Northern Kentucky’s “The B-Line” is a constellation of Bourbon immersed premium experiences. First class distilleries, restaurants, bars, hotels all offering their own lifestyle flavor, all creating a unique top shelf experience as the Northern Gateway To Bourbon Country. Here is your chance to experience it on a silver platter! Enter now for your shot at […]
Northern Kentucky’s “The B-Line” is a constellation of Bourbon immersed premium experiences. First class distilleries, restaurants, bars, hotels all offering their own lifestyle flavor, all creating a unique top shelf experience as the Northern Gateway To Bourbon Country.
Here is your chance to experience it on a silver platter! Enter now for your shot at this FREE SWEEPSTAKES for the Bourbon Country Getaway trip of a lifetime. Remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.
Winding roads with heart-stopping views, wineries, historic homes, nature preserves and yes, horses and bourbon, are all highlighted in Kentucky’s latest tourism campaign inviting visitors to take a Joy Ride through Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region. With a nostalgic flair, and the most beautiful scenic byways in America, Kentucky’s Joy Ride campaign encourages travelers to take the […]
Winding roads with heart-stopping views, wineries, historic homes, nature preserves and yes, horses and bourbon, are all highlighted in Kentucky’s latest tourism campaign inviting visitors to take a Joy Ride through Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region. With a nostalgic flair, and the most beautiful scenic byways in America, Kentucky’s Joy Ride campaign encourages travelers to take the backroads, and own the idea that life is all about the journey and not just the destination.
“Travel is booming, and with that, people are re-discovering the joy of the open road,” said Mary Quinn Ramer, President, VisitLEX. “The Joy Ride campaign encourages people to travel like they used to, in the ‘50s and ‘60s, when people took their time to stop at scenic sites along the way, really enjoying the experience of getting to their destination.”
Anchored by a two-minute short film featuring and narrated by Mike Wolfe from The History Channel TV show American Pickers, alongside Heritage Tourism Preservationist Leticia Cline, Joy Ride showcases their trip exploring idyllic spots in Kentucky’s Bluegrass Region. The commercial will run nationwide on Connected TV channels of Discovery Networks, HULU, YouTube, Google and other social channels now through the end of next year.
“As people plan their fall travel and next year’s spring break or summer vacation, we encourage them to travel the way Americans used to travel – taking the backroads and enjoying the time spent together and the memories made,” added Ramer.
Commemorative Posters
The Joy Ride campaign is also supported by nostalgic collectible posters and digital content highlighting these iconic spots in the Bluegrass:
Berea, KY – Historic Boone Tavern
Carlisle – Nicholas County, KY – Wendt’s Wildlife Adventure
Cynthiana, KY – Downtown Cynthiana
Frankfort, KY – Buffalo Trace Distillery
Georgetown – Scott County, KY – Old Friends Farm
Harrodsburg, KY – Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill
Lancaster & Paint Lick, KY – Herrington Lake
Lawrenceburg, KY – Kentucky River at Young’s High Bridge and Wild Turkey Distillery
Lexington, KY – Keeneland Race Track
Nicholasville & Wilmore, KY – First Vineyard and Winery and 1922 House Vineyards and Winery
Paris – Bourbon County, KY – Claiborne Farms
Richmond, KY – Battle of Richmond and Fort Boonesboro
Standford – Lincoln County, KY – William Whitley House and Sportsman’s Hill
Winchester, KY – Ale-8-One Soda, Beer Cheese Trail and Beer Cheese Festival
Woodford County, KY – Woodford Reserve Distillery
Posters are available at each participating site. Kentucky Tourism’s Joy Ride campaign runs from September 20th, 2023 through the end of 2024. For more information on each site, visit bluegrasskentucky.com
About Joy Ride
Joy Ride is a tourism campaign supported by Team Kentucky through the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. The Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet is dedicated to fostering and promoting the state’s rich heritage as well as continuing Kentucky’s long history of being a premiere travel destination for all travelers to enjoy. For more information visit Tourism News – Tourism, Arts & Heritage (ky.gov)
One of the stops along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail that you absolutely must visit is Lux Row Distillers. This state-of-the-art distillery offers six distinct brands under one roof, including Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath. The award-winning distillery provides behind-the-scenes tours, a gift shop, and a cocktail bar that serves craft cocktails and neat …
One of the stops along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail that you absolutely must visit is Lux Row Distillers. This state-of-the-art distillery offers six distinct brands under one roof, including Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath. The award-winning distillery provides behind-the-scenes tours, a gift shop, and a cocktail bar that serves craft cocktails and neat pours from the library of bourbons, including some rare vintages you won’t find anywhere else.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a popular self-guided road trip dedicated to exploring the signature bourbon distilleries of Kentucky, where ninety-five percent of the world’s bourbon is produced. Visitors and locals alike have the opportunity to taste these pours and tour these excellent establishments, including places like Lux Row Distillers. Bardstown is the best place to stay for those who enjoy America’s spirit, with a great selection of bourbon distilleries close to one another.
