.

Each distillery offers a unique experience, from the tour of the distillery to the tasting room. With this in-depth bourbon distillery tour guide, you can easily plan your trip and choose the best bourbon trail tours in Kentucky to suit your taste and preferences. Get ready to discover the rich history and distinct flavors of Kentucky’s signature drink!

3 Tips for Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail

1. When you are planning, ask yourself: What is my favorite bourbon brand (or the one I’d like to know more about)?

Once you settle on those favorites, see what other distilleries are located nearby that you might enjoy touring and tasting then reserve those to fill in the rest of the day.

2. RESERVE IN ADVANCE.

As soon as you know that you’re taking this trip, start reserving bourbon distillery tours immediately . The best tours book up fast, particularly on the weekends. On my most recent trip in July of 2023, I had to adjust my trip to a day earlier because so many of the tours I wanted to take were already booked.

That being said, if there’s a distillery tour you would like to take that’s located on “Whiskey Row” in downtown Louisville but you can’t book it online, my advice is to go in person and talk to one of the guides at the reservation desk. They might not be able to get you in on a specialty tour, but they can typically get you a space on the regular tour.

*Also note that most distilleries in July (and for some in December as well) close their fermentation facilities for maintenance, meaning you won’t be able to tour those areas.

3. Base yourself in Louisville in a hotel on or near Whiskey Row.

From here, you can easily walk or Uber / Lyft to 4+ amazing distilleries, which is a great option if the time on your trip is limited. I most recently stayed at Hotel Distil on Whiskey Row, and I would gladly stay there again. It’s an ideal location for walking to all major downtown attractions and distilleries. Plus the Hotel Distil also houses one of Louisville’s best restaurants, Repeal .

Regional Guide to Kentucky’s Distilleries

The Kentucky Bourbon distilleries listed below are grouped within each region and then ranked for their tour and bourbon quality.  The majority of Kentucky’s distilleries are spread throughout the regions of:

• Loretto, Clermont, & Bardstown
• Versailles, Lawrenceburg, & Franklin

Due to the distance between these regions and potentially conflicting tour times, it might be difficult to tour 2 to 3 of your favorite bourbon distilleries in one day. So here are my top three tips for planning your bourbon trail trip.

Now, time to talk about Kentucky’s distilleries…

13 Best Bourbon Trail Tours

Table of Contents

Region: louisville bourbon distilleries, “whiskey row”, evan williams experience.

“Civilization begins with distillation.” William Faulkner

The  Evan Williams Experience  is located in downtown Louisville on historic “Whiskey Row.”

The seamless tour features state-of-the-art films and interactive elements to relay the history of Evan Williams and the art of distilling bourbon. All tours conclude with a bourbon tasting in one of the upstairs rooms on the recreated street of “Whiskey Row.”

One tasting room is a “speakeasy” that once stood on that site with Prohibition-era replica tables where the bourbon could be hidden inside. An easy lift on the tabletop in front of you reveals the inner compartment that contains pre-filled bourbon glasses.

Although it’s one of the lower-priced bourbons, Evan Williams  is remarkably good in its flavor profile, smoothness, and complexity, and Evan Williams Single Barrel is excellent. Whenever I’ve done a blind bourbon-tasting flight, their Single Barrel always ranks in my top 3.

General Tour Information

•  Traditional Tour & Tasting: $18

Evan Williams offers several more extensive tours as well as seasonal tasting experiences, so check their website for the most recent offerings.

Old Forester Distillery

“Always carry a flagon of whisky in case of snakebite, and furthermore, always carry a small snake.” – W.C. Fields

The Old Forester Distillery Tour & Visitor Center opened on “Whiskey Row” in the summer of 2018. Although it’s a relative newcomer to Louisville’s historic downtown district, Old Forester is the only bourbon continuously sold by the same company before, during, and after Prohibition.

But that’s not the bourbon’s only claim to historic fame. In 1870, George Garvin Brown ensured his bourbon’s consistent quality by becoming the first distiller to sell the bourbon in a sealed glass bottle.

The general tour is a top-quality experience with one of the most memorable aspects being that you can see the meticulous barrel-making process first-hand.

It’s one thing to look at a charred American white oak barrel stave, but it’s something else to see (and feel the heat) of that charring in person.

The Old Forester Distillery tour ends as most tours do in a private room with four bourbons to taste.

Paired with the tasting is Old Forester’s chocolate-dipped bourbon modjeskas, which are marshmallows wrapped in caramel and then dipped in bourbon dark chocolate, topped off with smoked sea salt. If you love them, you can buy a bag in the gift shop which is filled with loads of other great gifts.

If you’re in a hurry and can’t find the time to tour Old Forester, you can pay a visit to George’s Bar which is a cozy cocktail lounge offering cocktails and flights in the visitor center.

• Old Forester Tour: $32
• Nothing Better In The Market Tour: $70

Angel’s Envy Distillery Tour

“I wish to live to 150 years old, but the day I die, I wish it to be with a cigarette in one hand and a glass of whiskey in the other.” – Ava Gardner

While I prefer both the Evan Williams Experience and Old Forester Distillery tours over this one, Angel’s Envy is still well worth the visit. The gift shop is large and well-stocked, and the facility is interesting to tour.

The standard tour is exactly that, “standard,” with not a lot of extras to experience, but you will learn the intricate process of making bourbon and why all bourbon is whiskey, but not all whiskey is bourbon.

What makes Angel’s Envy a standout from other bourbons and ryes on the Bourbon Trail is their emphasis on “finishing” the bourbon.

In addition to meeting the bourbon standard aging process (a minimum of two years in a new charred American oak barrel), Angel’s Envy then places its bourbon in port barrels and its rye in rum barrels to finish, lending each one a more distinctive flavor profile which you’ll explore during the tasting at the end of the tour.

500 E Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

• The Signature Tour: $25
• Private Select Tour: $45

Angel’s Envy offers several experiences and classes, so check their website for the most up-to-date offerings.

Michter’s Distillery

“Happiness is having a rare steak, a bottle of whisky, and a dog to eat the rare steak.” – Johnny Carson

Also located on Louisville’s historic “Whiskey Row,” Michter’s Distillery is a great option for those who prefer a tour that doesn’t involve a lot of walking, given that the entire tour takes place in one large room.

Situated across the street from the iconic Louisville Slugger Museum , Michter’s is a smaller facility with limited space, but the tasting is where the tour shines. The guide places an emphasis on tasting notes and the role that smell plays in how we perceive flavors.

801 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

• The Discovery Tour: $25
• The Founder’s Tour: $50
• The Legacy Tour: $100

The 2nd floor features The Bar at Fort Nelson which is a relaxed space filled with leather club chairs where you can enjoy classic and creative cocktails. Click here for more information on the Bar at Fort Nelson.

Stitzel-Weller Distillery Tour

“It is true that whisky improves with age. The older I get, the more I like it.” Robert Black

The Stitzel-Weller Distillery is only a 20-minute drive from downtown Louisville, making it one of the most convenient and historic outlying distillery stops along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Originally opened on Derby Day in 1935 and reopened to the public in 2014, the Stitzel-Weller Distillery is one of the true cathedrals of the American whiskey industry. 

Bulleit Bourbon (and their Rye) has long been one of my favorite Kentucky bourbons. It’s hard to miss that orange label, tilted just slightly as it curves around the lower half of the bottle. 

In the past few years, I’ve enjoyed the Stitzel-Weller standard tour which guides you around the historic property and buildings, ending with a tasting of these four bourbons in a private tasting room:

• Bulleit Bourbon
• Bulleit 10 Year
• I.W. Harper
• Blade and Bow

Most recently, I booked their new progressive walking tour which combines the tasting with the tour. I really enjoyed this different take on the standard tour where periodically you pause, pull out the provided glass cairn (which is yours to keep as part of the tour), and sip the various bourbons and whiskeys offered along the way. The setting is also picturesque as you stroll from building to building.

3860 Fitzgerald Road, Louisville, KY 40216

• The Stitzel-Weller Experience: $25
• Progressive Walking Tour & Taste: $65

Stitzel-Weller offers a variety of additional classes and experiences, so check their website for the most up-to-date offerings.

Stitzel-Weller is also home to the Garden & Gun Club, located on the 2nd floor of their visitor’s center. Here you can rest your feet while enjoying a light bite and one of their curated cocktails. Click here for the Garden & Gun Club.

Region: Loretto, Clermont, & Bardstown

Maker’s mark distillery.

“Nothing is so musical as the sound of pouring bourbon for the first drink on a Sunday morning. Not Bach or Schubert or any of those masters.” Carson McCullers

The road to  Maker’s Mark bourbon distillery in Loretto, KY, can be a little confusing. On my first visit here, the route guidance told me that I had arrived, and there was nothing but fields, barns, and a small house or two scattered about. 

