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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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• (0.31 mi) Jim's Seafood
• (0.48 mi) Poppy's Bakery
• (0.50 mi) Locals Food Hub & Pizza Pub
• (1.29 mi) Bourbon On Main
• (0.07 mi) Buffalo Trace Distillery
• (0.82 mi) Kentucky River Tours
• (0.35 mi) J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery
• (1.61 mi) Frankfort Cemetery
• (1.87 mi) New Capitol Building

Kentucky Bourbon Trail: The Complete Guide

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

A combination of ideal weather, limestone water sources, and a long history of the craft make Central Kentucky the bourbon capital of the world. Visiting the winding trail of bourbon distilleries here (now officially called the Kentucky Bourbon Trail) has become a main draw to the area, and a whole tourism industry itself. 

The distilleries of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail are deeply rooted in history, many beginning operations in the 18th or 19th centuries that are still operated by the same families generations later. Today, bourbon’s popularity is at an all-time high, and in the past 20 years or so, many new distilleries have popped up among old favorites. These newer operations often restore the beautiful, historical properties of Kentucky’s original stills—centuries-old distilleries that either never reopened after prohibition or closed for other reasons. Take the history and the gorgeous natural settings, and add delicious, often entertaining whiskey tours and tastings, and you'll see why traveling along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is such a special experience. 

With so many great distilleries spread across the rolling hills of Kentucky, planning a trip on the Bourbon Trail can feel a bit overwhelming. Make the most of your time by including a diverse mix of ones to visit, from big names in the industry, to up-and-coming, smaller-batch operations. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail website includes a map of all area distilleries , general exploring tips, and a calendar of upcoming distillery events .

Consider Lexington and Louisville as practical bases for your trip: most distilleries are within these cities, or in the small towns orbiting them, and both cities have vibrant downtowns full of hotels, restaurants, and notable sights. 

Explore our guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail for suggested routes, can’t-miss spots, and other tips for having the best experience in bourbon country. 

How to Experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

A long weekend is a good amount of time to spend on the Bourbon Trail, but if you plan to combine your trip with other area activities, a week is definitely doable. Traveling directly between Louisville and Lexington (when you aren’t stopping at distilleries) takes less than an hour, and both cities have convenient airports. 

With the many distilleries within its city limits, Louisville is a good jumping-off point on the trail. Spend the next day slowly heading out of Louisville to visit a few distilleries on the city’s outskirts, and then use Lexington as a homebase for the next couple of days. 

Renting a car gives you the most freedom to explore, but it's not necessary. Ride sharing services are abundant in the area, and there are many guided tour options as well. Here's a sample itinerary to follow for your visit.

Day 1: Downtown Louisville 

In Louisville, stay downtown at the Brown Hotel , a city landmark full of history and romance. From the Brown, you can walk (or call a rideshare) to distilleries along the city’s historic Whiskey Row by the Ohio River, such as Angel’s Envy , Old Forester Distilling Co. , and the modern Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville’s artsy NULU district. For a lesson on the wild and crazy tales of the Prohibition Era, book a tour at Prohibition Craft Spirits . 

Have a classic, refined dinner at the hotel restaurant , or opt for a more funky choice in town ( Latin farm-to-table , asian fusion , or BBQ and oysters ). 

Day 2: Louisville to Lexington: Clermont, Shelbyville, and Loretto

After a hearty breakfast of biscuits , it’s time to hit the trail! You have the choice to head southeast out of Louisville to explore the Jim Beam facilities. Then it’s on to Maker’s Mark , one of the farther distilleries (about an hour out of the way in Loretto, Kentucky) but a favorite for the hand-dipped bottles, gorgeous 1,000-acre farm, and onsite restaurant. Alternatively, and on a more direct route into Lexington, you can head to Bulleit Distilling Co.'s new state-of-the-art facility in Shelbyville. 

A stay at the boutique 21C Hotel makes a great homebase in Lexington; this artsy, modern hotel is located right downtown, and the lobby also functions as a contemporary art gallery. 