First, you’ll need to book your lodging near the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast offers luxurious accommodations, daily gourmet bourbon-inspired breakfasts, and is located near all of the best Bardstown attractions. Guests can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep in one of our ten elegant, antique-appointed guestrooms in our two pre-Civil War plantation homes. Additionally, we are located near some of the top distilleries found on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Start planning your next getaway and book your room today!
Head to Lux Row Distillers on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
As a guest at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, you’ll only be about ten minutes from the tour and tasting at Lux Row Distillers. In fact, Lux Row Distillers is just one of the many bourbon distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail within a quick drive from our Inn.
Here’s what to expect on a tour and tasting at Lux Row Distillers:
Lux Row Distillers is in the number two spot on TripAdvisor of the best things to do in Bardstown. Of the 460 five-star reviews, the most notable aspects are the friendly staff, knowledgeable guides, beautiful facility, and excellent bourbon tastings.
John Rempe is the master distiller at this location—he has more than 20 years of experience, is passionate about the process, and oversees the production of all the lines produced at Lux Row Distillers.
Aside from the Lux Row Distillers brand, five other bourbon brands call this space home, including Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, Daviess County, David Nicholson, and Blood Oath.
Lux Row Distillers is situated amidst a beautiful scenic drive lined with trees. The modern building spans 18,000 square feet and houses ten barrel warehouses and a 43-foot custom copper still. Visitors can experience all of this firsthand on a tour.
Choose from various tours at this distillery, including the Lux Row Libations Cocktail Course and the Top Shelf Experience. You’ll learn about the bourbon distilling process and taste some fantastic products.
More Bardstown Distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail:
After you’ve enjoyed a tasting a Lux Row Distillers, there’s more to discover at the nearby Bardstown bourbon distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail:
Heaven Hill Distillery: Known as the largest family-owned spirits producer, this distillery creates lines like Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Evan Williams. The award-winning visitor’s center at Heaven Hill offers tours, educational information, and tastings.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: This local distillery and restaurant gives guests various 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.
Maker’s Mark: Perhaps one of the most well-known bourbon distilleries in the world, Maker’s Mark is one of the most popular stops in the area. Take a tour, taste, and dip your own red wax bottle in the gift shop. It shows that they’ve been perfecting the art of distilling since 1953.
Jim Beam: You’ll find great interactive tours stimulating your senses at this world-class and newly remodeled distillery. Learn about every step in making their stalwart brand name and the Knob Creek bourbon label.
Preservation Distillery: Just two miles from the center of Bardstown, find this distillery located in a historic tobacco barn on a small Kentucky farm. After admiring the roaming longhorn cattle on the property, sample their small batch and unique bourbons.
The Best Lodging for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival
Every fall, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival comes to Bardstown for a weekend-long celebration of this classic, historic spirit. You’ll find some of Bardstown’s biggest names at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. You will taste some fantastic bourbons from Heaven Hill and Four Roses to Maker’s Mark and Lux Row Distillers. 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 food trucks and more.
