The Ultimate Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in 2025

A Complete Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail: What to Know Before You Go

For whiskey lovers, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is more than a tasting tour—it's an immersive journey through the heart of America’s bourbon heritage. With more than 50 distilleries stretching across rolling hills and riverfront towns, this trail showcases the craftsmanship, culture, and flavors behind the country’s most iconic spirit.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon aficionado or a curious traveler looking for a unique experience, here’s everything you need to know to sip, sample, and explore your way through the Bluegrass State.

What Is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail (KBT) is an official route that includes 57 distilleries and tasting rooms, curated by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association. While not every producer is represented, the trail offers a comprehensive overview of the state’s storied bourbon landscape—from heritage names like Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve to new craft distilleries such as Rabbit Hole and Wilderness Trail.

Most of the distilleries are located within a 100-mile radius of Louisville, making it an ideal launchpad for your bourbon adventure.

How Long Does the Bourbon Trail Take?

You can explore highlights of the trail in as little as 3 to 4 days, visiting two to three distilleries per day. Many visitors choose to:

• Base in Louisville to explore local distilleries and Whiskey Row

• Take a day trip east to Lexington for Four Roses, Wild Turkey, or Woodford Reserve

• Venture south to Loretto and Bardstown for Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill, and Lux Row

Pro tip: Each tour typically takes 60–90 minutes. Trying to squeeze in too many can make the experience overwhelming—two or three tastings per day is a comfortable pace.

Must-Visit Distilleries on the Trail

Among the 57 distilleries on the official trail, some of the best-known include:

• Angel’s Envy (Louisville)

• Michter’s (Louisville)

• Old Forester (Louisville)

• Rabbit Hole (Louisville)

• Stitzel-Weller (Louisville)

• James B. Beam (Clermont)

• Maker’s Mark (Loretto)

• Heaven Hill (Bardstown)

• Bardstown Bourbon Co. (Bardstown)

• Woodford Reserve (Versailles)

• Four Roses (Lawrenceburg)

• Buffalo Trace (Frankfort – not officially part of KBT, but a fan favorite)

Each stop offers something different—whether it’s a historic estate, a cutting-edge blending lab, or rare bottle exclusives.

Planning Your Bourbon Trail Visit

• Reservations Recommended: Many distilleries are closed Mondays and Tuesdays and offer limited walk-ins. Booking in advance, especially in summer and fall, is highly recommended.

• Cost: Tours typically cost $15–$25. Some include tastings, while others offer premium experiences for an added fee.

• Kids & Families: Some distilleries are family-friendly; others restrict entry to those 21+. Check policies before arriving.

• Time Zones: Keep in mind that some destinations (like Owensboro) operate on Central Time.

Getting Around the Trail

In Louisville, rideshares are convenient. Outside the city, renting a car is essential, as rural areas often lack public transport and taxi access.

To simplify logistics and avoid drinking and driving, consider guided services such as:

• Mint Julep Experiences

• Bourbon Excursions

• Pegasus Distillery Tours

These companies offer curated itineraries, VIP tastings, and themed packages like food pairings or horse farm visits.

Where to Stay in Louisville

Louisville makes an excellent home base. Top lodging options include:

• Hotel Distil: Bourbon-themed hotel on historic Whiskey Row

• 21c Museum Hotel: Art-forward boutique hotel with renowned restaurant, Proof on Main

• Galt House Hotel: Large-scale riverside hotel with modern amenities

• The Brown Hotel: Iconic historic hotel with Southern elegance

Suggested Day Trips from Louisville

1. Clermont (30 minutes)

• James B. Beam Distilling Co.: Home to Jim Beam, Knob Creek, and Basil Hayden

• Dine at The Kitchen Table, their full-service restaurant with bourbon pairings.

2. Bardstown (1 hour)

• Visit Heaven Hill and its new Bourbon Experience Center

• Explore Bardstown Bourbon Co. and Lux Row for contemporary bourbon-making

3. Loretto/Lebanon (1.5 hours)

• Maker’s Mark: A National Historic Landmark

• Dip your own red wax bottle

• Stay overnight at the historic Samuels House

4. Frankfort/Lexington (1 hour)

• Tour Buffalo Trace and its gardens

• Visit Woodford Reserve in Versailles and Four Roses in Lawrenceburg

• Add a horse farm visit for the full Bluegrass experience

5. Danville (1.5 hours)

• Wilderness Trail Distillery: A rising star with award-winning whiskeys and affordable tours

Beyond Bourbon: Other Experiences Along the Trail

• Cooperage Tours: See how barrels are made at the Kentucky Cooperage Visitor Center

• Bars in Louisville: Don't miss Silver Dollar, Neat Bourbon Bar, or The Overlook at Rabbit Hole

• Dining: Enjoy Southern flavors at Jack Fry’s, or opt for modern small plates at Proof on Main

Final Tips

• Start early in the day and drink water between tastings

• Grab a KBT Passport to collect stamps at each distillery

• Buy limited-release bottles on site—they often aren’t sold elsewhere

• Explore local shops and restaurants to support Kentucky’s small businesses

A journey along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is equal parts cultural discovery and sensory delight. Whether you're dipping your own Maker’s Mark bottle or sipping rare blends in Louisville, this is a quintessential American road trip with flavor, history, and hospitality.

For more unique travel itineraries and food-forward destinations, keep exploring with The Horizons Times.