When most people think of Kentucky, a few things come to mind: rolling bluegrass hills, the legendary Kentucky Derby, mouthwatering fried chicken, and of course, bourbon. Kentucky is the birthplace of bourbon and home to some of the most iconic distilleries in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, visiting the many distilleries scattered throughout bourbon country is such a unique experience, and one of my favorite ways to spend a weekend! Many offer immersive tours and tastings where you’ll learn how bourbon is made, hear the history behind your favorite bottles, and, of course, enjoy some delicious pours.
I’ve visited my fair share of distilleries during our many trips to Louisville, Bardstown, and other bourbon country favorites. No matter how many times I’ve gone, I learn something new every time. It doesn’t matter how many distillery tours and tastings we’ve done—there’s always a new story, a unique pour, or some fun behind-the-scenes fact that sticks with me. We usually try to fit a few into each trip, mixing in a guided tour here, a quick tasting there, or sometimes just a stop at the gift shop or on-site bar for a cocktail. It’s one of those experiences that never gets old and always feels like a little adventure.
If you’re planning a trip along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, this guide is for you. I’m rounding up the best distilleries in Kentucky, from big names you’ve known for years to small-batch operations doing exciting things in the industry.
18 Distilleries in Kentucky to Add to Your Itinerary
When you picture bourbon country, maybe you’re imagining a few distilleries tucked along a scenic back road, but it’s even better than that. Kentucky is home to a lot of distilleries, with dozens sprinkled across small towns and major cities alike. You could easily spend a week here and still have plenty left to explore. If you’re road-tripping or planning a weekend getaway, this list will help you hit the highlights without getting overwhelmed.
Travel Tip: During the busy spring and summer months, it’s best to book your distillery tours and tastings 2–3 months in advance.
The blog post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one I may make a small commission at absolutely no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support!
What Are the Best Distilleries to Visit in Kentucky?
Kentucky has no shortage of unique distilleries to add to your schedule. And the best part? Each one offers something a little different. Regardless of which you choose, together, they’ll give you a true taste of Kentucky’s rich bourbon culture.
Below, I’m rounding up all of the best distilleries to visit in Kentucky. First, I’ll cover the largest distilleries (AKA, the “Big 3!”), and then I’ll discuss some of my favorite Kentucky distillery tours. No matter what you’re looking for, you can have a unique, culture-rich experience in this list!
Largest Bourbon Distilleries in Kentucky
James B. Beam Distilling Co.
Home to household names like Jim Beam, Basil Hayden, and Booker’s, the James B. Beam Distilling is an absolute must-visit. As one of the largest distilleries in Kentucky, the campus has been beautifully reimagined. Think: immersive tour options, a sleek cocktail bar, and a full-service restaurant, The Kitchen Table.
When we visited, we did the Beam Made Bourbon Tour, which included a tour of the distillery and a tasting. I can confidently say Jim Beam, Basil Hayden, and Bookers each had their own distinct personality, making the tasting experience just as memorable as the tour itself. We also ate at (and loved!) The Kitchen Table, which I can’t recommend enough if you’re visiting.
Whether you opt for a full tour or just a tasting, it’s a great way to learn how one of bourbon’s biggest names has evolved over the years. No reservations are needed for the bar or restaurant, which makes it an easy and flexible stop.
Address: 568 Happy Hollow Rd, Clermont, KY 40110
Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience
Heaven Hill’s updated visitor center in Bardstown is impressive and worth a stop for anyone who loves brands like Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Evan Williams. While the experience doesn’t include a full tour of the production areas, their guided tastings are top-notch and well-curated for different experience levels. That said, before our tour, we got to walk through some of their exhibits and learn about all the brands we own.
When we visited, we did the Whiskey Connoisseur Tasting, where we got to try some of their more sought-after bourbons. It starts from $25 per person and is a 45-minute tasting experience where you try 5 different Bourbon and Whiskeys. They also walk you through what makes each bottle so unique!