All the true bourbon enthusiasts love to stay at our elegant Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. All our luxurious guest suites with private en suite baths are named after classic bourbon cocktail names. Guests also enjoy our bourbon-inspired breakfasts, an on-site day spa, and, eventually, our brand-new bourbon lounge, opening in the fall—everything needed for a bourbon-loving vacation on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
If you plan to head to Bardstown in September for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, it’s time to act fast! They are already selling out on the VIP events, and lodging in Bardstown fills up quickly. Start planning your fall getaway to the birthplace of bourbon and make a reservation at the historic Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown, Kentucky, today!
(LOUISVILLE, KY) Hotel Distil, the social anchor of Whiskey Row, is excited to bring back several of the luxury experiences offered at the hotel pre-pandemic with their newest offering, an in-room bourbon cart experience just in time for Old-Fashioned Fortnight. Every year from June 1-14, the city shines a spotlight on the Old Fashioned with special […]
(LOUISVILLE, KY) Hotel Distil, the social anchor of Whiskey Row, is excited to bring back several of the luxury experiences offered at the hotel pre-pandemic with their newest offering, an in-room bourbon cart experience just in time for Old-Fashioned Fortnight. Every year from June 1-14, the city shines a spotlight on the Old Fashioned with special events, cocktail classes, dinner and more. Behind the storied façade of the former J.T.S. Brown & Sons barreling warehouse, the hotel’s refined bourbon culture is celebrated nightly as we pay homage to Repeal Day in the year 1933.
Courtesy
The new in-room offering options include:
Silver Package
$60 a person 4 person minimum +$150 Certified Bourbon Steward Fee
Includes Angel’s Envy, Bulleit, Michter’s US-1 Small Batch and Elijah Craig.
Gold:
$100 a person 4 person minimum +$150 Certified Bourbon Steward Fee
Angel’s Envy Single Barrel – Repeal Private Barrel Pick
Michter’s Sour Mash
Kentucky Owl Confiscated
Old Forester 1920
Platinum:
$150 a person 4 person minimum +$150 Certified Bourbon Steward Fee
Michter’s 10 year rye
Weller Full Proof Repeal Private Barrel Pick
George T Stagg 2022
Willett 10 Year Bourbon Repeal Phoenix Barrel Pick
Any of these packages can be upgraded to add a Signature Old Fashioned built right in front of you using our Angels Envy Private Barrel Bourbon for an additional $20.00 a person. To book one of these luxury experiences email christian.saylor@repeallouisville.com.
Wenzel Whiskey (Covington, KY) has a special evening in store for you. It involves creating your own whiskey, in an architecturally captivating setting, led by a top industry whiskey palate. Wenzel Whiskey is a gateway for creating your own juice. And like many things in life, its the experience and the journey of how you […]
Wenzel Whiskey (Covington, KY) has a special evening in store for you. It involves creating your own whiskey, in an architecturally captivating setting, led by a top industry whiskey palate.
Wenzel Whiskey is a gateway for creating your own juice. And like many things in life, its the experience and the journey of how you reach your end destination in which makes this company’s concept so unique. So memorable. So rewarding. And having a liquid trophy to sip and share your experience with friends and family, well, that ain’t so bad either;)
Blending Experience at Wenzel Whiskey. Photo: Patrick McNamara
Your whiskey journey will take place in the Wenzel Building, a 150 year old (circa 1873) revitalized building which in itself is the perfect blend of old world exposed brick and hardwood beauty meets modern accent nuances.
Proprietor and co-founder Bill Whitlow is a top palate and whiskey expert. He’s a decorated mixologist, owns Rich’s Proper Food & Drink in Covington (on Bourbon Review’sBEST BOURBON BARS IN AMERICA list), and knows the whiskey game as well as anyone.
Here’s the breakdown of what could be on your horizon of special memories, encapsulated by delicious whiskey of which who’s flavor profile you masterminded.
“Blend Your Own” Details…
DATE: May 4th, 6:30pm EST
BLEND BASE: 6 + 7 Year Indiana Ryes (Carefully Curated)
How fitting the Wenzel Building should have its very own boutique hotel, should you need a place to rest your head after a hard day’s work of blending;) “The Pickle Factory Hotel” has unbound unique charm to match its unconventional namesake. In a former life, it was a pickle factory.
