distillery tour in louisville

THE 10 BEST Louisville Distilleries

Distilleries in louisville.

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1. Stitzel-Weller Distillery

2. Angel's Envy Distillery

3. Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co

4. Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

5. Copper & Kings American Brandy Distillery

6. Old Forester Distilling

7. Rabbit Hole Distillery

8. Prohibition Craft Spirits Distillery

9. Buzzard's Roost Whiskey Row Experience

10. Barrels & Billets

11. Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery

12. Brown Forman Corp

13. holi gin, 14. distijl, what travelers are saying.

• Angel's Envy Distillery
• Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
• Stitzel-Weller Distillery
• Copper & Kings American Brandy Distillery
• Old Forester Distilling
• Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co

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Ready To Schedule Your Tour?

Tour the architectural icon of the kentucky bourbon trail.

Our state-of-the-art distillery, nestled in Nulu, Louisville’s hub of art, food, and culture, invites you to come and witness our full whiskey-making process. During this immersive one-hour tour, we will share with you how our philosophy has changed the bourbon landscape. This unique experience begins with how grain transforms to whiskey and culminates in our awe-inspiring Overlook lounge with a portfolio tasting* of 5 of our award-winning spirits. Tours are by reservation only. Maximum 8 people per tour. *Guests must be of legal drinking age to participate in the tasting.

Please note hours are subject to change pending Private Event Bookings. All updates will be posted to our Instagram @RabbitHole.

Distillery Tour FAQ

Pending any private event rentals, our Overlook Tasting Room is open till 4pm. We are currently accepting tour bookings for this season, but we are moving forward with plans to renovate our Overlook Bar in 2023. However, please note that the renovation is expected to start as soon as mid-April. While we await final confirmation, we are not able to provide assurance that self-guided tastings or cocktail service will be available in that space at the time of your visit. 

Thanks for reaching out! At the moment, we are not offering a tasting-only experience. Please check our bookings page to schedule a tour, which includes a portfolio tasting at the end. We hope to see you!

We are not currently running a waitlist. Your group is more than welcome to visit our Visitor Center to check out our retail space, plus our team can provide you all with comprehensive information on all our products. We would love to host you on our experience in the future!

New booking dates will be released about 8 weeks in advance. New booking dates will be released each day at midnight, 8 weeks (or 56 days) prior to the scheduled experience.. All available tours will be listed on our website. We hope to see you! Is it possible to have an accurate Date that changes each day? Is it possible to send a notification for when a Guest’s preferred date becomes available?

If you need to adjust or cancel your tour booking simply reply to your Confirmation Email and a member of our Brand Home team will assist you within 24-48 hours.

Holiday hours will be posted on this page when applicable. 

The Overlook Bar operates as a complement to our tour program and is not open to the general public. However, we do send guests up to the Overlook Bar depending on our daily traffic and private event scheduling. We do not accept reservations for this space. Check-in with a retail associate when you arrive and we will do our best to accommodate you!

All Limited Releases, including Single Barrels, will be released as they are bottled and without announcement. Bottle purchases are limited to 1 per person; first come, first served. While we are excited and also share your enthusiasm, we do not hold bottles.

No. There is no restaurant on site at Rabbit Hole. However, we are located in the Nulu neighborhood and our team can happily provide nearby recommendations to your group.

We apologize. At this time, we only accept credit card payments. This policy streamlines our operation and no team member is responsible for making off site deposits.

We limit purchases on these bottles to allow as many consumers as possible to discover our products.As these programs expand we look forward to sharing our additional releases with you in the future.

Distillery Location 

VIP, After-Hours Bourbon & Culinary Experience

Reserve your seats at the table for an unforgettable evening of exquisite cuisine and premium spirits that will leave a lasting mark on your senses. This is your exclusive opportunity to explore two of Louisville’s finest distilleries after-hours, savor delectable cuisine and experience the unparalleled southern hospitality.

This promotion is offered by our Tour Partners, Mint Julep Experience

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The Urban Bourbon Experience ™

Distillery tours, cocktail experiences, Bourbon-themed accommodations, shopping & more

Kick off your Bourbon Country experience in Bourbon City – home to the official starting point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, the Urban Bourbon Trail ®, and countless other Bourbon experiences and tours . Louisville is the only city in the world with more than 10 distillery experiences, a bourbon cocktail & culinary trail, bourbon-themed accommodations and bourbon-centric shopping.

Bourbon Events

Kroger's Fest-A-Ville on the Waterfront

The Whiskey Files Series: Peerless Distillery Co.

Mixin' with Micah - Mint Julep Edition

502's Day

Bourbon & Bridles Experience

Derby Cocktail Class

Superfecta Cocktail Demonstration Class

Biscuits & Bourbon

Champions Day

Beyond the Barrel Bourbon Food Tour

Louisville Distilled Leisure Cruise

Bourbons Bistro's Smokes and Spirits

5th Annual Derby Weekend Upscale Lounge "Club & Coterie" at the Omni Hotel

Craft Your Own Cocktail: Mint Julep Experience

Horses + Heritage: A Beam Bourbon Social

Kentucky Derby 150 Kickoff Dinner with Woodford Reserve & Verite Wines

Taste of Derby

11th Annual Woodford Reserve Oaks Brunch

The Old Louisville Whiskey Co. Oak's Day Brunch Presented by The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum

Oaked: A Taste of Beam

3rd Annual Oaks Day Brunch

Mint Julep Mingle

Cinco de Derby

2nd Annual Derby Breakfast with Woodford Reserve

KMAC Derby Brunch

Derby Brunch

Derby Day Garden Party Presented by Woodford Reserve

2024 Hats Bowties & Bourbon DERBY DAY PARTY

Raise A Glass to the 150th Kentucky Derby at Liquor Lab Louisville

Post-Derby Brunch

View All Events

Louisville Distilleries

Once considered the “Wall Street of Whiskey” Louisville has been a spirits soaked civilization ever since Evan Williams first marketed his whiskey to the city in 1783. Up until the 1920’s, a portion of Main Street was known as “Whiskey Row” because of the more than 50 spirits-related businesses that were operating there at the time. Thirteen years of Prohibition nearly decimated the industry, but now almost a century later, Louisville is brimming with Bourbon experiences.

Angel's Envy Distillery

Angel’s Envy is what happens when 200 years of bourbon tradition meets an independent master craftsman’s instinct to improve.

