20 Things To Do In Bardstown Kentucky

Bardstown, Kentucky is a charming small town located in the heart of the Bluegrass State. It is known for its rich history, bourbon distilleries, and picturesque scenery. Whether you’re a history buff, a bourbon enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful getaway, there is plenty to do in Bardstown. In this article, we will list 20 things to do in Bardstown, Kentucky.

1. Visit the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History: This museum houses one of the largest collections of whiskey memorabilia in the world.
2. Tour the Maker’s Mark Distillery: Take a tour of the Maker’s Mark Distillery and learn about the history and production process of this iconic bourbon.
3. Explore My Old Kentucky Home State Park: This park is home to the Federal Hill Mansion, the inspiration for Stephen Foster’s famous song, “My Old Kentucky Home”.
4. Take a ghost tour: Bardstown is said to be one of the most haunted cities in America, so why not take a ghost tour and see for yourself?
5. Visit the Civil War Museum of the Western Theater: This museum showcases artifacts and exhibits from the Civil War era.
6. Tour the Barton 1792 Distillery: Take a tour of this historic distillery and taste some of its award-winning bourbons.
7. Explore the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest: This 16,000-acre forest offers miles of hiking trails, fishing lakes, and a variety of outdoor activities.
8. Visit the Abbey of Gethsemani: This monastery is home to a community of Trappist monks who have been producing world-famous bourbon fruitcakes for over 60 years.
9. Tour the Willett Distillery: Take a tour of this family-owned distillery and learn about their handcrafted bourbons.
10. Take a stroll down Bardstown’s Historic District: This district is home to many historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
11. Visit the Spalding Hall Museum: This museum houses artifacts from Bardstown’s history, including a collection of rare books.
12. Go on a bourbon trail: Bardstown is part of Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, which includes some of the most famous distilleries in the world.
13. Visit the Bardstown Art Gallery: This gallery showcases the work of local artists and offers classes and workshops.
14. Explore the Isaac Hite House: This historic home was built in 1794 and is now a museum that offers tours and events.
15. Visit the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center: This center offers tours and tastings of the famous Heaven Hill bourbons.
16. Go horseback riding: Bardstown’s picturesque countryside is the perfect setting for a leisurely horseback ride.
17. Visit the Old Bardstown Village: This village is a recreated 18th-century settlement that offers tours and events.
18. Tour the Jim Beam American Stillhouse: This distillery offers tours and tastings of its iconic Jim Beam bourbon.
19. Visit the Old Talbott Tavern: This historic tavern was once frequented by famous figures like Daniel Boone and Abraham Lincoln.
20. Take a hot air balloon ride: See Bardstown from a different perspective by taking a hot air balloon ride over its rolling hills and green pastures.

Bardstown, Kentucky is a hidden gem that offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From bourbon distilleries and museums to historic sites and outdoor adventures, there is always something to do in this charming small town. So pack your bags and head to Bardstown for a memorable and fun-filled vacation.