2022 was apparently a very good year for Bourbon Country’s Louisville as the Bourbon City racked up a ton of national travel destination awards. A press release from the Louisville Convention and Visitors Bureau revealed the following long list of 2022 award wins. And perhaps most important, The Lou has a slew of spots on […]
∙ “The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2022” – Travel + Leisure
∙ “The 22 Best Places to Travel in the US in 2022” – Forbes
∙ “50 US Cities Worth Exploring in 2022” – Travel Pulse
∙ “These Are the Very Best Vacation Spots in the US” – BuzzFeed
∙ “The South’s Best Cities 2022” – Southern Living
∙ “Best Weekend Getaways in the USA” – Jet Setting Fools
∙ “Top 25 Best Places to Live in the Southeast” – Livability
∙ “A guide to the USA’s Best Urban Escapes” – Wanderlust
∙ “Best Places to Visit in May” – The Points Guy
∙ “10 Best Places to Travel in May” – AFAR
∙ “The Best Places to Travel in May” – TravelZoo
∙ “21 Best U.S. Cities for Fall Travel” – Travel + Leisure
∙ “Top 12 US Cities to Visit This Fall” – World Atlas
∙ “10 Small Towns to Spend Halloween in This Spooky Season” – The Travel
∙ “The 12 Most Hauntingly Beautiful Cities in the US” – Fodor’s
∙ “13 Best Places To Go in the Winter” – Travel + Leisure
∙ “22 Best Winter Vacations in the US for 2022” – Jetsetting Fools
∙ “2022’s Best Winter Holiday Destinations” – WalletHub
∙ “These Are the Top 20 Cities in The U.S. To Bring In 2023” – Wallet Hub
∙ “7 Destinations that elevate Black culture year-round” – The Points Guy
∙ “Kentucky’s Most Family-Friendly City” – Travel Pulse
∙ “2022’s Most LGBTQ-Friendly Cities” – LawnStarter
∙ A score of 100 on HRC’s 2022 Municipal Equality Index – Human Rights Campaign
∙ “Best Southern Food Cities” – Restaurant Clicks
∙ “Top 10 Best Foodie Cities for Renters” – Apartment Advisor
∙ “10 Best U.S. Cities to Visit If You Love Old Houses” – Best Life
∙ “50 Best Cities for Biking in the US” – Explore
∙ “2022’s Best Cities for Soccer Fans” – Wallet Hub
∙ “10 Destinations for Horse Lovers in The United States” – Everything Horse
∙ “10 Most Affordable US Cities to Stretch Your Travel Dollar” – World Atlas
∙ “10 Popular Cities in The US That Are Surprisingly Cheap” – The Travel
∙ “Top Destinations to Consider in 2023” – Groups Today
∙ “50 Best Places to Travel in 2023” – Travel Lemming
See below for a list of more Louisville-based accolades received in 2022, including those for hotels, restaurants, and festivals.
EAT
∙ “Airport Bars Worth a Layover” (Book & Bourbon) – Imbibe
∙ “Yelp’s top 100 US restaurants 2022” (Bully BBQ, Cask, and Cultured) – Yelp
∙ “The Best Fried Chicken in America” (Chik’n & Mi) – Eater
∙ “America’s best regional desserts: 15 sweet treats to try” (Derby-Pie®) – CNN Travel
∙ “The Best Sandwich in Every State” (Hot Brown) – Reader’s Digest
∙ “The Best Burger in Every State 2022” (Mussel & Burger Bar) – Reader’s Digest
∙ “7 Iconic BBQ Sports in the Southeast” (Mark’s Feed Store) – StyleBlueprint
∙ “The Best Wing Spot In Every State” (Mark’s Feed Store) – Esquire
∙ “25 Outstanding Restaurants Worth the Drive” (North of Bourbon) – Garden & Gun
∙ “13 Beautiful + Instagrammable Bars in the South” (Old Seelbach Bar) – Style Blueprint
∙ “The Best Coffee Shops in Every State” (Please & Thank You) – Food & Wine
∙ “The Best Coffee Roasters in America” (Quills) – Food & Wine
∙ “Where to Order the Most Extreme Hot Dogs Across the Country” (Red Top) – Cheapism
∙ “The Best Chicken Sandwich in Kentucky” (Royals Hot Chicken) – Eat This! Not That!