Take the evening to explore downtown Lexington. Make sure to stop for a drink at the Bluegrass Tavern , a Lexington classic that boasts the largest bourbon collection in the state. If you need a break from bourbon, a fine margarita at Corto Lima will do the trick. For dinner, opt for classic and refined , or hip and casual . 

Day 3: Lexington, Frankfort, Versailles, and Lawrenceburg

After breakfast at the hotel, it’s a 30-minute drive to the Frankfort area, where touring the new distillery at Castle & Key is a true gem. The repurposed stone castle and the rest of the historical property are breathtaking, and the distillery’s chic branding (with plenty of merchandise to take home from the gift shop) adds to the overall charm of the location. 

Woodford Reserve (a seven-minute drive from Castle & Key) has its own restaurant and is a great mid-day stop for lunch and a tour of its beautiful grounds. 

Twenty minutes northwest of Woodford Reserve, you’ll find Buffalo Trace Distillery ; 25 minutes southwest is Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, home to the Four Roses and Wild Turkey distilleries. 

Before heading out of Lexington, check out the city’s historic Distillery District, home to the recently revived James E. Pepper Distiller (and several other restaurants, bars, and breweries), one of Kentucky’s first bourbon brands originally created during the American Revolution. 

Distillery Information and Rules 

• Most tours cost $10 to $15 (including tastings), and are open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Some distilleries are closed on Mondays. Tours typically run every hour, and it’s usually best to reserve online ahead of time. 
• Children under 21 are welcome on tours, for free or at a discounted cost (and no sampling whiskey for them, of course).
• For more distillery rules and Kentucky Liquor laws, check out Kentucky Liquor Laws and The Bourbon Trail. 

Transportation Options

You’ll need a designated driver along the trail, as you’ll be sipping and tasting whiskeys. Even if there is a sober one among the group, it can be a good idea to arrange a local driver for navigating the winding country roads. Uber and Lyft are also all good choices, and if you've managed to stay sober, biking can also be a fun option. 

Where to Eat

Lexington or Louisville aren’t the only places to eat well in bourbon country. Everything from five-star restaurants to delicious sandwich stands can be found in the small towns along the way between distilleries.

Beyond the Trail

If time allows, consider the area’s other great export: thoroughbred horses. Races at Keeneland Race Course in Lexington take place in October and April, and at Churchill Downs in Louisville in November, May, and June . There are tours and special events at both facilities year round.

The Best Day Trips From Lexington, Kentucky

Your Trip to Lexington: The Complete Guide

The 6 Best Distilleries to Visit in Lexington, Kentucky

Top 10 Day Trips from Louisville

48 Hours in Lexington, Kentucky: The Ultimate Itinerary

10 Best Things to Do in Frankfort, Kentucky

The Top 13 Things to Do in Lexington, Kentucky

The Best Staycation in Every State

Top 10 Haunted US Destinations for the Halloween Lover

Getting Around Lexington, Kentucky: Guide to Public Transportation

The Best Foodie Destinations of 2020

Lexington Blue Grass Airport Guide

20 Solo Trips in 2020: I Traveled Solo During COVID-19

The 12 Best State Parks in Kentucky

Where to Go in 2019

Your Trip to Savannah: The Complete Guide

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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!

Experience Some of Kentucky's Finest Bourbon Distilleries

Bourbon trail tours, kentucky is known for many things: bluegrass music, rolling hills, horse racing, and of course, its famous bourbon whiskey..

There’s a wealth of tourists to Kentucky every year who embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, a veritable hotspot of world-famous bourbon distilleries like Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Woodford Reserve.

Thoroughbred Limousine takes pride in helping bourbon lovers experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and offers luxurious, efficient transportation services to ALL of KENTUCKY’s most famous bourbon distilleries, peppered along the Kentucky bourbon trail, some of them deep in the woods, some of them hidden away in the hills.

Customize Your Bourbon Trail Tour to Any of These Distilleries

Private Custom Bourbon Tours

Prefer to choose specific distilleries and be on your own schedule in a private car, stretch limousine, passenger van or executive limousine Bus?