To avoid potential confusion and arrive in time for your tour, Maker’s Mark provides these instructions for getting to their distillery from Louisville:

Star Hill Farm is located at 3350 Burks Spring Rd., Loretto, KY, 40037. From Louisville: Driving time: Approximately 1 hour, 30 minutes. 

• Take I-65 South from Louisville to exit #112, Clermont/Bernheim Forest exit. At ramp turn left onto Hwy. 245 South to Bardstown. 

• Take Hwy. 245 to intersection of Hwy. 62, turning right, and continue on Hwy. 62 east for approx. 2 miles. Hwy. 62 runs into Hwy. 150 where you will turn left and continue approx. 2 miles and drive past My Old Kentucky Home State Park. 

• At intersection of Hwy. 150 and 49, turn right onto Hwy. 49 South and follow the brown historical landmark signs to Holy Cross, which will direct you to go left onto Hwy. 49. 

• Follow Hwy. 49 where you will turn left onto Hwy. 52 East into Loretto. Continue on through Loretto. 

• Turn left onto Bill Samuels Jr. Rd. and historic Maker’s Mark® Distillery is straight ahead. 

Regardless of which tour you reserve (they offer a wide variety and actively update them), you’re in for a great experience. Plus, Maker’s Mark is just a beautiful place. The grounds, house, and distillery buildings are picture-perfect. 

At the end of each tour, you’ll have an opportunity to taste a selection of their bourbon.  

I’ve had the opportunity to experience 2 of Maker’s Mark Distillery Tours, and if you only have time to tour one of Kentucky’s distilleries, make it this one. It was the hands-down favorite (on currently my 3rd trip) along the Bourbon Trail. 

General Distillery Tour Bourbon Tasting 

• Maker’s White (which is basically moonshine or “white dog”)
• Regular Maker’s Mark (the kind you can buy anywhere)
• Maker’s 46 (which is made by inserting seasoned French Oak staves into the bourbon barrels to add additional rich flavor)
• Maker’s Cask Strength (bourbon derived from a single barrel and my favorite of the 4).

After the tasting, you’re given a decadent bourbon chocolate to savor before you walk under the Chihuly glass ceiling of the hallway to the Maker’s Mark gift shop. 

If you like, you can dip your own bottle of Maker’s Mark in their iconic red wax or buy an exclusive bottle of the Maker’s Private Select.

The distillery address is technically: 3350 Burks Spring Road, Loretto, KY 40037.

GPS will try to take you to the Business Office, but the Historic Distillery is more directly accessed using Bill Samuels Jr Road.    

• General Distillery Tour: $ 24
• Behind the Bourbon: $65

Be sure to check the Maker’s Mark website for the most up-to-date tours and experiences.

James B. Beam Distilling Co. (Jim Beam)

“I have never in my life seen a Kentuckian who didn’t have a gun, a pack of cards, and a jug of whiskey.” – Andrew Jackson

It doesn’t get much more iconic than Jim Beam bourbon . With its instantly recognizable name and its best-selling brands including Booker’s, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden, Old Grandad, and, of course, Jim Beam, the distillery is an impressive one to visit.

Located 30 minutes from Louisville by car, it’s an accessible bourbon trail distillery to visit if you don’t want to drive too far afield. Due to the fermentation tanks, rickhouses, and bottling facility being situated fairly far apart, this tour involves riding a large comfortable bus to a couple of the locations, but it’s a quick trip each time.

Quite a lot of thought has been put into the design and aesthetics of the tour experience, with the first building of the tour featuring an indoor waterfall illustrating Kentucky’s natural limestone filtration which makes the whiskey taste better.

Towards the end of the distillery tour, you’ll walk the Knob Creek bottling line where you can hand pick and purchase a Single Barrel bottle and customize the warm wax seal with your thumbprint.

Finally, you return to the Visitor’s Center where you’ll be able to taste four of their most popular bourbons before being set loose in their two-story gift shop.

I really enjoyed this tour, and I would happily do it again. Due to the popularity of this bourbon brand, I feel it’s a great place to start, but the tours fill up fast.

568 Happy Hollow Rd. Clermont, KY 40110

• Bourbon The Beam Way – Distillery Tour & Tasting: $28

Jim Beam Distillery offers several more tasting options and experiences that you can book, so check the website for the most up-to-date listings.

Another great feature of Jim Beam Distillery is their onsite restaurant, The Kitchen Table. Here you can order appetizers, salads, burgers, pizzas, brisket, fried chicken, and even dessert. The large cocktail bar in the center shakes and stirs up some great bourbon cocktails, or just order your favorite bourbon to sip neat.

If you’d like to make a reservation for The Kitchen Table, it’s available on Resy.

Willett Distillery

“There is no bad whiskey. There are only some whiskeys that aren’t as good as others.” Raymond Chandler

Located about 30 minutes from Maker’s Mark is the  Willett Distillery , perched on top of a hill overlooking the green valleys of Bardstown, KY.

One of the most recognizable aspects of Willett bourbon is their striking pot still bottle design.

This rustic family-owned distillery is beautiful and well-maintained from its photo-filled visitor waiting area to the final tasting room.

Because Willett Distillery functions on a smaller scale, only 1 tour experience is offered at this time, so if touring Willett Distillery is at the top of your wishlist, reserve early. They accept bookings 90 days in advance.

1869 Loretto Road, Bardstown, KY 40004.

• Distillery Production Tour with Tasting: $25

Willett Distillery also features “The Bar at Willett” where you can order up-scale small plates alongside classic and inventive cocktails. Reservations are required, so click this link if you’re interested in reserving The Bar at Willett.

Heaven Hill Distillery

“Whiskey is liquid sunshine” George Bernard Shaw

An official member of Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, Heaven Hill Distillery is also located in Bardstown near the Willett Distillery. 

While their gift shop and visitor center are top-notch with self-guided exhibits and an informative film in their 1935 Distillery Theatre, the actual general tour is not that exciting or enticing, especially when compared to the quality of tours offered by Maker’s Mark & Jim Beam. 

Heaven Hill might not be a familiar name to you, but most likely, you’ve heard of some of their bourbon brands:

• Rittenhouse Rye
• Elijah Craig
• Evan Williams

While the website calls it a bourbon trail “tour,” it’s actually an informed tasting inside a room with a guide. You won’t be walking through rickhouses or seeing yellow bubbling mash unless you pay more for their “Bottled & Bond Tour & Tasting” for $35.

If you’re looking to sample more varieties of bourbon while giving your feet a rest from touring distilleries, or if you’re looking for a more “indoor” experience, Heaven Hill is a great option. 

1311 Gilkey Run, Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004

• Magic of the Mashbill: $18
• Whiskey Connoisseur Experience: $25
• Bottled-in-Bond Tour and Tasting: $35

Heaven Hill also offers a bar experience on the 2nd floor of the visitor’s center called Five Brothers Bar which features bourbon flights and cocktails.

Dining Tip: Eat Lunch in Historic Bardstown

In between touring the many Kentucky distilleries along the bourbon trail, you’re going to want some lunch or dinner, and Bardstown has a lot to offer. 

Perfect for lunch or dinner,  Talbott Tavern , built in 1779, is a site steeped in history.

“The Talbott Tavern is a uniquely well-crafted early American stone building and as a young boy Abraham Lincoln and his family stayed here. .. There are noticeable bullet holes in the now faded paintings where legend Jesse James shot them.” | Dry Stone Masonry Institute of America

In keeping with the theme of the bourbon trail, Talbott Tavern offers a customized flight where you choose your tasting made up of the wide variety of bourbon and rye they serve sourced from the surrounding distilleries. 

Another great option is the Scout & Scholar Brewing Company offering classic pub food and plenty of beer on tap if you’re looking for a break from all that bourbon. But if you’re not, they also offer Private Select Bourbon flights to expand your tasting profile.

Region: Versailles, Lawrenceburg, Franklin

Woodford reserve distillery.

“A good gulp of hot whiskey at bedtime—it’s not very scientific, but it helps.” Alexander Fleming (Inventor of Penicillin)

The Woodford Reserve tour is charming in every aspect—from the old barrel railway used to move the freshly filled barrels to the rickhouse to the on-site bottling facility and visitor/tasting center. This tour was one of the most memorable I have ever been on over the years I’ve been touring Kentucky’s distilleries along the bourbon trail.

The Woodford tour ends, as all do, with the bourbon tasting. The tasting room is located on the other side of the fireplace wall of the visitor center, with a rectangular bar facing the fire. The guide stands in the middle, offering tasting note tips.

