Bardstown, Kentucky: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Are you ready for an unforgettable journey in the "Bourbon Capital of the World"? Bardstown, Kentucky, is full of activities that celebrate its bourbon heritage, historic charm, and natural beauty. You can explore famous distilleries or dive into the local culture. This place promises an experience you won't forget.

Key Takeaways

• Bardstown, Kentucky, is known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World" and offers over 50 different things to do for visitors.
• The town boasts a range of activities, from bourbon tours and tastings to outdoor adventures, historic attractions, and local cuisine.
• Visitors can explore the area's distilling legacy at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History and enjoy craft beer at Scout & Scholar Brewing Co.
• Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, cycle, and enjoy stand-up paddleboarding in the surrounding natural areas.
• Bardstown's Main Street and shopping district offer a charming small-town experience, while the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train provides a unique dining adventure.

Exploring the Bourbon Capital of the World

Bardstown, Kentucky, is known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World." It's a dream spot for bourbon lovers and history fans. The town is filled with historic and famous bourbon distilleries. Here, visitors can dive deep into the making and history of Kentucky's famous spirit.

Historic Distilleries and Tasting Experiences

In and around Bardstown, there are many distilleries to visit, each with its own tale. The Willett Distillery, run by a family, offers tours and tastings in a beautiful setting. The Heaven Hill Distillery, the biggest family-owned spirits maker in the U.S., has the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience. Here, guests can make their own bourbon bottle.

Lux Row Distillers shows the detailed process of making bourbon. The Bardstown Bourbon Company gives a modern take on bourbon, with barrel thieving and VIP tastings. These places, along with others, are top spots for Kentucky Bourbon fans and Bourbon Trail seekers.

"Bardstown, Kentucky is the heart of American Whiskey and the epicenter of the Bourbon Trail. Exploring the historic Bardstown Distilleries and immersing myself in the rich Kentucky Bourbon heritage was a truly unforgettable experience."

Museum Row and Historic Attractions

Bardstown's Museum Row is home to the town's rich history. You can explore Bardstown Museums, Civil War History, African American Heritage, and Whiskey History. It's a place where you can step back in time.

• The Civil War Museum and the Women's Museum of the Civil War show the local history. They have period weapons, uniforms, and artifacts.
• The Old Bardstown Village lets you see what life was like in the 19th century.
• The Bardstown-Nelson County African American Heritage Museum honors African Americans who made a mark on the community.
• The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History tells the story of the area's Whiskey History.
• The Old Talbott Tavern is one of the oldest stagecoach stops in the country. It's a chance to go back in time.

Bardstown's Museum Row is perfect for those interested in Civil War History, African American Heritage, and Whiskey History. It's a chance to dive into the past with these Historic Attractions.

"Bardstown is a true gem, with its deep roots in history and its vibrant cultural offerings. The museums on Museum Row provide a captivating glimpse into the town's past, from the Civil War to the whiskey industry. It's a place where you can truly feel the weight of history."

Craft Beer and Local Cuisine

Bardstown is famous for its bourbon, but it also has a great craft beer scene and local food. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining and drinking options.

Scout & Scholar Brewing Co.

Scout & Scholar Brewing Co. is at the heart of Bardstown's craft beer. They offer sours, IPAs, and stouts for everyone. You can take a brewery tour to learn how they make their beer, from picking ingredients to bottling.

The Rickhouse

The Rickhouse is in the historic Spalding Hall building. It's a cozy place with bourbon-inspired dishes like steaks and pork chops. They also have a great selection of bourbon flights.

The Bar at Willett

The Bar at Willett is at the Willett Distillery. They have a menu that changes daily with creative, seasonal dishes. You can try braised short ribs made with their own bourbon.

Bardstown Bourbon Distillery Kitchen & Bar

The Bardstown Bourbon Distillery Kitchen & Bar uses bourbon from their distillery in their dishes. It's a unique way to enjoy bourbon-inspired dining.

Bardstown's mix of craft beer and local food is perfect with its famous bourbon. It's a top spot for fans of Bardstown Craft Beer, Local Cuisine, Bourbon-Inspired Dining, Gastropub, and Distillery Restaurants.

Bardstown, Kentucky: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Bardstown, Kentucky, is known as the "Bourbon Capital of the World." It offers a mix of experiences that highlight its Bourbon Trail heritage and historic charm. If you love Kentucky Bourbon or want to dive into the town's culture, Bardstown is a place that will leave a mark on you.

A top spot in Bardstown is the My Old Kentucky Home. This beautiful antebellum mansion was the muse for Stephen Foster's famous song. You can see the well-kept interiors, gardens, and buildings to learn about the town's history.

For a closer look at Bourbon, visit the Bardstown Distilleries. Here, you can see how bourbon is made and taste some of Kentucky's best. From the Old Talbott Tavern's historic feel to the Willett Distillery's modern look, each tour is unique.

Bardstown also has cultural spots that draw people in. The Stephen Foster Story musical tells the tale of the famous composer. The Old Bardstown Village takes you back to the 18th and 19th centuries with its real log buildings.

For outdoor fun, Bardstown has a lot to offer. You can explore the peaceful Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. Or try cycling or stand-up paddleboarding to enjoy the area's beauty.

