15 Best things to do in bardstown, ky

Introduction: welcome to Bardstown ky

Bardstown, Kentucky, is a charming small town in Nelson County that is well-known for its rich past, bourbon legacy, and beautiful surroundings. Anyone who likes history, whisky, or the outdoors can find something to enjoy at Bardstown. This undiscovered gem of a town has everything to offer everyone, from famous landmarks to gorgeous roads. We’ll look at the greatest things to do in Bardstown, KY, in this article.

1. Visit the Maker’s Mark Distillery

The Maker’s Mark Distillery is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Bardstown ky. The distillery offers tours that take visitors through the process of making their signature bourbon, from the hand-dipping of each bottle in wax to the aging process in charred oak barrels. Visitors can also enjoy a tasting of Maker’s Mark’s various bourbons, including their limited-edition releases.

2. Explore the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

Located in Bardstown’s historic Spalding Hall, the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History is the world’s largest collection of whiskey memorabilia. The museum features exhibits on the history of bourbon and whiskey, including a display of rare and antique bottles, vintage advertising, and even a moonshine still.

3. Take a stroll down Bardstown’s Historic District

Bardstown’s historic district is a picturesque neighborhood filled with 18th and 19th-century buildings. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down the brick sidewalks and admire the architecture, or stop in at one of the many antique shops and boutiques that line the streets.

4. Discover My Old Kentucky Home State Park

My Old Kentucky Home State Park is a beautiful park that features the Federal-style mansion that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous song “My Old Kentucky Home.” Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about the history of the Foster family, or enjoy a picnic in the park’s spacious grounds.

5. Experience the Bardstown Ghost Trek

For a spooky and unique experience, visitors can take the Bardstown Ghost Trek. This walking tour takes visitors through Bardstown’s historic district, where they’ll hear ghost stories and legends from the town’s past. The tour is led by a costumed guide and includes stops at some of the town’s most haunted locations.

6. Tour the Willett Distillery

The Willett Distillery is a family-owned and operated distillery that has been producing bourbon for over 80 years. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery and see the entire bourbon-making process, from the mash tanks to the barrel room. The tour also includes a tasting of Willett’s various bourbons.

7.  The Civil War Museum of the Western Theater

The Civil War Museum of the Western Theater is a must-seeLocated in Bardstown’s historic downtown, the museum features exhibits and artifacts related to the Western Theater of the Civil War. Visitors can learn about the battles that took place in Kentucky and the role that the state played in the Civil War.

8. Take a sip at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center

The Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center is another must-visit destination for bourbon enthusiasts. The center offers tours that take visitors through the history of Heaven Hill Distillery, one of the largest independent family-owned distilleries in the country. The tour includes a tasting of the distillery’s various bourbons and even allows visitors to fill their own bottles straight from the barrel.

9. Attend the Kentucky Bourbon Festival

If you’re a fan of bourbon, then you won’t want to miss the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Held every September in Bardstown, the festival is a celebration of all things bourbon. Visitors can attend tastings, participate in bourbon-themed events and workshops, and even take a tour of the Bourbon Trail.

10. Go on a hike at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest

Located just a short drive from Bardstown ky, the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is a beautiful nature preserve that offers hiking trails, a canopy walk, and a children’s play area. Visitors can explore the forest and admire the beautiful scenery, including a stunning lake and a variety of plant and animal species.

11. Visit the Abbey of Gethsemani

For a peaceful and reflective experience, visitors can visit the Abbey of Gethsemani, a Trappist monastery located just outside of Bardstown ky. The monastery is known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere, and visitors can attend mass or even participate in a silent retreat.

12. Enjoy a horseback ride at Whispering Woods Riding Stables

Whispering Woods Riding Stables offers guided horseback rides through the beautiful countryside surrounding Bardstown ky. Visitors can choose from a variety of trail rides, including a sunset ride and a moonlight ride, and can even take riding lessons.

13. Take a scenic drive on the Bourbon Trail

The Bourbon Trail is a popular tourist destination that includes several of the most famous bourbon distilleries in the state. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Kentucky and stop at distilleries along the way, including Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, and Wild Turkey.

14. Explore the Wickland Estate

The Wickland Estate is a beautiful antebellum mansion that has been restored to its former glory. Visitors can tour the mansion and learn about the history of the Todd family, who were prominent figures in Kentucky politics and society in the 19th century.

15. Enjoy a meal at one of Bardstown’s fine restaurants

Bardstown is known for its excellent dining options, with a variety of restaurants that offer everything from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the town’s many fine restaurants, including Kurtz Restaurant, Mammy’s Kitchen, and Harrison-Smith House.

Conclusion:

Bardstown, Kentucky, may be a small town, but it offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors. From bourbon distilleries to historic sites, museums, and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

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FAQs

1. What is Bardstown, Kentucky, known for?

Bardstown is known as the Bourbon Capital of the World and is home to several famous bourbon distilleries.

2. What is the Kentucky Bourbon Festival?

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is a celebration of all things bourbon, held every September in Bardstown. It features tastings, bourbon-themed events and workshops, and tours of the Bourbon Trail.

3. Can I visit a bourbon distillery in Bardstown?

Yes, Bardstown is home to several famous bourbon distilleries, including Heaven Hill and Maker’s Mark, which offer tours and tastings.

4. Is there outdoor recreation in Bardstown?

Yes, visitors can explore the beautiful Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, go horseback riding at Whispering Woods Riding Stables, and take scenic drives on the Bourbon Trail.

5. What is the Abbey of Gethsemani?

The Abbey of Gethsemani is a Trappist monastery located just outside of Bardstown. Visitors can attend mass or participate in a silent retreat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful gardens.