Afterwards, they have special bottles set aside exclusively for those who did the experience. Each day they have a unique bottles for sale, which otherwise are harder to find. (In other words, I highly recommend snagging it while you can!)
The on-site Five Brothers Bar & Kitchen is a great place to unwind with a cocktail or lunch, no reservation required. Don’t skip the gift shop, which is one of the most extensive along the trail and offers everything from bottles to barware.
Address: 1311 Gilkey Run Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004
Buffalo Trace Distillery
Buffalo Trace Distillery is one of the most popular and one of the largest distilleries in Kentucky. Dating back to 1775, Buffalo Trace is known for producing favorites like Blanton’s, Pappy Van Winkle, and Eagle Rare. The best part? Their tours and tastings are completely free. However, their rare bottles are not! (Naturally.) If you want to get your hands on one of the special bottles of the day, plan to arrive early. Lines form well before opening each morning!
We always make a point to stop in the gift shop whenever we’re so much as driving through this part of Kentucky. (Which is surprisingly family-friendly!) Mainly to pick up the daily bottle that’s for sale—but also because we just love it that much. Whenever we visited last, we were able to buy Eagle Rare and Weller. Plus, one of my personal favorite parts of this distillery is that it’s pet-friendly! So when we can, we always try to take Luke and Leia.
Address: 113 Great Buffalo Trce, Frankfort, KY 40601
Best Kentucky Distillery Tours
Woodford Reserve
Set among picturesque hills and horse farms, Woodford Reserve Distillery is worth visiting for the views alone. But the real magic lies in the guided tastings and tours, where you’ll explore the copper pot stills and learn what gives Woodford its signature flavor. If you’re visiting around Derby season, book the Mint Julep Cocktail Class—it’s such a fun, hands-on way to learn about Kentucky’s official cocktail. The cocktail bar doesn’t require a reservation, but book ahead for tours and classes.
Address: 7785 McCracken Pike, Versailles, KY 40383
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
Located on Louisville’s famous Whiskey Row, the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is where it all started for me. In fact, I actually decided to start my blog while visiting here! We’ve done most of the experiences here at Evan Williams, starting with the Traditional Tour & Tasting. The experience starts at $20 and walks you through the history of Louisville and Whiskey Row. You also get to taste 4 products from the Evan Williams portfolio!
My favorite experience, though, is the Speakeasy Tasting Experience. Starting at just $25, you can transport back to the 1930’s with an immersive, hands-on tasting. There’s a special bar you get to sit at for the tasting, where the bartender is dressed in 1930s speakeasy attire (and doesn’t break character for anything!). The entire experience is only about 45 minutes long, and you can grab a cocktail at the upstairs bar—ONE3. (It’s only reserved for people who participated in one of the experiences!)
Evan Williams Bourbon also has a pretty incredible, well-stocked gift shop downstairs that I highly recommend visiting. Don’t worry, you can still visit even if you didn’t do an experience!
Address: 528 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
Old Forester Distilling Co.
If you’re exploring Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, Old Forester Distilling Co. should be at the top of your list. This urban distillery brings the full production process to life, right in the heart of the city. You’ll see fermentation, distillation, and even barrel-making with their live cooperage demonstration—something you don’t get to experience everywhere.
We did the Old Forester Tour when we visited, which we had to book a few months in advance. Remember: it is located in downtown Louisville, so it gets booked pretty quickly! Especially because they only allow a small amount of people to visit during the tour. That said, it was seriously one of the most incredible, unique experiences. While tasting rotation changes, my favorite part of the tour was seeing how they make their own barrels in-house. And when they char the barrels right in front of you? I loved every second of it.
It’s immersive, educational, and a fun way to explore one of Louisville’s most historic bourbon brands.
Address: 119 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
Preservation Distillery
Preservation Distillery in Bardstown is truly a hidden gem on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Tucked away on the grounds of a historic tobacco farm—complete with livestock like longhorns—this micro-distillery feels like stepping into a slower-paced, bourbon-lover’s dream. It’s also woman-owned and focused on small-batch, ultra-premium releases, which makes it all the more special.
