September 17, 2025 Bardstown/Nelson County Tourism Awards Record-Breaking $140,000 in Community Grants BARDSTOWN, KY – Bardstown/Nelson County Tourism has announced the allocation of $140,000 in community grant funding to local nonprofit organizations and government partners—the largest total…
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Bourbon, Leaves & Fall Festivals: Experience Bardstown This Season There’s no place like Bardstown in the fall. As the air turns crisp and the trees glow with fiery reds and golds, Kentucky’s Bourbon Capital transforms into a haven of seasonal festivals, scenic adventures, and—of course—bourbon…
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If the Thursday night crowd in the Oak & Ember Restaurant and its adjoining cocktail bar at the Trail Hotel is any indication, Bardstown has scored another hit in the hospitality game. Open only since May, the new hotel rises like a phoenix from the ashes of a one-time Holiday Inn which had been a…
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Bardstown and Nelson County Reach $90.9 Million in Tourism Economic Impact Continued growth positions Kentucky’s Bourbon Capital as a must-visit destination this summer and fall BARDSTOWN, KY — Tourism in Bardstown and Nelson County surged again in 2024, generating a total economic impact of $90.9 million, according to newly released figures from the Kentucky Department of Tourism. This marks a steady climb from $80.9 million in 2022 and $71.5 million in 2021, underscoring the region’s growing appeal among travelers seeking unique, authentic Kentucky experiences. Direct visitor spending reached $62.6 million in 2024, supporting 450 tourism-specific jobs and contributing to a broader workforce impact of 623 total jobs. Tourism-related labor income totaled $18.8 million, and the industry generated $6.9 million in state and local tax revenue. “With consistent growth over the past three years, Bardstown has proven to be a powerful destination for both leisure travelers and bourbon lovers,” said Stacey Phelps, President of Bardstown-Nelson County Tourism. “As we enter our busiest seasons, it’s the perfect time to experience everything that’s made Bardstown a leader in Kentucky’s tourism landscape.” Summer and fall in Bardstown offer back-to-back opportunities for immersive travel experiences. National Bourbon Week in June, the Stephen Foster Story outdoor musical, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in September, and the Arts & Crafts Festival in October are just a few of the standout events that bring the town’s rich culture, history, and bourbon heritage to life. “There’s never been a better time to plan your trip,” added Phelps. “Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, Bardstown continues to offer something new—and unforgettable—every season.” Plan Your Visit From summer patio sips to fall bourbon trails, Bardstown is Kentucky’s must-see small town. Start planning your trip today at www.visitbardstown.com…
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Bardstown loves its history, which is not surprising for a town that is 237 years old (although the first stirrings of settlement began eight years prior to that) - making it one of the oldest communities in Kentucky. Bardstown’s history parallels much of America’s, with one notable addition unique…
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Bardstown/Nelson County Tourism is honored to announce that Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid , the acclaimed documentary-style television series, will be coming to Bardstown to highlight our town’s extraordinary history, deep cultural roots, and timeless charm. Known for its in-depth storytelling and…
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The Seven Wonders of Bardstown We all know about the Seven Wonders of the World — the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Lighthouse of Alexandria, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and beyond. But Bardstown is no slouch when it comes to dazzling sights, unusual attractions and magical experiences. Here, we’ve…
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Parlor Room Tastings: “Step into the parlor” and discover Bardstown’s newest curated tasting experience, and we don’t mean just bourbon. While there’s plenty of what made us famous to satisfy your bourbon craving, The Parlor Room also offers other spirits as well as wine and beer. Located in the…
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Explore Bardstown’s Historic District The heart of Bardstown? Bardstown’s Historic District. On the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a place where you might feel as if you’ve slipped back in time, thanks to age-old architectural marvels like the Old Talbott Tavern & Inn, the County…
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