Bardstown Bed and Breakfast - BourbonSphere

3 Great Packages for Your Trip to our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

From the moment you arrive at the majestic front steps of our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, you’ll officially feel like your vacation has begun. The cheerful red walls welcome you as you enter the foray, leading you towards the spiral staircase to our luxury suites above. You’ll sense the years of history at the Bourbon …

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Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

Thankfully, we also offer some fantastic add-on packages for your vacation with us. There are many options to choose from— since our guests often come from all corners of the country—we like to make sure there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re joining us for a romantic getaway for two, a group celebration, or a babymoon before the big day, we’ve got some great options at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast.

Our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast is in the ideal location to explore all of the fun things to do in Bardstown KY. You’ll be within walking distance or very quick drives to fine dining, bourbon tasting rooms, and local boutiques. Begin your day in our elegant dining room for a gourmet home-cooked Southern-style breakfast and piping hot coffee. You’ll be all set to head out on a bourbon distillery tour, prepare for your spa treatment, or just sit back and relax.

Check out these fantastic packages and book your next stay at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast today!

Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

Three Fantastic Packages at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

For those heading to our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast for a memorable getaway for two, the Romantic Touch: Pampered Partners Package is by far the best way to enhance your stay. This package includes one night of lodging, a sensual couple’s massage, chocolate-dipped strawberries, a sparkling beverage with complimentary flutes, and dining credit to one of our favorite Bardstown restaurants.
While the anticipation of a new baby is exciting, it’s important to celebrate the precious moments you have remaining as a duo. And the best way to do that is with our Just Inn Time Babymoon Package. Not only does this add-on include a pre-natal massage for mom-to-be, but dad also deserves a deep tissue treatment to calm his nerves. You’ll also enjoy a quiet dinner for two and a horse and carriage ride in Bardstown.
Bardstown is known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” so of course, we want to help you explore the distilleries and tasting rooms of the area. You’ll find multiple add-on packages geared towards the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. A great option is the Bourbon Tour & Tasting Package II includes pick up and drop off at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, three stops at local distilleries with tastings, and lunch at a local hotspot.

Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

Things to do in Bardstown KY, Once You’re Here

Once you’re arrived and settled into our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, there are many things to do in Bardstown KY, during your stay. Here’s a quick glimpse of what a trip to our charming small town will look like:

After check-in and you’ve freshened up from your travel time, join us for cocktail hour for one of our favorite bourbon concoctions. On the first night in town, we suggest heading to downtown Bardstown for dinner, there are many fantastic restaurants, but The Rickhouse is a classic steak house in a historic brick building. Take your pick from bourbon flights, seafood starters, and meaty mains for a lovely meal.
One of the best things to do in Bardstown KY is explore the town on foot! There is a self-guided walking tour that directs you to important historical monuments and locations. And you may as well pop by one (or more) of the local Bardstown bourbon distilleries for tours and tastings.
My Kentucky Dinner Train is the perfect outing for one of the evenings on your stay. Not only is the train depot only minutes from our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, but it’s also the best way to view the idyllic countryside, enjoy some local cuisine, and adult beverages if you so choose.
Another fantastic day trip while staying with us is a quick drive to the Bernheim Forest and Arboretum. You’ll find beautiful (and larger than life) outdoor sculptures, miles of hiking trails through the picturesque Kentucky forests, and even a cute cafe to stop for lunch.
As always, please take advantage of our concierge service at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast. We can always direct you to the best things to do in Bardstown KY, on your stay, and we’re happy to help make reservations for you!

Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

Sit Back and Relax at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

Our historic ten suite Kentucky Bed and Breakfast is by far the best place to stay in Bardstown. Instead of big-box lodging that doesn’t add anything special to your vacation, you’ll have a memorable experience with us, surrounded by history and luxurious amenities. Our welcoming and knowledgeable staff is always on hand to make your stay the best it can be. We can’t wait to be your hosts on your next trip to Bardstown KY!

Check out upcoming availability, enhance your stay with a unique package, and book today!

Take a Walk Through the Bernheim Forest This Fall

The Bernheim Forest is an amazing place to spend a day exploring fall in Kentucky. There are more than 16.000-acres of protected land where locals and visitors alike find a common space to fully immerse themselves in nature. The land is divided into a 600-acre Arboretum with thousands of curated and wild plants species and …

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Bernheim Forest

Founded in 1929 by philanthropist Isaac W. Bernheim, a German man who immigrated to Kentucky in 1867, the Bernheim Forest was an offering of thanks. Bernheim started his life in Kentucky with four dollars in his pocket and was able to start a successful distilling company, known for his popular brand of bourbon, I. W. Harper.