Brough Brothers

Headquartered in Louisville, this is officially the first African American-owned distillery in the state of Kentucky.

Buzzard's Roost Spirits

The goal for Buzzard’s Roost is to redefine what American whiskey can be through innovation and experience. Visit Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey Row Experience in downtown Louisville.

Copper & Kings American Brandy Distillery

Based in Butchertown, discover how American Brandy is distilled in copper potstills, matured in bourbon barrels, and sonically infused.

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience

Celebrating the legacy of Evan Williams, Kentucky's first distiller, this immersive experience brings to life the history and tradition of Kentucky's native spirit.

Kentucky Artisan Distillery

Located in scenic Oldham County, the Kentucky Artisan Distillery is the home to Jefferson's Bourbons, Whiskey Row Bourbon & Highspire Rye.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Company

Founded in 1889, and revived in 2015 almost 100 years later, tour this state-of-the art distillery.

Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery

Enjoy a guided tour and tasting to learn about the Michter's “Cost Be Damned” approach to producing the highest quality American whiskeys and finish with a drink at the world-class Bar at Fort Nelson.

Old Forester Distillery

Tour experience includes fermentation, distillation, barrel making materialization, and tasting of the first bottled Bourbon.

Prohibition Craft Spirits

PCS hand-crafts small-batch spirits and offers guided tours and tastings along with a bar serving craft cocktails.

Rabbit Hole Distillery

Rabbit Hole Distillery is a modern cathedral that pays homage to the art and science of distillation.

Stitzel-Weller Experience

Originally opened on Derby Day in 1935 and reopened to the public in 2014, the Stitzel-Weller Distillery is one of the true cathedrals of the American whiskey industry.

Beyond the Distillery

Explore this curated collection of local bars and restaurants that have a wide knowledge of whiskies, Bourbon-infused food menus and some of the city’s largest collections of Bourbon.

A Dozen Bourbon Events & Festivals in Louisville in 2024

If you are planning a trip to Bourbon City, check out these high-proof events to center your visit around.

Discover these hidden speakeasies around Louisville

After a day of visiting distilleries on the Urban Bourbon Trail, duck into a local speakeasy and grab a craft cocktail for a smooth finish to your day in Bourbon City.

Other Bourbon Experiences

Bardstown Bourbon Co. Experience

Bardstown Bourbon Co. opened an immersive venue in downtown Louisville, offering tastings, educational programs, a full-service bar and more.

Barrels & Billets

Customizable bourbon blending experience in the heart of downtown Louisville.

Frazier History Museum

The official starting point for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.

Transportation Options

Join a public group tour or book a private Bourbon excursion with one of our transportation providers.

301 South 4th Street Louisville, Kentucky 40202

1.888.LOUISVILLE (1.888.568.4784)

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Bourbon hall tours and tastings, bourbon tours in louisville, ky, louisville, ky bourbon tours start here, bourbon hall tours and tastings in louisville, kentucky.

Each tour has a starting price of $199 and includes admission to 2 distilleries, sales taxes and convenience fees. Water, ice, soft drinks and snacks also included.

EASTERN BOURBON TOUR

Travel to the heart of Bluegrass Country where multi-million dollar Thoroughbreds graze in their rich lush farmlands and then view the hundreds of rickhouses that are aging the many fine bourbons of Kentucky.

SOUTHERN BOURBON TOUR

URBAN BOURBON TOUR

The Bardstown area offers a diverse tour route of the very old and new distillery experiences. One of the world's largest producers of Bourbon, Jim Beam boast over a 200-year long family heritage of distilling and offers some of the finest bourbons in the world.

The Urban Trail experience is a mix of old historical distilleries and some "New Starters" which have entered the competitive world of bourbon. Stitzel-Weller has a rich and varied history where the Bulleit Bourbon brand was resurrected after many years of dormancy. 

Not sure what to gift someone?

Gift certificates are now available.

Give the perfect gift for any occasion to a Bourbon Hall Tours and Tastings experience in Louisville, KY! 

We are a great adventure for anyone wanting to experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail from birthdays, anniversaries, bachelor and bachelorette parties to a weekend staycation! 

LOOKING FOR THINGS TO DO IN LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY?

Private, customizable bourbon tours in louisville, ky.

Are you looking for things to do when you're in Louisville? Come ride with us and venture into the wonderful and fascinating world of Bourbon. We are a private tour company and offer customized travel itineraries for our Bourbon enthusiast that include distilleries in the rolling Bluegrass countryside as well as local tours in and around the Louisville area.

Want To learn more about bourbon with Bourbon Hall Tours?

Check out our blog.

Behind the Scenes: Exploring the World of Bourbon Distillation with Bourbon Hall Tours and Tastings

The History and Legacy of Bourbon in Kentucky: Tracing the Roots of America's Native Spirit

Unveiling the Unique Experience of Whiskey Thief Distilling Company

Experience the Spirit of Bourbon: Discovering Bourbon Hall Tours in Louisville, KY

502-500-1431

[email protected], louisville, kentucky.

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Evan Williams Distillery Tour – Louisville, Kentucky

Evan williams distillery tour with bourbon town tours: a deep dive into kentucky’s bourbon legacy.

The Evan Williams Distillery Tour, a flagship experience offered by Bourbon Town Tours, provides a comprehensive exploration of one of Kentucky’s most celebrated bourbon brands.

In the rich landscape of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage, the Evan Williams Distillery Tour stands out as a journey into the history and craft of one of America’s oldest bourbon brands. Bourbon Town Tours, renowned for their exceptional bourbon experiences, takes visitors on an immersive tour of the Evan Williams Distillery, offering a unique blend of historical narrative and modern bourbon production.

The Evan Williams Distillery Tour Experience

Those who join the Evan Williams Distillery Tour are welcomed into a world where tradition meets innovation. The tour begins with an engaging overview of the storied past of Evan Williams, tracing its roots back to its founder, considered by many to be Kentucky’s first distiller, and outlining the brand’s evolution over the years.

Exploring Bourbon Production at Evan Williams

A significant component of the Evan Williams Distillery Tour is the in-depth look at the bourbon production process. Participants observe each step in creating Evan Williams’ renowned bourbon, from the selection of grains and mashing to fermentation, distillation, and aging. The tour offers a detailed understanding of the meticulous care that goes into every bottle of Evan Williams bourbon.

