Kentucky Bourbon Trail - BourbonSphere

The Latest on New Bardstown Distilleries & Bar Openings

By far, the most popular attractions in our area are the Bardstown distilleries! Guests flock from all over the country to taste these impeccably crafted bourbons and tour these impressive establishments. And while we’ve always had our go-to favorite distilleries in Bardstown to recommend, there have been some new additions to the list lately, and a few more are coming soon. It’s always a treat to check out the new distilleries, often introducing modern techniques and an even more immersive experience for visitors.

One of the most anticipated openings was on National Bourbon Day in June, and it wasn’t a distillery but the brand-new iteration of our beloved Bunghole Bar and Lounge on-site at our bed and breakfast. As many of our past guests and friends of Bourbon Manor know, our bourbon bar burned down in the summer of 2020. Finally, after years of planning, the new version of the Bunghole Bar is up and running, welcoming bourbon lovers back for cocktails, happy hour, and lively evenings out on the town.

For those planning an overnight getaway to Bardstown, staying at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is now even more fun with the re-opening of our bar. There’s no better place to enjoy a nightcap and then stroll our pretty grounds back to your guest room. In the mornings, there is no need to worry about hurrying out to breakfast; we’ll make it for you. Our hearty, tried-and-true Southern recipes won’t disappoint and are served in our elegant dining room. Start planning your next getaway to explore the new Bardstown distilleries, and book the best bed and breakfast today!

New Bardstown Distilleries & Latest Updates on Openings

There’s always new and exciting news in the bourbon industry in Kentucky, with a lot of Bardstown distilleries expanding, vintage releases, and new openings. Our place on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is home to a handful of some of the best bourbon distilleries this state has to offer, and the list keeps getting longer.

Whiskey House of Kentucky: The three founders of Bardstown Bourbon Company, David Mandell, John Hargrove, and Daniel Linde, are moving into new territory with the opening of Whiskey House. This state-of-the-art distilling setup is for private projects, working on high-end and more experimental products. While this distillery isn’t open to the public, it’s still a welcome addition to Elizabethtown.
Old SteelHouse Distillery: Once an abandoned distillery, Old SteelHouse has been a part of Kentucky bourbon since 1844. The site sat empty for about 50 years and will soon hold regular visiting hours for tastings and tours.
Clermont Distilling Co.: There hasn’t been a recent update on the status of this new distillery, which is planned to become the first stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. However, keep your eye out for a new production facility and visitor center on a 55-acre site that spans both sides of State Route 245.
Kentucky Owl Whiskey: Another possible addition, Kentucky Owl, has big plans for a beautifully architecturally designed bourbon paradise in Bardstown. When this project is completed, it will need to be one of the Bardstown distilleries on your itinerary!
Willett Distillery Expansion: A long-time favorite of the Bardstown distilleries, the family-owned Willett is expanding to the nearby town of Springfield, KY. The new location will be home to the family’s assortment of whiskeys, including favorites such as Willett Pot Still Reserve and Willett Family Estate rye, as well as more widely available options like Noah’s Mill, Rowan’s Creek, and Johnny Drum. Unlike the original estate, which is open for tours and has The Bar at Willett restaurant, this new distillery will emphasize production rather than hosting visitors.
Heaven Hill Expansion: In 2022, Heaven Hill broke ground on a new $135 million distillery in Bardstown. The distillery will be named Heaven Hill Springs Distillery in honor of the Old Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, built in 1935 and burned down in 1996. This new facility marks Heaven Hill’s return to distilling in Bardstown after nearly 30 years. Initially, the new distillery will have an annual production capacity of 150,000 barrels, eventually expanding to 450,000 barrels over time. This expansion will make it the same size as Heaven Hill’s Bernheim distillery and will likely open in 2025.

The Best Bar in Bardstown is Open Now at Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast

The Bunghole Bar and Lounge reopened on National Bourbon Day 2024. This award-winning barn design is a striking black monitor-style structure, similar to what is being constructed at new Bardstown distilleries for expansion projects. The two-story vaulted ceiling is framed by expansive windows and doors and a large bar featuring the best bourbons, local and international wines, and craft beer. The ultra-chic up-scale design will transport you, and there’s plenty of fantastic lounge and patio seating where you can sit back and relax with your favorite cocktail.