The land where the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest stands today was once a barren plot without trees due to abuses of the iron ore industries. Thankfully, Bernheim was a visionary and conservationist before his time and he helped create this beautiful space as it is today.

When you choose the Bourbon Manor, our luxury Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, as your lodging in Kentucky, you’ll be in the ideal location to visit the Bernheim Forest. Just a quick 15-minute drive through the scenic countryside (especially in autumn when the vibrant fall colors come alive) and a day of hiking, exploring, and appreciating nature is at your fingertips. Start planning your next vacation to Bardtown KY and book your stay at the Bourbon Manor today!

Bernheim Forest

Explore Art and Nature at Bernheim Forest in Kentucky

The Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is a nature sanctuary that welcomes more than 500,000 visitors per year. You could spend most of the day here exploring the trails, searching for the amazing forest giant sculptures, visiting the edible garden, as well as checking out the visitor’s center and cafe.

Here are seven things to know about the Bernheim Forest before you go:

Hiking Trails: With more than 40-miles of hiking trails here at the Bernheim Forest, you’ll find a route that works for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts from easy to difficult. For an easy two-mile stroll, head to the Forest Giants Trail, which will take you by all three of the huge Giant sculptures by Danish artist Thomas Dambo. It also takes you along the Olmstead Ponds, to the prairie area, and through mature forests with Magnolia and other native tree species.
Canopy Tree Walk: Head out into the tree tops along this short boardwalk that extends 75 feet above the Bernheim Forest. In the fall, the trees put on a brilliant colorful show, making this canopy walk even more magical.
The Fire Tower: Climb up 961 feet above ground on the oldest structure in the park for some of the most amazing and expansive views of the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. On a clear day, you can see as far as Louisville.
Public Art Displays: While of course the three Forest Giants are a big draw to this natural area, there are more public art displays to find as well. Follow along the art map to check out larger than life sculptures made with natural and man-made materials and smaller creative installations around the park.
Tour the Edible Garden: Perhaps the most unique attraction at the Bernheim Forest is this 4-acre garden focusing on sustainable practices and connecting visitors even more deeply to nature. The food grown here is used at the cafe, there are 16 solar panels, and all the water needed is used from surrounding sources.
Isaac’s Cafe located in the LEED Platinum Visitor’s Center: For those who enjoy eating local, that will be achieved at this cafe in the Bernheim Forest. All the vegetables, herbs, and edible flowers that you see on the menu are harvested from the Edible Garden less than 200 steps away from their kitchen. Grab a sandwich or salad to go for a picnic! The visitor’s center is also home to the gift shop for great souvenirs.
Plan an Event: Planning your upcoming nuptials? The Bernheim Forest is a beautiful backdrop for weddings and events. Pair this venue with a stay and honeymoon at our romantic Bardstown Bed and Breakfast for a perfect combination. Not only do we have special suites for the newlyweds, but also enough lodging for your closest family and friends to stay too.

Bernheim Forest

The Best Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown KY

Retreat back to our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast after a long day exploring the wilderness at the beautiful Bernheim Forest. Make sure to get in before happy hour for one of our favorite bourbon-based cocktails, the perfect start to any evening in Bardstown. Head up to your suite to refresh and relax before heading out on the town for whiskey tastings and trying some of the best restaurants in Kentucky.

You’ll feel a connection to the past at our historical Bardstown Bed and Breakfast like no other hotel lodging in our area. We pride ourselves on the modern updates we’ve made to the Inn, while meticulously maintaining the timely details and antique accompaniments. Each of our 10 guest suites are unique, packed with luxury amenities, and ready for an amazing getaway to Bardstown. Join us this fall and book today!

Where to Find the Best Fall Foliage Near Bardstown KY

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fall foliage

Kentucky is known as one of the best places in the U.S. for admiring bright fall foliage. This is due to the amount of forests in our state, which comes in at an astounding 12 million acres or 47 percent of our land area covered in beautiful trees. There are about 175 tree species here and many of those are hardwoods known for their fall foliage color change. Thankfully, some of the best spots for leaf viewing are near Bardstown KY.