We were able to taste the  regular Woodford Reserve  and the Cask Strength  (or dessert bourbon as they call it) combined with a chocolate bourbon truffle. 

7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383

• Woodford Reserve’s Path To Flavor Tour: $32

Woodford Reserve offers several additional tours and specialty experiences, so click the link below to see their current offerings.

Four Roses Distillery

“Whiskey, like a beautiful woman, demands appreciation.” Haruki Murakami

Situated on top of a breezy hill is the most romantic of the Kentucky distilleries along the Bourbon Trail:  Four Roses .

Established in 1888 originally on “Whiskey Row” by Paul Jones, a Louisville businessman, the Four Roses label is rooted in the story of his proposal to a Southern belle named Mary. After courting her for a number of years, Jones asked Mary to respond to his “final” marriage proposal by wearing a corsage of four red roses to a cotillion dance.  This time she accepted and entered the ballroom wearing the corsage.

While Four Roses bourbon is smooth and the distillery, with its Spanish Mission style architecture, has a unique and interesting story from 1888 to the present, the tour itself can still use some work. It’s more of a “Cliff’s Notes” brief summary version of how they make their bourbon.

Their bottling facility is located at a different location as well, so that element of the process can’t be witnessed on-site. If you have the time, you can take your distillery tour ticket stub and visit the bottling facility for free if you’re interested.

You will be given four bourbons to taste:  The Standard Yellow Lable Four Roses, The Small Batch, Single Barrel, and The Cask Strength.

Before or after your tour, browse the large gift shop fittingly accented throughout with roses or you can enjoy a cocktail or bourbon tasting in Bar 1888.

1224 Bonds Mill Road, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

• Distillery Legacy Tour: $22

Four Roses Distillery offers several additional tasting experiences as well as seasonal offerings, so check their website for the most up-to-date tours.

Buffalo Trace Distillery

“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” Mark Twain

Buffalo Trace Distillery is a juggernaut in the world of bourbon.

Consider the brands they make; in addition to the standard Buffalo Trace Bourbon, they are also responsible for crafting Eagle Rare, Blanton’s (John Wick’s bourbon of choice), Pappy Van Winkle, E.H. Taylor, Stagg, Sazerac Rye, and Weller to name a few.   

What sets Buffalo Trace Distillery even further apart from the competition is that they never charge for their tours. They are always complementary. That being said, you still have to reserve in advance, particularly if you want to go on a specialty experience like: The Buffalo Trace Hard Hat Tour .

Even if you’re not overly into bourbon, the grounds are beautiful, not to mention they have one of the largest and most interesting gift shops of the distilleries along the bourbon trail. The tours are also highly detailed and informative.

That being said, the bourbon tasting experience at the end of the tour leaves a little to be desired. Due to limited quantities, Buffalo Trace only offers a few brands for tasting and purchasing in the Visitor Center. 

113 Great Buffalo Trace, Franklin County, Frankfort, KY 40601

• All Buffalo Trace tours are complimentary including tours for large groups or tours that require reservations.
• The Trace Tour
• The Hard Hat Tour
• The Expansion Tour
• Old Taylor Tour

Additional Tours are available focusing on the gardens and historic landmarks, so check their website for current offerings.

Wild Turkey Distillery

“There’s no app for a bourbon buzz on a warm day in a cool, dark bar. The world will always want a drink.” Gillian Flynn

The  Wild Turkey Tour  is as industrial as it gets. Not that it makes the tour less interesting, but I prefer the smaller distilleries along the Bourbon Trail as opposed to the mass conglomerate operations. 

The tour lasts about one hour, and you get to see where they make the bourbon as well as where they bottle the various vodka brands that they own. An impressive operation, to say the least. 

The Visitor Center is a fun place to look around and learn a bit more about the history of the distillery location and the origin of the name. Currently, Wild Turkey is closed to visitors and tours as they refresh the visitor’s center, so I’m looking forward to see what updates they have in store.

1417 Versailles Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342

Final Thoughts

“My own experience has been that the tools I need for my trade are paper, tobacco, food, and a little whisky.” William Faulkner

Every year, I look forward to visiting more distilleries along Kentucky’s bourbon trail so check back for updates.

The next two bourbon trail distilleries on my hit list include:

• Bulleit Distilling Company Visitor Experience
• Castle & Key Distillery

While I did a tour and tasting of Bulleit when it was located at the Stitzel-Weller facility, I have yet to visit their new Visitor Center experience that opened in 2019 in Shelbyville, KY. Click here for more information.

And finally, the distillery that is currently intriguing me the most is Castle & Key, which I saw from a distance when I was driving to Lexington. It actually looks like a castle, and in addition to their distillery and grounds tours, they offer a rotating calendar of events. Click here for more information.

Everyone’s taste is unique and preferences differ, but hopefully, this guide helps you discover your go-to bourbon as you forge your own path along Kentucky’s bourbon trail.

If you’re planning on staying in Louisville, then be sure to check out the Go-To Louisville KY Guide for Best Hotels, Attractions, & Dining .

Leave a Comment

7 thoughts on “13 best bourbon trail tours: a regional travel guide to kentucky’s distilleries”.

You’re welcome, and I’m glad you found the information helpful. Enjoy your trip this summer!

Thank you for posting all of the information with tour prices and your opinion. I am looking forward to visiting Kentucky this summer 2023.

Hi Terri, I would recommend checking out the Pegasus Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour Packages. They are rated really well and offer several packages to choose from with a driver to take you to the distillery region of your choice for the tours. My personal favorite region is the South / Bardstown Distilleries which includes Maker’s Mark (my favorite tour).

https://www.takepegasusdistilled.com/distillery-packages

Hope this helps!

I want to find a package tour that goes to several distilleries/breweries, one inclusive price, and transportation. Is there such a thing?

I would recommend checking out the Pegasus Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour Packages. They are rated really well and offer several packages to choose from with a driver to take you to the distillery region of your choice for the tours. My personal favorite region is the South / Bardstown Distilleries which includes Maker’s Mark (my favorite tour).

Here is the link: https://www.takepegasusdistilled.com/distillery-packages

If you’re staying in Louisville, The Brown Hotel is my favorite, but there are lots of great hotels along 3rd street between W Broadway and the Riverwalk which put you right in the middle of Louisville’s downtown scene where you can walk to restaurants and other attractions.

Hope these suggestions help, and I hope you have a great trip!

Want to schedule a tour for three and set up a driver to visit 2 top rated distillery’s Also will need accommodations for 2 nites. .any suggestions.

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed the post. I’ll be sure to check out your site as well!

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Kentucky Bourbon Tours

Book a bourbon trail tour from louisville.

Tour the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with our signature itineraries, Thursday through Sunday. These tour itineraries are designed to maximize your time at each distillery and along the trail for a 1-day bourbon tour.

THURSDAY BOURBON TOUR

— Rabbit Hole, Buffalo Trace, Bulleit — This Thursday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings. Distilleries include: a tour & tasting and tasting at Rabbit Hole, a local lunch, a premium tasting at Buffalo Trace, and bourbon tour and tasting at Bulleit Bourbon.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 8:45 a.m. | Returns at 6:15 p.m. $179

FRIDAY BOURBON TOUR

— Woodford Reserve, J. Mattingly, Angel’s Envy — This Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Woodford Reserve, a tasting at J. Mattingly, and a tour and tasting at Angel’s Envy.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 7:30 a.m. | Returns at 4:15 p.m. $199

— Lux Row, Heaven Hill, James B. Beam — This Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Lux Row, a Connoisseur tasting at Heaven Hill, and a tour with tastings at James B. Beam Distilling Co..

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 8:15 a.m. | Returns at 5:00 p.m. $199

SATURDAY BOURBON TOUR

— Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill, Bardstown Bourbon Co. — This Saturday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Bardstown Bourbon Co., a Connoisseur tasting at Heaven Hill, and a tour with tastings at Maker’s Mark distillery.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Depart at 8:15 a.m. | Returns at 5:30 p.m. $199

— Stitzel-Weller, Angel’s Envy, KY Artisan/Jefferson’s Reserve — This Saturday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will start the day with a tasting at Stitzel-Weller, enjoy a tour and tasting at Angel’s Envy after lunch, and a tour and tasting at KY Artisan/Jefferson’s Reserve.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Depart at 9:15 a.m. | Returns at 5:30 p.m. $199

SUNDAY BOURBON TOUR

— Local Brunch, Kentucky Artisan/Jefferson’s Reserve, Buffalo Trace — Your Sunday brunch experience includes guided transportation, a local brunch that includes 1 breakfast cocktail at The Cafe in Louisville, a tour with tastings at KY Artisan/Jefferson’s Reserve and a tasting at Buffalo Trace distillery.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 10:15 a.m. | Returns at 5:45 p.m. $179

Embark on the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and discover why it’s an enduring favorite among bourbon enthusiasts worldwide

Seamless coordination.