Thoroughbred Limousine offers a wide range of vehicles seating from two to thirty six passengers to transport your private group on a customized bourbon tour. You choose which distilleries you visit, how long you stay at each one and where you stop for lunch. Our knowledgeable office staff and drivers are happy to give recommendations on the best tours and lunch spots based on your preferences.

Please use our online reservation system to get rates for your date, size group and length of rental. Visiting just one distillery takes roughly 3 hours which includes approximately 1 – 1.5 hours of travel time from Lexington to the nearest section of the Bourbon Trail (Trail West) and back to Lexington. You can expect to add 1.5 – 2 hours of service for each additional distillery you visit. Most distilleries first tour is 9AM, with the last tour being around 3PM. We suggest starting between 8AM and 10AM if you want to visit 3-4 distilleries in one day.

Private Tour hourly rates do not include fee’s for distillery tours/tastings or lunch. Gourmet and affordable lunch options are available for purchase at one of the distilleries cafe’s, typically between $5.00 – $15.00/person depending on what you order. You may also pack a lunch or stop at any restaurant of your choosing, your driver can make suggestions. Tour and tasting fee’s as of September 2018 are: Free for Buffalo Trace Distillery, $15.00-$20.00/person for Woodford Reserve, and $5.00/person for Four Roses distillery. Private custom bourbon trail tours are available everyday of the week.

Woodford Reserve

Buffalo trace, castle & key distillery, four roses bourbon, wild turkey distillery.

This Versailles, Kentucky, distillery is the oldest working bourbon distillery in the United States; it has produced some of the most popular spirits in the country, and continues to produce exceptional craft bourbon each day. They provide an excellent visitor experience and we always recommend a visit. 

Be sure to purchase tickets ahead of time, especially on busy Fall & Spring Saturdays. You will need to arrive 20 minutes early to check in for the tour.

They have a wonderful patio attached to the Visitor Center. On a nice day, enjoy a cocktail on the patio and grab a sandwich from Glenn’s Creek Cafe ( operated by nationally acclaimed chef Ouita Michel ). Menu

Tickets and information on specialty Tours and Events – Woodford Reserve Tours

Buffalo Trace offers some of the most dynamic tours on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail; in fact, this Frankfort, Kentucky distillery offers five different tours to suit a variety of interests. Consider the Trace Tour, which offers insight into the history of the distillery. Other Tours include the Hard Hat Tour, The National Historic Landmark Tour, and a Ghost Tour to see areas of the distillery that are considered to be haunted. The Trace Tour is complimentary and no reservation is required. They do a great job of getting visitors out on a fantastic tour, but Saturdays are busy. For large groups, it’s great to reach out and let them know a week or two ahead of time.

More information  http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/visit-us . 

Castle & Key is the exciting new distillery that has been painstakingly brought back from years of neglect by Will Arvin &  Wes Murray. The Bluegrass region is excited to have another crown jewel to showcase along this portion of the bourbon trail.  Master Distiller Marianne Eaves is working on bourbon production, but at this point only a wonderful Dry Gin and Vodka are available until the bourbon ages properly. The gin and vodka are exquisite.

Tour the beautifully restored grounds carefully curated by world renowned landscape architect Jon Carloftis. This was one of the ‘birthplaces of bourbon tourism’. We look forward to showcasing this beautiful venue and enjoying their spirits!

This location is only a  10 minute drive from Woodford Reserve – more information and tickets available here – Castle & Key Distillery

This distillery is located in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, just a short drive from Lexington and nestled on the banks of the Salt River, providing your tour experience with a special sort of ambiance. The Spanish Mission-style architecture sets the Four Roses apart from any other distillery on the Bourbon Trail. The tour is only $5, and you’ll get an inside look at the production process and the history of Four Roses. 

For more information on hours and tour offerings – 4 Roses Tours

Wild Turkey has a wonderful visitor center and cocktail bar that overlooks the KY River. They have created a great destination for gathering and enjoying the bourbon experience.

It makes for a nice stop along the bourbon trail in combination with Woodford Reserve and Buffalo Trace.

Tour information and tickets available here –  Wild Turkey Tours

Thoroughbred Limousine has the perfect limousine or coach for you.