Tasting Sessions: Savoring the Distinctive Flavors

The highlight for many on the tour is the tasting session. Guests have the opportunity to sample various expressions of Evan Williams bourbon, gaining insights into the distinct flavor profiles and aging processes that define the brand. These sessions, led by knowledgeable Bourbon Town Tours guides, provide a sensory exploration of bourbon tasting.

Evan Williams’ Impact on Kentucky’s Bourbon Tradition

As part of Bourbon Town Tours, the Evan Williams Distillery Tour emphasizes the distillery’s integral role in shaping Kentucky’s bourbon tradition. The tour delves into how Evan Williams has upheld time-honored bourbon-making practices while adapting to the evolving tastes and technologies of modern times.

Sustainability and Modern Practices at Evan Williams

The tour also highlights Evan Williams Distillery’s commitment to sustainability and modern distilling practices. Visitors learn about the distillery’s innovative approaches to minimizing environmental impact, showcasing its blend of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary sustainability efforts.

Beyond the Distillery: Kentucky’s Bourbon Culture

The Evan Williams Distillery Tour serves as a gateway to Kentucky’s broader bourbon culture. Bourbon Town Tours encourages participants to engage with the state’s rich bourbon heritage, including local culinary experiences, historic landmarks, and other bourbon-related ventures.

A Tour Designed for a Diverse Audience

The Evan Williams Distillery Tour is crafted to cater to a wide range of visitors, from bourbon aficionados to those new to the world of spirits. The tour’s informative and interactive approach ensures a rewarding experience for all guests.

Connecting with the Bourbon Community

The tour also focuses on Evan Williams Distillery’s role in the local and global bourbon community. The distillery’s participation in bourbon events and its contributions to the bourbon industry are highlighted, emphasizing its significance in the world of spirits.

Join the Evan Williams Distillery Tour with Bourbon Town Tours

The Evan Williams Distillery Tour, as a crucial part of Bourbon Town Tours, offers an insightful and detailed exploration of bourbon crafting. This tour invites you to experience the rich history, innovative practices, and exquisite flavors of Evan Williams Distillery.

We invite you to join the Evan Williams Distillery Tour with Bourbon Town Tours and immerse yourself in the legacy and artistry of Kentucky’s bourbon making. Book your tour today and be part of a journey that celebrates the heritage, innovation, and spirit of Evan Williams, a storied name in the bourbon industry. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the world of Evan Williams and discover the secrets, stories, and flavors that make it a beloved icon in the realm of fine spirits.

Why BourbonTown Tours Is The Perfect Choice?

Pocket-friendly adventures.

Embark on an unforgettable journey without burning a hole in your pocket.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Discover hidden gems and lesser-known spots that only we can guide you to.

Passionate & Knowledgeable Team

With our expert crew, each tour goes beyond sightseeing.

Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch Bourbon – Evan Williams Distillery

Evan Williams Bottled in Bond Bourbon – Evan Williams Distillery

Evan Williams KY Straight Bourbon – Evan Williams Distillery

Square 6 High Rye Whiskey – Evan Williams Distillery

Square 6 Wheated Whiskey – Evan Williams Distillery

Evan Williams Bottled in Bond Bourbon – Heavens Hill Distillery

Vacation starts with our tours around kentucky, enjoy amazing tours along the kentucky bourbon trail with a great team of expert guides..

• 1-844-BOURBON / 844-268-7266
• [email protected]
• Louisville, Kentucky

Signature tour

About the experience, signature tour.

During this tour, you’ll see our bourbon distillation process first-hand, from start to finish. Your tour will share how three generations of Henderson’s keep Lincoln Henderson’s legacy alive, take you into the heart of our distilling operation and finish with a tasting of our Angel’s Envy Bourbon Finished in Port Casks and Angel’s Envy Rye Whiskey Finished in Caribbean Rum Casks. Following your tour, enjoy a cocktail in our Finishing Room bar.

RESERVATION DETAILS

1 hour | $25 per person, the signature tour is available daily.

You will be walking on wood decking. Closed toe shoes are recommended and those wearing high-heeled shoes are advised to be very careful as you navigate.

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10 Best Distilleries In Louisville KY You Must Visit

September 2, 2022 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you ready to explore some of the best distilleries in Louisville, Kentucky? While The Kentucky Bourbon Trail and bourbon distilleries are most popular in The Bluegrass State, you can find a variety of distilleries to visit and enjoy during your visit.

From bourbon and whiskey to gin and absinthe, you can find all of your favorite drinks in Louisville. After horses and racing, distilled spirits are the most known commodity in KY. Distilling has been a part of Kentucky history even before it became a state, and as such, distilling is still considered an important part of Kentucky culture.

In 1964, Congress recognized bourbon as a distinct and original American product. Trying some Kentucky Proud bourbon while you’re in Louisville is a must! Also known as the Gateway to the South, Louisville, is one of the best places to visit in Kentucky, and adding distilleries to your list of things to do in Louisville is a must for your bucket list!

Angel’s Envy

You will find distillery tours in Louisville that take you through some of the best distilleries in Louisville. One distillery that you will see most frequently visited is the Angel’s Envy Distillery. This industrial-chic venue offers cocktail classes, tastings, and tours. Along with the great offerings, Angel’s Envy also has a super hip atmosphere that creates an even more amazing and appealing distillery. Angel’s Envy has a signature collection that you can try during your visit. It consists of Kentucky straight bourbon finished in port wine barrels, rye whiskey finished in rum casks, and cask strength Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey finished in port wine barrels. They also have limited releases that give you a journey through their cellar of curiosity. This Kentucky distillery has received amazing reviews from everyone from Whiskey Advocate to Spirit Journal and Wine Enthusiast. Angel’s Envy is easily one of the best bourbon distilleries in Kentucky so be sure to add it to your ultimate bucket list for The Bluegrass State!

