Region: Louisville Bourbon Distilleries
Whiskey, like a beautiful woman, demands appreciation.
Haruki Murakami
The Evan Williams Experience is located in downtown Louisville on historic Whiskey Row.
The seamless tour features state-of-the-art films and interactive elements to relay the history of Evan Williams and the art of distilling bourbon.
All tours conclude with a bourbon tasting in one of the upstairs rooms on the recreated street of Whiskey Row.
One tasting room is a tavern that once stood on that site with Prohibition-era replica tables where the bourbon could be hidden inside. An easy lift on the tabletop in front of you reveals the inner compartment that contains pre-filled bourbon glasses.
Although its one of the lower-priced bourbons, Evan Williams is remarkably good in its flavor profile, smoothness, and complexity, and Evan Williams Single Barrel is excellent.
LOCATION
ADDRESS: 528 West Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
PHONE: 584-2114
Wineries Horse Farms & Breweries
- Did you know that Kentucky is the first state in the US to have a commercial winery?
- Did you know that Kentucky boasts the Horse Capital of the world in Lexington KY and that you can view horses valued at greater than $100 million?
- Did you know that Kentucky is a hotspot for micro-breweries and craft beer?
Whether you are a bourbon enthusiast or you are looking to find additional things of interest, we will design a tour that will delight everyone in your group!
Who Is Leading This Trip
This trip is led by an expert Modern Adventure trip leader. They’re an experienced travel guide, a representative of Modern Adventure and your go-to person for questions or concerns on the trip. Well be joined throughout our adventure by local, expert guides who are deeply knowledgeable with respect to local cultures, customs and history and are passionate about sharing that with us.
Don’t Miss: Revlon Colorstay Overtime Lipcolor Boundless Brandy
Kentucky Is Known For Many Things: Bluegrass Music Rolling Hills Horse Racing And Of Course Its Famous Bourbon Whiskey
Theres a wealth of tourists to Kentucky every year who embark on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, a veritable hotspot of world-famous bourbon distilleries like Jim Beam, Makers Mark, and Woodford Reserve.
Thoroughbred Limousine takes pride in helping bourbon lovers experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and offers luxurious, efficient transportation services to ALL of KENTUCKYs most famous bourbon distilleries, peppered along the Kentucky bourbon trail, some of them deep in the woods, some of them hidden away in the hills.
Customize Your Bourbon Trail Tour to Any of These Distilleries
Private Custom Bourbon Tours
Prefer to choose specific distilleries and be on your own schedule in a private car, stretch limousine, passenger van or executive limousine Bus?
Thoroughbred Limousine offers a wide range of vehicles seating from two to thirty six passengers to transport your private group on a customized bourbon tour. You choose which distilleries you visit, how long you stay at each one and where you stop for lunch. Our knowledgeable office staff and drivers are happy to give recommendations on the best tours and lunch spots based on your preferences.
Whats The Best Time + Day For A Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour
The best bourbon tours Ive had, with smaller crowds, have been on weekdays. Especially the first tour of the day.
Whatever you do, remember that the first weekend in May is Derby Weekend.
If you plan your trip then, be prepared for major crowds.
Book your hotel FAR in advance, and call the distilleries ahead to find out what their touring schedule is for that weekend.
Keep in mind that most distilleries ARE NOT IN PRODUCTION during July and August because its simply too hot for the distilling process.
If you tour in those months you may not get to see as much of the bourbon-making process.
Recommended Reading: Angel’s Envy Bourbon Whiskey
Getting Around The Kentucky Bourbon Trail
When you plan your trip to Kentucky, and your tours and tastings, its important to know that the bourbon distilleries are scattered around the state, and a bit of driving is required. There are two main options for getting around the Bourbon Trail: drive yourself or get on a tour. If you havent driven country roads before, definitely do the tour. Other options include biking or ride share. Biking takes more time and should only be done by experienced cyclists. Ride share can be pricey as some distilleries are spread out.