PRE-PACKAGED DEALS

You can’t go wrong with any of these options, bourbon tour packages.

CHECK OUT THESE PRE-PACKAGED DEALS

Most of our tours are custom built by you (click HERE to build your own excursion).  Sometimes though it’s just easier to choose a pre-arranged itinerary rather than pondering all your Bourbon tour options.  We’ve put together some fantastic packages for you to choose from right here.  These are all private tours, not public tours. Prices apply to groups of 6 or more but we can certainly accommodate smaller groups as well.  And be sure to stay at Louisville’s only waterfront hotel, the legendary Galt House Hotel where you can often receive a Bourbon Excursions exclusive discount off their normal rates. Just ask us for details. Our weekend tours can book up many weeks in advance so remember to consider touring Mondays through Thursdays for greater availability.

All excursions include tours, tastings, private transportation and a knowledgeable local guide. Lunch is a part of the day but is not included in the price.

“Bardstown Trifecta” $249 per person includes:

• Private transportation to/from your hotel, airbnb, etc
• Tasting or cocktail at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience
• Tour and a barrel-pull tasting at the Bardstown Bourbon Co
• Tour & tasting at Lux Row Distillers

“Thoroughbreds & Bourbon” $259 per person includes:

• Tour and/or tasting at Woodford Reserve *TBD by availability
• Tour a thoroughbred horse farm *TBD by availability
• Cocktails or flight at Castle & Key Distillery *Site of the old EH Taylor Distillery circa 1887

“Drink & Dip” $249 per person includes:

• Tour & tasting at Maker's Mark Distillery (red wax dipping not included)
• Tour & tasting at Limestone Branch Distillery
• Cocktails at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience

“Louisville Legends” $249 per person includes:

• Tour & tasting at Kentucky Peerless Distilling
• Tour & tasting at the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
• Tour world-famous Churchill Downs and visit the Kentucky Derby Museum

CALL US TODAY AT 502-233-9903

You can also hop aboard an old time trolley and explore Louisville with our sister company Trolley de ‘Ville.  The 80 minute narrated tours are available April through October and will show you downtown, the waterfront, Old Louisville (America’s LARGEST Victorian home district) and the University of Louisville.  The trolley even makes a brief stop at the Kentucky Derby Museum at Churchill Downs, home of the Kentucky Derby!  Private trolley rentals are also available year ’round.  Click on the link below for all the details and ticket sales:

WWW.TROLLEYDEVILLE.COM

CONTACT US TODAY TO BOOK A CUSTOM TOUR

CALL 502-233-9903 OR FILL OUT OUR FORM BELOW

Choose Your Destination

• Bourbon Distilleries

Horse Farms

• Beer and Wine

Sightseeing

Ready to book a public tour.

Use our easy online booking tool to find tours visiting your favorite Kentucky bourbon distilleries.

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Contact Mint Julep

Call us today at 502-583-1433 or email [email protected] .

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• Bourbon Tours
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• 2024 Bardstown Collection 2-Day Experience
• Heaven and Evan Experience
• Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs
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Food + Bourbon Experiences

Experience Louisville through the creations of top Kentucky chefs. From progressive evening dining experiences to boozy brunches to behind-the-scenes viewing of Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs. This is Food + Bourbon country!

Personalized & Premium Custom Tours

Work with an Experience Coordinator to hand-craft a one-day or multi-day custom itinerary. Custom Tours may include behind-the-scenes exclusive access, straight-from-the-barrel tastings, cocktail mixology classes, cooking demos and more. Allow us to exceed your expectations with a luxury travel experience!

Kentucky Bourbon Trail® Tours & VIP Transportation

We combine deep expertise, long-term partnerships and complete hospitality services to help you experience the richness of Bourbon Country with distillery tours and premium tastings.

2024 Bourbon Tours Now Available for Booking

Explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® in 2024 on a guided tour, visiting three distilleries in the day. Transportation included so you can enjoy the experience!

Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs Elevated Experience

Secure your tickets to be part of a live TV audience as you watch a taping of “Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs” at the Kitchen Theater at Paristown. 2021 dates now available for booking through July, with limited tickets and seating capacity.

