Ready to sip, savor, and explore the best of Kentucky bourbon? A long weekend on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and flavor. This 3-day itinerary is designed to maximize your time, with visits to world-famous distilleries, delicious dining options, and charming places to stay. Let’s get started!
Day 1: Arrival in Louisville
Kick off your Kentucky Bourbon Trail adventure in Louisville with iconic distilleries, great dining, and unforgettable bourbon experiences.
Morning: Explore Louisville’s Bourbon History
Start your trip in Louisville, the gateway to the Bourbon Trail. Begin with a visit to the Frazier History Museum, the official starting point of the Bourbon Trail, where you can pick up your Bourbon Trail Passport. Don’t miss their bourbon-centric exhibits to learn about the history and heritage of Kentucky’s signature spirit.
Lunch:Harvest – Savor farm-to-table Southern cuisine with a modern twist. Try their bourbon-glazed pork chops!
Afternoon: Distillery Tour & Tasting
Tour the iconic Angel’s Envy Distillery, conveniently located in downtown Louisville. Their guided experience includes a behind-the-scenes look at how their award-winning bourbon is crafted and finishes with a tasting.
Dinner:Doc Crow’s Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar – A perfect spot for bourbon cocktails and barbecue. Pair your meal with one of their expertly crafted bourbon flights.
Where to Stay in Louisville
Luxury:The Brown Hotel – Famous for its historic charm and the legendary Hot Brown sandwich.
Mid-Range:21c Museum Hotel – A boutique hotel featuring contemporary art exhibits.
Budget:Galt House Hotel – Affordable with unbeatable views of the Ohio River.
Day 2: Distillery Hopping in Bardstown
Day 2 on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Bourbon Cocktails and Distillery Adventures in Bardstown
Morning: Head to Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World
A short drive from Louisville brings you to Bardstown, a picturesque town filled with bourbon history. Begin with a tour of Heaven Hill Distillery, home to brands like Elijah Craig and Larceny. Their bourbon-tasting experience is a must.
Lunch:The Old Talbott Tavern – This historic spot offers hearty Southern dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
Afternoon: Iconic Distillery Experience
Next, visit Maker’s Mark Distillery, where you can hand-dip your own bottle in their signature red wax. The grounds are as stunning as the bourbon, making it a fantastic stop for photos.
Dinner:Mammy’s Kitchen & Bar – Enjoy classic Southern comfort food, from fried chicken to bourbon bread pudding.
Discover Lexington’s bourbon heritage on Day 3 with a visit to Woodford Reserve, where tradition meets scenic Kentucky charm.
Morning: Scenic Drive to Lexington
On your final day, head to Lexington, where bourbon meets horse country. Start with a tour of the Woodford Reserve Distillery, one of the most picturesque stops on the trail.
Lunch:Wallace Station Deli & Bakery – A favorite for its fresh sandwiches and bourbon-inspired desserts.
Afternoon: Discover Town Branch
End your bourbon journey at Town Branch Distillery, known for its innovative whiskeys and ales. Their tour showcases both bourbon and craft beer, making it a unique stop.
Dinner:Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse – Treat yourself to a luxurious steak dinner paired with bourbon from their extensive list.
Where to Stay in Lexington
Luxury:The Campbell House – A historic hotel with modern Southern elegance.
Book in Advance: Many distilleries require reservations for tours and tastings, so book your spots ahead of time.
Get the Bourbon Trail Passport: Pick up a passport at your first distillery or the Frazier History Museum. Collect stamps at each stop and earn rewards!
Pace Yourself: Distilleries often offer generous pours. Share tastings or sip slowly to enjoy responsibly.
Stay Hydrated: Bring water and snacks to keep your energy up throughout the day.
Use a Driver Service: Stay safe and let someone else handle the driving by booking through Welcome Pickups.
FAQ: Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Q: How many distilleries are on the Bourbon Trail? A: The official Kentucky Bourbon Trail features 18 distilleries, with additional stops on the Craft Tour.
Q: Do I need to be a bourbon expert to enjoy the trail? A: Not at all! The trail is beginner-friendly, with plenty of guided tours to teach you about bourbon.
Q: When is the best time to visit? A: Spring and fall are ideal for mild weather, but the trail is enjoyable year-round.
Q: Are children allowed at distilleries? A: Some distilleries allow children on tours but may have restrictions in tasting areas. Check with individual locations.
Q: What should I wear? A: Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking tours. Many distilleries are on scenic grounds.
Ready to Hit the Bourbon Trail? With this 3-day itinerary, you’re all set to sip your way through Kentucky’s best bourbon distilleries, enjoy delicious meals, and find great places to stay.
