Kentucky, USA 6-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive & Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Louisville, Kentucky, and check into your charming hotel in the downtown area.

Take some time to settle in and freshen up.

The Brown Hotel is a historic and elegant option in downtown Louisville, offering easy access to attractions.

Frazier History Museum

Visit the Official Starting Point of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Explore exhibits on Kentucky's history, culture, and, of course, its bourbon heritage.

A great introduction to the region before diving into the distilleries. Check their website for specific Bourbon Trail experience times.

Dinner on Whiskey Row

Enjoy dinner at one of the many excellent restaurants located on or near Louisville's historic Whiskey Row, offering delicious local cuisine and bourbon selections.

Consider Mussel & Burger Bar for a casual but delicious meal, or Doc Crow's Southern Smokehouse & Raw Bar for classic Southern fare.

Evening Stroll Downtown

Take a leisurely walk through downtown Louisville, enjoying the evening ambiance and perhaps a nightcap.

Many bars offer extensive bourbon lists to try a new dram.

Kentucky Derby Museum

Immerse yourselves in the rich history and traditions of the Kentucky Derby at the official museum.

Includes a tour of Churchill Downs.

Book your tour time in advance, especially for popular Friday slots. There are various tour options available.

Lunch near Churchill Downs

Grab a quick lunch at a local eatery near Churchill Downs before heading to your afternoon distillery visit.

Many casual dining options are available in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Old Forester Distillery Tour

Take a tour of the Old Forester Distillery, tracing the history of this iconic brand and seeing the entire bourbon-making process from grain to barrel.

Old Forester is part of the original Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Tours often include a tasting. Book well in advance.

Dinner & 4th Street Live!

Enjoy dinner at one of the lively restaurants at 4th Street Live!

followed by exploring the entertainment district.

This outdoor entertainment complex offers various dining options, bars, and often live music.

Drive to Bardstown

Begin your scenic drive south to Bardstown, often called the 'Bourbon Capital of the World'.

Maker's Mark Distillery Tour

Visit the iconic Maker's Mark Distillery in Loretto, known for its distinctive red wax-dipped bottles and beautiful grounds.

The tour highlights their unique production process.

One of the most picturesque distilleries. Consider dipping your own bottle in wax after the tour! Book tours online well in advance.

Lunch in Bardstown

Enjoy lunch in the charming historic town of Bardstown.

There are several local restaurants offering Southern comfort food.

Try The Rickhouse Restaurant & Lounge for a bourbon-inspired meal or Kreso's Restaurant for Mediterranean fare.

Jim Beam American Stillhouse

Experience the heritage of Jim Beam, one of the world's best-selling bourbons.

The tour offers insights into the Beam family's distilling legacy and the production of their whiskey.

Just a short drive from Bardstown. Features interactive exhibits and tastings. Book tours in advance.

Return to Louisville

Drive back to Louisville after a full day exploring Bardstown's bourbon country.

Dinner in Louisville

Dine at a local Louisville restaurant.

Consider trying a place known for its farm-to-table cuisine or another spot on Whiskey Row.

Saturday night reservations might be wise for popular spots.

Drive to Versailles

Embark on a picturesque drive to Versailles, Kentucky, known for its beautiful horse farms and historic sites.

The Kentucky Castle Experience

Visit The Kentucky Castle, a unique luxury restaurant and hotel set in an authentic stone castle.

Explore the grounds or enjoy a relaxing break.

You can often walk the grounds, or reserve a spot for brunch/lunch. It's a truly unique photo opportunity.

Lunch at The Kentucky Castle (Optional)

Enjoy a luxurious lunch experience at The Kentucky Castle's restaurant.

Reservations highly recommended if dining.

Woodford Reserve Distillery Tour

Tour the historic Woodford Reserve Distillery, a National Historic Landmark.

Learn about the handcrafted process and enjoy a tasting of their premium bourbon.

Known for its beautiful setting and highly-regarded bourbon. Book tours well in advance, especially for a Sunday.

Return to Louisville

Drive back to Louisville, reflecting on the day's castle and bourbon adventures.

Dinner & Relaxation

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in Louisville.

You might opt for a quieter neighborhood restaurant after a day of driving.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory

Discover the history of baseball and how the famous Louisville Slugger bats are made.

This interactive museum is a Louisville classic.

You get a mini souvenir bat at the end of the tour! Book tickets online.

Local Lunch

Enjoy a final Louisville lunch at a local favorite, perhaps trying some Kentucky hot browns or other regional specialties.

Consider a spot in NuLu (New Louisville) for trendy options or a classic diner for a true Kentucky experience.

Final Bourbon Tasting

Visit a dedicated bourbon bar or a liquor store with a tasting room to sample a few more bourbons you haven't tried yet, or to pick up some bottles to take home.

Merle's Whiskey Kitchen or Proof on Main are excellent options for a wide selection of bourbons.

Leisure & Packing

Enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relax at your hotel before preparing for tomorrow's continuation of the trip.

Pack your bags and prepare for check-out and the next leg of your journey to Lexington tomorrow.

Kentucky Horse Park

Visit the only park of its kind in the world, dedicated to man's relationship with the horse.

Explore the working horse farm, educational exhibits, and potentially catch a show or demonstration. This is a must-see for understanding Kentucky's 'Bluegrass' identity.

Check their schedule for daily events and special programs. Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive grounds.

Lunch in Lexington

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local Lexington eatery, perhaps trying some regional favorites.

Explore downtown Lexington for various options.

Recommendations include varied cuisine options from southern comfort to international flavors.

University of Kentucky Campus

Take a self-guided walking tour or drive through the campus of the University of Kentucky, the state's largest public university.

Admire the architecture and soak in the vibrant college town atmosphere. Home of the UK Wildcats.

The campus is quite large; focus on key areas like the main quad or athletic facilities if time is limited. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g39588-d1672366-Reviews-University_of_Kentucky-Lexington_Kentucky.html?m=66827

Last Minute Souvenirs

Grab some last-minute Kentucky souvenirs, local crafts, or bourbon-themed gifts from a shop in downtown Lexington before heading home.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final dinner in Lexington, reflecting on your incredible Kentucky bourbon road trip.

Consider restaurants offering farm-to-table Southern cuisine.