While there are many more distilleries around Kentucky, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a great introduction to the deeply rooted tradition of bourbon distillation. Come on to Kentucky and sip awhile, but please enjoy like a true Kentuckian responsibly. Bottoms up!
Note: Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, Bourbon TrailTM and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® are trademarks of the Kentucky Distillers Association. All content and photography shall not be reproduced without written permission from the Kentucky Distillers Association.
About KB: Originally from Kentucky, KB Gamblin is a freelance writer and the blogger behind Her Life in Ruins. KB is a trained archaeologist, lover of history, and passionate traveler. When shes not at work or on the road, you can find her hanging out with her dog, Indiana Jones.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tour For Two
Explore the rich tradition and proud history of Americas Official Native Spirit Bourbon! Book the room of your choice for a two-night stay at the Louisville Bourbon Inn and spend one full day on a guided Bourbon Country Tour for two. You will be picked up at the Inn in the morning and spend about eight hours touring three different bourbon distilleries. Its a fun way to learn more about Kentuckys bourbon history and an opportunity to sample many different kinds of bourbons. The specific distilleries you visit will depend on availability and event schedules at each location. Potential tours include Makers Mark, Jim Beam, Heaven Hill, Woodford Rserve, Buffalo Trace, Wild Turkey, Four Roses, Castle & Hill, Bulleit Stitzel-Weller, Angels Envy, Old Forester and Barton 1792.
You will be treated to an excellent lunch at a place only the locals know about while on your tour, and we will arrange for dinner at Bucks Restaurant when you return to the Inn. We will also give you an autographed copy of Louisville author and chef David Domines Feast for the Eyes: Recipes from Americas Grandest Victorian Neighborhood bourbon cookbook . This is an all-inclusive package with transportation, distillery tour admission and all meals for the day . Dont miss this opportunity to experience your favorite Bourbon Spirits!
You can book your tour at the same time as you book your room reservation. The add-on price for two is $600 plus tax.
You May Like: Santa Barbara Bowl Brandi Carlile
What We Can Offer You
With 1000s of tours of experience, rapport with key distillery personnel, and the best vehicles in the state, we are able to set up tour experiences that are unparalleled. The only question remains If you are going to make a day of it, why not make sure to make it great?
We will custom build your day around what you want to see the most. Then based on many factors, will introduce additional distilleries and options that you werent aware of but may just steal the show!
We have the experience, knowledgable chauffeurs, planners, guides and newest vehicles. We have luxury limousine vehicles from Sedans, SUVs, Vans, Limousines, Buses and Motor Coaches which ensure a safe and luxurious ride. Furthermore, our chauffeurs are always in full black suit and black tie.
We have packages for groups of all sizes
What Is Included On A Public Bourbon Tour
- Transportation: Each public bourbon tour includes transportation to all tour destinations. Public tours depart from the Falls City Market in the Omni Louisville Hotel in downtown Louisville. Youll be in a Mint Julep Tours vehicle. All of our vehicles are sanitized after each tour learn more about it on our Vehicle Safety Procedures page.
- Admission & Tastings: All distillery admissions for the day and tastings at each location are included.
- Lunch: Lunch at a local Louisville restaurant is also included. The lunch location will vary. Guests will be able to choose one option from a special menu. *Lunch is not included for the public Sunday tour. If you would like to purchase alcohol at lunch or any souvenirs or bottles to take home, that is not included.
- *Gratuity for your Tour Leader is not included but always appreciated. Kentucky sales tax and a convenience fee will be added at checkout. Parking is not included in your ticket fee. For Louisville parking information, visit PARC Map or PARC Garage websites.