Rabbit Hole

Rabbit Hole is a craft bourbon maker that offers guest tastings and guided tours. When considering which of the bourbon distilleries in Louisville to visit, don’t overlook Rabbit Hole Distillery. When you arrive on-site, you will see the trendy industrial-chic design that many distilleries in Louisville have today. The iconic rabbit on the side of the building lets you know that you have arrived. Each drink at Rabbit Hole comes with a story. Whether it’s Kentucky straight 4-grain bourbon, high rye, bespoke gin, or French wheat vodka filtered through Kentucky Limestone, every drink has a story at Rabbit Hole. Taking a tour and tasting each one for yourself is the best way to learn those stories. This distillery proudly refers to itself as the architectural icon on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The building and distillery truly are stunning. They are located in the Nulu district, and they are open Tuesday through Saturday. You can enjoy tours at super reasonable prices, and they even allow children to tag along, which is amazing for family travelers.

Louisville distilleries are usually focused on bourbon. However, at Holi Gin, you can get a taste of something a bit different. Located away from downtown Louisville, this distillery can be found near the iconic Witches’ Tree near Historic Old Louisville. Holi Gin is one of the best distilleries in Louisville and is the perfect place to experience something other than a bourbon tasting while you’re in the city. Designed and inspired by the Holi Festival of Color, Holi Gin is made with Indian inspiration. When you take a tour of the distillery, you can see how the gin is made, learn about different types of gin, and then spend the last thirty minutes of the tour learning how to make cocktails. The tour includes two amazing gin cocktails! After your visit, you will be able to find many attractions and restaurants nearby. The Conrad-Caldwell House Museum, St. James Court Fountain, and the Speed Art Museum are all just a few minutes away from Holi. Don’t miss some of the best restaurants in Louisville while you’re in the area as well.

Old Forester Distilling Co.

Old Forester has incredible Louisville whiskey. Rye whiskey, 86 proof, prohibition style, mint julep, presidents choice, 100 proof, statesman bourbon, and more are all available at Old Forester. Like most distilleries in Louisville, you can take a tour of this one as well. On a tour, they will take you on a journey through the past. You will learn about the beginning of the historic Whiskey Row and how Old Forester has its beginning there. Other than tours, tastings, and amazing whiskey, you can also find quite a bit of merchandise there. From decanters and mixing spoons to bourbon-scented candles and soaps, you can find it all at Old Forester Distilling Co. Visiting distilleries while you are in the Gateway to The South is something that you will be talking about for years to come. You can really make the most of your time spent in the city by visiting the distilleries. A visit to Old Forester Distilling Co. will make your travels all the more special!

Copper and Kings

Distilleries in Louisville are simply remarkable. When you visit Cooper and Kings, you will see that it is more than just a distillery. This fantastic craft distillery is the place to be for brandy, gin, and absinthe, as well as incredible dishes served at their rooftop bar and restaurant. The restaurant has brunch and dinner offerings for guests. Everything from country ham boards and umami burgers can be found on the menu. Drinks like absinthe, American apple brandy, gun, and destillare liqueurs are just waiting for you to take a sip! While you’re there, you can treat yourself to not only spirit but cocktail modifiers to take home with you as well. Cooper and Kings is proud to serve up traditional American spirits. The philosophy for them is “low and slow.” They have beautiful alembic copper pot stills manufactured in Louisville. Their unique stills are hand hammered by artisans specifically for the brandy at Copper and Kings.

Evan Williams

When it comes to Louisville distilleries, do not pass up Evan Williams. Whiskey Row Louisville is where this spectacular distillery can be found. Whiskey Row is in the downtown area, which is one of the most fun places to be in the city for not only the attractions and distilleries but also the food. The downtown area has some of the best restaurants in Louisville ! Reasonable tour prices, wonderful tasting experiences with their whiskey and bourbon portfolio, and variety are all a part of what makes Evan Williams one of the best distilleries in Louisville. Their straight bourbons include an 86 proof, 100 proof, small batch, and their classic 5-time winner of Whiskey of The Year, the single bourbon vintage.

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co is one of the best distilleries in Louisville, Kentucky. Louisville whisky tours are widely available in The Gateway to The South. The best tours happen at Kentucky Peerless! They have been making whiskey since the 1880s, and you can tour the urban warehouse distillery for yourself to see the history and process of making some of the greatest bourbon and rye in the state! The first whiskey at Peerless was put into the barrels in 1889. The craftsmanship has continued to develop since then, leading the distillery to produce some of the most remarkable whiskey in not only Louisville but the country. When you visit this distillery, you will feel as though you are becoming part of their family as tour guides proudly show you behind the scenes of the creation process. As such a historic distillery in Louisville, you will find that a visit to this distillery is extra special. During the prohibition in Kentucky, the Peerless warehouse distillery was one of the storage locations for whiskey, and it was also one of the dew places that could offer whiskey for medicinal use by prescription.

Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery

MItcher’s Fort Nelson Distillery is a must on Louisville bourbon distillery tours. Louisville Kentucky bourbon is simply fantastic at Mitcher’s Fort Nelson. You can take tours and sit for tastings at this later 1800s facility that is famous for its bourbon and rye. Enjoy an in-house cocktail bar and more during your visit. This is a super nostalgic distillery, and as such, you can see homages to the past in every aspect of Mitcher’s. The historical legacy traces back to 1753 at the founding of America’s first whiskey company. You will find their 1 star, limited production, and their limited release lines at the distillery. Twenty-five-year Kentucky straight rye and Twenty-five-year Kentucky straight bourbon are available as well! The process of creating these amazing drinks is so important at Micther’s. They believe the cost is nothing when it comes to having everything they need to create a spectacular drink. It is by far one of the best distilleries in Louisville! When you visit the Fort Nelson location, you will be in a great location to see many of the best things to do in Louisville. Right across the street from the distillery is the Louisville Slugger Museum and Bat Factory. Then, within walking distance, you will find the Frazier History Museum, which has actually been designated as the welcome center for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Prohibition Craft Spirits

Located in the Nulu district, Prohibition Craft Spirits is among the best places for a bourbon tasting in Louisville. You can take guided distillery tours and cocktail classes, or you can enjoy a fabulous tasting while you are visiting Prohibition Craft Spirits. In fact, the tastings and cocktail classes are what make it one of the best distilleries in Louisville. The cocktail classes are led by one of the distilleries’ mixologists. You will be able to expand your cocktail knowledge by using their amazing premium spirits and detailed instructions from an expert to guide you as you learn how to make new cocktails. The classes are an hour and a half long and allow you to make three cocktails from what you learned in the lesson. Meticulous attention is paid to the way that the spirits are crafted at Prohibition Craft Spirits. They are made in small batches of only fifty-three gallons, which allows for the desired flavors to be brought out and for strict changes to be made as necessary. One of their most popular drinks is the NULU single barrel: barrel proof bourbon. Check it out while you’re there!

