Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

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!

Amazing Things to do in Bardstown, KY

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There are so many enjoyable things to do in Bardstown, KY; of course, heading out on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail holds the number one spot on the list! All the best spring and summer getaways start with sipping delicious bourbon flights, sampling cocktails, and discover our rich history on distillery tours. And when you do that in Bardstown, you’ll be surrounded by the charm and character of the old South. Bardstown is known in this area as the “Bourbon Capital of the World” while also being voted as one of “America’s Most Beautiful Small Towns” year after year. It’s the ideal place in Kentucky for weekend getaways or leisurely retreats for adventures and relaxation.

Aside from distillery tastings and tours, there are plenty of things to do in Bardstown that don’t start with bourbon! We have lovely parks to explore, historical attractions and museums, ghost tours, and excellent award-winning restaurants. There are many beautiful experiences to make your stay memorable and unique. One of the easiest ways to ensure that, though, is to include a reservation at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast. Let us be your home base as you discover all that Bardstown offers!

The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, located in Bardstown, KY, is a charming historic Inn with just seven guest rooms in our main house and three additional guest rooms in our guest cottage. Our property is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year, so if you’re interested in history, you’ll find it here. You won’t find large crowds or unwanted noise, which is always possible at traditional hotel chains. We’re centrally located to the favorite bourbon distilleries and many of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY. Check in, grab a cocktail, and start making your plans! Book your room at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast today.

The Best Things to do in Bardstown, KY, this Year

Ready to start planning your next vacation to one of Kentucky’s most charming small towns? You’ll find that there are so many things to do in Bardstown, KY, this year; it’s a perfect destination for a weekend away or more extended stays. First and foremost, bourbon tasting is a must in this part of the state, as Bardstown was made famous by this barrel-aged spirit. But you’ll also find award-winning restaurants, historical attractions, and beautiful countryside to explore.

Here are the top 12 things to do in Bardstown near our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast on your next visit:

Without a doubt, the top thing to do in Bardstown, KY, is to visit one of the many nearby local distilleries. We’re in the heart of Bourbon Country, after all. Be sure to add Heaven Hill Distillery Bourbon Heritage Center, Bardstown Bourbon Company, Lux Row Distillers, Preservation Distillery, and Willet Distillery. While Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam Distilleries are big-name producers, visiting their properties is often compared to Disneyland for bourbon lovers, so don’t miss those two stops either.
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is one of our favorite things to do in Bardstown, KY! It’s quite the party and the ideal way to taste bourbon from a collection of distilleries in one place. This year the event falls from September 15th to the 17th.
Bourbon isn’t the only great tasting to enjoy in Bardstown. The area also has several excellent wineries, including Forest Edge Winery, McIntyre’s Winery & Berries, and Springhill Winery. If a nice, refreshing beer is more your speed, one of our favorite things to do in Bardstown is belly up to the bar at Scout & Scholar Brewing.
Head to Museum Row and get to know Bardstown’s incredible Civil War history. The Civil War Museum & the Women’s Museum of the Civil War are America’s largest and most complete museums devoted to the Western Theater of the American Civil War. Bourbon lovers won’t want to miss visiting the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History.
You’ll want to check out the historic architecture around town. Our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast was designed by the same architect as Federal Hill at My Old Kentucky Home State Park and Basilica of Saint Joseph Proto-Cathedral. There’s an easy self-guided tour of these locations in downtown Bardstown.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is one of the best ways to explore the beautiful Bluegrass State in style—and it includes a delicious meal and beverage pairings. The train depot is within walking distance of our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast as well!

One of the best things to do in Bardstown is explore the 30+ shops, art galleries, ice cream shops, bourbon bars, restaurants, and breweries. We know you’ll love walking around this beautiful and historic city.
If you’re a golfer, set up a tee time at one of the local golf courses, like the Kenny Rapier Championship Golf Course at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, Cedar-Fil Golf Course, or the Bardstown Country Club at Maywood.
Dining out at the local Bardstown restaurants is always a treat! We’ll take care of your breakfast each morning of your stay, so plan on doing lunch and dinner out on the town.
For those who love hiking and being out in nature, a trip to Bernheim Arboretum and Forest needs to be on your list of things to do in Bardstown, KY. There are fantastic trails with art installations, a charming cafe, and much more.
Indulge yourself with a relaxing facial or massage at the on-site day spa in the warm treatment room with a cozy fireplace. Professionally licensed massage therapists offer many options, from deep tissue to in-room couple massage.
Grab a nightcap at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast, we have a lovely selection of bourbons (some rare releases), cocktails, and wine.