Don’t Miss: Is Svedka Strawberry Lemonade Vodka Gluten Free
Drive Toward A Cure For Parkinsons Disease
Drive Toward a Cure for Parkinson’s Disease
The Drive Toward a Cure program has been carefully designed to provide a premium experience while raising much-needed funds to continue the search for a cure for Parkinsons Disease, while also supporting patient care. Learn more about our beneficiaries, The Parkinsons Institute and The Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Minor event scheduling and details are subject to change without notice.Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® are trademarks of the Kentucky Distillers Association.* Ordered alcoholic drinks and special requests are not included. ** Your charitable donation deduction for federal income tax purposes is defined as the excess of the amount of money contributed minus the value of certain goods or services provided by the charity as required by the IRS. Certain other costs associated with your registration and/or overall event costs do not need to be counted toward the value of goods or services provided to the registrant. A good faith estimate of the value of goods and services to be provided will be published as soon as it is known. Your ability to take a tax deduction depends on your tax situation. Please consult an accountant.
Bulleit Distilling Co Shelbyville
Bulleit Distilling Co. opened its state-of-the-art distillery to visitors in 2019. It’s a relatively new addition to the Kentucky distillery scene, but the bourbon is based on family tradition dating back to the 1800s. Taste your way through the brand’s whiskeys and learn about its history during an interactive, multisensory experience.
Recommended Reading: What Are The Best Vodka Drinks
Where Is The Pickup Location
All public bourbon tours and most other ticketed tours depart downtown Louisville. Tours depart from the Mint Julep Hub in the Omni Louisville Hotel. Please check-in at least 15 minutes before your departure time. Your tour leader will check you in, give you a wristband, and lead you to the bus as a group.
Reviews
Maker’s Mark Distillery Loretto
Another iconic bourbon brand known for its red wax-dipped bottles, the Maker’s Mark Distillery in Loretto offers tours of the National Historic Landmark, so guests can learn about the history of the brand and its makers. Visitors can even hand-dip their own bottle in the classic red wax for a fitting souvenir.
You May Like: How To Drink Tennessee Whiskey
What Travel Documents Are Needed
US citizens and residents should check the TSAs website for requirements and acceptable ID for domestic air travel. Some State issued IDs may no longer meet TSA standards. If you are a non-US Citizen traveling to Kentucky, visit the US Consulate or Embassy for requirements and information about passports & visas.
Private Or Custom Bourbon Trail Tour Package
We also love customizing specialized Bourbon Trail tour packages for our guests. Perhaps youre coming with a small group that would like a private tour of Bourbon Country or you want to choose the bourbon distilleries you visit, the kind of vehicle you ride in, or some other desire Give us a call and we will do our best to arrange it! The add-on price varies based on your requests.
Don’t Miss: What Is Whiskey Sour Mix Made Of
Buffalo Trace Distillery Frankfort
This family-owned distillery has traditions dating back to the late 1700s, and it’s a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Take a tour to learn more about the fascinating history of bourbon production, and taste their spirits the distillery produces bourbon, rye, and vodka.
What Does The Price Include
Four nights at unique four- and five-star accommodations private travel for all day trips and excursions departure airport transfer private tours with local guides and cultural experts exclusive VIP access and tastings guided activities, adventures and expeditions entrance fees daily breakfasts, most lunches and dinners local beverages with meals.
Read Also: How To Make Good Vodka Drinks
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Distillery Tours
Please check with the Distillery itself for the most updated Tour information.
Bourbon Tours
Tour a Kentucky bourbon distillery and youll not only learn how bourbon is made, but youll start to understand why the good old whiskey of old Kentuck has inspired pride, passion among Kentuckians. There are several near Beaumont Inn . Follow a route that leads through the beautiful horse country. We are thrilled to be an official sponsor of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour that includes Four Roses Bourbon, Woodford Reserve, Heaven Hill Distilleries, Makers Mark, Wild Turkey, Jim Beam and Town Branch. The new Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour is an essential adventure for Bourbon enthusiast, taking you further into the unrivaled craftsmanship of the Kentucky Bourbon industry than ever before. Experience Kentucky Bourbon at its very core at seven craft distilleries: Barrel House Distillery in Lexington, Corsair Artisan Distillery in Bowling Green, Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, MB Roland Distillery in Pembroke, Old Pogue Distillery in Maysville, Silver Trail Distillery in Hardin and Willett Distillery in Bardstown.
