10 Best Kentucky Bourbon Distilleries to Visit (From a Local)
As someone born and raised in Kentucky, bourbon has always been part of the culture around me. It’s more than just a drink here—it’s history, craftsmanship, and a source of pride. If you love whiskey, there’s no better place to explore than the best Kentucky bourbon distilleries scattered across the Bluegrass State. With Kentucky producing 95% of the world’s bourbon, you’re truly stepping into the heart of it all when you visit.
Growing up, I didn’t think much about the distilleries just a short drive from my hometown. Now, after years of exploring them, I realize just how special they are. From historic distilleries like Buffalo Trace, where some of the most sought-after bottles are made, to craft operations experimenting with new techniques, every stop offers a different experience. Some feel like stepping back in time, while others are pushing bourbon into the future.
The best part? It’s not just about the bourbon. It’s the rolling hills, the historic warehouses filled with aging barrels, and the warm hospitality that makes these visits unforgettable. Whether you’re here for a weekend or making your way through the full Bourbon Trail, there’s something for every bourbon lover.
In this guide, I’ll share the best Kentucky bourbon distilleries to visit, what makes each one worth your time, and my best tips for making the most of your bourbon adventure. Let’s dive in—you’re in for a treat.
Check out my Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. (As a Kentuckian, I know a thing or two about bourbon.)
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Planning a Distillery Trip
If you’re planning a trip to Kentucky’s bourbon distilleries, booking your tickets in advance is essential. There was a time when you could show up, sign up for a tour, and start sipping, but those days are long gone. Now, all Kentucky bourbon distilleries require timed tickets, which must be purchased through their individual websites. Popular spots can sell out weeks in advance, especially on weekends, so planning ahead is key.
Most distilleries are concentrated in three main areas: Louisville, Frankfort, and Bardstown. If you’re taking a self-guided tour, be sure to map out your route carefully. Allow at least 2.5 to 3 hours between tour start times to account for the length of each experience, travel time, and any unexpected delays. Some distilleries are close together, while others require a scenic drive through winding country roads.
Beyond the tours, factor in time for meals, scenic stops, and a little flexibility. Many distilleries have excellent cocktail bars, gift shops, or tasting rooms where you’ll want to linger. Plus, some of the best experiences happen when you’re not rushing from one stop to the next. If you want to maximize your time, consider staying overnight in Bardstown or Louisville to break up your trip and enjoy the local food scene.
Types of Distillery Visits: Which is right for you?
All Kentucky Bourbon Distilleries offer a standard facility tour. These tours bring visitors through the bourbon-making process, going through fermentation facilities and barrel warehouses. All facility tours end with a tasting of the company’s bourbon products.
Most distilleries also offer some sort of behind-the-scenes, specialized tour options. Buffalo Trace, for example, offers a hard-hat tour. Where visitors get more access to the grain delivery and storage and warehouses the public can’t access. Oftentimes, these tours are premium experiences but are still at a reasonable price point.
If you aren’t interested in a distillery tour (or don’t have time), you can register for tasting experiences. You usually get to sample 3-4 products and the experience lasts about 30 minutes. It’s certainly not as in-depth as the tours, but you do get a glimpse of the company’s product.
Some Kentucky bourbon distilleries also have bars, restaurants, and even small museums. You can typically visit these without a reservation with the exception of Willet and the Bardstown Bourbon Company. Their restaurants typically require a reservation to get a table without an extended wait.
>> Check out my complete map to all bourbon trail distilleries offering tours and tastings in Kentucky
Getting around the Bourbon Trail
Unless you opt for a guided tour, the best way to get around distilleries outside of the immediate Louisville area is to rent a car. It’s really the only way to see the distilleries outside of Whiskey Row if you don’t go with a guided tour. Plus, it offers you flexibility in time between your stops, too.
Tastings on the trail are small amounts of bourbon, with strict regulations on the amount of alcohol you can consume. Distilleries are only allowed to offer you 1 3/4 total ounces at a tasting. Still, if you opt to book a rental car for your bourbon trail experience, be sure to select one person as the driver, especially if you plan to enjoy a cocktail at the distillery’s bars.
Where to Stay on the Bourbon trail
Though you can choose to stay in the Frankfort or Bardstown areas, most people opt to stay in Louisville and take day trips to various distilleries. In Louisville you’ll find plenty of amazing restaurants and bars. Plus you’ll have access to the incredible and revitalized Whiskey Row.
>> Want more places to stay recommendations? Check out my complete guide!
21C Museum Hotel Louisville (my Top Pick!)
Quick Look: Best hotel in Louisville in the perfect location to explore downtown. Unique design with fun elements and a free modern art museum inside.
This is probably my favorite hotel in Louisville but it is also a favorite for many visitors, too. It’s a bit on the higher price for Louisville hotel standards but if you are traveling off-season you can find some amazing deals for less than $150 a night.