The Bunghole Bar is open to guests and the public. Its hours are 5-10 p.m. daily, including Sundays! Happy Hours are 5-7 p.m. nightly, and each night, there is a new artisanal hand-crafted bourbon cocktail, a drink recipe, and a demonstration on making it at home. For those staying at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, enjoying a drink at the bar will be a highlight of your stay, and you’ll just be a short walk back to your luxurious guest room.

With the reopening of our bar space, we truly feel that our boutique property is complete! The barn is also available for weddings, private events, corporate business retreats, and parties, which is incredibly convenient with our on-site lodging options. We have the perfect setup with seven guest rooms in the Manor (Main House) and three additional guest rooms in the Federal House (Guest Cottage) in a separate, private residence on the property. Contact us for whole-house buy-outs, or make your traditional room reservation today!

Touring the New Heaven Hill Springs Distillery

Heaven Hill’s new $130 million distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky is still about six months away from being finished, but this week on WhiskyCast In-Depth, we’re… Read More

Heaven Hill’s new $130 million distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky is still about six months away from being finished, but this week on WhiskyCast In-Depth, we’re getting a hard-hat preview tour from Master Distiller Conor O’Driscoll. We’ll also have details and tasting notes for the new Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Collection of whiskies as well. In the news, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is celebrating 25 years of Bourbon tourism, the owners of Justins’ House of Bourbon have reached a settlement with state regulators, and the International Whisky Competition announces its 2024 winners.

Episode 1062: June 23, 2024

Wild Turkey Unveils New Jimmy Russell Visitors Center

Campari has completed work on an upgraded visitors center at the Wild Turkey Distillery campus in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and named it in honor of longtime… Read More

Campari has completed work on an upgraded visitors center at the Wild Turkey Distillery campus in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, and named it in honor of longtime master distiller Jimmy Russell. The move comes as Russell celebrates his 70th year at the distillery, after coming on board as an apprentice in 1954.

The Jimmy Russell Wild Turkey Experience features an outdoor pavilion and bar suitable for events and special occasions, along with two new tasting rooms and the Generations lounge, which honors the three generations of Russells working at Wild Turkey.

“For our family, this isn’t just a place to visit; it’s like a second home,” said Bruce Russell, Associate Blender at Wild Turkey (and Jimmy’s grandson). “We’re thrilled to now be able to open our doors a little wider and welcome even more folks into this community. The Jimmy Russell Wild Turkey Experience is a perfect tribute to grandad and his life-long commitment to spreading the word of bourbon,” he said in a news release.

Wild-Turkey-Experience-Inside. Image courtesy Wild Turkey.

The center will offer an expanded range of tours, including production tours, rickhouse visits, and a new Russell’s Reserve maturation tour. It’s the latest expansion at the Wild Turkey campus, with ground-breaking expected soon on a second distillery at the site along the Kentucky River. The new distillery will bring annual production to 14 million proof gallons, which is expected to meet anticipated demand for Wild Turkey whiskies well into the future.

Links: Wild Turkey

Things to Do in Bardstown, KY, this Summer

While spring might just be beginning in Bardstown, KY, it’s never too soon to start planning for summer. This area is always brimming with delightful activities, but the crown jewel of experiences is undoubtedly embarking on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. This journey tops the list of things to do in Bardstown, where the joys of spring and summer are best welcomed with the tasting of exquisite bourbon flights, indulging in crafted cocktails, and delving into our rich heritage through engaging distillery tours.

In Bardstown, this adventure is further enhanced by the town’s captivating Southern charm and character. Renowned as the “Bourbon Capital of the World” and consistently voted as one of “America’s Most Beautiful Small Towns,” Bardstown is the quintessential Kentucky destination for those seeking weekend escapes or romantic retreats filled with exploration and relaxation. There is plenty to discover for those seeking outdoor adventures at the local parks and nature areas.