∙ “15 Black-Owned Restaurants To Check Out In The South” (Six Forks Burger Co.) – Atlanta Daily World
∙ “America’s Very Best Cities for Coffee Lovers” – Mandoe Media
PLAY
∙ “9 totally amazing, one-of-a-kind fall festivals in the US (Bourbon & Beyond) – TripAdvisor
∙ “2022 Festival Preview: The Best Country and Americana Festivals to See This Fall” (Bourbon & Beyond) – Wide Open Country
∙ “Top Drag Brunches Across the U.S. 2022” (CC’s Kitchen, The Hub, Le Moo) – Yelp
∙ “10 best LGBT+ bars across the United States” (Chill Bar) – Budget Travel
∙ “America’s 12 Scariest Corn Mazes” (Field of Screams) – Fodor’s
∙ “Music Festivals You Should Check Out In 2022” (Forecastle) – The Hype Magazine
∙ “Can’t-Miss Music Festivals of Summer 2022” (Forecastle) – Her Campus
∙ “American’s Largest City Parks” (Jefferson Memorial Forest) – 24/7 Wall St.
∙ “7 Biggest Horse Races in the US” (Kentucky Derby) – Casino News
∙ “The Best VIP Sporting Experiences To Enjoy In 2023” (Kentucky Derby) – Luxury Lifestyle Magazine
∙ “The Best Amusement Park in Kentucky” (Kentucky Kingdom) – Wealth of Geeks
∙ “25 over-the-top Christmas displays from across America” (Lights Under Louisville) – Stacker
∙ “10 Creepy, Kid-Friendly Ghost Tours In Top U.S. Cities” (Louisville Historic Tours) – Families Go Travel
∙ “25 Best Factory Tours in America” (Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory) – Good Housekeeping
∙ “8 of the Best Factory Tours Across America” (Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory) – Never Stop Traveling
∙ “The South’s Best Museums 2022” (Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory) – Southern Living
∙ “Best Thrill-Seeking Activities for Adrenaline Junkies” (Louisville Mega Cavern) – Men’s Journal
∙ “10 Best Riverwalks in the United States” (Waterfront Park) – USA Today 10Best
∙ “21 Best Urban Parks and Trails for City-Dwellers Seeking Green Spaces” (Waterfront Park) – Men’s Journal
∙ “25 Abandoned Places You Can Still Visit” (Waverly Hills) – U.S. News
∙ “10 Best Haunted Destinations in the US” (Waverly Hills) – USA Today 10Best
∙ “Explore these 8 ‘haunted’ places in the USA” (Waverly Hills) – Lonely Planet
∙ “11 Epic Southern Ghost Tours” (Waverly Hills) – StyleBlueprint
OVERALL CITY ACCOLADES
∙ “2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Most Magnificent Art Collections” (21c Louisville) – Historic Hotels of America
∙ “9 of The Best Art Hotels Around the World (21c Louisville) – Prestige
∙ “2022 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Most Unique Culinary Heritage and Culinary Traditions” (Brown Hotel) – Historic Hotels of America
∙ “Most Iconic Hotel in Every State” (Galt House) – Fifty Grande
∙ “The South’s Best New Hotels” (Grady Hotel) – Atlanta Magazine
∙ “10 Incredible Urban Camping Retreats to Book Now” (Progress Park) – Men’s Journal
∙ “America’s Most Haunted Hotels You can Stay in for Spookier Halloween” (Seelbach Hotel) – Homecrux
∙ “16 most haunted hotels in the United States” (Seelbach Hotel) – Yahoo!