Bulleit Distillery Co.

Bulleit Distillery Co. is located in Shelbyville, Kentucky, which is less than an hour from Louisville. When it comes to bourbon distilleries near Louisville, you won’t want to pass up Bulleit. Proudly proclaiming to be the modern frontier of whiskey, Bulleit was founded in 1987 and is currently among the fastest-growing whiskeys in the country. Bourbon, rye, and barrel strength all grace the shelves at Bulleit. A cocktail bar, outdoor patio, and a retail store are all on-site. The tasting experiences vary from the anatomy of a single barrel to unlocking the senses. Whichever tasting you choose to participate in, you are sure to leave with a deeper lover and understanding of distilling in Kentucky. Another part of what makes Bulleit Distilling Co one of the best distillers in Louisville, KY, is that they hold super fun and informative classes for guests. You will find everything from creative cocktailing classes and greenhouse cocktail classes to candle making with maddox and rose classes. One thing is for sure, Bulleit knows how to welcome guests into the whiskey world.

Visiting distilleries is among the top things to do in Kentucky , so be sure to check out as many as you can while you’re there! The bourbon trail in Louisville is a particularly popular set of attractions, and being able to visit is a major check on the bucket list. Being able to visit distilleries is such a gift while you are in Louisville because not only are they a fun attraction with amazing offerings, but they are also a step back in time. Visiting them allows you to take a look at Kentucky’s past and see part of what formed it into what it is today. Which of these distilleries in Louisville will you visit first?

Plan Your Visit to the Stitzel-Weller Distillery

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3860 Fitzgerald Road, Louisville, KY 40216

Monday: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. | Seasonally April – October

Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Friday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Sunday: 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

• Closed on all major holidays.
• Reservations required for tours.
• Must be 21+ with valid ID to sample.

how to get here

From Downtown Louisville

• Take I-64 West towards St. Louis.
• Veer left, taking Exit 1 for I-264 East towards Shively.
• Take Exit 5 for Cane Run Road.
• At the bottom of the exit, take a left onto Ralph Avenue.
• Follow Ralph Avenue for about a mile until you reach Fitzgerald Road.
• Make a left onto Fitzgerald Road.
• Stitzel-Weller Distillery is on your left. Enjoy!

From Louisville International Airport

• Take I-264 West towards Shively.
• At the bottom of the exit, take a right onto Cane Run Road.
• At the first light, take a right onto Ralph Avenue.

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Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery Tours

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Discovery Tour

Duration: 1 hour.

Discover Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery in downtown Louisville. Located in the historic Fort Nelson building on Main Street, this distillery is home to a legendary historic distillation system. Here you will learn about all of the extra steps Michter’s takes throughout the whiskey production process to pursue our goal of producing the greatest American whiskey, from barreling at a lower entry proof, to toasting our barrels before charring and heat cycling our warehouses. Your tour will conclude with a guided tasting of six Michter’s expressions.

• Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye entered into the barrel at 103 proof
• Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye entered into the barrel at 125 proof
• Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Michter’s US*1 Sour Mash
• Michter’s US*1 American Whiskey
• Mystery Pour

Founders Tour

Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Offered twice per week, the Founders Tour includes the same introduction to the Michter’s production process as the Discovery tour, but also gives you the opportunity to delve into the process of distilling on the legendary Michter’s Pennsylvania pot still system. After your tour, you will join us for a tasting of 7 Michter’s whiskeys, including our legacy brands, Bomberger’s and Shenk’s, before receiving a gift to commemorate your visit to Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery.

• Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye entered into the barrel at 103 proof
• Michter’s US*1 Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye entered into the barrel at 125 proof
• Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Shenk’s Homestead Kentucky Sour Mash Whiskey
• Bomberger’s Declaration Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Michter’s 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon
• Michter’s US*1 Limited Release Toasted Barrel Finish Kentucky Straight Rye

Legacy Tour

Duration: 2 hours.

Offered once per month, the Legacy Tour is an exclusive in-depth educational distillery experience led by one of the senior members of Michter’s team. There will be an opportunity for you to delve into the process of distilling on the legendary Michter’s Pennsylvania pot still system. You will have the chance to nose samples of the heads cuts, hearts cuts and tails cuts from the stills and learn what characteristics our distillers look for in our distillate. Each guest will participate in the filling of a barrel and will learn more about Michter’s approach to filtration. You will conclude your tour by tasting a very special selection of Michter’s whiskeys, including some of our rarest expressions. You will also receive a special gift to commemorate your visit.

Legacy Tours must be booked in advance.

Among the 7 spirits you will taste will be:

• Michter’s 10 Year Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Rye
• Shenk’s Homestead OR Bomberger’s Declaration
• Michter’s 20 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon OR Michter’s 25 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon

Whiskeys included in each tasting are subject to availability.

• Welcome to Fort Nelson
• Tour Information
• The Bar at Fort Nelson
• Location & Hours
• Mailing List Signup

Michter's Fort Nelson Distillery will be closing at 4pm on 2/29 and The Bar at Fort Nelson will close at 11pm on 2/29.

Tour Start Times

Sunday: 1:00pm, 2:30pm, 4:00pm, 5:30pm Monday: closed Tuesday: 10:30am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm Wednesday: 10:30am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm Thursday: 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm, 5:00pm Friday: 10:30am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 3:30pm, 5:00pm Saturday: 10:30am, 12:00pm, 1:30pm, 3:00pm, 4:30pm

Experiences served neat.

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Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, 43-57.5% Alc./Vol., Old Forester Mint Julep Cocktail, 30% Alc./Vol. Old Forester Distilling Company at Louisville in Kentucky. OLD FORESTER is a registered trademark. “AMERICA’S FIRST BOTTLED BOURBON” is a trademark. ©2024 Brown-Forman Distillers. All rights reserved. All other trademarks and trade names are properties of their respective owners.

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Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Tour

This experience is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes long. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled experience.

Distillery Hours Monday – Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. EST Friday – Saturday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EST (Tours at 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 2:30 EST)

All reservations must be made online at least 1 hour and 15 minutes in advance. Due to limited availability, refunds cannot be given with less than 48 hours notice. Please call (502)566-4999 or email with any questions.