Brands like Very Old St. Nick, Rare Perfection, and Wattie Boone are produced here and have developed quite a following. Tours and tastings are intimate and insightful, with a real behind-the-scenes feel. We did a tour and tasting ourselves, which we loved. However, keep in mind that the bourbons are generally expensive. Because they’re a micro-distillery, they can’t product as much as the larger commercial experiences. Aside from that, the gift shop is worth the visit alone, with exclusive bottles you won’t find just anywhere.
Pro Tip: get there early to grab one of those limited editions before they sell out.
Address: 426 Sutherland Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004
Maker’s Mark Distillery
Maker’s Mark Distillery is one of those iconic stops that fully lives up to the hype. Located in Loretto, Kentucky, the distillery sits on the stunning Star Hill Farm and offers a mix of tradition and charm that makes every visit memorable. The tours take you through the full bourbon-making process, from fermentation to bottling. And yes, you can dip your very own bottle in their signature red wax.
They also offer cocktail classes, which are a blast if you want to level up your mixology game. And don’t skip Star Hill Provisions, their farm-to-table restaurant on site, which serves up seriously delicious seasonal fare. Book your tour ahead of time—this one’s popular for a reason.
Address: 3350 Burkes Spg Rd, Loretto, KY 40037
Angel’s Envy Distillery
Angel’s Envy Distillery is a must-visit for those who love a modern, innovative twist on tradition. Located in the heart of downtown Louisville across from the Louisville Bat ballpark, this distillery is known for its unique finishing process—aging their bourbon in port wine barrels for a smooth, rich flavor.
We’ve done their Signature Tour here a few times, and even got to tour the facilities to see the distilling process. While the tours are super informative, walking you through their blending and finishing techniques, that wasn’t even my favorite part. While you taste their signature expressions, you also get to pair it with chocolate. (Yes, please!)
You can also book a cocktail class, which is a fun and interactive way to experience their award-winning spirits. Don’t have time for a full tour? No problem! You can book a simple tasting-only option to see why Angel’s Envy is one of the most popular distilleries in town.
After the tour and tasting, we had access to a cocktail bar exclusively for people who did one of the experiences. And, I have to admit, the on-site bar is beautiful—and the drinks? Even better. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Address: 500 E Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
Wild Turkey Distillery
Wild Turkey Distillery is one of the most historic and iconic names in bourbon, and visiting their Lawrenceburg distillery feels like stepping into a piece of whiskey history.
The guided tours are informative, walking you through decades of tradition, and include a tasting flight of their flagship bourbons. For a more laid-back option, you can skip the tour and go straight to the tasting room or on-site bar for a scenic drink. With a view that overlooks the Kentucky River, this stop offers great bourbon and great vibes all in one place.
Address: 1417 Versailles Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342
Bardstown Bourbon Company
Bardstown Bourbon Company is hands-down one of the coolest stops in Bardstown. It’s sleek, modern, and known for pushing the envelope in the bourbon world. As one of the most elegant distilleries, it’s definitely a must-visit.
You can choose from a variety of unique experiences like barrel thieving in the rickhouse or sampling rare vintage bottles in their bourbon library. We personally did the Rickhouse Barrel Thieving, where we got to tour the rick houses where bourbon is aged. We even got to try samples straight from the barrel! It starts at $30 and was such a unique experience.
We also did a tasting in the Whiskey Library, which is exactly what it sounds like—a room full of vintage bourbon. We weren’t able to try it, of course, but they have a bottle that dates all the way back to the prohibition.
Beyond tastings and experiences, the on-site restaurant is fantastic. It’s our go-to Sunday brunch spot when we’re in the area—and the vibe is perfect for both casual visitors and serious bourbon fans. With multiple bars on-site serving up creative cocktails, Bardstown Bourbon Company blends food, bourbon, and hospitality into one unforgettable experience.