Book my top pick!
The 21c is a great choice for your stay in Louisville.
The Grady
Quick Look: Upscale hotel in the trendy museum area this hotel is known for its amenities and charm. It’s just a quick block down from the start of Whiskey Row, too.
I love The Grady because of its amazing character and historic charm within the design but it’s also in a great location to walk to the distilleries in downtown, too.
Moxy Louisville
Quick Look: Located just around the corner from Old Forester, this Marriott property is a great place to center yourself on Whiskey Row.
I think Moxy Louisville can be a great option if you want to spend a little less money but still be in Whiskey Row.
Best Distilleries to visit on the Bourbon Trail
With so many distilleries to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones should be prioritized during your trip. Over the years, I’ve visited all the major distilleries in Kentucky, and I’ve had the privilege of getting married at one! Each experience offers its own unique charm and insight into the world of bourbon.
Though all distilleries offer something special, the tours can vary significantly in terms of quality and experience. Some go above and beyond, offering unique interactions, in-depth tours, or scenic views that make them stand out. Having explored them thoroughly,
I’ve compiled a list of the top ten Kentucky bourbon distilleries that I think are absolutely worth your time. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon lover or a first-time visitor, these distilleries offer exceptional experiences that showcase the heart and soul of Kentucky bourbon.
#10 Barton 1792
Located in historic Bardstown, Kentucky, Barton 1792 offers a free tour that’s well worth it. It’s a great stop to add while visiting some of the larger distilleries in the area. With a smaller operation, Barton 1792 showcases the craft of bourbon-making in contrast to the big names nearby. Founded in 1879, it’s the oldest fully-operational distillery in Bardstown, and its name pays tribute to the year Kentucky became a state.
The tour takes you through the distillation process, from fermentation to aging, with a close-up look at the traditional methods used here. You’ll also visit one of the massive rickhouses where barrels age to perfection. After the tour, head to the tasting room, where you can sample Barton’s signature 1792 Small Batch, along with other expressions. With its laid-back atmosphere and generous pours, Barton 1792 is a hidden gem on the Bourbon Trail.
#9 Heaven Hill
The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is one of the most impressive stops on the Bourbon Trail. Completed in 2021, this state-of-the-art visitor center blends history, education, and hands-on experiences. The free museum offers a deep dive into the legacy of Heaven Hill, which has remained family-owned since its founding in 1935. Upstairs, Five Brothers Bar provides a beautiful spot to enjoy a cocktail while overlooking the rolling Kentucky landscape.
For a guided experience, the Magic of the Mash tour ($18) walks visitors through the bourbon-making process and includes a tasting of Heaven Hill’s signature brands, such as Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, and Larceny. But the real standout is the You Do Bourbon experience ($40). This hands-on session allows guests to taste from a selection of unique bourbons, choose their favorite, and even bottle their own custom-labeled bottle to take home (for an additional fee).
#8 Wild Turkey
The Wild Turkey experience kicks off like a Matthew McConaughey fan tour—because, in case you didn’t know, he’s the brand’s official ambassador. Don’t worry, if you didn’t come in knowing that, you’ll leave well aware. Much of the tour is narrated by McConaughey himself, adding a bit of Hollywood flair to the bourbon-making process.
Beyond the celebrity factor, the real star of the tour is the setting. Perched above the Kentucky River, the distillery offers some of the most stunning views on the Bourbon Trail. While the facility itself leans more industrial in design, the surrounding scenery makes up for it. The tour walks you through Wild Turkey’s production process, showcasing the traditional methods used by Master Distiller Jimmy Russell, a legend in the bourbon world. The experience wraps up with a tasting of signature bourbons, including Wild Turkey 101 and Rare Breed, making it a must-visit for whiskey lovers.
#7 Willett
The best part about this small, family-owned distillery isn’t just the bourbon—it’s the restaurant. The Bar at Willett serves up some of the best cocktails on the Bourbon Trail, paired with incredible food and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It’s worth a stop, even if you’re not doing a tour.
For those looking to sample Willett’s lineup, the distillery offers a 20-minute tasting for just $12, making it one of the most affordable experiences around. While the tasting itself isn’t particularly elaborate, the “choose your own adventure” format lets you pick from a variety of Willett’s offerings, including Willett Pot Still Reserve, Rowan’s Creek, or Noah’s Mill. Whether you’re here for a quick tasting or a long lunch with a cocktail in hand, Willett delivers a relaxed, welcoming experience that’s well worth the visit.
#6 Jim Beam
The standard Jim Beam experience costs $22 and includes a guided tour through the massive distillery, showcasing the family’s deep bourbon heritage. One of the highlights is the chance to dip your own Knob Creek bottle in wax—if you decide to purchase one.
But the real standout of the tour is the tasting room. Instead of a set lineup, Jim Beam offers a unique token-based system, letting you choose from a wide selection of their bourbons. This means you can sample rare or limited-edition releases that most distilleries wouldn’t typically include in a tasting.