Before you start filling your itinerary with all of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and the historic Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is one of the best places to stay in Kentucky. With unparalleled service from our professional innkeepers and staff, luxuriously appointed guest rooms and suites, and our delicious breakfast service, you’ll feel pampered and relaxed as a guest at our Inn. You’ll quickly see why people return year after year to indulge in the wonderful Bardstown activities and make our B&B their homebase. Book your lodging today!

The Ultimate List of Things to Do in Bardstown, KY

Thankfully, the location of our bed and breakfast in Kentucky is central to most of the best things to do in Bardstown, including the popular and well-known distilleries in the area. Join us for a hearty breakfast before setting out to the bourbon-tasting rooms. Ready to start planning your next vacation to one of Kentucky’s most charming small towns?

There are so many things to do in Bardstown, KY, this summer; it’s a perfect destination for a quick weekend away or longer stays. Here are the best activities near our bed and breakfast in Kentucky:

Bourbon Distillery Tours & Tastings: It’s rare to visit Bardstown and not taste any bourbon! There’s a lovely collection of these distilleries producing an array of this favorite spirit. Don’t miss Heaven Hill Distillery Bourbon Heritage Center, Bardstown Bourbon Company, Lux Row Distillers, Preservation Distillery, and Willet Distillery Visitor Center. The iconic Maker’s Mark distillery and Jim Beam are also worth the scenic drive!
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail: As mentioned above, tasting and touring the local distilleries is one of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY. To continue your bourbon adventure, check out the complete list of distilleries associated with the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Discover the Museums in Bardstown: This area is rich in history, and Bardstown’s Museum Row is the best destination to learn more. Head to The Civil War Museum, the Women’s Museum of the Civil War, and the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History.
The Best Wineries in Kentucky: If you’re more of a wine fan, one of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY, is head out in the countryside and try some of these fantastic, locally grown vinos.
Live Concerts at the Amp: Located at Log Still Distillery, this live music venue is a must-visit for concerts in the summer. They host big names and up-and-coming artists in a fun outdoor venue space.
The Stephan Foster Story: One of the best things to do in Bardstown for history buffs is to head to My Old Kentucky Home State Park to catch a live show about how this famous song came to be.
Tour the Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest: If you’re hoping to get some exercise, this nearby nature area is one of the most beautiful places to get your steps in.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: Climb aboard a vintage train car, take in the sights, and enjoy a beautifully prepared dinner. The depot is just a few blocks from our Kentucky bed and breakfast.
Hit the Links at the Bardstown Golf Courses: There’s a great selection of local golf courses to check out, like the Kenny Rapier Championship Golf Course at My Old KY Home State Park, Cedar-Fil Golf Course, Lincoln Homestead State Golf Course, or the Bardstown Country club at Maywood.
Explore Downtown Bardstown: There’s plenty to discover in downtown Bardstown, including historic sites, shopping, and excellent restaurants for various cuisines for lovely lunches and dinners.

The Best Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky

As a proud Kentucky Bed and Breakfast Association and Select Registry member, you can rest assured that you’ll love visiting our historic, bourbon-themed bed and breakfast in Bardstown, KY. Not only are we the ideal location to explore all of the best things to do in Bardstown, but you’ll love our selection of cocktails, bourbon flights, and wine by the bottle right on-site. This is just one of the small details that will set your stay apart from other larger-scale lodging options in the area.

Our classic decor, rich and bold colors, and antique furnishings create the perfect destination getaway. We offer top-of-the-line amenities, including spa services, gourmet breakfast spreads, and high-end appointments in our ten guest suites and common areas. Guest rooms are beautifully appointed; seven guest rooms grace the Manor (Main House), while the “Federal House” (Guest Cottage) offers three additional guest rooms in a separate, private residence on the property.

In the mornings, the Inn’s kitchen comes to life with delicate aromas of brewing coffee and baked goods. You’ll enjoy our menu of Southern comfort dishes prepared with care and seasonal ingredients each morning of your stay and included with the cost of your lodging. Starting your day in our elegant dining room with our impeccable and personalized service is ideal for starting off on the right foot. Book your room at our bed and breakfast in Kentucky today!