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Seniors (65+) $15:

Under 21 (ages 10-20) $15:

Veterans $15:

Active Military join us free!: Please provide military ID upon arrival.

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• Choose a date above to see available times.

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Louisville Tasting Room

Bardstown Bourbon Company is now open in downtown Louisville with its state-of-the-art facility in the heart of historic Whiskey Row. 

As the modern bourbon experience, our Louisville location features highly interactive education and tasting experiences, innovative craft cocktails, augmented reality and immersive digital environments, and of course, curated retail merchandise and exclusive bottles.  Visit us at 730 West Main Street.

Visitor Center Hours

Tues: 10a-6p wed-thu: 10a-7p fri-sat: 10a-8p, sun-mon closed.

Book a Tour

ORIGIN SERIES EXPERIENCE

Explore a line up of Bardstown Bourbon Company’s first 100% estate distilled bourbons and rye. This immersive pairs each expression with unique sensory elements.

DURATION: 30 mins

COST:  $25 person

COLLABORATION EXPERIENCE

We create some of the most innovative and complex whiskies on the market. Discover the influence of barrel finishing through our collaborative partners across the world.

COST:  $35 per person

DISCOVERY SERIES: THE ART OF BLENDING

Discover the sensory characteristics of these unique bourbons, studying the aroma, flavor, and finish, then the opportunity to create your own blend.

COST:  $35 per person

Bardstown Distillery Experience​

Looking to book an experience at our world-class distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky?

1500 Parkway Drive Bardstown, KY 40004 (502) 233-4769

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Handcrafted Bourbon Adventures

A Complete Guide to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail

Everything you need to know to sample your way around the land of wild turkey and maker’s mark..

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The Kentucky Bourbon Trail extends throughout the Bluegrass State from big cities to historic hamlets like Bardstown, which has been dubbed the Bourbon Capital of the World.

Photo by Jason Busa/Shutterstock

For whiskey lovers, the Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a bucket-list trip, full of opportunities to visit distilleries and learn about bourbon—plus, of course, plenty of sampling along the way.

Kentucky is the spiritual home of bourbon, an American whiskey made with at least 51 percent corn and aged in new, charred, white oak barrels. That said, many Kentucky distilleries also make other types of whiskey (like rye or American single malts) or other types of spirits. But if you’re headed to Kentucky, it’s a safe bet that you’ll find plenty of bourbon, first and foremost—including some pours you can’t find anywhere else. Here’s how to navigate the world of Kentucky bourbon.

What is the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

The official Kentucky Bourbon Trail exists under the auspices of the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (who have trademarked the phrase), and it includes 18 distilleries, as well as 32 smaller distilleries designated as the “ Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. ” This official trail doesn’t necessarily include every bourbon producer in the state. But it’s still a pretty comprehensive overview, and the KBT provides a useful way to organize a visit—including a website with plenty of maps and links. Those who prefer a hard-copy guide can purchase a Bourbon Trail Passport & Field Guide ($15) with similar info. Kentucky’s bourbon distilleries are sprawled across the state, with most of them within about 100 miles from Louisville, the logical starting point for the journey.

How long to spend

It’s possible to visit a good number of the best-known distilleries within three or four days. Most visitors use Louisville as a home base, spending a day or two exploring the city’s “Whiskey Row” and other distilleries within city limits. From there, it makes sense to drive about an hour east toward Lexington, perhaps visiting Wild Turkey, Four Roses, and Woodford Reserve, before returning to Louisville. The following day, head southbound toward Loretto, home of Maker’s Mark, stopping at Bardstown and its distilleries along the way. Expect to spend an hour or two at each distillery; visiting two or three distilleries a day is a realistic pace.

Quite a few are located farther afield, in more rural areas, meaning more travel time is necessary to get there. (Green River, in Owensboro, is furthest removed; it’s even in a different time zone, though it’s only about 100 miles from Louisville.)

For people who want to visit all 18 distilleries, the KBT recommends at least four days. However, a week to nine days might make for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, particularly for those who want to visit craft distilleries along the way or make a detour to explore surrounding areas.

In addition, the KBT recommends at least a week to visit the Kentucky Craft Distillery circuit; many of the facilities are near the core KBT distilleries or en route. It’s worth doing a little advance planning and mapping to maximize visits.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail consists of numerous well-known distilleries—and plenty of lesser-known spots equally worth a visit.

Courtesy of @GoToLouisville@GoToLouisville

Which distilleries are on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

There are 18 KBT distilleries —it’s essentially a who’s who of the bourbon names you’ll spot at a well-stocked bar or liquor store:

• Angel’s Envy
• Bardstown Bourbon Co.
• Evan Williams
• Four Roses Distillery ; Four Roses Warehouse & Bottling (two different locations)
• Green River
• Heaven Hill
• James B. Beam
• Maker’s Mark
• Old Forester
• Rabbit Hole
• Stitzel-Weller
• Town Branch
• Wild Turkey
• Wilderness Trail
• Woodford Reserve

How to get around

Within Louisville, it’s easy to reach distilleries on foot or via taxis or rideshares. Beyond city limits, you need a car to get around; particularly in more rural areas, ridesharing isn’t always available. To delegate the transportation and/or planning, consider booking tours with a company like the famous Mint Julep or Pegasus Distillery Tours . They’ll shuttle you or your group around; many of the tours focus on specific interests, like culinary or horse farm tours, or offer VIP access to tastings or other experiences. However you’re getting around, don’t drink and drive.

How to plan a distillery visit

Planning ahead is strongly encouraged. Many distilleries are closed during the week (most often Monday and/or Tuesday), and hours may vary, so check a distillery’s website before heading out. (Also: Note that part of Kentucky is in the Central time zone, so you may need to factor that in.) For those traveling with kids: Some places welcome all ages, while others are limited to those 21 years old and over.

Do you need reservations for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?

Not always, but it helps, particularly during the peak summer and fall tourist seasons. That said, many tours are reservation only and charge a fee. Most cost around $25, but that can range much higher when special bottlings or cocktails are involved, and they tend to run about 60 to 90 minutes.

In general, visiting two or three distilleries in a day is plenty. Most tours cover the same “how-bourbon-is-made” info, and especially if you’re sampling, it all starts to add up. But it’s well worth it for bourbon fans looking to learn about America’s native whiskey and snap up hard-to-find bottles to add to a collection.

