History & Museums

As Kentucky’s second-oldest city, Bardstown is rich in history, from grand estates to bourbon heritage and Civil War landmarks.

My Old Kentucky Home – Tour the iconic Federal Hill mansion, the inspiration for Kentucky’s state song.

Civil War Museum – Discover one of the nation’s most comprehensive Western Theater Civil War collections.

Kentucky Railway Museum – Explore railroad history with interactive exhibits and scenic train rides.

Wickland, Home of Three Governors – Step inside this stately Georgian mansion, once home to three Kentucky governors.

Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History – Dive into bourbon’s past with Prohibition relics and vintage bottles.

Bardstown/Nelson Co. African American Heritage Museum – Celebrate African American contributions to Bardstown’s history.

Old Talbott Tavern – Dine and drink at one of America’s oldest bourbon bars, once visited by Jesse James and Abraham Lincoln.

From historic homes to whiskey legends, Bardstown’s past is alive and waiting to be explored.