Stay at our Historic Kentucky Bed and Breakfast

Our stately Greek Revival Manor House was completed in 1823, marking 2023 its 200th birthday! This historic property in Bardstown, KY, has a colorful history over the past two centuries and has earned its spot on the National Register of Historic Places list. Our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast was originally constructed as a private residence for a prominent family until the Civil War era. The property had many important iterations over its many years but has operated as a B&B for over 25 years—and will be for many more to come!

You’ll love our classic decor, rich and bold colors, and antique furnishings. 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. Our ideal location downtown puts you right in the best place to enjoy all of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY.

As seasoned and experienced Innkeepers, we’ve had the honor of being recognized for our excellence year after year by hospitality professionals. Our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast is one of Bardstown’s best (and most romantic) places to stay. It’s an experience that you truly have to enjoy firsthand! You’ll see from the moment you walk up to our beautiful Bardstown Inn why guests keep returning time and again. Staying with us is one of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY, hands down! We can’t wait to be your hosts; book your room today!

Romantic Getaways in Kentucky at Our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown

In Kentucky, one romantic getaway destination outshines the rest, the charming town of Bardstown! Especially when you stay at the highest rated Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown. Our area imbues a sense of beauty and romance around every corner and in the locally-owned restaurants and boutique shops. Spend your days strolling the streets of historic downtown …

Romantic Getaways in Kentucky at Our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown Read More »

Bardstown’s claim to fame is the hugely successful bourbon industry; our city is known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” after all! As a guest at our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown, you’ll be in the ideal location to explore these fantastic and massive bourbon distilleries. The majority of our guests set out first thing after our beautiful country breakfast service and head to the nearby facilities for tastings, tours, and special vintage releases.

No matter how you spend your time, there’s no better place to reconnect than our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown. We offer a lovely list of amenities on-site, comfortable and tastefully appointed guest suites, and a staff who embodies the idea of Southern hospitality. As you arrive, grab a bourbon craft cocktail in our lobby bar and find a cozy nook to sip and settle in. We can’t wait to host you at our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown on your next romantic getaway in Kentucky. Book your room today!

Romance Near our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown

The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown is unbeatable as a romantic getaway destination. We have a well-earned reputation for excellence in hospitality, and you’ll see why from the moment you arrive on our doorstep. Our Inn’s warm, sophisticated, and romantic atmosphere captivates the very essence of romance. You may decide to stay in more than expected during your visit!

From there, how you spend the remainder of your time is up to you, but for those who bond best on adventures and activities, here are our top ten favorite ways to get romantic in Bardstown:

When in Bourbon Country, you simply must take a tour of one of the bourbon distilleries and enjoy a tasting or two. The local Bardstown bourbon distilleries, such as Heaven Hills Distillery, offer in-depth tours with tastings and a ton of fun information about the company’s history and bourbon itself.
Stroll the exhibits and interactive displays at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History for even more bourbon history. We guarantee you’ll learn something you didn’t already know about the industry.
Enjoy an elegant and romantic dinner; hop aboard My Kentucky Dinner Train as it chugs along the scenic tracks in the Bluegrass State. For guests at our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown, the train depot is within walking distance and one of the easiest ways to enjoy an intimate dinner for two.
There’s also a great selection of romantic restaurants in Bardstown for a romantic meal. We always suggest the stellar and classic Rickhouse Restaurant & Lounge or the newest culinary option, Toogie’s Table, for modern takes on Southern dishes and craft cocktails.
Walk hand in hand through the stunning trails at the Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest. Along the way, you’ll come across art installations, curated gardens, and lovely places to steal a kiss. This area is particularly beautiful in late spring and autumn, when the leaves change from green to gold.
Discover life in the Antebellum South at My Old Kentucky Home State Park. In fact, the Bourbon Manor and My Old Kentucky Home share the same architect—you can compare the similarities on a tour here.
Drift back in time on a romantic carriage ride around the charming streets of Bardstown with Around the Town Carriage. The local tour guide will offer tidbits on the history and take you by the main points of interest.
Browse through the charming shops and art galleries on the beautiful Main Street in Downtown Bardstown. You’ll instantly understand why this has been named the Most Beautiful Small Town in America, and you’ll meet some of the nicest folks along the way.
If you’re interested in discovering our local wine industry, you’ll want to tour the vineyards and taste the delicious wines at Springhill Winery or Chuckleberry Farm & Winery.
There’s nothing more romantic than a visit to the spa or private treatment in your room, and as a guest at our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown, we have a spa dedicated to our overnight guests. Plan ahead and book a wonderful couple’s massage in your suite.

