Kentucky Bourbon Tours
Experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with Mint Julep Experiences. Our guided public tours provide ticketed access to iconic distilleries, premium tastings, a local lunch, and luxury transportation. Designed for individuals, couples, and small groups, we handle the logistics so you can focus on the spirit. Choose from our curated weekly itineraries below and enjoy the ride.
Guided Kentucky Bourbon Trail Tours
Inside the Rickhouse: The Legacy of Deatsville
For a limited time, embark on an exclusive journey through Heaven Hill Distillery’s heritage, culminating in never-before-granted access to the historic Deatsville rickhouse site.For a limited time, we invite you to step Inside the Rickhouse: The Legacy of Deatsville — an exclusive, full-day experience honoring the places and craftsmanship that have shaped Heaven Hill for generations. Your journey begins with a private tour and premium tasting at the Heaven Hill Springs Distillery, followed by visits to historic Rickhouse Y and modern Rickhouse H1, a private lunch at Five Brothers Bar & Kitchen, and time to shop. The day culminates with unprecedented access to the storied Deatsville rickhouses, where you’ll taste whiskey drawn straight from a Deatsville-aged barrel and have the opportunity to purchase our exclusive release, Heaven Hill Deatsville 13-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey. Availability is extremely limited — secure your place in this rare celebration of Heaven Hill’s legacy.
$219 Per Person
Thursday Bourbon Tour
Buffalo Trace, Pappy & Co., Rabbit Hole, Bulleit DistillingThis Thursday bourbon tour includes guided transportation and three exclusive distillery stops for tours and tastings, lunch, and a Pappy themed shopping experience. Enjoy a Louisville Distillery tour and tasting at Rabbit Hole, indulge in a premium tasting at Buffalo Trace, and visit Bulleit Distillery for a tour and tasting. Enjoy a local lunch along the way and end the day at Pappy & Company, the Pappy themed retail boutique owned and operated by the Van Winkle Family.
$219 Per Person
Buffalo Trace & Keeneland Spring Meet
Exclusive 2026 Blanton's Bourbon & Horse Racing ExperienceIndulge in an elite Bluegrass pilgrimage available exclusively through Mint Julep Experiences, pairing the world’s most coveted bourbon with the "Sport of Kings." Your journey grants you rare access to a Blanton’s Vertical Tasting at Buffalo Trace Distillery, where you’ll savor the nuanced complexity of Blanton's Original, Blanton's Gold, and Blanton's Straight From the Barrel expressions. After a toast-worthy tasting and shopping session, we’ll whisk you away to the storied grounds of Keeneland for the high-stakes thrill of the Keeneland Spring Meet. This all-inclusive bourbon and horse racing excursion seamlessly blends high-proof heritage with equestrian elegance, offering a gold-standard Kentucky adventure you won't find anywhere else.
$149 Per Person
Friday Bourbon Tour
Woodford Reserve, Castle & Key, Stitzel WellerThis Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, three distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will experience Kentucky distillery tours with a tour and tasting at Woodford Reserve, a tour and tasting at Castle & Key, and a premium tasting at Stitzel Weller. Explore the heart of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail on this expertly crafted adventure.
$219 Per Person
Friday Bourbon Tour
Lux Row, Heaven Hill, James B. BeamThis Friday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Lux Row, a Connoisseur tasting at Heaven Hill, and a tour with tastings at James B. Beam Distilling Co..
$209 Per Person
Saturday Bourbon Tour
Maker's Mark, Heaven Hill, Bardstown Bourbon Co.This Saturday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will enjoy a tour and tasting at Bardstown Bourbon Co., a Connoisseur tasting at Heaven Hill, and a tour with tastings at Maker's Mark distillery.
$209 Per Person
Saturday Bourbon Tour
Angel's Envy, Stitzel-Weller, Kentucky Artisan DistilleryThis Saturday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 3 distillery stops for tours and tastings, and a local lunch. Guests will start the day with a tasting at Stitzel-Weller, enjoy a tour and tasting at Angel's Envy after lunch, and a tour and tasting at Kentucky Artisan Distillery - home to Jefferson's Reserve.
$209 Per Person
Sunday Brunch & Bourbon Tour
Buffalo Trace, Pappy & Co., Kentucky Artisan Distillery, Local BrunchThis Sunday bourbon tour includes guided transportation, 2 distillery stops for tours and tastings, a Pappy shopping experience, and a local brunch. Guests will enjoy a local brunch, tasting at Buffalo Trace, and a tour and tasting at Kentucky Artisan Distillery - home to Jefferson's Reserve, and a visit to Pappy & Company, the Pappy themed retail boutique owned and operated by the Van Winkle Family.
$219 Per Person
Customized Bourbon Tours
Create your own Bourbon Trail adventure with over 100 distilleries to explore!Our Kentucky Bourbon Tours give you exclusive access to top bourbon distilleries, craft breweries, and food artisans along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Thanks to our special partnerships, many locations offer exclusive bourbon tours and tastings only available to Mint Julep Experiences guests. Whether you're visiting iconic stops on the Bourbon Trail or discovering hidden gems, we make your journey unforgettable.
$240-$475 Per Person
Our Public Bourbon Tours
tour description
Experience the heart of Kentucky’s heritage with a curated journey on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Our public tours are designed for everyone from the bourbon curious to seasoned collectors. As you travel from downtown Louisville into the rolling hills of the Bluegrass region, your Certified Bourbon Steward provides a deep dive into the science of the Angel’s Share, the legacy of Whiskey Row, and the exciting history of the surrounding area. Whether we are visiting historical distilleries or modern craft innovators, you’ll gain behind-the-scenes insights into how Kentucky’s limestone-filtered water creates the world's finest spirit.