Welcome to Bourbon Tours, where we whisk you away on an immersive journey through Bourbon Country. From the vibrant streets of Louisville to the serene landscapes of Kentucky, our guides ensure a seamless experience from start to finish. Sit back, relax, and indulge in local culinary delights as we handle every detail, ensuring your bourbon tour is nothing short of unforgettable.

Dive Into Bourbon Tradition

The Bourbon Trail™ Passport & Field Guide is your essential companion, featuring all 18 KBT® distilleries and 23 KBT Craft Tour distilleries. Don’t forget to secure your tour bookings in advance to ensure availability and entrust your transportation needs to our trusted partners for a stress-free experience.

Elevate Your Experience

We understand that every journey is unique. That’s why we offer customizable experiences tailored to your preferences. From exclusive tastings to behind-the-scenes access, let us elevate your bourbon trail adventure with our VIP Bourbon Trail Tours and Transportation services, ensuring exceptional service and luxury vehicles every step of the way.

Tailor Your Own Bourbon Trail Experience

For those craving a deeper exploration, our Multi-Day Bourbon Tour packages offer the flexibility to craft your own bourbon trail itinerary. Whether it’s a two-day or three-day adventure, our Experience Coordinators work closely with you to personalize your tour. Select your favorite distilleries, and indulge in unique experiences like mixology classes and bourbon-infused culinary delights. The possibilities are endless, promising a bespoke journey tailored to your interests and schedule.

CONTACT AN EXPERIENCE COORDINATOR

Explore The Kentucky Distilleries

Nearly 100 different bourbon and whiskey brands are produced in Kentucky. The Bluegrass State is home to more barrels of bourbon than people and proudly creates 95% of the world’s bourbon. Learn more about the distilleries that make up the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, the Urban Bourbon Trail® and the greater Bourbon Country.

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Your all-inclusive ticket to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®

We plan your day in Bourbon Country from start to finish – transporting you to Kentucky bourbon distilleries and grabbing a local lunch along the way (except Sundays). Your Mint Julep guide will lead the day with fun facts and bourbon history, filling in the blanks between each stop. They will take care of all the details – from tour timing to distillery admissions and more. You just sit back and enjoy your fully-guided bourbon tour!

Interested in Multi-Day Bourbon Tour?

Two-day and three-day bourbon tour packages are available through a Custom Bourbon Tour booking. When booking a custom bourbon tour, you will work with an Experience Coordinator to pick your favorite distilleries to make your own bourbon trail itinerary. For help with your booking, call 502-583-1433 or fill out the Request Tour form . 

Thursday Bourbon Tour

January - December 2024

Rabbit Hole, Buffalo Trace, Bulleit

This Thursday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings. Distilleries include: a tour & tasting and tasting at Rabbit Hole, a local lunch, a premium tasting at Buffalo Trace, and bourbon tour and tasting at Bulleit Bourbon.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 8:45 a.m. Returns at 6:15 p.m.

Friday Bourbon Tour

January - June 2024

Woodford Reserve, J. Mattingly, Angel's Envy

This Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Woodford Reserve, a tasting at J. Mattingly, and a tour and tasting at Angel's Envy.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 7:30 a.m. Returns at 4:15 p.m.

July - December 2024

Woodford Reserve, Jeptha Creed Stitzel Weller

This Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Woodford Reserve, a tour/tasting at Jeptha Creed, and a tasting at Stitzel Weller.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 7:30 a.m. Returns at 4:45 p.m.

Lux Row Heaven Hill, James B. Beam

This Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Lux Row, a Connoisseur tasting at Heaven Hill, and a tour with tastings at James B. Beam Distilling Co..

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 8:15 a.m. Returns at 5:00 p.m.

Saturday Bourbon Tour

Maker's Mark, Heaven Hill, Bardstown Bourbon Co.

This Saturday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Bardstown Bourbon Co., a Connoisseur tasting at Heaven Hill, and a tour with tastings at Maker's Mark distillery.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Depart at 8:15 a.m. Returns at 5:30 p.m.

Stitzel-Weller, Angel's Envy KY Artisan/Jefferson's Reserve

This Saturday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will start the day with a tasting at Stitzel-Weller, enjoy a tour and tasting at Angel's Envy after lunch, and a tour and tasting at KY Artisan/Jefferson's Reserve.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Depart at 9:15 a.m. Returns at 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Brunch & Bourbon Tour

Local Brunch, Kentucky Artisan/Jefferson's Reserve, Buffalo Trace

Your Sunday brunch experience includes guided transportation, a local brunch that includes 1 breakfast cocktail at The Cafe in Louisville, a tour with tastings at KY Artisan/Jefferson's Reserve and a tasting at Buffalo Trace distillery.

Departs from the Omni Hotel in Downtown Louisville Departs at 10:15 a.m. Returns at 5:15 p.m.

Reviews from Guests

• This was the perfect way to tour the Bourbon Trail! The three distilleries we went to were unique from each other which provided a diverse tasting experience. Diane was a wonderful tour guide and Nelson was a great driver! I would highly recommend Mint Julep to anyone visiting Louisville. Thanks for a great day on the Bourbon Trail! Mary M. 8/13/2023
• Made us feel like we were family and took care of us every step of the trip. Chuck was an absolute TREAT! He made us feel like we were family and took care of us every step of the trip! Chuck provides great insight and will be able to answer ANY question you toss his way! Can't recommend Chuck and Mint Julep Tours enough!!! Kori 4/09/2020
• We enjoyed getting to know & talk bourbon with others on the tour! We were in Louisville for a few days for the Urban Bourbon Half Marathon and did the Sunday Brunch & Bourbon Tour that took us to a local restaurant for brunch and 2 distilleries. Check-in at the Omni was easy, and Michael, our tour guide, was friendly, funny, welcoming, and very knowledgeable. Throughout our travels, he shared details about the area, some of the history of Louisville, and the history of KY bourbon in general. Overall, this experience was a great way to relax on the day after the half marathon and the day before we left town. We enjoyed getting to know & talk bourbon with others on the tour. We would not hesitate to book another Mint Julep tour in Louisville or try one of their Nashville tours when we visit there in the near future. KW 10/16/2023
• A great day touring the Bourbon Trail Our guide Morgan was superb! His knowledge of the area was immense and his attention to us was incredible! A great day touring the Bourbon Trail with him! Laurinda P. 4/09/2020
• I highly recommend Mint Julep Tours to maximize your Bourbon Trail adventure. This was our second time on a Mint Julep tour. As expected, it was fantastic! From the promptness of the pickup, cleanliness and comfort of the vehicles, to the knowledge of all things Bourbon, we had a remarkable experience. I highly recommend Mint Julep Tours to maximize your Bourbon Trail adventure. Jim M. 5/20/2023

More Information

Departure information.

All public bourbon tours depart from the Mint Julep Experiences Hub inside Falls City Market in the Omni Louisville Hotel . Departure times and destinations vary. Please double-check your confirmation sheet for the exact timing. In most cases, tour availability opens 180 days in advance of the tour departure date. For help with your booking, call 502-583-1433 .

Best Time To Visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®?

The beauty with the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is you can visit any time of the year, as the distilleries operate year-round. Some distilleries are closed to the public on certain days of the week, but most are open seven days a week.

What is included on a public bourbon tour?

• Transportation: Each public bourbon tour includes transportation to all tour destinations. Public tours depart from the Falls City Market in the Omni Louisville Hotel in downtown Louisville. You’ll be in a Mint Julep Tours vehicle. All of our vehicles are sanitized after each tour— learn more about it on our Vehicle Safety Procedures page.
• Admission & Tastings: All distillery admissions for the day and tastings at each location are included.
• Lunch: Lunch at a local Louisville restaurant is also included. The lunch location will vary. Guests will be able to choose one option from a special menu. *Lunch is not included for the public Sunday tour. If you would like to purchase alcohol at lunch or any souvenirs or bottles to take home, that is not included.
• *Gratuity for your Tour Leader is not included but always appreciated. Kentucky sales tax and a convenience fee will be added at checkout. Parking is not included in your ticket fee. For Louisville parking information, visit PARC Map or PARC Garage websites.

How much walking is involved on a public tour?

Each distillery tour varies but there is a fair amount of walking in Bourbon Country. We do suggest comfortable closed-toe shoes on all tours. Most distilleries are wheelchair accessible and can accommodate special circumstances. Most tours are partially outdoors.

Where is the pickup location?