Address: 1500 Parkway Dr, Bardstown, KY 40004
Stitzel-Weller Distillery
Just a short drive from downtown Louisville, the Stitzel-Weller Distillery is a treasure trove of bourbon history. Originally opened in 1935, this historic site was home to brands like Old Fitzgerald and Pappy Van Winkle. Actually, it’s where Julian P. “Pappy” Van Winkle Sr. worked! Now, it distills favorites like Blade & Bow and Orphan Barrel!
We did the Progressive Walking Tour and Tasting when we visited, which offers a deep dive into the legacy of this legendary distillery. Not only do you get access to the last standing Cooperage in Kentucky and the aging warehouses, but you also get to see the old broiler room and Tax House!
After the tour, you can unwind at the beautifully decorated Garden & Gun Club, a stylish cocktail bar serving elevated Southern dishes and premium pours. If you’re lucky, you may be able to order the rare Blade and Bow 30-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon. It’s an aged, limited-release whiskey that’s been aging for three decades.
They also have some speciality bottles that are super hard to find for purchase. Naturally, however, they only offer a limited amount—but you may have a chance to buy them if you show up around open each day!
Address: 3860 Fitzgerald Rd, Shively, KY 40216
Willett Distillery
Willett Distillery in Bardstown is one of those spots that blends tradition and charm in the best way possible. Family-owned and operated, this small-batch distillery is behind beloved labels like Rowan’s Creek, Noah’s Mill, and Willett Family Estate. It’s seriously one of the most elegant distilleries you can visit. Their signature copper pot still is a beauty, and the guided tours give a great behind-the-scenes look at their historic production process.
After your tour, head to the scenic patio for a tasting or stop by The Bar at Willett, where you can sip craft cocktails and enjoy small bites. It’s so good, we always make lunch reservations whenever we’re in the Bardstown area of the Bourbon Trail. My go-to is the fan-favorite egg salad sandwich, which you can’t understand how good it is until you try it yourself.
Beyond meal recommendations, the restaurant also has many purple top bottles that you can order pours of. This is one of my favorite things to do, since they’re extremely hard to find. We also love grabbing coffee here for a mid-day pick-me-up!
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. The on-site gift shop also has some exclusive bottles and fun branded merch, making it a great place to grab a keepsake.
Address: 1869 Loretto Rd, Bardstown, KY 40004
Related: What to See in Kentucky
Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery
Set right on Main Street on Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery is a must-visit for whiskey lovers. It’s walkable from many other downtown spots and offers guided tours where you’ll get to learn the Michter’s story and enjoy tastings of their award-winning whiskeys. (Yes, this includes their signature bourbon and rye!)
We did a private experience when I worked with the Gault House Hotel, and it was truly a one-of-a-kind. Beyond this, we also did a tour of the facilities and a tasting with the Master Distiller. During visiting, we got to fill up our own personal bottles—and package them! It was an incredibly immersive, unique experience.
The distillery’s bar, The Bar at Fort Nelson, serves up top-tier cocktails in a classy, lounge-like atmosphere that feels both polished and welcoming. It’s the perfect stop before dinner or to unwind after a day of exploring Whiskey Row.
Pro Tip: Make a reservation for both the tour and bar, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend.
Address: 801 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202
Four Roses Distillery
Four Roses is a name with a rich history, and their Lawrenceburg distillery is just as iconic as the bourbon itself. The Spanish-style architecture sets it apart visually, while the bourbon inside speaks for itself.
Guests can take guided tours that walk you through the distilling process and end with a tasting flight of Four Roses’ unique bourbon recipes. The peaceful countryside location adds to the overall experience, making it a worthwhile detour whether you’re based in Louisville or Lexington. It’s a great blend of classic Kentucky charm and expertly crafted bourbon.
Address: 1224 Bonds Mill Rd, Lawrenceburg, KY 40342
Lux Row Distillers
Located in Bardstown, Lux Row Distillers offers a modern take on the Kentucky bourbon experience. Home to brands like Rebel Yell, Ezra Brooks, and Blood Oath, this sleek distillery has made a name for itself among the newer players in the game.