You’ll find some of the best fall foliage along our winding country roads, from the windows of a vintage train car, or strolling though the grounds of historical landmarks. As you’ll likely be heading out to visit the fantastic bourbon distilleries while in Bardstown (it’s what put us on the map after all), Fall is one of the best times for scenic drives to these locations. The brilliant sugar maples turn bright oranges hues, poplars to yellow and gold, and oaks to bright red.

The grounds of our historic Bardstown Bed and Breakfast has some gorgeous hardwood trees that put on a show come fall. As a guest here, all areas are open for strolling, picnics, and relaxing as you see fit. Be sure join us in the afternoon for happy hour for one of our favorite bourbon cocktails—the best way to kick off the afternoon on a vacation to Bardstown KY. Start planning your next trip while the fall foliage is awash in color and book your room today!

fall foliage

Our Favorite Things to do in Bardstown KY

The striking backdrop of colorful fall foliage all over town makes this time of year in Kentucky feel magical. There are so many things to do in Bardstown in autumn, we thought we could narrow down the options for you. From dinner trains and elegant bars and restaurants to bourbon tasting and historical tours, there’s no shortage of activities on any stay in Bardstown KY.

Here are our top seven things to do in Bardstown this autumn while the stunning fall foliage is in full effect:

My Kentucky Dinner Train: Always a favorite experience for locals and visitors alike, dining in a vintage train car as it cruises through the scenic Kentucky countryside and the forests alight with bright fall foliage, is by far one of the best things to do in Bardstown in the autumn. Another plus, the train depot is only about five minutes on foot from our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. Book your ride ahead of time, here.
Distillery Tours on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Bourbon was born here in Bardstown KY, so of course there are an amazing amount of fantastic distilleries with talented makers who are eager to share. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers multiple routes to the surrounding distilleries of the area. At our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast we have a host of add-on packages for help with planning and transportation for whiskey tours.
Dining Out on the Town: Bardstown is blessed with talented chefs and people that take food seriously. You can find every cuisine here, from home-style country cooking to international delights. For a full list of our recommendations, check this list of our top 10 Bardstown restaurants.
My Old Kentucky Home: The grounds surrounding this 200 year old mansion in Bardstown is a great place for viewing bright fall foliage in stunning hues. The tour of the Old Kentucky Home is a fascinating history lesson filled with intrigue and interesting tidbits about times of yore.
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest: This is one of the absolute best places to take in the Kentucky fall foliage this autumn. The 16,000 plus acres of this protected land has more than 8,000 varieties of trees, shrubs, and perennials. With 40 miles of trails weaving through the diverse forests and fantastical art installations, you could spend a full day exploring nature here.
Wine or Beer Tasting in the Countryside: Another way to take in the stunning fall foliage is on a scenic drive out to one of our many wineries or breweries in the Kentucky countryside. Though we drink a lot of bourbon here, that doesn’t mean we don’t partake in a bottle of wine or a pint of craft beer now and again. Check out our list of local Bardstown wineries and breweries, here.
Day at the Bourbon Manor Spa: One of the best things to do in Bardstown is book a service (or two) at our Bourbon Manor Spa. You’ll find massage, facials, and lovely products to make your stay that much more relaxing. It’s especially cozy in the fall—a fluffy robe, Swedish massage, soak in a hot bath, and then end the day by a warm fire in your guest room.

fall foliage

Soak up the Luxury at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Our historical Greek Revival-style mansion may have been built in the early 1800s, but over the years our Inn has received modern updates and restored for an immaculate stay. We’ve meticulously maintained the old world charm, while adding upscale and luxurious amenities. It’s no wonder the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is often recognized as one of the most romantic places to stay in Bardstown!

Join us each morning in our elegant dining room for a full, gourmet country breakfast. We use Kentucky Proud and locally grown ingredients whenever possible in our scratch made muffins, soufflé pancakes, signature egg dishes, and cheesy hash brown casserole. We also offer a continental breakfast for those who may enjoy a day sleeping in late. We can’t wait to host you; book your suite today!

Get Your Drink on at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival & CHEERS to Bardstown

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in Bardstown. Last year was a little bit different where events were held virtually, but now we’re back in person and everyone is ready to celebrate! And more importantly, we’re ready to drink some amazing bourbons. You’ll find more than 50 vendors, educational events, …

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Kentucky Bourbon Trail

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival runs from September 17th to the 19th from 10am to 10pm Friday and Saturday, and 11am to 3pm Sunday. There are premium VIP events available to add on to the cost for general admission. Tickets are selling fast! So make sure to plan ahead and get booked for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Where else can you peruse an open air market full of vendors with a bourbon buzz on?