∙ “The 27 Most Haunted Hotels in America” (Seelbach Hotel) – U.S. News
∙ “Our Favorite Hotels Said to Be Haunted” (Seelbach Hotel) – AAA
It’s closing time for 2022 (good luck trying to get that song out of your head today). Time to reflect. Time to make those goals and dreams for 2023. As you hunt and gather ideas for your future travel itinerary, you’ll definitely want to keep Bourbon Country’s “Northern Kentucky Region” on your travel wish list. […]
It’s closing time for 2022 (good luck trying to get that song out of your head today). Time to reflect. Time to make those goals and dreams for 2023. As you hunt and gather ideas for your future travel itinerary, you’ll definitely want to keep Bourbon Country’s“Northern Kentucky Region” on your travel wish list.
Why? For starters, the prestigious travel guide Condé Nast (CN) just named it on its “2023 BEST PLACES TO GO” list. Here’s a breakdown of what CN had to say…
Bourbon Distilleries – Northern Kentucky Region
Northern Kentucky (NKY) sits on the banks of the Ohio River. It’s ground zero for Kentucky’s beloved Bourbon history as its famed Limestone Port going back to the late 1700’s was THE commerce trading hot spot for loading up that frontier corn whiskey on the journey down the mighty Mississippi, all the way to New Orleans. Its famed Senator John G. Carlisle (Covington, KY) co-founded 1897’s Bottled-in-Bond Act, along with E.H. Taylor Jr.
That was then. Flash forward a deuce and quarter century later, NKY continues to thrive with Bourbon energy.
Neeley Family Distillery. Sparta, KY. Head Distiller Royce Neeley comes from a long bloodline of booze makers. Royce has the distinction of being the first in his family going back many generations to do it legally.
Neeley Family Distillery, Master Distiller Royce Neeley. Courtesy
Second Sight Spirits. Ludlow, KY. Small craft distillery. Just check out that Sultan’s piercing gaze and the top of that beautiful copper still and tell us you’re not intrigued?!
Second Sight Spirits. Courtesy
New Riff Distillery. Newport, KY. One of the leading “new” distilleries (est 2014) in the country, putting out some very notable American Whiskey.
New Riff Distillery. Courtesy
Eat. Imbibe. Shop. Stay.
CN dining highlights include local eat spots Libby’s Southern Comfort (famed goetta hush puppies), the original Agave + Rye with its slushy and tacos, and not noted in CN but one of our favorites being Rich’s Proper.
For the bar scene, CN hat tips local legendary bar owner Molly Wellman, who 10 years prior started My Old Kentucky Bourbon Bar in Covington, KY. The Bourbon bar scene is now thriving as the NKY region boasts 12 spots in The Bourbon Review’s“2022 Best Bourbon Bars in America” list. You’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming dazzling rooftop bar Opal in Covington by local legendary bartender/restauranteur Bill Whitlow (owner of Rich’s Proper).
For lodging, CN notes the gorgeous boutique Hotel Covington. When in Bourbon Country, you have to swing by Revival Vintage Bottle Shop, a world class “dusty” destination” by local Brad Bonds. And if you really want to immerse yourself in a unique experience, check out Wenzel Whiskey as they offer a “blend your own” whiskey, including bottling. Not shockingly, co-founded by Bill Whitlow. If you can think of a better Bourbon Country souvenir than your very own blended whiskey, we are all ears.
For more info on travel in NKY, make sure to check out MeetNKY’s “The B-Line“.
One of the best ways to spend a cozy wintery day during the holidays is with a bourbon tasting for two at the local Bardstown distilleries. The area is festive and decorated for the season, there are plenty of cheerful events planned, and all that bourbon tasting warms you up from the inside—even if it’s …
One of the best ways to spend a cozy wintery day during the holidays is with a bourbon tasting for two at the local Bardstown distilleries. The area is festive and decorated for the season, there are plenty of cheerful events planned, and all that bourbon tasting warms you up from the inside—even if it’s snowy outside.
Our charming small town is known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” and it shows. Within 16 miles of our historic downtown area, there are more than ten Bardstown distilleries—all offering tastings and tours to the public. We’re also home to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, giving visitors and locals alike bourbon itineraries and maps for the best bourbon-tasting experiences.