Head to the Iconic Maker’s Mark Distillery

Maker’s Mark Distillery is one of the must-visit Kentucky distilleries near Bardstown. It’s a bourbon lover’s dream destination! The iconic red waxed bottle is recognized worldwide, and the brand started at Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Kentucky, in 1953. This bourbon has been crafted the same way for three generations—a family recipe perfected and passed down. It began as a quest to create a bourbon that the Samuel family enjoyed drinking and sharing with friends, and today, it’s one of the most well-known bourbons in the nation.

A bourbon lover visiting the Maker’s Mark Distillery has been compared to a child going to Disneyland for the first time! It’s an immersive experience in a beautiful location with hands-on activities, detailed tours, and history, along with tastings and purchase options. Whether exploring the distillery or the 1100 acres with beautiful American oak trees—there’s a lovely selection of curated tours and tastings.

Before you start booking your Maker’s Mark distillery tours, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our Bardstown Bed and Breakfasts is the best place to stay on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Not only is our historic Inn comfortable and spacious, but our immaculate guest rooms are all designed with couples in mind, with a charming bourbon-themed name for each space. We’ll send you off on your adventures with a hearty breakfast, the perfect start to a day in Bardstown tasting and touring the local distilleries. Book your lodging today!

The Iconic Maker's Mark Distillery & More Bardstown Distilleries

Bourbon lovers feel right at home in Bardstown, Kentucky, the Bourbon Capital of the World and sits right at the heart of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail—while Maker’s Mark Distillery is located about 30 minutes from Bardstown (well worth the quick road trip!), you’ll find a great selection of distilleries within minutes of our bed and breakfast as well.

Here are your tasting and tour options at the Maker’s Mark distillery:

The Remarkable Experience: This is the most expansive experience that this Kentucky distillery explores behind the scenes at the distillery and the stunning nature of Heritage Lake and Star Hill Farm. You’ll witness firsthand every aspect of the bottling, aging, and production. Along the way, you’ll indulge in unique tastes and finish with a toast out by the pristine waters of the lake. This tour is approximately 2.5 hours.
Behind the Bourbon: More interested in the distilling process? This tour is perfect for those true fans, accessing far reaches of the distillery, warehouse, cellar, cistern, and bottling.
The Maker’s Mark Distillery Tour: The most popular touring option, an experienced guide will teach you the history of the Maker’s Mark Distillery brand. This tour stays mostly outdoors and consists of about 1/4 mile of walking on the beautiful campus.
Marker’s Mark Distillery Art & Design Tour: If you’re a fan of bourbon but also love art and design, this is the special tour for you. Star Hill Farms is home to over 20 original art pieces and structures. This 90-minute experience will take you across the campus with a trained guide, who will describe each piece and share some information about the artist. You’ll wrap up with a pour of the classic bourbon under the iconic Dale Chihuly piece, The Spirit Of The Maker.

Other Bardstown Distilleries to Add to Your Itinerary:

A trip to Maker’s Mark Distillery is always a treat! However, here is a list of our favorite Bardstown distilleries near the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast:

Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience: For an immersive tour, tasting, and museum experience, this is one of the best distilleries in Bardstown to visit during your stay.
Lux Row Distillers: With five distinct brands under one roof, bourbon lovers will love the variety at a tasting and tour here.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: This local distillery is known for its modern approach and state-of-the-art facility in Bardstown. Head here for hands-on tours, tastings, and cocktail classes.
Preservation Distillery & Farm: Specializing in very small batch bourbon with unique releases, you’ll try traditional pot still bourbons at this beautiful and pastoral location in Bardstown.
Willett Distillery: This long-time distillery is a classic spot for tastings, tours, and delicious meals at their on-site restaurant, The Bar at Willett.

The Best Bardstown Bed and Breakfast for Romantic Lodging

One of the highlights of any trip to Bardstown will be visiting Maker’s Mark Distillery the local distilleries. It’s a fantastic way to learn more about the process of this iconic beverage and meet people who are passionate about their craft. At the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, you’ll also see that we take our craft of hospitality very seriously, but all with a smile and a warm demeanor. We embrace Southern charm and love to welcome each guest as if they were more like a distant family member.