Also see our guide to the Bluegrass Region!
Distilleries On The Bourbon Trail
Now that weve gotten through the logistics, get ready to plan your trip! You can start your Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour at any of the distilleries, just make sure to visit all 13 if youre aiming to do the entire trail. While some distilleries take walk-ins, booking in advance is always encouraged.
Don’t Miss: Mojito Recipe By The Pitcher
Navigating The Kentucky Bourbon Trail
With the fall foliage and crisp fall weather, this season is an ideal time to visit the string of distilleries for bourbon connoisseurs and beginners alike.
Heaven Hill Distillery
Whether youre a bourbon connoisseur or a beginner, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail offers tours, tastings, and other experiences that will improve your palette and increase your knowledge. There are more than 41 distilleries in Kentucky, located in small towns and such cities as Louisville and Lexington. Some are located a mere 8 to 10 miles down the road, while others are 70 miles apart. So deciding which to visit requires a bit of planning. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center in Louisville can help map out a realistic itinerary based on your preferences and time available. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
The Bourbon Hall at the Frazier History Museum
Artist Dale Chihuly’s ‘The Spirit of the Maker’ installation at the rickhouse at Makers Mark
Distilleries
In Loretto, about an hour and a half south of Louisville, youll find Makers Mark, a bourbon thats been around since 1953. With its old letter press and tradition of rotating every barrel by hand and hand-dipping each bottle in red wax, Makers Mark likes doing things the old-fashioned way. An hourlong distillery tour, which is mostly outdoors, can be booked online.
Maker’s Mark
Suggested Trails
Transportation
This Weekend Will Blend The Same Fun Attitude And Camaraderie That Drive Toward A Cure Is Known For Into An All
Do you love driving, enjoy bourbon, and think a weekend getaway with like-minded car and driving enthusiasts sounds perfect? Well, have we got a weekend Getaway for you!
The Bourbon Trail Getaway includes a full day of unlimited Touring Lapping at the NCM Motorsports Park Drive Toward a Cure Day before heading to Louisville. After weve checked into the historic Brown Hotel, well hit a local speakeasy for great food and libations, and a chance to unwind. Saturday will feature a relaxing day touring several hand-picked Kentucky bourbon distilleries and three great meals. Finally, on Sunday we apply the tried-and-true Drive Toward a Cure formula of great back road driving, crossing state lines into Tennessee and changing time zones with great visits to the Bavarian Bierhaus in Nashvillle and the Lane Motor Museum!
Our first Getaway will continue the Drive Toward a Cure formula of blending cars and camaraderie for a great cause.
Read Also: Beer Can Glass With Lid And Straw
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Itinerary
#1 Louisville: Intro to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail
This day includes three must-visit distilleries on Whiskey Row with suggestions for Louisvilles best eats. If you only have one day on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, the combination of these three tours hits the most important steps in the distilling process.
Most of this day is walkable. To get to Evan Williams and/or to get back to your hotel, consider driving or using Uber .
Morning:Evan Williams Experience.On this immersive tour, travel back in time to 1783, when bourbon distilling got its start. This is the best historical lesson about the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and a great place to get an overview of how bourbon came to be.
Lunch: DISH on Market or Doc Crows Southern Smokehouse and Raw Bar
Afternoon: Take a tour at Old Forester Distillery. Old Forester is the only bourbon to be continually sold by the same company before, during, and after prohibition. Their first bottled bourbon dates back to 1870.
This is a must-see tour. The tour is very well done and you get to see a few things that many tours do not include. The tour includes a walk through their cooperage, where you get to see how the barrels are made. You also get to see the bottling line in action. Make sure you do this Tuesday through Saturday before 5 pm, when the cooperage and the bottling line are in operation.
After touring Old Forester, its a short walk to Angels Envy.
For more restaurant recommendations, check out our articleBest Eats in Louisville.