All public bourbon tours and most other ticketed tours depart downtown Louisville. Tours depart from the Mint Julep Hub in the Omni Louisville Hotel. Please check-in at least 15 minutes before your departure time. Your tour leader will check you in, give you a wristband, and lead you to the bus as a group.

Book a Custom Bourbon Tour with Private VIP Transportation

Build a Bourbon Trail itinerary that takes you to all your favorite places in Bourbon Country, Horse Country and more! A Custom Tour can be tailored to your interests, schedule and tastes. Popular custom experiences include hands-on mixology classes, bottle-your-own experiences, bourbon heritage site tours, bourbon-infused culinary experiences and so much more! Please contact us to work with an Experience Coordinator to discuss a Custom Tour itinerary for you and your group.

Learn More About Custom Tours

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Exciting Tours of the Kentucky Distilling Industry

An Insider's Guide to the Origin of Bourbon 

As the world’s thirst for Kentucky Bourbon grows, the state’s distilling industry continues to grow, offering new and improved visitor experiences. New bourbon attractions are opening all of the time in Bourbon Country.

At this moment, more than 20 working bourbon distilleries in Kentucky make more than 200 of your favorite brands. Most of these working bourbon distilleries offer active tours and unique visitor experiences that include tastings and gift shops.

From varying recipes and yeast strains to barrel char and age levels, each bourbon distillery practices the art of making bourbon just a little differently. You will find a unique experience in the sights, sounds and tastes of each tour as you take in the magic that is making whiskey during each of the tours highlighted below.

Each of the Kentucky Bourbon distilleries on this list, from the craft variety makers to the world’s largest producers, invite visitors to stop by to learn about their brands and have a taste.

Check out the many different bourbon experiences offered in each region of Bourbon County:

Angel’s Envy Distillery

Barrel House Distilling Co.

Barton’s 1792 Distillery

Boone County Distilling Company

Brough Brothers Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buzzard’s Roost Spirits

Casey Jones Distillery

Castle & Key Distillery

Copper & Kings American Brandy

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Four Roses Bourbon Warehouse and Bottling

Four Roses Distillery

Frazier History Museum: Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Welcome Center

Green River Distilling Co.

Hartfield & Company Distillery

Heaven Hill Distilleries

Jeptha Creed Distillery

Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Kentucky Artisan Distillery

Kentucky Mist Moonshine Distillery

Kentucky Peerless Distilling

Limestone Branch Distillery

Log Still Distillery at Dant Crossing

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Just like enjoying bourbon, there are many ways to experience it by staying in a variety of places from romantic countryside to vibrant downtown cities.

Experience The World's Bourbon Destination

Explore 200 years of history along the bourbon trail. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, our tours and tastings are always complimentary, but registration is recommended.

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Hard Hat Tour

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Visiting Buffalo Trace Distillery

Plan Your Visit

No trip along the bourbon trail is complete without a visit to Buffalo Trace Distillery, the world’s bourbon destination.

Purchasing and Tasting at Buffalo Trace Distillery

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Visit our gift shop located in former Warehouse A, an historic 1881 aging warehouse to shop a curated selection of our award-winning spirits as well as branded apparel, home goods, and gifts. 

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Shop our online gift shop for wide assortment of exclusive merchandise conveniently shipped to your home.

Buffalo Trace Distillery Tours & Tastings

Distillery hours.

Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

Buffalo Trace Distillery is closed Easter Sunday, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.  

Gift Shop Hours

Monday - Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 11:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

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Exclusive Private Tours

Bourbon tours designed just for you.

Serving Louisville, Bardstown, Lexington, and all of Bourbon Country

Come Visit Bourbon Country!

Welcome to bourbontown tours.

Hello! We’re so glad you found us. Feel free to browse around and take a look at all of the tours we have to offer. If you have specific ideas of where you want to go,  give us a call  and we will try to make that happen. We love showing guests the beautiful place we call home and can’t wait to take you on a ride to enjoy some of the  greatest scenery  the bluegrass state has to offer.

Maker’s Mark Distillery Tour – Loretto, Kentucky

Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour Frankfort, Kentucky

Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour Versailles, Kentucky

Jim Beam Distillery Tour – Clermont, Kentucky

Where we go.

We are a small-batch tour company, serving Louisville, Bardstown, Lexington and everywhere in between. Some of the places and attractions that can be included in our tours may include, but are not limited to:

Kentucky Distilleries

Louisville area.

• Angel's Envy Distillery
• Bardstown Bourbon Co. Tasting Room
• Buzzard's Roost Tasting Room
• Brough Brothers Distillery
• Copper & Kings Distillery
• Evan Williams Distillery
• Michter's Distillery
• Old Forester Distillery
• Peerless Distillery
• Rabbit Hole Distillery
• Stitzel-Weller Distillery

Bardstown & Beyond

• Bardstown Bourbon Co. Distillery
• Four Roses Bottling & Warehouse Facility
• Heaven Hill Distillery
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Historic Sites and Other Attractions:

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Kentucky Breweries:

BlueGrass Brewing, Akasha, Monnik, West Sixth, Atrium, Great Flood, Apocalypse, Gravely, Against The Grain, Goodwood, Blue Stallion, Falls City, Gallant Fox, Great Flood, et al

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Lover’s Leap, Equus Run, Forest Edge, Castle Hill, Hive & Barrel, Jester’s, McIntyre’s, Old 502, Talon, et al

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Whiskey Review: Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Editor's Note: We received a review sample of this whiskey from the brand. However, in accordance with our editorial policies , this has not influenced the outcome of our review in any way.

Jeptha Creed, introduced in 2016, is a small Kentucky craft whiskey distillery that is unique in this busy bourbon landscape in several ways. Owned and operated by Joyce and Autumn Nethery, a mother-daughter duo, Jeptha Creed is deep into using heirloom corn in its bourbons, with a particular focus on Bloody Butcher Corn grown on the over 1,000-acre Nethery family farm.

In addition to the corn they grow, the family-run farm distillery sources from other farms in the area for different needs, helping them hold to what they describe as a ground-to-glass concept that strongly supports local agriculture. Joyce Nethery is the master distiller here, having previously earned a Master's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Louisville's Speed Scientific School and for 15 years working as a process engineer in industrial-scale distillation.

The portion of the farm dedicated to the distillery is 64 acres, and it is covered in crops that produce the grain, corn, fruits, and other ingredients used in Jeptha Creed’s spirits, which, besides the whiskey, include vodka, moonshine, and brandy made from fresh, locally grown pawpaw fruit.

Located along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, Jeptha Creed Distillery is open to visitors and offers tasting experiences and tours . Its name comes from the Jeptha Knobs, where the Nethery family farm is located.

What’s in the bottle

The bourbon being reviewed from their lineup here is the Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon . Aged at least four years, it is distilled from red bloody butcher corn (25%), heirloom white corn (25%), Bruce’s blue corn (a varietal Joyce's husband, Bruce, came up with – 20%), malted rye (20%), and malted barley (5%). It is bottled at 100 proof and priced at $74.99.

This bourbon is noted as being an annual tribute to veterans, with a portion of sales donated to local veteran organizations.

Read the full article at Whiskey Review: Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon

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With so many opportunities for Bourbon exploration, it can be overwhelming to plan!

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Make sure to make reservations at distilleries before heading to the Bluegrass state!

Purchase your Bourbon Trail ™   Passport & Field Guide at your first distillery stop, are get one online in advance.

Scan the QR code in the front to register your passport and buckle up for adventure!

This is our favorite step! As you visit each legendary distillery, collect stamps in your passport.

What else is closeby? Use our map to plan your route and discover other distilleries.

Just having the Passport & Field Guide book “unlocks” special access at our KBT™ distilleries! Show the book at the visitor center and ask about their special offerings.

When you visit your final KBT™ distillery, get the QR code stamp in the back. Scan it to be entered into our system. When you complete both the KBT™ and the Craft Tour, you will receive something extra special from us!

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EXCLUSIVE: Get your first look at the upscale menu in Churchill Downs premium spaces

The premium views of the new paddock at Churchill Downs come with a Kentucky Derby menu meant to both comfort and dazzle guests.  

“No matter what happens, if you win big or lose big at the Derby … you’re going to win with the culinary experience," said Robert Lopez, head chef for this year’s Kentucky Derby and senior executive chef for Levy , the Chicago-based food and beverage provider for Churchill Downs.

It takes a culinary team of more than 4,000 people to keep the food flowing at more than 40 premium spaces throughout the historic racetrack during Kentucky Derby week.  

“Each space has its own unique feel,” said Kenneth Hardiman , Levy regional executive chef. “We've kind of tailored (the menu) to that particular location.”

The Courier Journal was invited to taste a sampling of a few of these spaces, including the new Woodford Reserve Paddock Club and Club SI, both of which are located steps from the horse stalls in the new paddock. Matt Winn’s Steakhouse , which is open year-round, was also on the tasting tour.

