There’s Always Something Happening In The Bourbon Capital Of The World
Spring
See the city dubbed “The Most Beautiful Small Town in America” in full bloom.
Just 15 miles from downtown, trek through more than 40 miles of trails at Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, home to wildflowers old-growth trees — and a family of friendly Forest Giants by famed artist Thomas Dambo. Spring events include guided nature experiences, moonlit night walks, and more. And don’t miss Bernheim’s BloomFest every May, hosting local artisans, food vendors, a farmers’ market, entertainment and more.
Dine al fresco to take advantage of the beautiful spring weather. At the family-owned Mammy’s Kitchen & Bar, diners dig into southern comfort food on a beautiful patio while perusing more than 100 bourbons. Enjoy upscale dining plus a selection of more than 130 bourbons on the patio at The Rickhouse Restaurant & Lounge.
Explore the manicured gardens at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, the place immortalized by Stephen Collins Foster’s song of the same name. Play a round of golf, watch for seasonal birds, and tour Federal Hill, a majestic 1818 home. While there, learn how to make a perfect mint julep, the official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby (and the ultimate spring beverage).
Summer
Small town southern charm is the name of the game when summer rolls around in Bardstown.
Every summer, Bardstown celebrates. During National Bourbon Week, visitors and bourbon lovers can immerse themselves in exclusive tastings, behind-the-scenes distillery experiences, special releases, and bourbon-inspired events throughout Bardstown. Throughout the season, experience the magic of The Stephen Foster Story at My Old Kentucky Home State Park — a musical journey that brings history to life.
There’s much more music in the summer air. In nearby Gethsemane nearly every weekend between May and October, visitors to Log Still Distillery can experience open-air concerts from nationally known acts at The Amp. Additionally, Bardstown hosts open-air Summer Band Concerts in Bardstown Community Park each year. These free, outdoor shows are held at 7 p.m. every Friday (rain or shine!), from late May through August. And the annual Buttermilk Days Festival in August features big-name live performers complemented by southern cuisine and interactive experiences.
A longtime summer tradition, the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train rides the rails back to a time of fine dining aboard luxurious train cars in the heart of Kentucky Bourbon country. Enjoy a gourmet, seasonally inspired meal prepared fresh on board while taking in the beautiful scenery with top-notch service.
Fall
Fall in Bardstown has something for everyone, no matter what your cup of tea (or bourbon).
Held in Bardstown every September, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival draws people from all over the world for a week of celebrating the storied history and art of distilling America’s native spirit. More than 60 distilleries, with over 200 brands and expressions pour samples and offer engaging sessions with industry leaders and personalities.
Bardstown’s Historic Downtown is always picturesque, but in the fall, it’s downright magical. With over 300 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, boutique shops, cozy cafes, and tasting rooms offering seasonal sips, it’s the ideal place to spend an afternoon. And for a spectacular fall foliage stroll, head to Bernheim Forest, including new Playcosystem and inspiring outdoor art installations that bring nature and creativity together
Those with an artistic flair will love Bardstown Arts & Crafts Festival, taking place in the charming downtown historic district every October. The two-day event features over 250 artisans showcasing their unique and original works — jewelry, wearables, vintage goods and more. Southern comfort food and live music are also part of the fall fun.
Winter
Add some sizzle to the season and warm up your winter in Bardstown, the place named one of “the Merriest Main Streets in the US” in 2024 by the Today Show.
The holiday season officially kicks off in late November with Light Up Bardstown and the lighting of the official Christmas tree accompanied by music, refreshments, extended shopping hours and the arrival of Santa Claus. That same night, My Old Kentucky Home opens its historic doors for guided candlelight tours followed by bourbon barrel cake, cookies and hot cider. In early December, the annual Christmas Parade takes over downtown with an armada of festive floats.
Throughout the most wonderful time of the year, take a holiday-themed ride on the North Pole Express with My Old Kentucky Dinner Train and sip bourbon-spiked hot cocoa as you stroll through the historic downtown, filled with local shops for Christmas gifts. A new addition to the season is the Christmas Carnival, which takes over the grounds of My Old Kentucky Home for two days (December 6-7, 2025) with an array of activities guaranteed to please the entire family.
Be among the first to enjoy the world’s first bourbon-infused luxury hotel — The Trail. Freshly opened in 2025, this spot is steeped in Bardstown’s legendary charm and upscale amenities, including a dedicated Bourbon Butler and immersive, high-design guest rooms and suites