Before you start planning your tasting itinerary at the local Bardstown distilleries, you’ll want to secure your lodging. The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is the perfect place for a cozy winter retreat. Not only will you absolutely fall in love with our intimate and bourbon-themed guest suites, but our level of service and hospitality is unparalleled. Every inch of our Inn exudes opulence and luxury—once you’ve checked in, you’ll see why our guests return year after year.
Cozy Holiday Tastings a These Bardstown Distilleries
The best winter getaways will include a little bit of every activity that makes Bardstown such a unique small town. From award-winning restaurants, intriguing historical areas, and must-visit tasting tours at the Bardstown Distilleries—you’ll never have a dull moment in the Bluegrass State.
Here are the top five Bardstown distilleries to check out for a cozy tour and tasting near our elegant B&B:
Barton 1792 Distillery: A fantastic place to start, Barton Distillery is only a five-minute drive from the front porch of our Inn. This local Bardstown distillery was established in 1879, making it one of the oldest still in operation today. Better yet, the tastings and tours are complimentary!
Heaven Hill Distillery: This award-winning distillery is the master behind brands like Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny—so you know you’ll taste some delicious bourbon here. You’ll also learn a lot about the process, as the Bourbon Heritage Center offers informative tours, and make sure to grab a few bourbon-themed souvenirs from the gift shop.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: If you want to get a behind-the-scenes look at how Bardstown distilleries work, this is the place to do it. From immersive cocktail classes to in-depth tours, this modern space is tailored to education—and tasting, of course. You’ll find their spectacular bourbon blends on the cocktail menu at the on-site Kitchen & Bar, along with a full menu of appetizers, mains, and desserts.
Lux Row: With big names like Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, this 18,000-square-foot distillery pumps out a ton of bourbon annually. Choose between three tour options, but a favorite is the top-shelf tasting for the most luxurious of Lux Row products.
Willett Distillery: Just about 10 minutes from our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, this is one of the Bardstown distilleries you won’t want to miss. Founded in 1936 by Thompson Willett, you’ll learn all about the company’s history, which dates back to the late 1600s. After a tasting and tour, stop into The Bar at Willet for a creative bourbon cocktail and lovely sharable plates with local ingredients.
Wintertime Lodging for Romantic Holiday Getaways
After a chilly wintery day out on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you’ll be ready for warmth and relaxation. Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast offers the whole experience. Our historic property is home to ten elegant guest suites—seven in the Manor and three private rooms in the Federal House. All of our spaces are designed with comfort in mind and beautiful places to fully unwind pre or post-holiday season—especially with a bourbon cocktail in hand!
Each morning you’ll be treated to a bountiful breakfast spread in our elegant dining area by the cozy fire. Fresh coffee, other beverages, and snacks are also available throughout the day. After you’re fueled up, head out to explore the nearby Bardstown distilleries, grab your last-minute holiday gifts, and have the time of your life. For those who would like to have a guided chauffeur tour, look into our special add-on packages where we take the guesswork out of touring Bardstown and beyond. Book your room today!
Kentucky is The Bourbon State as it has the Bourbon Bar prowess to match its distilling chops. Here’s your insider’s look at the best watering holes in the Commonwealth including one of the country’s oldest bourbon bars, the Old Talbott Tavern & Inn in Bardstown (it’s said to be haunted – make a special trip […]
Kentucky is The Bourbon State as it has the Bourbon Bar prowess to match its distilling chops. Here’s your insider’s look at the best watering holes in the Commonwealth including one of the country’s oldest bourbon bars, theOld Talbott Tavern & Inn in Bardstown (it’s said to be haunted – make a special trip for spooky season).
Newcomers to the list include Louisville’s Watch Hill Proper with a staggering list of near 1,900 American Whiskies. The décor more than lives up to the last part of its name, having sleek eye catching leather couches/chairs, whiskey lockers (duh), and even a rickhouse façade hovering above. NEAT Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop, another new Lou spot, is a must see with a warm cozy vintage vibe to match its outstanding vintage whiskey collection. Reasonably priced. And theBungalou directly behind the bar is where Bourbon heaven meets AirBnB – a collection of Bourbon décor themed rooms to lay your head after a long day (and night) of Bourbon Country immersion. And check out the rooftop view, trust us.