The Best Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown for Romance

There’s something about Bardstown’s historic small-town red-brick Southern charm that inspires and enhances a sense of romance. Our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown, KY, is the perfect embodiment of that soothing, historic appeal—a stunning example of fine lodging called the Bourbon Manor in a town known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” In the common areas, bright modern hues set the tone, while timeless velvet couches await sweethearts ready to curl up and relax.

We offer ten luxurious and spacious guest rooms, each appointed with antiques and modern amenities. You’ll love the combination of the past mixed with today’s needed comfort elements. Sit back and enjoy your favorite show together in a big comfortable four-poster bed or open a bottle of wine and sip by the warm glow of the electric fire. In the mornings, we invite you to join us in our elegant dining room for the delicious fare of Southern breakfast classes.

For those visiting our Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown with romance as your focus, we offer an incredible selection of special packages designed to add an extra layer of romance to your intimate escape, be sure to check out our Ultimate Romantic Getaway or our Roses, Romance, and Relaxation enhancement. We’re happy to accommodate personalized requests, be sure to ask upon booking your reservation. We can’t wait to host you; book your room in Bardstown today!

Enjoy the Holidays at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Enjoy the Holidays at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast Read More »

Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

The holidays are almost upon us! This means it’s time for a quick getaway before the madness sets in. Thankfully, our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is one of the most peaceful and relaxing places to unwind. You’ll spend mornings with freshly brewed coffee and a gourmet breakfast spread, days can be split up between tastings and tours at the local Bardstown distilleries or spa treatments and massages, and the evenings you’ll be wining and dining at some of the best restaurants in Kentucky.

At our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, bourbon is celebrated; we’re called the Bourbon Manor, after all! Each of our ten elegant guest rooms and suites is spirit-themed, named after our favorite cocktails. Not only will you love our afternoon happy hour, but you’ll be in the best location for exploring the nearby bourbon distillery tours, the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History, and beautiful bars with innovative cocktail menus. Join us in Bardstown to celebrate the spirit that put us on the map and get into the holiday spirit with us. Book your pre-holiday getaway at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast today!

Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Best Things to do Near our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Bardstown is decked out during the holidays with festive decorations and high spirits all around! There are plenty of fun events and activities best enjoyed under the twinkling lights and will a bourbon-based beverage in hand. Here are the best things to do this holiday season near our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast :

Bardstown’s downtown area is just a few minutes from the Bourbon Manor. You’ll find plenty of local shops and boutiques offering unique gifts for those on your shopping list. Better yet, when in doubt, buy a classic and tasty bottle of bourbon for those who appreciate the finer things in life. You may even run into Santa!
Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is the ideal home base for exploring the nearby bourbon distillery tours and tastings. We even offer great packages to add to your lodging, including a chauffeured and guided tour to a handful of our favorite distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
For those who enjoy history, there’s plenty of that in our small town, founded in 1780. History buffs will love touring the Oscar Getzs Museum of Whiskey History, the historic downtown walking tour, and many old mansions and houses to explore the olden days of the South.
Vacation is meant to be decadent! And dining out at the best Bardstown restaurants fits that bill. You’ll find everything from innovative American cuisine to classic steak houses, Southern soul food, and international delights. For a romantic evening out, be sure to check out The Rickhouse in a historic building in downtown Bardstown.
The Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is a beautiful place to visit year-round. If you happen to be in Bardstown during December, the holiday open house is a must. You’ll find all the last-minute gifts you need to finish up your shopping list!

Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

The Most Romantic Place to Stay in Kentucky

The Sweet Old Fashioned is a bourbon cocktail created in the late 1800s and is a favorite. This classic drink is made by dissolving sugar in bitters and then adding bourbon and a twist of lemon—served over ice. This perfect combination is also found in the Sweet Old Fashioned Suite, pictured above. As one of our most spacious guestrooms, it’s both elegant and luxurious and the best place to relax at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast after exploring our charming small town.