The historic Old Forester Distilling Co. is one of the major stops on Louisville’s Whiskey Row.

Photo by Joseph Hendrickson/Shutterstock

Start in Louisville

Louisville is ideal as a home base for a bourbon tour: In addition to distillery experiences available within city limits, it’s also relatively central to Lexington, Clermont, and Bardstown and has plenty of appealing bars, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

Start with Whiskey Row, which is home to Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery (and its top-notch bar), Old Forester Distilling (keep an eye out for special whiskey drops here), and Angel’s Envy . From there, the NuLu district offers the modern design of Rabbit Hole Distillery and its second-floor Overlook bar, with drinks by the Death & Co. team. Grab a rideshare for the five-mile drive to West Louisville to tour the historic Stitzel-Weller Distillery , which opened in 1935 but had been closed to the public for many years. (Attention horse fans: The Kentucky Derby Museum is nearby.)

Among the smaller Craft Trail distilleries nearby in downtown Louisville: Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. and Copper & Kings, an industrial-chic space that started as a brandy facility and has only recently begun producing bourbon. Look for the monarch butterfly garden out front and the rooftop restaurant/bar with sweeping city views.

When the distilleries close, continue bourbon tasting at Louisville bars like the Silver Dollar , a Bakersfield-style honky-tonk owned by whiskey expert Larry Rice; Trouble Bar , where you choose among flights curated by local experts; or the 1920s-inspired Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop .

Where to stay in Louisville

Consider a stay at Hotel Distil , a bourbon-themed hotel located in a historic building on Louisville’s “Whiskey Row”; the boutique-y 21c Museum Hotel is also home to stellar restaurant Proof on Main .

You could also try Galt House Hotel , a much larger venue with views of the Ohio River, or the genteel Brown Hotel , which dates back to 1923 and offers skyline views from the restored rooftop garden.

Day trip options from Louisville

Visit a couple of distilleries during each of these day trips with Louisville as a convenient home base, or combine them for a longer road trip. Here are a few potential options to build an itinerary.

1. Clermont

From Louisville, it’s about a 30-minute drive south to Clermont to reach James B. Beam Distilling—known for making Jim Beam, Knob Creek, and Basil Hayden, among others. They’ve been busy over at Beam: In 2022, the distillery cut the ribbon on a new $45 million “homestead experience.” The new space includes the Kitchen Table , a 5,000-square-foot restaurant and bar, and the Fred B. Noe Craft Distillery, a facility to explore new fermentation and distillation techniques.

2. Bardstown

Either starting out from Louisville or continuing on from Beam, head to Heaven Hill , the family-owned distillery that makes such legendary brands as Elijah Craig, Old Fitzgerald, and Henry McKenna, among many others. While the company’s new $200 million distillery is slated to open at the end of 2024, this remains a fine place to learn about bourbon production and snap up exclusive bottles.

See also two sleek, state-of-the-art newcomers: Lux Row Distillers and Bardstown Bourbon Company (the latter focuses on elaborate bourbon blends).

You’ll love strolling the grounds of the Maker’s Mark Distillery, which has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

Photo by Fiona Young-Brown/Shutterstock

3. Lebanon/Loretto

Maker’s Mark is on many a bourbon lover’s must-see list. Visit the distillery and tour the grounds, but don’t leave without dipping your own bottle in the iconic red wax.

This might be the endpoint of a route heading south through Clermont and/or Bardstown. Since the distillery is fairly remote from Louisville, plan to stay overnight—if possible, at the Samuels House , an Airbnb-style house rental owned by the family behind Maker’s Mark, stocked with a collection of whiskey memorabilia.

Add on a tour of the Kentucky Cooperage Visitor Center to learn how barrels are made, and see firsthand how they’re charred with a burst of flame—a key part of the bourbon-making process. (Note: You can also go directly from Louisville to Maker’s Mark by helicopter .)

4. Frankfort/Lexington

From Louisville, it’s also about an hour east to Frankfort, home of Buffalo Trace . Choose from several different themed tours of the sprawling facility, such as the “Old Taylor Tour,” which focuses on the legacy of E.H. Taylor, who revolutionized the bourbon industry; or a tour through the property’s arboretum and botanical gardens.

Continue on to Four Roses in Lawrenceburg, housed in a 1910 mission-style building, or Woodford Reserve in Versailles (pronounced “ver-sales”). Of note, Lexington, the “Horse Capital of the World,” is home to multitudes of thoroughbreds, so consider adding a horse farm tour to your itinerary.

5. Danville

About an hour south of Lexington, the picturesque Wilderness Trail Distillery is in the heart of the Bluegrass region. The distillery is a relative newcomer, having launched in 2012 and releasing its first bourbon in 2018. In that short time, it has garnered plenty of attention and is already expanding capacity. Starting with 44 acres, the distillery purchased another 124 acres in 2021, adding six new fermentation tanks and six new barrel houses.

This article originally appeared online in August 2022; it was updated most recently on April 24, 2024, to include current information.

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Wealth of Geeks

13+ Things To Do in Louisville Kentucky for Year-Round Fun

Posted: January 14, 2024 | Last updated: January 14, 2024

Louisville, Kentucky, is nicknamed “Bourbon Country” for a good reason. The city is famous for bourbon production. Still, there’s so much more to this fabulous Southern city. Bourbon is the main attraction, but fun is abundant for all ages. Here are the best things to do in Louisville, Kentucky, for year-round fun that you’re sure to enjoy.

Louisville is the largest city in the Bluegrass State. It’s a city full of museums, baseball, outdoor adventures, and art. They’re proud of their horse racing heritage, hot brown sandwiches, and bourbon production. Combine all of it, and it’s one of the most sought-after Southern cities for travel.

There’s no wrong time to visit Louisville , but there are more crowded times (like during May for the Kentucky Derby). Plan a jam-packed itinerary with all these things to do in Louisville, and you’ll have a memorable time.

Best Things To Do in Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville has a defined downtown area, but I recommend driving around the city. A few Louisville attractions aren’t centrally located but are worth the short drive from downtown.

1. Churchill Downs & the Kentucky Derby Museum

The two minutes of derby excitement thrives year-round in The  Kentucky Derby Museum . There’s a history behind everything you love about the Derby: the roses, mint juleps, and famed horses. The Derby Museum walks you through the history of racing and how Louisville became the thoroughbred city it is today. 