If you find yourself in Northern Kentucky’s “B-Line” district, check out Smoke Justis who specializes in smoked meats with a massive 400+ Bourbon collection. Goodfellas Mainstrasse has you covered with mouth watering Brooklyn style pizza on the 1st floor and a cool speakeasy vibe lounge on the 2nd armed with a world class Bourbon selection and cocktails. Rich’s Proper is at the top of our list crushing both food & drink. Oysters, huge sammies, massive Bourbon selection, fantastic cocktails.
Come to Kentucky for the distilleries, stay for the bars and restaurants!
In Bardstown, KY, National Bourbon Day is more than a date on the calendar: it’s an all-out four-day celebration of the delectable brown liquor that put our charming small town on the map. The Bardstown bourbon distilleries plan for this day all year long, and you’ll love being here to join in on the festivities. …
In Bardstown, KY, National Bourbon Day is more than a date on the calendar: it’s an all-out four-day celebration of the delectable brown liquor that put our charming small town on the map. The Bardstown bourbon distilleries plan for this day all year long, and you’ll love being here to join in on the festivities. Considering we have 11 unique distillery experiences within a 16-mile radius of our downtown core, there’s no shortage of crafted bourbons to enjoy.
First thing’s first, you’ll need to get your lodging on the books! With National Bourbon Day falling on June 14th, you don’t have a ton of time to start planning. For those who can’t make it this year, it’s never too early to set your itinerary for next year’s festivities. Thankfully, we celebrate bourbon all year long in Bardstown! Our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast is in the ideal location for exploring the bounty of bourbon distilleries nearby.
From the two-day distillery invitational and BBQ challenge to bourbon-themed parties, brunches, and live music, National Bourbon Day is a full-out party in Bardstown. The local distilleries and restaurants will be offering special menus and tastings. Here’s the itinerary for the four-day National Bourbon Day events:
Thursday, June 9th
The Bardstown Bourbon Mixer, located in the Preservation Distillery event space, is one of the best parties every year! You’ll dance the night away to live music from Howl the Moon while sipping on craft bourbon cocktails from our local distilleries. Food options will be plentiful from talented local chefs.
Friday, June 10th
Partake and cheer for these local distillery teams and professional pitmasters in a two-day cook-off at Dant Crossing. The Bourbon Capital BBQ Challenge and Distillery Invitational is such a blast. There will be multiple competition formats to experience, live music, and bourbon tastings with our favorite area distilleries. You’ll be delighted by the BBQ options and tasty dessert food trucks!
Saturday, June 11th
Day two of the Bourbon Capital BBQ Challenge and Distillery Invitational offers much of the same festivities. But Saturday is also the Bourbon City Street Concert in downtown Bardstown. The headliner this year is Country Wide, lighting up the stage with some southern country rock. The concert is free, and visitors can bring chairs and blankets to layout on the lawns.
Sunday, June 12th
The last day of the National Bourbon Day festival is all about brunch. While you’ll be treated to a gourmet breakfast as a guest at our Bardstown Inn, that doesn’t mean you can head out to partake in the bourbon brunch cocktails around town. Check out Bardstown Bourbon Company, Scout and Scholar Brewing, Mammy’s Kitchen, and Old Talbott Tavern for special menus and cocktails.
The Best B&B Lodging in Bardstown
Why not celebrate National Bourbon Day with the ultimate elegance and style at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast? There’s no other lodging accommodation in Bardstown with a dedication to hospitality, history, and housemade cocktails than our Inn. For example, our guest rooms are named after a favorite bourbon-based craft drink, like the Manhattan Honeymoon Hideaway, pictured above.
As our largest and most private suite with its own entrance, four-poster canopy king bed, cozy fireplace, and beautiful antiques, this room serves as the ideal honeymoon or romantic getaway choice. The private bath features a jacuzzi tub and a shower with Turkish Towels and Gilchrist & Soames custom spa toiletries. You’ll find a beverage station with a coffee maker, a mini-refrigerator, and a microwave oven. We can’t wait to host you for National Bourbon Day and beyond. Book your next stay today!
National Bourbon Day in Bardstown Kentucky