Bardstown has something for everyone. Whether you're into the Bourbon Trail, history, culture, or nature, this place promises an unforgettable trip. It's perfect for Kentucky Tourism fans and anyone curious about the area.

Outdoor Adventures in Bardstown

Bardstown, Kentucky, is a great place for outdoor fun. It's surrounded by nature. The Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is a key spot, just 20 minutes from downtown. It has over 40 miles of trails, places to fish, and art to see.

Cyclists will love the scenic routes around Bardstown. There's a 22.5-mile ride to Sympson Lake. The Old Kentucky Home Bicycle Tour is a big event for cyclists. It lets you see the area's beautiful roads and hills.

For water lovers, stand-up paddleboarding on the Beech Fork River and Taylorsville Lake is a must. The river has 112 miles of calm waters. Endless Summer Paddle Company offers services for paddlers.

Golfers can play at the My Old Kentucky Home State Park course. It's a par 71 layout by Kenny Rapier and rated four stars by Golf Digest. The Maywood Course at Bardstown Country Club is also a challenge, with over 7,200 yards from the championship level.

Shopping and Main Street Exploration

Bardstown's main street district is full of independently-owned shops and local boutiques. It's a great place to find unique Kentucky-themed gifts and handcrafted treasures. You can find everything from trendy clothes to artisanal candles and jewelry in Downtown Bardstown.

Don't miss Peacock on Third, a boutique owned by two friends. They offer a variety of cute and colorful clothes and accessories. For a taste of the past, visit Hurst Discount Drugs. Here, you can enjoy sundaes and milkshakes at their old-fashioned soda fountain.

Check out The Bug's Ear Boutique for a selection of Kentucky-themed gifts and clothes. Or, visit The Artists Barrel to see handcrafted items from over 50 local artists. Whether you're looking for a special souvenir or just want to shop, the Main Street Exploration will be fun.

"Bardstown's main street district is a true gem, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and local artistry. It's the perfect place to immerse yourself in the charm of this Bourbon Capital of the World."

My Old Kentucky Dinner Train Experience

When you visit Bardstown, Kentucky, don't miss the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. It's a historic Kentucky Scenic Railway that lets you enjoy a multi-course meal with beautiful Bardstown Dinner Train views.

The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train runs on Fridays and Saturdays. Tickets cost about $71 per person. The 1.75-hour trip covers 20 miles through Kentucky's beautiful countryside. You'll enjoy a great meal while taking in the scenery.

Choose from the Dinner Excursion, Bourbon Excursion, or Murder Mystery Excursion for an unforgettable Dining Experience. People love the great service, tasty food, and calm atmosphere. They often want to go again.

Arrive at the train depot an hour before your trip starts. The train leaves on time, so don't be late. You must book and pay before you go.

Looking for a special dining adventure or just something different? The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train is perfect. Book now for a trip through Bardstown, Kentucky's countryside. It's an experience you'll always remember.

Camping and Accommodations

Looking for an outdoor adventure in Bardstown? Check out the camping options available. My Old Kentucky Home State Park has 39 pet-friendly campsites in a peaceful forest. Near Bardstown, White Acres Campground offers sites for tents and RVs with amenities like restrooms and free Wi-Fi.

These Bardstown camping spots let you enjoy nature's beauty. From the greenery of My Old Kentucky Home State Park to the lake views at White Acres Campground. Whether you want a tent or RV spot, Bardstown, Kentucky, has the perfect place for you to relax and connect with nature.

My Old Kentucky Home State Park Campgrounds

At My Old Kentucky Home State Park, you'll find 39 pet-friendly sites for tents and RVs. Enjoy the quiet woods and get close to hiking trails, picnic spots, and more.

White Acres Campground

White Acres Campground is a peaceful spot near Bardstown by Sympson Lake. It has sites for tents and RVs and offers restrooms, showers, and free Wi-Fi for a comfy stay.

"Immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Bardstown's campgrounds is a truly rejuvenating experience. Whether you choose the serene My Old Kentucky Home State Park or the picturesque White Acres Campground, you're sure to create lasting memories under the stars."

Seasonal Events and Festivals

Bardstown is alive with events and festivals all year. These celebrate its history, bourbon, and community spirit. The Old Kentucky Home Bicycle Tour in Labor Day weekend and the Bardstown Bourbon and Burgoo Festival in fall are highlights. You can enjoy unique cultural events and taste the region's flavors.

There are also regular farmers markets. Here, locals sell fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. It's a great way to meet the community and try local foods.

Bardstown is famous for its Bourbon-Themed Celebrations. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival in August brings people from all over. The Kybela festival in May offers tastings from Bardstown's distilleries and wineries.

The town's Christmas Candlelight Tour in December is another highlight. It features historic homes decorated for the holidays with bourbon-themed events.

Other big events in Kentucky include the Kentucky Derby Festival in Louisville. It's a two-week event that draws 15,000 runners. The International Bar-B-Q Festival in Owensboro kicks off summer right after the Kentucky Derby.

Whether you're into Bardstown Events or want to check out other festivals in Kentucky, there's always something going on. These events celebrate the state's culture and heritage.