Whether you’re interested in classics like Booker’s, Basil Hayden’s, or Knob Creek Single Barrel, or something harder to find, this flexible setup makes for a one-of-a-kind tasting experience. With its mix of bourbon history and modern interactive elements, Jim Beam’s tour is a must for both casual visitors and serious whiskey fans.
#5 Old Forester
If you’re in Louisville, Old Forester is the best distillery tour you can take. Despite being on the smaller side, Old Forester offers a full start-to-finish bourbon-making experience, walking you through the entire process from grain to glass—all on-site.
The standard tour ($32) is on the pricier side, but it’s worth it for the unique experiences it offers, like the barrel charring demonstration—a step many distilleries skip. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of their products, but the real treat comes afterward: the famous bourbon Modjeskas. These decadent marshmallow treats dipped in chocolate and bourbon are a must-try. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or just passing through, Old Forester offers a personalized, immersive experience that showcases the craft behind one of Kentucky’s finest brands.
#4 Bardstown Bourbon Company
The most innovative distillery in Kentucky has to be Bardstown Bourbon Company. While many distilleries stick to tradition, Bardstown pushes boundaries by crafting bourbon not just for their own brand but for other top names in the industry. They’re constantly experimenting with new techniques and processes, which sets them apart from others.
Their Rickhouse Thieving Experience is one of the best and at $30 one of the best priced unique experiences on the Bourbon Trail.
While you’re at the distillery, make sure to stop by The Kitchen and Bar, which serves up an exceptional menu of upscale Southern classics. Whether you’re in the mood for fried chicken or a gourmet twist on a classic bourbon cocktail, their offerings are some of the best on the trail. Bardstown Bourbon Company is a place where innovation meets flavor, making it a must-visit for anyone serious about bourbon.
#3 Marker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark is one of the most iconic distilleries in Kentucky, and their $20 standard tour offers a comprehensive look at their expansive facilities. You’ll get to explore multiple buildings, each dedicated to a specific part of the bourbon-making process. And yes, you can dip your own bottle in the signature red wax (if you decide to purchase one!).
While the facilities are impressive, it’s worth noting that Maker’s Mark tends to be one of the most visited distilleries on the Bourbon Trail. This means the tour can feel a bit more commercial and gimmicky compared to others. However, the history, craftsmanship, and unique experience of dipping your own bottle make it a visit worth adding to your list. If you can look past the crowds, it’s still a memorable stop on your bourbon journey.
#2 Woodford Reserve
By far the most beautiful distillery to visit, Woodford Reserve has so much to offer beyond just great bourbon. The picturesque property features stunning limestone structures, and you’ll even find yourself stopping for barrels being rolled by during the tour—definitely a few great photo ops along the way.
While the $32 full tour is pricier than some other distillery experiences, it’s worth every penny. The tour takes you through the entire distillery, showing off their traditional methods and immaculate facilities. The highlight is the tasting in the iconic bourbon warehouse, where you’ll sample Woodford’s signature expressions in an authentic, atmospheric setting. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a bourbon connoisseur, the experience at Woodford Reserve is nothing short of memorable.
#1 Buffalo Trace
You can’t go wrong with Buffalo Trace’s Trace Tour—for one, it’s free! The distillery is located on grounds that are a National Historic Landmark, which means they follow traditional methods to craft their bourbon, staying true to the legacy of the land. The beauty of the property is another reason to visit, with scenic views that add to the experience.
If you’re lucky enough to have Freddie Johnson as your tour guide, you’re in for a treat. As a third-generation Buffalo Trace employee, Freddie has an abundance of stories and insights that bring the distillery’s rich history to life. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned bourbon fan, the Trace Tour offers a unique and personal look at one of Kentucky’s most revered distilleries.
Bourbon Trail FAQs
Most bourbon distilleries in Kentucky are concentrated in the Louisville, Bardstown and Frankfort areas. Though there are some outliers, you can see the majority of them sticking to these main areas.
Whiskey Thief, Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., and Rabbit Hole are all excellent choices with unique distillery tours to visit.
Personally, I love to visit the trail in late-fall but the trail is great anytime of the year. If you can, stay away from the summer months as Kentucky gets hot and most of the distilleries (outside of Whiskey Row) are not climate controlled.
A weekend is a great way to get your feet wet and see a few distilleries. Just keep in mind you can usually only see 2-3 in a day due to their distance, tour start time, etc. But if you’re a bourbon junkie staying 4-5 nights will give you a really immersive Kentucky experience.
More Bourbon Trail Tips + Inspiration
- Don’t miss my ultimate guide to visiting the Bourbon Trail
- Need some ideas of where to stay? Check out this list!
- Be sure if you’re looking for a weekend getaway be check out my 3-day itinerary