Our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast is within minutes from downtown Bardstown and the location of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. It’s only about a 20 minute walk from our front stoop for those who want to imbibe our local spirit and avoid driving. Our Bardstown Inn is really the best place for any bourbon enthusiast, each of our 10 guest rooms are named after some of our favorite whiskey cocktails.

Come celebrate the spirit that put our small town on the map at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival and book your lodging with us!

Kentucky bourbon festival

A World of Whiskey at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival

You’ll find some of Bardstown’s biggest names at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. From Barton 1792 Distillery and Blanton’s to Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam, you’re going to taste some classic and impeccable bourbons. Grab a cocktail in the open air beer garden and enjoy the live music from local talent. The vendors offer unique wares for sale and you’ll love the selection of carnival food and more.

While the Kentucky Bourbon Festival is a great event to get to know the purveyors in the area, there’s also so much to explore on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. This is an excellent way to fully experience Bardstown and beyond. The selections for tours and tasting is second to none in this neck of the woods.

Kentucky bourbon festival

Hit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Near Bardstown

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers so many options for touring and tasting at these amazing local distilleries. Thankfully, there are a ton of resources for finding the best route and itinerary along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. For example, if you choose to stick nearby, the Bardstown tour looks a little something like this:

Heaven Hill Distillery: Known as the largest family-owned spirits producer, this distillery creates such lines as Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Evan Williams. The award-winning visitor’s center at Heaven Hill offers tours, educational information, and of course, tastings.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: This local distillery and restaurant gives guests an array of options for bourbon-focused activities. Check out the cocktail classes, exclusive vintage whiskey tasting, or distillery tours. Grab dinner at the Kitchen & Bar for elevated Southern fare.
Lux Row Distillers: This grouping of distilleries is great destination along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to taste an array of whiskey from five different brands in one space. You’ll find the likes of Rebel Yell, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath.
Maker’s Mark: While this distillery is one of the sponsors for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, a visit out to its home court facility is always in order. Take a tour, taste, and dip your own red wax bottle in the gift shop. They’ve been perfecting the art of distilling since 1953 and it shows.

Allow us to help you with reservations or recommendations for touring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. We’re always happy to assist our guests! Additionally, we offer special packages with bourbon tours to pair with your stay.

Kentucky Bourbon Festival

The Best Lodging at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

As we mentioned above, we offer some amazing packages to add-on to your stay for bourbon tours in the area. These packages include a self-guided option with advice and routes or fully-guided tours with bourbon experts and transportation. When you’re booking your room with us, make sure to ask about these amazing add-ons that truly enhance your stay.

If you’re planning a romantic getaway to Bardstown, be sure to check out our Manhattan Honeymoon Hideaway. This is our largest and most private guest room, located in our charming Manor house. In this suite you’ll find everything you need for a restful vacation with your partner, including spa amenities, Jacuzzi tub, cozy featherbed topped King with luscious linens.

Start planning your romantic retreat and book your room today!

Bardstown Tourism, Main Street and the Bardstown-Nelson County Chamber of Commerce invite the public to join us downtown in the Bourbon Capital of the World for “Cheers to Bardstown”, a free event in celebration of our rich culture from Thursday, September 16th to Saturday, September 18th.

Cheers to Bardstown will feature live music, craft vendors, local food, beer, tastings, cocktails, shopping and more — no tickets required. Bardstown Tourism will have Bardstown Ambassadors on hand to direct you to all of the exciting experiences available. In addition to these offerings, the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance (BCCA) organization will provide information on expanded distillery experiences during these dates. Click the link for our music lineup, with information on food trucks, cocktails, tastings and more coming soon!

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Many of our local stores and restaurants are extending their hours, menus and offerings for this special Cheers to Bardstown weekend. Come sip, shop and dine with us to try out all the new flavors Bardstown has to offer.

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Bourbon Comes From Bardstown, and our distilleries are pulling out all the stops for city locals and visitors during the Cheers to Bardstown weekend celebration. We invite Kentucky Bourbon Festival ticket holders to come enjoy a selection of expanded experiences from our finest distilleries here in Bardstown.