The menus in these more curated spaces aim to highlight locally grown and raised food, including grits from Weisenberger Mills , meats from Berry Beef, cheeses from Kenny’s Farmhouse Cheese , and breads from Blue Dog Bakery and Café , to name just a few.

In his first year overseeing culinary operations at Churchill Downs, Lopez said he’s tried to bring his “modern, new-age” style to a time-honored tradition.

“What I like to do is take things and make them into something that no one has seen before…or not seen in that way,” he said. “I like to turn heads."

Here’s what we tried:

What food is served at the Woodford Reserve Paddock Club during Kentucky Derby week?

The most premium space at the new paddock is the Woodford Reserve Paddock Club, where two-day tickets for Oaks and Derby days range from roughly $11,000 to $16,000.

The space holds about 300 people, offering a select group access to the highest tier of dining the track has to offer.

“We only procure hundreds of pounds instead of thousands or tens of thousands of pounds, which some of our other menus do,” Lopez said, leading to the “best ingredients for the best experience.”

The Courier Journal sampled from the menu offered Opening Night through Thurby. One-day-only menus are set for Oaks and Derby days.

A twist on the classic Caesar salad included grilled lettuce dressed with radish, shaved Parmesan Reggiano, pickled white anchovy, and house-made lemon and roasted garlic Caesar dressing and croutons.

The “Louisville rolled oysters” were a fried yet light bite when paired with a zippy cocktail sauce, and the hardwood smoked smothered pork chop was dramatically presented bone-in atop a garnet yam puree.

You may like: Courier Journal publishing '150 Years of the Kentucky Derby' coffee table book. How to pre-order

Bourbon and smoked rosemary chicken “pops” were easily snackable and a farro and baby rocket salad made for a refreshing bite, with its goat cheese, tomatoes, and mustard vinaigrette.

The space features a lower-level speakeasy and a bourbon tasting room that will offer an exclusive bourbon and chocolate pairing session to about 100 people between Oaks and Derby days.

The club serves up its exclusive menu in three different ways. Smaller, sample-sized portions allow for a taste of many of the space’s offerings. Clubgoers can also have larger portions as they make their plates, like a buffet, or order their food a la carte for family-style table service.  

What food is served at Club SI during Kentucky Derby week?

Another high-end experience in the new paddock is Club SI, which gives guests an up-close look at the paddock while surrounded by iconic Sports Illustrated magazine covers and photos.

The Courier Journal tried a cool and refreshing sweet corn shooter, an inventive sip that acts as a palate cleanser between bites.

Thinly sliced bourbon barrel smoked beef tri tip was served alongside a Kentucky chop salad loaded with toppings, including white beans, country ham, apple, pickled onion, oven-dried tomatoes, and a sorghum red wine vinaigrette.

Much like the Paddock Club, Club SI ticketholders will have fresh, custom menus for Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby days.

“A lot of people say memories are built off of senses, and I can tell you one thing, there’s a lot of senses going on with this experience,” Lopez said. “Everything from sitting at the glass watching the actual athletes, the horses, 2 feet away from you … all the way until you walk into the club and all the smells hit you. Just creating those memories through taste, through smell, through something that you may never get to taste again.”

What is on the Derby week menu at Matt Winn’s Steakhouse at Churchill Downs?

The on-premises restaurant, Matt Winn’s Steakhouse , opened in 2020 and gives a taste of Churchill Downs year-round.

Elevated custom furniture and finishes fill the restaurant, which is named for Colonel Martin J. “Matt” Winn , the track’s legendary president and general manager for decades in the early 1900s.

The Courier Journal sampled the shrimp and grits, which let the Weisenberger grits and Argentinian red shrimp shine with understated flavors of white wine, garlic, and parsley.

A visit to the steakhouse of course meant beef, specifically, the carved prime rib roast spiced with rosemary and peppercorn served with whipped potatoes, asparagus, and the homemade “Finish Line” steak sauce.

An old fashioned smoked with cedar-wood and bourbon-soaked maraschino cherries and a house-made orange simple syrup accompanied the trip to the on-premises steakhouse.

A sweet trio of espresso chocolate mousse, banana pudding, and berry trifle served in small cups rounded out our visit.

While the specific menu items the Courier Journal tried are tied to Derby Week, Lopez said they are indicative of the level and variety of offerings throughout the year.

Reporter Matthew Glowicki can be reached at [email protected], 502-582-4000 or on Twitter @mattglo.

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Nike Reveals Its PGA Championship Golf Shoe Pack

A nod to kentucky’s beloved bourbon..

With the Masters in the rear view mirror, the PGA Championship is right around corner and set to kick off on May 16 from Louisville, Kentucky. As has become tradition, Nike has prepared a series of limited edition shoes to build around excitement around the second major on the golf calendar, and this year a new model has been brought into the fold: the Air Pegasus 89 G .

Similar to the Jordan Brand collaboration with Happy Life Wood that paid tribute to the Masters and vintage hickory golf clubs , the Air Pegasus 89 G “PGA Championship” is executed in various rich bourbon hues and wood grain textures, paying homage to the history of distilling in the state of Kentucky. Pay attention closely to the Swoosh or toe mudguards and you’ll find a grain pattern resembling the stump of a freshly cut tree. The interplay between textures and finishes also occurs on the grooved grey mudguards, smooth grey panels and white speckled midsoles. The spikeless outsole, of course, is slightly raised compared to the normal lifestyle version of the shoe.

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Mystik Dan, trained by Kenny McPeek, wins Derby 150

The 150th Kentucky Derby is finally here! There are few things more iconic than the Run for the Roses and this banner year promises to be one for the history books.

Churchill Downs Racetrack is ushering in the massive anniversary with the opening of its new $200M paddock, which is the first thing people will see when they step through the gates. But that's not all. There are endless things to do and see at the Kentucky Derby from betting the races , to the food , drinks , celebrity viewing, and more.

Don't miss Kentucky native Wynonna Judd singing the national anthem before the Kentucky Derby race Saturday evening, or miss the chance to win a Ford truck from "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon." Plus, could this be the year a Japanese colt wins the Kentucky Derby ? Or an $11,000 gray ?

We'll have a team covering every aspect of the 150th Kentucky Derby, from the fashion to the food, the celebrities, the racing, and more, so follow along for live updates whether you're at the track or not. And be sure to download our Kentucky Derby 150 betting guide !

Happy Derby, y'all!

7:00 p.m.: Mystik Dan wins Kentucky Derby 2024

Mystik Dan , trained by Kenny McPeek, has officially won the historic 150th Kentucky Derby.

In a photo finish, the horse — who entered the $5 million, Grade 1 race with 18-1 odds — covered the 1 1/4 miles in 2:03.34.

Behind Mystik Dann were Sierra Leone and Forever Young. It was the first nose margin in a Derby since Grindstone beat Cavonnier in 1996. Sierra Leone also nosed out Forever Young — the Japanese contender — by a nose for second place.

The $5 million purse was the richest in Kentucky Derby history , surpassing the $3 million purse from 2019-23. The winner earned $3.1 million.

Shortly after the race, Mystik Dan trainer Kenny McPeek called jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. "one of the most underrated riders" during the NBC broadcast. "But, not anymore," he said.

6:38 p.m. More than 150,000 race fans in attendance for Kentucky Derby 150

It's official: 156,710 people are in attendance for the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, according to a post on X, formerly Twitter, from Churchill Downs communications director Darren Rogers.

The total makes it the most attended Derby since 2018. According to previous Courier Journal reporting, 157,813 people were in attendance that year.

5:30 p.m.: 21c's Steve Wilson: 'This is the time when we can really show off Kentucky'

Steve Wilson, owner of 21c Museum Hotel in Louisville, was sporting an iconic suit for the 150th Run for the Roses, made by Louisville designer Gunnar Deatherage, a previous contestant on “Project Runway.”

The suit features a lining that depicts drawings of past Derbies. The sleeves are decorated in a 3D floral design made from recycled bottles, Wilson said.

After the Derby, the suit will be sent to the Kentucky Derby Museum where it will be on display.

Wilson, who was seated in the Churchill Downs Racetrack Mansion, said he loves the Derby because it’s an experience that makes people happy.

“This is the time when we can really show off Kentucky,” Wilson said. “This is the moment. I love Kentucky, I want it to be an iconic travel destination, you can taste good food, good bourbon and see good horses.”

- Olivia Evans

5:15 p.m.: Culver Military Academy Black Horse Troop prepares to show the colors for the national anthem

The Culver Military Academy Black Horse Troop walked the backside of Churchill Downs before the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby.The troop, which is made up of junior and senior boys, will do the color guard for the national anthem.Yesterday, the Culver Military Academy girl’s troop presented the color guard before Oaks.