Sit back with your feet up in our antique and comfortable furnishings. You’ll quickly fall asleep between 600-thread-count linens in a canopy bed genuinely fit for a king. As a flame flickers in the year-round electric fireplace, you’ll unwind and feel the stress of everyday melt away. Awaken to beautiful morning views of our expansive lawn with ancient magnolia trees and beautiful flower gardens—or perhaps a blanket of white, crisp snow!

An award-winning full country breakfast will await you in our dining room between 8 am and 10 am and will prepare you for a lovely day shopping and sipping your way through Bardstown. Book your next holiday getaway today!

Sip some Beautiful Kentucky Bourbon at Willett Distillery

One of our favorite places to visit in Bardstown is the Willett Distillery, established in 1936; this family-owned distillery embraces the importance of traditional methods that put Kentucky bourbon on the map. You’ll want to book a Willett Distillery tour and then finish your visit with cocktails and small plates at the Bar at Willett—a …

Sip some Beautiful Kentucky Bourbon at Willett Distillery Read More »

Willett Distillery

We can’t think of a more exciting addition to your vacation than a bourbon tasting and tour in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers a whole day itinerary exploring the Bardstown Kentucky distilleries. A key element of planning your time heading to Willett Distillery and more is your lodging and transportation. When you stay at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast, we offer packages that cover both!

Our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast is a fantastic location for exploring the shopping and restaurants of the Bardstown area and, especially, the local bourbon distilleries. We’re always happy to help make reservations and offer our expertise for enjoying your time in Bardstown and the surrounding areas. Our guest rooms are elegant and comfortable; your first visit will most likely not be your last!

Start by booking your room now, and let the Bardstown adventure begin!

Willett Distillery

Head to Willett Distillery & More Bourbon Tastings

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is an excellent resource for those who want to include more than one tasting at the bourbon distillers here. If you only have time for one, Willett Distillery is a lovely way to get a crash course on the history of bourbon in the area and taste some prime examples of whiskey.

Willett Distillery: Only ten minutes away from our Bed and Breakfast, this Bardstown, Kentucky distillery is a must-visit. While Willett Distillery was started in 1936 by Thompson Willett, the history dates back to the late 1600s, so there’s a lot to learn on a tour here. Also, The Bar at Willett is a handsome space for a fancy bourbon craft cocktail. Be sure to grab a Willett family estate bottled bourbon to bring home!

More Nearby Bardstown Bourbon Distilleries to Visit:

Preservation Distillery: This distillery is true Kentucky blue-grass country with panoramic views of the full-working 40-acre farm. They make their bourbon in small batches here, using a pot-distilling method, which produces big and rich whiskeys.
Barton 1792 Distillery: Our Inn is only about five minutes drive from this well-known bourbon maker. And thankfully, the tours and tastings are complimentary! Established in 1879, this is one of the oldest Bardstown Kentucky distilleries still operating today.
Bardstown Bourbon Company: You’ll get an up-close look behind the scenes at this Bardstown bourbon distillery. They take you through where and how they make their whiskies and ryes. Even better, you get to enjoy those bourbon blends in the on-site Kitchen & Bar in cocktail form, along with a full menu of appetizers, mains, and desserts.
Lux Row: With well-known names like Rebel Yell and Ezra Brooks, this giant distillery is pumping out a lot of bourbons. Currently, they’re offering three tours, but for the most in-depth look behind the scenes with a top-shelf tasting, pick the Lux Row Premium Experience.
Heaven Hill Distillery: Since 1935, this award-winning distillery with brands like Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny, has been a hub of bourbon education. The Bourbon Heritage Center is a great place to start in one of the many tasting rooms, informative tours, and bourbon-themed souvenirs from the gift shop.

Willett Distillery

Eclectic Lodging at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast

Walking into our Historic Manor House in Bardstown is like taking a step back into time—just with an extra splash of color and all the modern amenities one craves on a special getaway. From elegant and spacious guest suites and complimentary breakfast to spa services and gym access, you’ll have it all for your next unforgettable vacation to Kentucky.

Join us at the Bourbon Manor B&B and book your next stay today!

Our 10 Favorite Things to do in Bardstown KY This Summer

Our 10 Favorite Things to do in Bardstown KY This Summer Read More »

OurThings to do in Bardstown KY

Starting to plan your next vacation out to one of the most charming small towns in Kentucky? You’ll find that there are so many things to do in Bardstown KY this summer, it’s a perfect destination for a weekend away. First and foremost, bourbon tasting is a must in this part of the state, as Bardstown was made famous by this brown barrel-aged nectar. But you’ll also find award-winning restaurants, historical attractions, and a beautiful countryside to explore.