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The festivities continue all across our beloved city, with more special events to enjoy than just downtown. Don’t miss out on the fun!

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Great Wineries and Breweries Near our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

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wineries and breweries

We may be known as the bourbon capitol of the world in Bardstown, but don’t be surprised by the great selection of wineries and breweries near our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. While touring and tasting at the whiskey distilleries is a must on a vacation here, you’ll also want to include trying local vino and craft beer as well. Our location in Bardstown is ideal for a getaway filled with relaxing outings imbibing all that this area has to offer.

In downtown Bardstown, you’ll find a huge selection of tasting rooms, restaurants, and cafes. If you explore a bit out of city limits, you’ll find even more of these local wineries and breweries creating thoughtful and delicious adult beverages. The majority of grapes grown in our great state of Kentucky are Cabernet, Chardonnay, and Cab Franc. These hearty varietals soak up the heat, which creates complex and beautiful wines.

One of our favorite breweries near our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is Scout and Scholar Brewing. You’ll be less than a mile from their creative fruited sour beers and traditional pale ales. They also have a jazzy lunch and dinner menu, with items liked smoked wings, shrimp and grits, and a perfect fried chicken sandwich.

As a guest at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, join us every afternoon for cocktail hour, where we mix up one of our favorite bourbon concoctions. Enjoy it out on the patio in the shade or inside in one of our comfortable common areas. It’s the best way to kick off the afternoon before heading out to check out the nearby wineries and breweries. Check our availability and book today!

wineries and breweries

Wineries and Breweries Near Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Bardstown KY is a small town with big flavors. One thing you’ll learn about bourbon on one of the many distillery tours here is that it’s a spirit with nuance and complexity—just like other crafted beverages like beer and wine. At these nearby wineries and breweries, they take their industries seriously and it shows in their award-winning products.

Here are 8 wineries and breweries within a half hour from our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast:

Bardstown Breweries:

Scout and Scholar: Just a few minutes from the Inn, this is one of the breweries in Bardstown that’s surely worth a visit, or two. The beer list isn’t your traditional line-up, with options like sour-fruited ales with tropical fruits, honey, and spices. The food menu packs a lot of flavor too!
3rd Street Tap House: You’ll find some of the best from Kentucky breweries on tap at this local haunt. Come for a cold pint and bar snacks, stay for the live music and conversations with new friends.
Flywheel Brewing: While our neighboring small town of Elizabethtown KY is about a 30-minute drive from our Bed and Breakfast, it’s a nice place to plan a day trip. While you’re there grab a fresh pint at this local brewery with 16 beers on tap.

Bardstown Wineries:

Buillet’s Winery and Bistro: This is one of the wineries that is a matter of minutes from our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. Right in the heart of downtown, you’ll find fun flights of KY wine and hearty Italian dishes.
Forest Edge Winery: Just a few miles down the road from the iconic Jim Beam distillery, this wineries is also worth a visit for a tasting of their award-winning fruity blends and hop-infused white wine.
Wight Meyer Vineyard and Winery: Enjoy a tasting of Kentucky grown grapes, which includes six wines for only five dollars! This winery is known as the first in Buillet County.
Jester’s Winery and Cafe: If you’re making a trip out to the Maker’s Mark Distillery (which we recommend you do) then plan on adding this winery and cafe to your itinerary. Grab lunch and a glass of wine on the outdoor patio with impressive views.
McIntyre’s Winery and Berries: Head out down the scenic country road to some impressive home made berry wines. Tour the farm, drink some wine, pick fresh blueberries, and enjoy a lovely day out in the countryside.

Plan to tour these wineries and breweries on your stay with us! If you have any questions, need directions, or reservations please allow one of our helpful staff members to assist you.

wineries and breweries

Unique and Luxury Lodging at Our Bardstown B&B

While a visit out to one of these Bardstown wineries and breweries will be a great part of your getaway, coming back to our Bed and Breakfast is always the best part! Our welcoming hospitality, meticulous housekeeping, and relaxing atmosphere makes every day here a treat. Each of our 10 spacious and beautifully appointed guest rooms are unique with high end amenities focusing on life’s ultimate comfort elements.

Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is a part of history and we’ve maintained that feeling throughout the Inn, but major restoration has brought us into this century. That includes our full service day spa and gym, offering massage and facials for the perfect add-on to any getaway to Bardstown Kentucky. Start planning today and book your stay!