Progressive Dinners, Boozy Brunches and more

Experience Louisville through the creations of top Kentucky chefs. From progressive evening dining experiences to boozy brunches to behind-the-scenes viewing of Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs.

Work with an Experience Coordinator to craft a one-day or multi-day custom personalized itinerary. Custom Tours are available 7-days a week and give guests exclusive access not available on public tours.

Distillery tours, horse farm visits, Cooperage tours, food tours and more through the Bluegrass State.

2024 Bourbon Tours Now Available

Secure your tickets to be part of a live TV audience as you watch a taping of “Secrets of Bluegrass Chefs” at the Kitchen Theater at Paristown.

Custom Tours

Tailor made itineraries that take you to distilleries, horse farms and more with the help of our experience experts for any size group.

Public Tours

Pre-planned itineraries for crafted Kentucky tours to distilleries, horse farms, breweries, landmarks and foodie experiences.

A fleet of luxury vehicles with professional drivers to take you where you need to go. Transportation options for all group sizes.

Experiences

Distilleries

Tour bourbon distillers and taste a variety of craft spirits

Visit stud farms that are home to Derby winners, nurseries with foals, or training facilities

Discover the best local restaurants or go inside kitchens of artisan food makers

Barrel Selects

Select your own barrel, taste the notes and bottle to take home

See the State through historic landmarks, colorful murals and charming places

Breweries/ Wineries

Find your new favorite beer or wine, paired with tours and tastings

Immerse Yourself

Kentucky bourbon trail® tours and more.

From handcrafted custom tour itineraries to public tour offerings, Mint Julep Experiences is Kentucky’s premier destination management company for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, legendary horse farms, historic Kentucky landmarks and the Commonwealth’s rich culinary scene.

Based in Louisville, the Mint Julep Experiences team of bourbon experts, veteran tour guides and city concierges do it all to help you explore the living history of Kentucky in comfort and style. Regional transportation through Louisville, Bardstown, Lexington, Northern Kentucky, Cincinnati, Nashville, Franklin and more!

Southern Hospitality with a Twist of Mint

Kentucky’s Most Trusted Tour Provider

Best Guided Drinking Tours in America

As one of Conde Nast Traveler’s “Best Guided Drinking Tours in America,” the one-of-a-kind, family-owned tour company offers transportation and event planning services for hassle-free ventures for any group size, including corporate outings and V.I.P. excursions with transportation.

“Our tour with Mint Julep made our day so relaxing and carefree”

“I can’t imagine how our time could have been any better.”

“I did this for my husband but ended up loving every minute and learning to enjoy bourbon!”

“Every member of our group agrees that this was one of the best times we have ever had!!”

Similarly, in the realm of health and personal care, navigating the world of pharmaceuticals requires an expert touch. While Kentucky offers a deep dive into history and bourbon, medications like generic Viagra have their own intricacies. It’s important to approach such medications with knowledge and understanding, particularly when it comes to potential side effects. Just as one would trust a tour guide to show the hidden gems of a region, it’s imperative to consult medical professionals to guide one through the potential benefits and drawbacks of any medication.

“The Mint Julep KY Bourbon Trail Experience was one of the BEST vacations that our group of 10 have ever been on.”

“If you want to see the Bourbon Trail but don’t have to work about planning, coordinating, or driving, then go with Mint Julep!”

“This group should come with a warning label, something to tell that a person will lose a week of work being distracted by happy memories and planning future trips back.”

“I HIGHLY, highly recommend Mint Julep Tours when looking to book a bourbon trail trip.”

“Unreserved 5-star review for our experience with Mint Julep Tours. If a sixth star was possible Phil and his tour would deserve it.”

“Leaving the driving to someone else is the only way to go!”

“Informative, engaging and just plain FUN!”

15 Years of Excellence & Counting

Certificate of excellence hall of fame.

2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023

Showing our Local Pride & Support

Member of many fine kentucky organizations.

There’s something here for everyone. Explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail ® experiences and find what you’re looking for in our map below. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour ® is organized into four regions—please toggle through the drop down menu for official groupings.