One of the best things to do in Bardstown KY is to include a restful stay at our historic mansion turned luxury bed and breakfast. We offer all of the top of the line amenities, including spa services, gourmet breakfast spreads, and high-end appointments in each of our ten guest suites and common areas. Our ideal location to downtown puts you right in the best place to enjoy all the things to do in Bardstown KY.

As seasoned and experienced Innkeepers, we’ve had the honor of being recognized for our excellence year after year by hospitality professionals. The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast is known as one of Bardstown KY’s best (and most romantic) places to stay. It’s an experience that you truly have to enjoy first hand! You’ll see from the moment you walk up to our beautiful Bardstown Inn why guests keep coming back again and again. We can’t wait to be your hosts; book today!

things to do in Bardstown KY

Our 10 Favorite Things to do in Bardstown KY This Summer

There are so many things to do in Bardstown KY this summer, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top ten list of favorites. One thing’s for sure, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your time here. Though, of course, with any vacation, you’ll want to make sure to add in enough time for relaxation—we can help with that at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast!

Check out these things to do in Bardstown KY this summer:

One of the most popular things to do in Bardstown KY is bourbon tasting and tours. At Lux Row Distillers, there’s a lineup of local whiskey brands, like Rebel Bourbon, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath to sample from. All from a front row seat watching the distilling process from one of their seasoned bourbon creators.
The National Bourbon Day Celebration is one of our favorite things to do in Bardstown KY this summer and it’s coming up this weekend on June 11th and 12th! It’s the ideal way to enjoy our local beverage from the 11 distilleries within a 16 mile radius in and around Bardstown KY.
For a deeper understanding of why Bardstown is the bourbon capitol of the world, visit the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History. You’ll see historical memorabilia, stills, and whiskey artifacts.
One thing’s for sure in this town, we love to eat! There’s a restaurant for everyone here, from traditional Southern cuisine, fine dining steak houses, to casual stick to your ribs fare. Here’s a list of our top 10 restaurants to visit in Bardstown.
Visiting the surrounding wineries is one of our favorite things to do in Bardstown KY. The Forest Edge Winery has indoor and outdoor seating for tasting their red and white varietals. Head out to McIntyre’s Winery and Berries for a fun trip exploring the orchard and vineyards.
The station for My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is a five minute walk from our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. It’s a great thing to do in Bardstown KY to see the picturesque countryside, enjoy an elegant meal, and experience a historic locomotive ride.
Just around 15 minutes drive from our Inn, you’ll find a gem in the Kentucky wilderness at the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. More than half a million visitors come each year to see the giant outdoor art installations, explore miles of hiking trails, and stroll through the gardens.
The Historical Downtown Bardstown walking tour is a great activity to get a lay of the land, stop off at local shops, eateries, and distilleries. Pick up a map at the Visitor’s Center and take your time on this self-guided tour to get a feel of our charming small town.
Grab a bourbon cocktail at one of the oldest bars in the country at the Old Talbott Tavern. This building has a rich and intriguing history and continues to be a popular landmark in Bardstown KY.
We may be biased, but one of the absolute best things to do in Bardstown KY is a morning spent at our Bourbon Manor Spa. We offer luxurious facial services, body treatments, and a full menu of massage options. Make sure you add on a Spa Package to your stay at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast!

things to do in Bardstown KY

Luxurious Accommodations at Our Bardstown B&B

Once you’ve arranged your lodging with us at the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, you’ll be ready to set out on the town for bourbon tastings, delightful dining, and historical experiences. We’re happy to help you arrange reservations, and even offer some amazing packages to add on to your time with us. The most popular choice to include is one of our Bourbon Tasting Packages, where you leave your whiskey plans to us!

Every element of a stay at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast focuses on making your time here special. Join us in our elegant dining room for an impressive breakfast, where on any given day you’ll find lemon soufflé pancakes, cheesy hash-brown casserole or hearty meaty sides. We aim to please and love to cook. Check our availably and get your stay on the books today!