- Stephanie Kuzydym

4:20 p.m.: Celebrity spotting in the most exclusive areas of Churchill Downs on Derby Day

Looming high above the packed infield and the grandstand, celebrities took in Derby Day races from exclusive suites and clubs accessible only to the ultra-wealthy and well-connected.

In a tour of several of those exclusive areas, Courier Journal reporters spotted people influential in the worlds of politics, sports and entertainment.

At the Turf Club Terrace, country rock icon Kid Rock could be seen mixing with guests while first wearing a pink suit and later, a black tank top. His outfit was rounded out by a gold and a bedazzled belt of a steer’s skull.

New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers could also be seen inside the Turf Club wearing a navy suit over a white shirt and sunglasses. 

In a burst of yellow, legendary singer, songwriter and producer Smokey Robinson arrived in the club with his sunshine-colored entourage. Heads turned as they poured into the terrace flanked by security guards. 

Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph , who stars in the ABC comedy “Abbott Elementary,” took her seat alongside a wall of windows overlooking the race track. 

She was joined by country music singer Mickey Guyton.

University of Louisville football coach Jeff Brohm was also at the Turf Club, as well as UofL’s new men’s basketball coach Pat Kelsey. 

U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey was inside a suite at the Finish Line Suites. 

Each suite, which can hold up to 40 guests, starts at $295,000 per year for Oaks and Derby for a “multi-year agreement,” according to the Churchill Downs website.

- Eleanor McCrary and Josh Wood

4:15 p.m.: Derby City Gaming Downtown hosts Derby viewing party

Fans of the Kentucky Derby that can’t make it to Churchill Downs can watch the race at Derby City Gaming Downtown on Saturday.

Derby City Gaming Downtown, 401 W. Market St., is showing the races on a big screen and people can bet, drink, eat and have fun.

For $50, people get $25 in free play for slots machines, two free drinks and a 150th Kentucky Derby Program.

Nikki Hines, food and beverage supervisor at Derby City Gaming Downtown, said as of 4 p.m., there were 30 spots available for people that want to take advantage of the viewing experience.

Jakob Ayer, marketing operation supervisor for Derby City Gaming, said there will also be two photo booths between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m.

- Ana Rocío Álvarez Bríñez

3:55 p.m.: Kentucky should reconsider use of 'My Old Kentucky Home' at Derby, McGarvey says

In an interview with The Courier Journal ahead of the 150th Kentucky Derby, Louisville Congressman Morgan McGarvey said the event's use of “My Old Kentucky Home,” a 19th-century song inspired by the abolitionist novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” that has, in recent years, faced controversy from critics over racist roots, should be reconsidered .

3:45 p.m.: U of L coaches make their Kentucky Derby picks

University of Louisville football coach Jeff Brohm and University of Louisville men's basketball coach Pat Kelsey shared their Derby horse picks in an interview with The Courier Journal ahead of the race. 

"Well, this year for the Derby — I haven't been in a few years - I'm going to go with Dornoch," Brohm said. "I think it's going to start strong and finish strong and come by with a victory."

His second choice is Mystik Dan.

Kelsey, who was just named the new Louisville men's basketball coach in March, has a different selection.

"I'm heavy on Sierra Leone," said Kelsey. "I like Domestic Product and Just A Touch."

Kelsey added that he is already excited about next basketball season and is filling the roster now. Kelsey can already "feel the energy in the city."

- Eleanor McCrary

3:30 p.m.: Emmitt Smith: 'All the training comes together today'

Emmitt Smith’s outfit was adorned with some family flair. The interior of his light blue plaid suit jacket included photos of his children, mother and father. “They’re with me today,” he told on the Courier Journal on the 150th Kentucky Derby red carpet. 

Smith, known as a NFL legend, has made the Derby a bit of a tradition, and shared a sense of admiration for the preparation from horses, trainers and jockeys that goes into a huge race.

“All the training comes together today,” he said. “And today we get to see some of the finest animals on the planet run around this track.”

3:21 p.m.: Rep. Morgan McGarvey makes Kentucky Derby 150 pick

U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey's Derby race pick is close to his family's heart. 

"This one for us is all emotion this year," he explained, glancing at his wife, Chris. Her grandmother was an “incredible woman” named Marie. Chris and the McGarvey’s daughter have the middle name “Marie,” he said.

"So for us this year, the easy pick is Honor Marie."

The McGarveys are enjoying the 150th Derby at the Finish Line Suites. He also attended Kentucky Oaks, and said some of his friends on the U.S House Committee on Ways and Means gave him money to place bets.

"I went along with it,” he said, laughing. “None of us won."

3:20 p.m.: Kentucky Derby 2025 tickets now on sale 

It’s never too early to start planning for next year’s Kentucky Derby. 

According to a post on X, formerly Twitter, tickets for the 151st Run for the Roses, which will be on May 3, 2025, are available now.  

People can pre-register for Derby and Oaks tickets at https://www.kentuckyderby.com/sign-up/ .  

3:15 p.m.: 'I just want people to come and experience our great city and all the traditions'

Gia Combs, Miss Cosmos United States 2023 and a former Kentucky Derby Queen, and her mother, former University of Louisville basketball player Valerie Combs, were near the Clubhouse Gate just before Race 9 on the 150th Kentucky Derby Day.

“With this being 150, I just want people to come and experience our great city and all the traditions,” she said. “It’s great to welcome people who have never been here before.”

They’d just come from their Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority brunch with their friend Sharon Swisher, who was in town from San Antonio, and had watched more than 30 Kentucky Derby races at Churchill Down.

“I wouldn’t have missed this one for anything,” Swisher said. “Each Derby has a different vibe and a different feeling … There is nothing in the world like this.”

- Maggie Menderski

2:10 p.m.: Wynonna Judd arrives to sing National Anthem

Wynonna Judd stepped into Churchill Downs wearing a full white suit and top hat, ready to perform the national anthem ahead of the big race.

“I’m so excited,” Judd, who grew up in Ashland, told the Courier Journal on Friday during the Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala. “This is the 150th year. So, they knew who to pick in terms of patriotic and being a proud Kentuckian. It’s just number 1 on my list.” 

The performance is scheduled for 5 p.m. and will be broadcast on NBC.

Previous singers of the national anthem at the Derby include Martina McBride, Rascal Flatts and Jo Dee Messina. 

- Amanda Hancock 

2 p.m.: 'So much more than I expected'

Roberta Tengerdy of Sarasota, Florida, had come to the 150th Kentucky Derby as part of a girls trip. Her husband, Tom, hadn’t come along, but he was very present in her first Run for the Roses. He’d helped design her whole look. He’d gone to Hobby Lobby and bought an assortment of ribbons and flowers to embellish her hat. He fastened more than a two dozen flowers on the underside of the brim, and he’d bedazzled a cigar box style purse with pictures of cherubs, small flowers, pom poms and beading. Since he couldn’t come to the Derby with her, he tucked two roses — one for each of them — inside the interior pocket of her purse.Tengerdy was enjoying the view from the upper deck of the new paddock just before the seventh race of the day. The whole morning had just been wonderful, she said.“It’s just more than I could have ever imagined,” Tengerdy said of the experience. “I don’t know what I imagined, but it’s just so much more than I expected.”

- Maggie Menderski 

1:35 p.m.: Health professionals on hand for Derby 150

Dominic Morales started his Kentucky Derby Day hours before the first horses ran in Race 1.

Morales is one of half a dozen Norton Sports Health athletic trainers serving as trackside medical professionals available on race day. 

This is the first year athletic trainers and physicians are required, as part of a regulation by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority . HISA is the agency that oversees the health and safety of horses with uniform rules across the thoroughbred racing industry.

Athletic trainers, considered the health care professionals of sports sidelines, are at Churchill Downs to support the health care of jockeys, as well as also Derby 150 attendees. There are three first aid tents — in the clubhouse, the executive gate and the infield at the fourth turn — for basic first-aid care. 

Morales, a former collegiate AT, as well as Tiffany Haub, contributed in the creation of Churchill Down's emergency action plan, or what to do in the event of an emergency, which the world saw in action when Damar Hamlin collapsed during a Monday Night Football game in January 2023.

- Stephanie Kuzydym 

1:20 p.m.: Travis Kelce spotted in crowd at Churchill Downs

Super Bowl Champion Travis Kelce is officially at Churchill Downs for the 150th Kentucky Derby — but so far there's no sign of global superstar girlfriend Taylor Swift.

Shortly after 1 p.m. Saturday, the Kansas City Chiefs tight end was seen arriving at the track, wearing a lightly-striped white suit, navy floral tie and coordinating navy hat, complete with a feather. In a post on X, formerly Twitter, a photo shows Kelce amid a sea of attendees.

There had been speculation for months over whether the NFL star and “Shake It Off” singer would saddle up and attend the "Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports."

1:10 p.m.: A crowing achievement for Derby 150

Chris Lowber is one of many people who went all out for 150 years of Derby. As Lowber walked around the infield, he wore a cardboard replica of the Twin Spires on top of his head to celebrate this year’s anniversary.

It isn't his first Kentucky Derby though and said he's been to many as a Louisville resident. Lowber said that he’s worn this replica for many years because he wants to embrace the festivities and celebrations.  

The cardboard replica also features artwork from Lowbers’ students, and he said it took almost 10 hours to complete the piece. When asked how he wears the replica on his head all day, Lowber assured that he takes breaks.

Like many Derby attendees, Lowber is placing his bet on tonight’s big race and hopes that Forever Young takes the Triple Crown. 

- Hannah Pinski

1 p.m.: Ted Cruz appears at Churchill Downs for Derby 150

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz was spotted at Churchill Downs for at least his third time at the historic track.

The Texas Republican previously attended the Kentucky Derby in 2016 after dropping out of that year’s presidential race. And he was back the next year with his wife, Heidi.

In a post on X , formerly Twitter, Cruz called the Derby “a great American tradition.”

- Bailey Loosemore 

12:50 p.m.: 'It's just incredible'

Ken and Sandy Kunkel traveled to the Kentucky Derby to celebrate Ken’s 70th Birthday with Sandy’s wine group “The Swirl Girls.”“Thank you so much for coming to the party,” their group said, anytime someone spotted his birthday sash and wished Ken a “Happy Birthday!” He said he couldn’t ask for anything more for his birthday, but a kiss from his wife — who promptly gave him a smooch just outside the Clubhouse Gate. Ken felt “spoiled” for having such a wonderful birthday.

“It’s the 150th and today is my 70th birthday,” he beamed, while holding a mint julep cup. “It’s just incredible.”

12:30 p.m.: Firefighter Bryce Carden honored at track

Two months after he helped rescue a woman from her truck as it dangled from the George Clark Memorial Bridge , Louisville firefighter Bryce Carden was honored at Churchill Downs ahead of the 150th Kentucky Derby.

Carden was invited to the race as a special guest of WDRB-TV, which produced a presentation that played from the track's video boards Saturday morning.

Carden is a member of Rescue Company 2, which responded to the bridge call around noon March 1. Authorities say Trevor Branham of Jeffersonville was driving a Chevrolet truck at an excessive speed and "weaving in and out of traffic" when he struck several vehicles on the bridge, including the tractor trailer that broke through the guardrail and hung over the Ohio River for about 40 minutes before its driver was rescued.

Watch WDRB's presentation for Carden here .

- Bailey Loosemore

12:15 p.m.: NBC, Churchill Downs extend broadcast partnership

Churchill Downs Incorporated and NBC Sports on Saturday announced an extension of their partnership that will see the Kentucky Derby televised by NBC through 2032.

NBC Sports first televised the Kentucky Derby in 2001.

“As we celebrate the 150th running of the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs is proud to extend the relationship with NBC Sports,” Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen said. “As our media partner for the last 23 years, NBC has artfully captured the most exciting two minutes in sports and the spectacle of the senses that surrounds it.”

The extension includes multi-platform rights to the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks and Derby and Oaks Day programming, which will be presented on NBC, Peacock, USA Network and other NBCUniversal platforms.

National coverage of Saturday’s Kentucky Derby will begin at 2:30 p.m. on NBC and Peacock.

- Jason Frakes 

Noon: More celebrities walk the red carpet for Kentucky Derby 2024

Dozens of famous faces are expected to walk the red carpet at Churchill Downs Saturday ahead of race time. Follow along with our reporters in the field.

11:40 a.m.: 'Call Her Daddy' host Alex Cooper, 'Hot Mess' host Alix Earle talk Derby in the Infield

Alex Cooper, host for the “Call Her Daddy” podcast, and Alix Earle, the podcast host for “Hot Mess,” talked to Kentucky Derby attendees on the Infield’s main stage on Saturday morning. The two programs operate under the “Unwell” podcast network, and a few dozen people gathered around the stage to listen to their Q&A. 

It was the first time coming to Derby for the two high-profile influencers and have been here throughout the week to interact with fans. Earl also attended the Sports Illustrated Revel at the Races party on Friday. 

Earle said she’s placing her bet on Sierra Leone as the Triple Crown winner, while Cooper said she still didn’t know where she would be placing her bets.

- Hanna Pinski

11:30 a.m.: Celebrities start to walk the red carpet at Churchill Downs

Andrea Canning of "Dateline NBC" was the first celebrity to walk the red carpet Saturday ahead of the big race. Canning said she loved the intimacy of the Barnstable Brown Derby Eve Gala on Friday night and wanted to get to Churchill Downs early Saturday to look at all the fashion.

"There have been some hits and misses but overall, the fashion is amazing,“ she said. “I am definitely investigating the fashion, not so much the horse racing.”

- Kirby Adams

11:22 a.m.: 'There’s nothing else like this in the country'

Denise Bautista, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, wore dress and purse made of fabric roses and a necklace featuring the Kentucky Derby symbol, as she stood in the Woodford Reserve Paddock Plaza just before the first race on Saturday. The Kentucky Derby has been around for more than half the history of this country, she explained, genuinely thrilled to be back beneath the iconic Twin Spires for this historic moment.

"You see first timers and old timers, and everybody has that look of just ‘oh my God, we’re here,’” she said. "There’s nothing else like this in the country."

A few years ago, Bautista lucked into Kentucky Derby tickets just two weeks before the event. She had always planned to go at least once in her life, but what she didn’t plan for was falling in love with Kentucky. This year marks her fourth Kentucky Derby. She and her husband have enjoyed Louisville, the bourbon culture and the Kentucky Derby so much over the past few years that they’re hoping to buy a home here.

She had traveled to Kentucky three other times this year to participate in festivities leading up to the 150 milestone.

“If you miss some of that, you’re missing the warm-up to the event,” she said. “I love it, I actually talked him into it this year, we’re going to start looking for a place out here.”

11:01 a.m.: Puppies predict 150th Kentucky Derby winner with Jimmy Fallon on 'The Tonight Show' 

Sierra Leone was predicted to be the winner of the 150th Kentucky Derby during a special edition of Puppy Predictors on NBC's "The Tonight Show" on Friday.

Host and comedian Jimmy Fallon, who will appear at Churchill Downs Saturday to help Ford give away a vehicle to a lucky fan, had to review slow camera footage since the race was tight between two puppies representing contenders Sierra Leone and Dornoch.  

Even though he was not the winner, Resilience, who Fallon described as “the longshot,” stole the comedian’s heart.  

“That is the most chill puppy I’ve ever seen in my life,” Fallon said of the pup. “I love you, Resilience.” 

Check out the video here: 

10:27 a.m.: Rain could be in the forecast again for Derby Day

Just hours ahead of the race, the National Weather Service in Louisville predicts Louisville has a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1 p.m and patchy fog before 10 a.m. Otherwise, skies will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 80 degrees. Calm wind becoming southwest 5 to 7 mph in the afternoon, according to the seven-day forecast.

Saturday night has a 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 8 p.m. The area is expected to be partly cloudy, with a low around 64 degrees and a southwest wind around 6 mph.

What to know about the 150th Kentucky Derby

• Kentucky Derby 2024 betting odds, favorites and picks for each post position
• Your Kentucky Derby 2024 pick is likely wrong. Here's why each horse can or can't win
• Who is going to win the 2024 Kentucky Derby? Guide to horses, odds, predictions
• Kentucky Derby betting strategy from Ed DeRosa: Here are horses you should put money on
• Want to bet on the gray for Kentucky Derby 2024? Here’s what you need to know
• Forever Young looks to give Japan first Kentucky Derby win. Why he could be colt to do it
• 'The Impossible Dream': Small budget, cancer couldn't keep Demeritte from Kentucky Derby
• From Chad Brown to D. Wayne Lukas to Todd Pletcher, meet Kentucky Derby 2024 trainers
• Want a $1,000 mint julep? How about a $5,000 one? Here's how to get one during Kentucky Derby Week
• Here's what a typical Kentucky Derby weekend is like for NBC's Dylan Dreyer
• Take a look back at how fashion has changed in 150 years of the Kentucky Derby
• 'Transformational': Churchill Downs unveils $200M paddock ahead of Kentucky Derby 150
• Here's where to park for Kentucky Derby 150 at Churchill Downs