Photograph by Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Bourbon is an American institution. Distilled by farmers primarily from domestic corn (at least 51 percent by law) and aged in charred oak barrels since the late 1700s, it is one of our few pure contributions to world spirits. In 1964, Congress declared that for any whiskey to be labeled “bourbon,” it must be a “distinctive product of the United States.” Contrary to popular belief, bourbon can come from any U.S. state—not just Kentucky.
Most discerning drinkers, however, consider Kentucky bourbon by far the best. And Kentucky certainly produces the most: 95 percent of the world’s bourbon springs forth from the more than 100 distilleries in the Bluegrass State. Most of those establishments, many of them historic, are clustered in the northern part of the state, between Louisville and the capital of Lexington. This concentration presents a unique travel opportunity for tourists to do a day trip through the Ohio River Valley and sample some of the finest whiskey on the planet.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a group of 56 northern Kentucky distilleries that offers tours, tastings, and other educational opportunities and exhibits. But since you can’t see them all in one day or even one weekend, we’ve plotted an itinerary of highlights: Start in Louisville and head south to James B. Beam Distilling Co. (568 Happy Hollow Road, Clermont). One of the oldest (founded in 1795) and most famous names in bourbon, Jim Beam also includes more prestigious brands—Booker’s, Baker’s, Knob Creek, Basil Hayden—so it’s a one-stop distillery.
Photograph by Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Photograph by Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Still, you should go about 25 minutes south to Bardstown, the so-called Bourbon Capital of the World, where several distilleries await. We suggest Willett Distillery (1869 Loretto Road), an independent, family-owned operation that sits on a sprawling and historic estate. Next, hit Maker’s Mark (3350 Burkes Spring Road, Loretto) for a behind-the-scenes look at how real bourbon is made. (Guests on the specialty tours get to dip their own bottles in the iconic red wax.)
You can finish your journey in Frankfort at Buffalo Trace Distillery (113 Great Buffalo Trace). Though not part of the Bourbon Trail, it’s one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the U.S., dating back to 1775, and offers several in-depth tours that we wouldn’t recommend missing. All tours are complimentary (though registration is encouraged) and come with a free sample.
It goes without saying that when embarking on your bourbon trail, you should appoint (and heftily reward) your designated driver. Don’t worry—there also are local companies that provide transportation and tour guides.
Photograph by Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Where to stay
The Galt House (140 North Fourth Street) is a downtown Louisville classic and favorite spot of derbygoers. This Ohio River–front jewel has been recently renovated. It also gives easy access to the city’s Urban Bourbon Trail and even houses one of the best bourbon bars, Jockey Silks, on the off chance you’re still thirsty.
Built in 1905, The Seelbach Hilton (500 South Fourth Street) in Louisville is a luxury hotel that gives off more of a decadent, Roaring ’20s vibe, with its Beaux-Arts baroque architecture and opulent columned marble lobby, accented with dark mahogany and bronze. Al Capone used to stay here, as did author F. Scott Fitzgerald.
Photograph by Kentucky Distillers’ Association
Where to eat
Located in the 21C Museum Hotel in Louisville, the decor of Proof on Main (702 West Main Street) looks as if the exhibits of the hotel spilled into the dining room, where colorful, flowery walls are crowded with eclectic classical paintings and portraiture. The menu is the real work of art, featuring Southern- and Appalachian-inspired cuisine.
At the OBC Kitchen (3373 Tates Creek Road) in Lexington, fortify yourself with some brunch before you start drinking whiskey, or cap off your trip with a classic dinner of shrimp and grits or cola-braised short ribs. This eatery is another stop on the trail, with centuries-old barnwood and, of course, an extensive list of fine bourbon.
Back to Must-Do South.
This article appears in our March 2025 issue.