Our property consists of several historic buildings. The main Manor House comprises seven guest rooms, a dining room where you can enjoy breakfast every morning, a spa room, and a gym on the lower level. The Federal House Guest Cottage is where we have our other three lodging options. These spacious bedrooms, gathering room, kitchen area, and deck overlooking the private back lawn offer a comfortable and enjoyable experience for small groups or friends traveling together.

We offer our guests of our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast a long list of add-on packages, but the most popular option for bourbon enthusiasts is the “Bourbon Tour & Tasting Package,” which is a comprehensive itinerary for a self-guided tour. This add-on includes fun details like two bourbon shots on us, keepsake rocks glasses, chocolates, and much more! We can’t wait to host you for the best bourbon tours in Bardstown, KY; book your room today!

The Best Things to Do in Kentucky for Couples

There are so many fantastic things to do in Kentucky for couples looking to reconnect this year—especially in Bardstown, KY, the “Bourbon Capital of the World” and a charming small town with a lovely selection of distilleries, restaurants, and southern hospitality. Bardstown has a charming downtown area featuring historic buildings and architecture. Couples can explore the area’s antique stores, cozy pubs, and intimate restaurants. The picturesque countryside can be enjoyed by taking a relaxing train excursion, touring bourbon distilleries, or hiking in a local park.

Heading to the bourbon distilleries for tastings and tours is, of course, one of the best things to do in Kentucky for couples, and Bardstown is the best place to do just that! After all, it is the official gateway to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and a fantastic collection of Bardstown distilleries are within striking distance from one another. Planning a bourbon-tasting tour with multiple stops around town is such a memorable and unique outing!

One of the best things to do in Kentucky for couples is to book a romantic Bardstown KY Bed and Breakfast, and the Bourbon Manor B&B is the ultimate choice for your getaway. Not only will you have a stunning and historic manor house as your home base, but you’ll be pampered with a homemade breakfast each morning, an on-site spa facility, and be in the ideal location to head out and explore. There’s nothing quite like planning a romantic weekend getaway with your partner in the heart of bourbon country. Start planning and book your room today!

The Best Things to Do in Kentucky for Couples near Bardstown

If you are planning a little memorable getaway with your partner, this romantic area of the South is the perfect place! There are so many great things to do in Kentucky for couples to explore and grow their bonds ever deeper. From bourbon tastings at our local Bardstown distilleries to long walks through our stunning bluegrass countryside, you’ll find so many places to spark romance and reconnect.

Here are the top things to do in Kentucky for couples on your next getaway:

Bourbon Tastings & Tour: When you start to explore all the best things to do in Kentucky for couples, it will be no surprise that bourbon tastings and tours will be at the top of that list. These immersive tours occur on-site at these distilleries, offering an impressive look inside this industry. Not to mention, the bourbon goes down smooth and warms up any romantic getaway! A few of our top recommendations are the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Bardstown Bourbon, and Maker’s Mark.
Exploring the Kentucky Wineries: If you’re more of a wine fan, there’s a lovely selection of wineries in Kentucky for tours and tastings as well. These vineyards are set back in some of the most picturesque countryside, so the adventure of getting there is all part of the fun. Be sure to check out our list of great Kentucky wineries here.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: As a guest at our Bardstown KY Bed and Breakfast, you’ll be within walking distance of the depot for one of the best dinner trains in Kentucky! Sign up for the romantic dinner ride at sunset with a delicious meal and bourbon pairings.
Romantic Bardstown Restaurants: There’s a fantastic selection of restaurants in Bardstown, and considering one of the best things to do in Kentucky for couples is a romantic dinner for two, you’ll be all set! Our top favorites are The Rickhouse Restaurant and Toogie’s Table.
Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest: If you’d like to go out and about, this beautiful nature preserve offers miles of hiking trails with outdoor sculptures and famous works from Thomas Dambo. There’s also a cafe for lunch and gardens to tour.
Spa Couples Massage: Our cozy and warm on-site spa room is the perfect way to relax with your partner on your getaway to Kentucky. Our licensed and professional massage therapists work magic to make our guests feel completely pampered and rejuvenated. Reach out before your arrival, and we’ll get a treatment on the books.
Add a Special Enhancement Package: As a guest at our Bardstown KY Bed and Breakfast, we have the perfect selection of romantic add-ons and packages just for two. By far, one of the best things to do in Kentucky for couples is to retreat to your private suite with wine, chocolates, and special touches awaiting your return.

Spend a Lovely Getaway at our Bardstown KY Bed and Breakfast

There’s nothing better than choosing a small Inn for your lodging on your romantic getaways, and that’s why staying at our Bardstown KY Bed and Breakfast is one of the best things to do in Kentucky for couples! Not only will you be pampered from the moment you step into our impressive and historic space, but you’ll also be in the perfect central location to head out and explore. We’ll greet you with a cocktail or a glass of wine and show you to your comfortable and beautifully appointed guest room, either in the main Manor House or the Federal House Cottage.

When you do retire to your guest room, you’ll not only be bathed in the soothing warmth of our charming historic decor, but you’ll feel pampered by our vast array of contemporary amenities — high-quality linens and toiletries, plush robes, high-speed internet, flat-screen TV with free cable and movies, and of course, the best Southern hospitality around. Our Inn has been recognized by the Bed and Breakfast Association of Kentucky as the best B&B in our state for lodging for groups and couples alike.

As you explore all the best things to do in Kentucky for couples, we genuinely hope you’ll make our Bardstown KY Bed and Breakfast your home base. You’ll enjoy beautiful breakfasts with us each morning, book a spa massage or two, and be in the ideal location to head out and explore the nearby Bardstown bourbon distilleries. We can’t wait to host you; book your stay today!

The Best Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast for Cozy Winter Getaways

If you’re looking for the most luxurious lodging in Bardstown, our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast is perfect for enjoying the local distilleries and attractions while keeping relaxation at the forefront of your vacation. The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast offers ten elegant guestrooms in two pre-Civil War plantation homes, each appointed with antique furnishings. …

The Best Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast for Cozy Winter Getaways Read More »

Whether you’re planning for yourself and your partner or thinking ahead to the holidays, giving the gift of a getaway to our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast is an unforgettable gesture. We offer gift certificates for any dollar amount and can send them directly by email. Your friends and family can decide when they can fit a getaway into their schedules and will be grateful for a gift that’s made of memories. We have an on-site spa room for massage by the warmth of the fire, a lovely lobby bar for scratch-made cocktails, and elegant shared spaces for sipping in style.

Upon arrival, guests are always mesmerized by the historic southern charm of our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast and are welcomed with open arms by our professional staff and innkeepers. The stately brick manor and surrounding land, built in the early 1800s, have a rich past. It offers an entirely unique lodging accommodation, more memorable than a cookie-cutter hotel stay, the perfect setting for romantic getaways, special celebrations, and so much more. Start planning your next trip to Bardstown, and book your room today!

Winter Getaway to our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast

Over the years, there have been several renovations to the manor, but all have kept the original historical charm, making our Inn a welcoming and warm place to stay with your special someone or a group of friends. Our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast is a fantastic location for exploring the shopping and restaurants of the Bardstown area, the local bourbon producers, and historical landmarks.

Here are eight reasons to stay at our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast:

Elegant lodging: Staying in one of our guest suites will give you the same feeling as a loving, warm hug. Traveling can take it out of you, and there’s a palpable sense of relief when you can finally set down your bags, take in the beautiful surroundings, and realize that you’re finally on vacation at our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast. Our rooms have modern amenities, fireplaces, luxurious beds with designer linens, and stunning garden views.
En suite baths with luxurious amenities: Each room also offers a private bathroom—many with jetted tubs and walk-in showers—all with fluffy Turkish towels and comfortable terry cloth robes.
Beautiful Shared Spaces: Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast has a warm and friendly atmosphere, where guests can enjoy toasting with bourbon cocktails or relaxing in the Player Piano Parlor with a hot cup of coffee. We want our guests to feel at home and use our space as if it were their own. You can explore our garden grounds, bundle up for a winter walk, and explore the best of Bardstown nearby.
On-site massage: Located in the Main House, our talented and welcoming massage therapists offer Swedish, sports, and trigger point therapy treatments. If you’re on a romantic getaway, make sure to book your couple’s massage in advance,e the perfect addition to any trip—also an excellent gift idea to add to your lodging.
Gourmet country breakfasts: Our Southern-style breakfast is a delight in the morning, featuring locally Kentucky-grown ingredients in our acclaimed recipes. Our signature egg dishes, cheesy hashbrowns, and bourbon-infused breakfast sweets are sure to impress. Our formal dining room is the perfect setting to start your day right with candlelight and fresh flowers.
Ideal location: As a guest at our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast, you’ll be within a short driving distance of the downtown area, where you’ll find many of the best Bardstown distilleries, charming boutiques, and some of our favorite Bardstown restaurants. You’ll be just a short walk from My Kentucky Dinner Train depot for a scenic ride and gourmet meal–truly one of the most romantic outings!
Local Bardstown restaurants: While we’ll take care of your morning meal, you’ll find spectacular Bardstown restaurants nearby for lunch and dinner. There’s a melting pot of culinary talent in our area. Whether you’re searching for a casual cafe or fine dining experience, you’ll find a fantastic selection. A few not to miss are Toogie’s Tavern, the Rickhouse Restaurant, and the historic Old Talbott Tavern.
Bourbon tastings and tours: We offer a long list of unique add-ons at our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast. The most popular addition to any vacation is the Bourbon Tour and Tasting Package, which includes a customized self-driving itinerary, tickets for tastings, the Oscar Getz Bourbon History Museum, a collection of bourbon keepsakes and treats, and more.

Give the Gift of a Getaway to Bardstown

If we had to pick just one reason why our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast holds the top spot on TripAdvisor in the Best Bed and Breakfast category, it would be the exceptional level of warm and attentive service we provide to every guest who stays with us. In today’s world, kindness goes a long way, and we aim to ensure that every guest feels comfortable and relaxed during their stay with us. This is also an excellent reason for gift-giving! When you choose to gift a getaway to your loved ones, you can rest knowing that they’ll have the same level of service that you experienced during your time here.

One of the best ways to make your time memorable here is by adding on one of our enhancement packages. Here’s a lovely review from a recent couple who celebrated their anniversary at our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast:

“The Bourbon Manor is beautiful! We purchased a package that included two rocks glasses, two drinks from the bar, two distillery tours, dinner reservations with a $50 gift card, and chocolates. It was amazing for Todd to make the tour and dinner reservations for us. The bartender, Jojuan, creates signature drinks that are amazing. He is very friendly, and we enjoyed our after-dinner drinks and chats with him. Tyler makes a wonderful breakfast each morning! Our room was cozy and relaxing and so beautiful!”

We hope you’ll come back to see us soon and consider giving your friends and family a wonderful gift of a getaway by purchasing a gift certificate to our Bourbon Trail Bed and Breakfast. Book your room today!

A Deep Dive Into Scotch Whisky Data

There’s a lot of data behind the whiskies we enjoy, and analyzing that data can give us some insights into the health of the whisky… Read More

There’s a lot of data behind the whiskies we enjoy, and analyzing that data can give us some insights into the health of the whisky industry. Martin Purvis and Duncan McFadzean examine whisky data for their Commercial Spirits Intelligence newsletter, and concluded that last week’s Scotch Whisky export numbers aren’t as bad as they might appear on face value. We’ll talk with Martin Purvis about the analysis on this week’s WhiskyCast In-Depth. In the news, we have details on this year’s crop of annual releases from Four Roses, Heaven Hill, and Old Forester, along with the rest of the week’s new releases. We’ll also have our Community segment and explain in Behind the Label why you can’t get a Kentucky Bourbon Trail passport stamped at one of the Commonwealth’s most popular distilleries.