What's Included
- Luxury Transportation: Relax in climate-controlled, new-model vehicles with comfortable seating and large windows for sightseeing.
- Fully Guided & Curated: Your tour is led by a local expert (often a Certified Bourbon Steward) who shares Kentucky history, lore, and technical distilling knowledge.
- 3 Guaranteed Distillery Experiences: Includes all pre-booked admission fees for a mix of full production tours and guided premium tasting flights.
- Catered Local Lunch: A sit-down meal at a partner restaurant featuring Southern-inspired cuisine.
- Complimentary Amenities: Chilled bottled water provided throughout the day and dedicated storage space for your belongings and distillery bottle purchases.
Departure information
- Location: Tours depart from the Mint Julep Experiences Hub, located inside the Falls City Market at the Omni Louisville Hotel (210 W Liberty St).
- Check-In: Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. Look for our staff in Mint Julep attire near the market entrance.
- Parking: We recommend using the Omni Hotel valet or the public parking garages located on W. Liberty St. or S. 2nd St. for the most convenient access.
- Pro Tip: Start your morning with a coffee from the Falls City Market before boarding your vehicle located steps away.
For help with your booking, call 502-583-1433.
Bourbon City Weekend Itinerary: Where to Stay, Eat, and Sip
Wednesday, Oct 8, 2025
Bourbon City Weekend Itinerary: Where to Stay, Eat, and Sip
Wednesday, Oct 8, 2025
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When is the Best Time To Visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®?
It’s always a good time to visit Kentucky and experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®! Spring and fall are the most crowded seasons, offering ideal weather and vibrant landscapes. Winter brings a quiet stillness with dustings of snow across the distilleries, which is perfect for cozy, intimate bourbon tasting experiences. Summer offers warm temperatures and the unique chance to see the bourbon aging process in full swing as the barrels work their magic. Each season provides a distinct and memorable way to explore the bourbon trail.
Where do public bourbon tours depart from?
All public tours depart from the Falls City Market in the Omni Louisville Hotel in downtown Louisville at 210 W Liberty St., making it easy to explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® from the city.
What's included in a Public Kentucky Bourbon Tour?
Each public bourbon tour includes guided transportation, distillery tours and tastings, a local lunch stop, and an expert Mint Julep guide who shares bourbon history and insights throughout the day.
Are these bourbon tours public or private?
These are public, ticketed bourbon tours, meaning you’ll share the experience with other guests who have booked the same tour date. If you’re looking for a private or fully customized bourbon tour, we offer separate private and custom tour options.
Do public bourbon tours visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®?
Yes. Our public bourbon tours explore distilleries located along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, with itineraries designed to showcase some of the region’s most well-known and respected bourbon brands.
How long do public bourbon tours last?
Most public bourbon tours last a full day, typically around 6–8 hours from departure to return, depending on the specific itinerary and distillery schedule.
Is transportation included on public bourbon tours?
Yes. Transportation in one of our luxury vehicles is included on all public bourbon tours, allowing guests to enjoy tastings safely and comfortably without driving.
Who are public bourbon tours best for?
Public bourbon tours are ideal for individuals, couples, and small groups looking for a pre-planned, easy-to-book way to experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail from Louisville.
Can I book a private or custom bourbon tour instead?
Yes. If you’re planning for a larger group or want a more personalized itinerary, our private and custom bourbon tours may be a better fit. Our experience coordinators can help you explore those options.
Do you offer access to exclusive or behind-the-scenes distillery experiences?
Absolutely! We've spent 20-years cultivating relationships with as many bourbon distilleries as possible. As a trusted industry partner, Mint Julep Experiences secures pre-arranged, exclusive access to private tastings, master distiller meet-and-greets, and rare bourbon experiences not available to the general public. Call us today (502-583-1433) to learn how to experience these unique bourbon tours.
Are your guides certified bourbon experts?
Yes! All of our guides are trained bourbon professionals and nearly all are certified Bourbon Stewards. Our team consists of passionate bourbon and Kentucky enthusiasts who elevate each tour with historical context, bourbon knowledge, and hospitality.
Which distilleries are closest to Louisville?
If you are staying in downtown Louisville, the closest distilleries are located on Whiskey Row, the historic Main Street Bourbon District founded in the 1840s.
Old Forester Distilling Co.: Located in its original 19th-century building, it’s the only downtown distillery with an active cooperage (barrel-making) on-site.
Angel’s Envy Distillery: Situated directly across from Louisville Slugger Field, known for its port-barrel finishing.
Evan Williams Bourbon Experience: An immersive "Bourbonism" flagship featuring a 1920s-style speakeasy.
Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery: Located on Museum Row, offering high-end cocktail experiences at "The Bar at Fort Nelson."
Rabbit Hole Distillery: A modern, architecturally stunning distillery located in the trendy NuLu district.
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co.: A family-owned operation just west of downtown, famous for its sweet-mash rye and bourbon.
Stitzel-Weller Distillery (Shively): Once a distillery of Pappy Van Winkle, this historic site is just 5 miles from downtown and serves as a home for Bulleit and Blade and Bow.
Copper & Kings (Butchertown): A unique stop specializing in American Brandy sonically aged in bourbon barrels.