Historic Attractions in Downtown Bardstown

It’s not surprising that there are a great deal of historical attractions in downtown Bardstown, KY considering it’s the second oldest city in the state, founded in 1780. With nearly 200 buildings in the historic downtown district that are recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, it seems like at every turn or curve …

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historical attractions in Downtown Bardstown

One of the easiest and best ways to start exploring the historical attractions in downtown Bardstown is by strolling along the Historic Downtown Walking Tour. Detailed maps with routes are available and our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast just happens to be a perfect starting point to take in the sights and history of this charming old town. Plus, no walking tour is complete in the birthplace of bourbon without a taste or two from one of the local downtown distilleries.

The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast has a long historical past as well. Erected in the 1820s, the stately home was built in the Greek Revival-style and has served many purposes before being renovated into the luxury lodging that it is today. While many tasteful and modern touches have been added over the years, the original architecture and details are still present and each guest room has antique and timeless decor. Book your room at our historical Bardstown Bed and Breakfast today!

historical attractions downtown bardstown

Come Explore: Historical Attractions in Downtown Bardstown

Thankfully, when you stay at our Kentucky Bed and Breakfast you’ll be a mere minutes from all of the attractions in downtown Bardstown. There’s something for any history buff, from museums and historical mansions to bourbon tours and railways, you won’t be able to cover it all in just one weekend. Better extend your stay for a little longer!

Here are 7 historical activities in downtown Bardstown, KY that you shouldn’t miss:

My Old Kentucky Home State Park: The American composer Stephen Foster (pictured above) is honored at this state park and historical mansion with a musical called The Stephen Foster Story. The outdoor show runs throughout the summer. You’ll also be able to tour the 200 year old mansion filled with antiques and rich stories.
Old Talbott Tavern: Built in 1779, this tavern and bourbon bar is known as the oldest in the world. The historic pub in downtown Bardstown offers hearty fare with traditional southern dishes like hot browns, fried catfish, and bourbon bbq ribs. Rumor has it that the space is haunted, so be on the look out for an event of the supernatural kind.
Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History: Located in the historic Spalding Hall you’ll find an extensive collection of liquor related memorabilia and prohibition-era artifacts. Make sure to set up a reservation for a fancy steak and bourbon dinner at The Rickhouse Restaurant in the bottom level of the museum building.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: This railway ride takes guests on a culinary adventure while touring the beautiful countryside of downtown Bardstown and beyond. Make a reservation for a lunch or dinner ride and you won’t be disappointed.
Basilica of Saint Joseph Proto-Cathedral: Known as a national landmark in downtown Bardstown, this Catholic Church was completed in 1819 and is the oldest standing cathedral in the United States. The architecture is stunning.
Museum Row: Here you’ll find a few museums dedicated to the Civil War, including a Women’s Museum chronicling achievements of heroines of the 1800s. Check out Old Bardstown Village for a look at 10 old log cabins from the 18th and 19th centuries.

historical attractions downtown Bardstown

Learn about the History of Bourbon and Take a Distillery Tour

Last but not least, you’ll want to taste some bourbon, which is one beverage that has a rich history of its own. With more than 10 local distilleries you’ll have more than enough to choose from, especially if you follow one of the routes on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

The Willet Distillery: This is one of our favorite distilleries for a tour and a tasting. The history dates back to 1936, but the family began in the distilling business as early as the late 1600s. Tours at this distillery were on pause for a bit, but as of May 1st they are back up and running. Book your reservation for a tasting and tour, and don’t forget to stop by The Bar at Willet for a classic whiskey cocktail and small plates.
Barton 1792 Distillery: Stop by one of the oldest downtown Bardstown Kentucky distilleries still operating today. Thankfully, it’s only about five minutes drive from our Bed and Breakfast and this well-known bourbon maker offers the tours and tastings on the house!

historical attractions downtown Bardstown

Find the Best Downtown Bardstown Lodging at our B&B

For those who are here to explore the historical attractions in downtown Bardstown, you’ll absolutely want to choose our historical bourbon-themed bed and breakfast for your lodging. Not only will you be incredibly close to all of the action in downtown Bardstown, you’ll be fully immersed in the rich history of our stately Bourbon Manor. Additionally, our staff is as welcoming and hospitable as they come.

Our 10 guest suites are pristine and classically tailored, from the antique decor and modern amenities to the designer linens and cozy fireplaces, you’ll want to make our Inn a yearly tradition for a special getaway. Join us for a bountiful breakfast spread in the mornings and come on back for happy hour for a taste of our favorite bourbon cocktails. After a day strolling the historic streets and town square in downtown Bardstown, you’ll feel like you’ve come home. Book your room today!