Their guided tours are informative but laid-back, with plenty of time to ask questions, taste a few pours, and explore the barrel house. The property is beautiful, and the on-site cocktail bar is a perfect place to sit back with a drink after your tour. If you’re distillery-hopping around Bardstown, Lux Row is an easy and worthwhile stop to include.
Address: 1 Lux Row, 3050 E John Rowan Blvd, Bardstown, KY 40004
Castle & Key Distillery
Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort is hands-down one of the most picturesque stops on the trail. Set in a restored castle built by bourbon legend Col. E.H. Taylor, the distillery combines incredible history with modern bourbon-making.
The grounds themselves are worth the visit—complete with walking trails, lush gardens, and a serene springhouse. Guests can choose from several guided experiences, including tastings and in-depth history tours. Whether you’re a bourbon buff or just tagging along, this place is absolutely magical and easily one of the most unique stops in Kentucky.
Address: 4445 McCracken Pike, Frankfort, KY 40601
Rabbit Hole Distillery
Located in the heart of Louisville’s NuLu neighborhood, Rabbit Hole Distillery brings a bold, modern energy to Kentucky’s classic bourbon scene. This isn’t your average distillery—everything from the striking glass-walled building to the innovative bourbon lineup feels fresh and elevated. It’s a great stop if you’re looking to mix up your bourbon trail experience with something a little more contemporary.
This spot is perfect if you’re doing a Louisville distillery crawl or want something walkable from other downtown attractions. You don’t need a tour to visit the bar either—just swing by and grab a drink while soaking in the city views.
Address: 711 E Jefferson St, Louisville, KY 40202
How Many Bourbon Distilleries Are in Kentucky?
You can find over 100 licensed bourbon distilleries in Kentucky, all spanning 70 different parent companies. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail alone features 60 different distillery destinations! But how are there so many, you might ask? Well, Kentucky has an estimated 10.5 MILLION aging barrels. (And, according to research, that roughly double the state’s population.)
While Kentucky has always been known as the birthplace of Bourbon, their booming distillery industry is only about 15 years old. Between tourism, heightened desirability, and old-time nostalgia, distilleries transformed from a regular market to a popular local experience.
Ultimately, the state produces about 95% of the world’s bourbon, earning it the well-deserved title of bourbon country. These distilleries range from well-known historic icons to newer, craft-driven producers, and there’s something special to experience at every single one.
Related: Where to Stay in Bardstown KY
What Is the Bourbon Trail in Kentucky?
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a program featuring over 50 distilleries spread across the state, offering tourists and locals alike a firsthand look at the history and craftsmanship behind Kentucky’s bourbon. Contrary to its name, though, the Bourbon Trail isn’t a single, straight and narrow path. It stretches throughout the Bluegrass region, primarily between Louisville, Lexington, and Bardstown, spanning across almost the entire state.
The good news? There’s no singular admissions fee, so you don’t have to pay once and try and squeeze in as much as you can into a trip. Instead, each distillery operates independently, charging for different tours and tastings. It’s such an exciting, unique, and immersive experience that blends cultural, history, and hands-on experiences.
Beyond simply tasting different bourbons, you can also participate in blending your own whiskey, tasting samples straight from the barrel, and bottling your own blends. It’s immersive, exciting, and the best way to explore what the region offers.
With its expansive range of distilleries, you’ll never run out of things to do in Kentucky!
Whether you’re sipping small-batch bourbon in Bardstown or enjoying a cocktail at one of Louisville’s award-winning distillery bars, Kentucky truly knows how to deliver an unforgettable bourbon experience. Each of these must-visit distilleries has its own charm, history, and flavor profile, making the journey through bourbon country just as exciting as the tastings themselves.
If you’re planning a visit and looking to explore more local favorites, don’t miss my post on things to do in Bardstown KY for even more ideas to round out your itinerary.
And as always, for more travel tips and inspiration, check out my full collection of blog posts or follow along with me on Instagram @sierrainthecity. Cheers to your next adventure—and your next great pour!
Pin this post for later:
