Things To Do
Welcome to Bardstown, Kentucky, where history, hospitality, and bourbon create an unforgettable destination. Whether you're here to tour world-famous distilleries, explore historic landmarks, or soak in small-town charm, Bardstown offers an experience like no other.
Bourbon Experiences: Tour legendary distilleries like Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, Lux Row Distillers, and Bardstown Bourbon Company. Want to dive deeper? Learn bourbon’s journey from grain to glass at the Bourbon Capital Academy.
Museums & History: Step into the past at the Kentucky Railway Museum, uncover Civil War history at the Civil War Museum, or celebrate local heritage at the Bardstown/Nelson Co. African-American Heritage Museum, honoring the contributions of people of color in shaping Bardstown and Nelson County.
Downtown & Shopping: Wander the streets of Historic Downtown Bardstown, enjoy an old-fashioned soda at Hurst Soda Fountain, shop at charming boutiques such as Cactus Annie’s, and experience the Bourbon Capital Entertainment District, where you can sip and stroll with a handcrafted cocktail in hand.
Dining & Nightlife: Savor Southern favorites at Mammy’s Kitchen, grab a craft beer at Scout & Scholar Brewing Co., enjoy authentic Italian at Cafe' Primo, or indulge in a perfectly cooked steak at The Rickhouse Restaurant & Lounge. Sip on history with a bourbon at The Old Talbott Tavern Bar, unwind with a nightcap at The Volstead Bourbon Lounge, or enjoy an expertly crafted cocktail at Liam Ash Cocktail Emporium.
Entertainment & More: Catch a live show at The Amp at Log Still Distillery, experience Kentucky’s most iconic musical at The Stephen Foster Story, or enjoy live music at Bardstown’s bars and venues. Take a walking food tour with Taste of Bardstown Tours, craft your own candle at Making Good Scentz, or hit the greens at My Old Kentucky Home Golf Course.
Keep These Events in Mind When Planning Your Visit:
- Kentucky Bourbon Festival – A must-attend celebration of bourbon culture
- Bardstown Arts & Crafts Festival – Featuring handcrafted goods and local artisans
- National Bourbon Week – A weeklong tribute to America’s native spirit
Make sure to mark your calendar and plan your trip around these can’t-miss events for an even more unforgettable Bardstown experience! See full calendar here.
Plan your visit today and experience why Bardstown is more than just a destination—it’s a feeling!
Attractions
Bardstown, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World®, is a destination rich in history, charm…
Arts & Culture
Bardstown’s rich history and vibrant arts scene make it a destination for culture lovers. Step…
History & Museums
As Kentucky’s second-oldest city, Bardstown is rich in history, from grand estates to bourbon…
Parks & Recreation
Whether you're looking for a scenic hike, a refreshing swim, or a relaxing day on the greens…
Family Friendly
Bardstown isn’t just for bourbon lovers—it’s also packed with family-friendly…
Tours
Explore Bardstown like never before with immersive tours that bring history, bourbon, and local…
Shopping
Bardstown’s shopping scene offers a charming mix of boutiques, specialty stores, and…