Episode 1019: August 27, 2023

Explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail at Lux Row Distillers

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 …

Explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail at Lux Row Distillers Read More »

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!

TRAVEL: Louisville’s “Barrels & Billets” Joins The Kentucky Bourbon Trail

{Louisville, KY} Barrels & Billets, Hillerich & Bradsby Co.’s (H&B) unique experience where guests blend, create and bottle their very own bourbon, is now an official member of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, run by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. Located at H&B’s downtown Louisville campus at 8th & Main Street, the bourbon experiences enjoyed by locals […]

The post TRAVEL: Louisville’s “Barrels & Billets” Joins The Kentucky Bourbon Trail first appeared on The Bourbon Review.

Located at H&B’s downtown Louisville campus at 8th & Main Street, the bourbon experiences enjoyed by locals and tourists alike opened in February 2022 and has seen more than 13,000 guests in its first year.

More than just a tasting, guests at Barrels & Billets blend with six award-winning WoodCraft finished bourbons including a 200 Year Oak, European Oak, American Oak, Cherry Wood, Maple Wood, and Smoked Oak. During the experience, guests learn the art of bourbon blending before the chance to test their skill at blending to their own preferred flavor profile. Once the blending experience is complete, guests are able to have their unique recipe bottled onsite in a personalized, commemorative package.

“The entire Barrels & Billets team is ecstatic to join KDA and play a role in such an incredible Kentucky industry,” said Patrick Shortridge, Director of Guest Experience at Hillerich & Bradsby Co. “This is a big milestone for us and we look forward to building onto Barrels & Billets’ fun and unique take on what people can experience in downtown bourbon.”

“Home Plate Series” Bourbons Celebrate Baseball Heritage

Along with the position on the bourbon trail, Barrels & Billets will also release a suite of three new bourbons. The Home Plate Series featuring baseball iconography includes Lucky Lumber Easy Drinking Bourbon, Lead Off Rich & Complex Bourbon and Smokin’ Fastball Smoked Bourbon. Available exclusively in the Barrels & Billets shop, each bourbon is offered for a retail price of $40 and is presented at 90 proof/45% ABV.

Lucky Lumber shows a lithe and lively bouquet of Bing cherry, dried flower, white chocolate, and raw honey. On the palate, sweet maple flavors arise with notes of baked molasses and a lingering impression of ripe berry fruit.
Lead Off offers a bold yet inviting nose that carries hints of freshly baked snickerdoodles, cigar smoke, and saddle leather. It’s remarkably soft on the palate from start to finish, bringing flavors of stewed maraschino cherries, baked orchard fruit, and candied pecans before clove spice kiss the finish.
Smokin’ Fastball’s complex nose showcases a medley of young leather and cigar box aromas with muddled orange peel and bran muffin. Comforting flavors of ripe stone fruit, baked apricots, and vanilla custard come through, rounding out and creating a pleasingly smooth profile that lingers through a smooth finish.

“We entered the tourism and entertainment industry more than 25 years ago when we opened the doors of Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory right here on West Main,” said John Hillerich, President & CEO of Hillerich & Bradsby Co. “We’re excited to join KDA with a one-of-a-kind, fun experience that not only adds to the excitement of historic Main Street, but also complements Louisville’s flourishing bourbon tourism industry. ”

Barrels & Billets is one of 3 venues at H&B’s campus located at 800 W Main St. in downtown Louisville, including the award-winning Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory and The Skybox, a 5,000 sq. ft. event space.

FOR TICKETS: Tickets are available at BarrelsAndBillets.com. Custom bourbon experiences are offered for $35 per person and custom blend 750ml bottles can be purchased for $50. Guests can also try the Flight School experience where they can sample 3 bourbons and 3 different cocktails crafted with the Home Plate Series bourbons.

A variety of Barrels & Billets bourbons are available exclusively at the attraction, including its premium bourbon J. Frederick, created in honor of J. Frederick Hillerich who immigrated to America from Germany on October 7, 1842 as a woodworker and made barrels for the burgeoning whiskey business.

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