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Before you go
Your trip to Bardstown.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Bardstown – Kentucky Destination Louisville and the Bourbon Trail
How to get there
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Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) Louisville · 60 km
Approximate distances. Check flights and bus, train or boat schedules before you travel.
By car, about 60 km from Louisville via the Bluegrass Parkway and KY‑245, roughly an hour. The nearest airport is Louisville (SDF). There is no regular public transport to the town.
How many days
One day allows for the downtown, the My Old Kentucky Home house and one or two distilleries. With two days, you can add Bernheim Forest and more distillery visits.
When to go
April, May and October are good months for visits. In September the Kentucky Bourbon Festival usually fills the town. In summer, the heat is humid.
The seasons shown are the most usual ones; nature doesn't always follow the calendar.
Do you need a car?
Yes. Downtown is walkable, but distilleries and Bernheim Forest are outside town. For tastings, prefer a driver or an organized tour.
Suggested itinerary
An order that works
Built with the places on this page. No rush: it's paced so you have time to see them.
One day in Bardstown
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Morning
My Old Kentucky Home
Take the guided tour of Federal Hill mansion and walk to the historic downtown and St. Joseph Basilica.
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Afternoon
Distilleries
Visit one or two distilleries in the area, with reservations made in advance. Those who will taste should go with a driver.
Check before you go. Opening hours and days change, and places may close for renovations, holidays or events. This itinerary is a suggestion from Cidade Turismo, not a commitment: plan yours by checking directly with each place you intend to visit.
Before you go
Frequently asked questions
Why is Bardstown called the bourbon capital of the world?
Because several of Kentucky’s largest distilleries are in or around the town, and bourbon production there dates to the 18th century. The title is used by the town itself and by its annual festival.
Which distilleries are near Bardstown?
In town and nearby are Heaven Hill, Willett and Bardstown Bourbon Company; Maker’s Mark is in Loretto, about 30 km away, and Jim Beam is in Clermont, about 25 km away. Reserve visits in advance.
Can you get to Bardstown without a car?
Only by organized tour from Louisville. There is no regular public transit, and the distilleries are spread across the countryside.
When is the Kentucky Bourbon Festival?
It usually takes place in September in Bardstown, with tastings, music and distillery events. Check the festival website for dates.