There’s a virtual reality experience where kids can “ride” on a horse and race via a computer screen. Try on jockey outfits and see how the jockeys weigh in before the race. The famous Triple Crown trophy is on display; there’s artwork throughout the museum, and kids will love learning about the horses and how they were named. 

A 30-minute tour of the grandstands is included with museum admission, but others are available for an upgrade price. Remember to stop by the cafe for a slice of Kentucky Derby pie and pick up your  Kentucky Bourbon Trail  passport. Drink a mint julep and acquire your first stamp!

2. Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory Tours

Second to Bourbon, there’s plenty of baseball history in Louisville. Did you know the  Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory  produces over 1.8 million wood bats annually? You can’t miss the giant bat, a replica of Babe Ruth’s bat, that stands 120 feet tall outside the museum. Guests can tour the factory to see how the bats are made and take home a mini bat!

The museum includes a bat vault where you can see a collection of bats used by the most famous baseball players. If you upgrade your factory tour, they’ll personalize the experience according to your favorite players and teams. Plus, the upgraded tour includes a personalized mini bat.

3. Louisville Slugger Field

After seeing how the famous bats are made, you’ve got to catch a game at the Louisville Slugger Field. It’s the home field for the Louisville Bats, a professional baseball team, Triple-A affiliates of the Cincinnati Reds. It’s a beautiful ballpark and central to the downtown hotels and attractions. The Louisville Slugger Field offers a Kids Club Membership with a replica jersey and free admission to all Sunday home games.

4. Muhammad Ali Center

Louisville is the birthplace of Muhammad Ali, the world-famous boxer known for being the first fighter to win the world heavyweight championship on three occasions. The Muhammad Ali Center chronicles the late boxer’s life and achievements inside and outside the ring. 

The museum does a great job of showcasing his humanitarian efforts, and it’s one of the stops along the Civil Rights Trail. There are interactive exhibits that include shadow-boxing and a create-your-own Wheaties box! In addition to the museum, Louisville tourists can drive by his childhood home at 3302 Grand Ave.

5. Big Four Bridge

The best views of Louisville are on the Big Four Bridge. Formerly a railroad-only bridge, it’s now open to pedestrian and bike traffic. The bridge crosses the Ohio River, connecting Waterfront Park to Jeffersonville, Indiana. The entire distance totals two miles. You will surely get a good workout if you walk from one state to another and back again. Plus, you really can’t beat the views from the bridge!

6. Kentucky Science Center

The world of STEM comes to life at the  Kentucky Science Center . Little imaginations will soar with the interactive exhibits that make learning fun. The Kentucky Science Center is the premier kid destination in Louisville, but even the adults have fun playing at the center. 

In total, there are four stories of exhibits to explore. It’s hard to see the whole museum in one visit. Exhibits range from healthy body lessons to seeing an actual mummy. It’s sure to bring out the science nerd in your kids.

7. Old Louisville

If you’re a fan of Victorian-era architecture, you’ll love  Old Louisville . This National Preservation District is home to the most extensive contiguous collection of Victorian mansions in the United States. Begin your visit at the Historic Old Louisville Visitors Center in Central Park, an urban oasis with a vine-laden pergola with beautiful views and walking paths. They offer daily 60-minute walking tours.

8. Louisville Mega Cavern

If you love a classic ropes course, you’ve got to experience the underground ropes course at the Louisville Mega Cavern . It’s a former limestone mine, and today it’s the city’s most popular attraction. A tour guide leads the ropes course which lasts 2 hours to see the entire manufactured cave.

For those less adventurous, there’s a tram tour. The tram tour focuses on the informational side of the cavern. Learn about the history, geological wonders, and technology used in the cavern today.

9. Frazier History Museum

The  Frazier History Museum  has over 100,000 square feet of Kentucky history. You can’t miss the museum as it’s situated right on Main Street. It’s the welcome center for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and features up to nine exhibits at a time, including temporary traveling exhibits. Some noteworthy artifacts include President Theodore Roosevelt’s “big stick” and Geronimo’s bow. No two visits are alike, as the museum constantly updates its offerings.

10. Belle of Louisville Riverboats

Hop onboard the “most widely traveled river steamboat in American history” when you ride on the Belle of Louisville . The steamboat is owned and operated by the city and moored at the downtown wharf. Pick from a moonlight cruise or even a ride with Santa. It’s a distinctive way to experience Louisville, and  it’s air-conditioned.  

11. Louisville Zoo

There are over 1500 animals to see and over 130 acres of exhibits to explore at the  Louisville Zoo . Some of the exhibits include the botanical gardens. The specialty exhibits include different habitats: Glacier Run, Africa, Islands, New World Exhibits (North, Central, and South America), Australian Outback, and the Aquarium. The zoo works continuously to teach conservation through community outreach. Kids love their playground, carousel, and petting zoo areas. 

12. Cave Hill Cemetary

Cave Hill is one of the more eerie things to do in Louisville, Kentucky. The Cave Hill Cemetary is the final resting place of Louisville’s most famous. Colonel Sanders from Kentucky Fried Chicken is buried in Cave Hill along with Muhammed Ali and Patty Hill (who wrote the “Happy Birthday” song) . The  Cave Hill Heritage Foundation guided tours  are offered throughout the year, whether you pick a walking, wagon, or golf cart tour. The themed tours focus on Civil War Heroes, women of Cave Hill, and Bourbon Distillers of Cave Hill, to name a few. 

13. Speed Art Museum

The Speed Art Museum houses Louisville’s most prestigious pieces of visual art. Located near the University of Louisville, the museum is art itself with modern architecture and unique outdoor spaces to enjoy. Find Native American Art to Contemporary pieces. The museum is most famous for its Degas, Picasso and Monet. 

14. Urban Bourbon Trail

Yet another bourbon trail needs to be explored: The Urban Bourbon Trail . This trail features the downtown distilleries and Louisville restaurants. It’s a culinary experience highlighting the best bourbon drinks in the city. The city’s official cocktail is the Old Fashioned, and there are plenty of versions to try on the Urban Bourbon Trail list. If you complete the trail by visiting at least six participating locations, you’ll earn an Urban Bourbon Trailblazer t-shirt from the visitors center!

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