Bardstown is celebrated as one of the most charming small towns in Kentucky, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and hospitality. Established in 1780, it stands as Kentucky’s second-oldest town, with a rich heritage evident in its well-preserved architecture and numerous historic sites. The Bardstown Historic District, encompassing 26 blocks and over 300 properties, showcases Federal and Georgian styles, reflecting the town’s early prominence.
Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown is home to several renowned distilleries, including Heaven Hill, Maker’s Mark, and Jim Beam. Visitors can explore the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, experiencing tours and tastings that highlight the craftsmanship behind this iconic spirit. The annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival further celebrates this heritage, attracting enthusiasts from around the globe.
While discovering Bardstown could be a full-day trip, there’s plenty to do for an extended vacation—especially if visiting the bourbon distilleries is on your list. The best way to explore these establishments is by tour with a driver, so you can sip away and not worry about driving. When deciding where to stay, our Bardstown bed and breakfast offers a fantastic add-on package for touring the distilleries. Check out our availability and lodging options, and start planning your trip to one of the most amazing small towns in Kentucky. Book your room today!
Small Towns in Kentucky: Things to Do in Bardstown
Visiting the small towns in Kentucky is such a lovely change of pace from the larger metropolitan areas. With that classic Southern hospitality, you’ll be welcomed with open arms at local businesses, distilleries, and restaurants. This combination of historical depth, cultural richness, and kind residents makes Bardstown a quintessential example of Kentucky’s small-town charm.
Here are our favorite things to do in Bardstown during your stay:
- Bardstown Bourbon Distilleries: Most folks joining us in Bardstown want to taste the American spirit that put our small town on the map. There are 11 distilleries within 16 miles of our town center. As one of the first small towns in Kentucky known for producing bourbon, you can find a lovely selection of distilleries for immersive tours, tastings, and gifts. We always suggest Heaven Hill Distillery, Lux Row Distillers, and Preservation Distillery & Farm as good places to start!
- Kentucky Breweries & Wineries: Beyond bourbon, if you prefer beer and wine, there’s a lovely selection of these establishments, too. A popular brewery is Scout & Scholar, a fantastic place for lunch and a beer flight. The best wineries are set out in the rolling hills, offering scenic views while you sip on the cold-weather varietals that thrive in Kentucky.
- A Cultural Icon: The Stephen Foster Story, Kentucky’s official outdoor musical, is performed at My Old Kentucky Home State Park, providing a glimpse into the state’s musical legacy. You can tour the historic estate home, which feels like stepping back in time with original furnishings and tour guides dressed in formal period fashions.
- Bardstown Historical Museums: If you’re a history buff, head to Bardstown Museum Row for an in-depth look into the Civil War. This is also where you’ll find the Women’s Civil War Museum, shedding light on the value and hardships the women faced during this trying time in America.
- Downtown Shopping & Events: Like many small towns in Kentucky, the decorations are spectacular during the holidays! Lights are strung up, garlands dress balconies and railings, and wreaths are on every door. Visiting the downtown boutiques is fantastic all year long, and it’s especially festive during Christmastime. Follow the historic downtown walking tour to see all of the best sights.
- My Old Kentucky Dinner Train: One of our all-time favorite things to do in Bardstown is hop aboard a vintage train car for a wonderful meal and ride through the scenic countryside. These excursions sell out way in advance, so be sure to get your tickets at the same time as your lodging.
- The Amp at Log Still: What makes a bourbon tasting even more fun? Catching a fun outdoor concert afterward! The Amp at Log Still Distillery has a long list of major performers, including country music, pop, and rock and roll stars.
- Around the Town Carriage: Another fantastic way to see the sights is on a romantic horse-drawn carriage, buggie, or stagecoach ride. Your tour guide will highlight the important locations and historical sites along the way.
Book our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast!
As you roam the charming streets of one of the best small towns in Kentucky, you can rest easy knowing that you have our Bardstown bed and breakfast awaiting your return. In fact, the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast was just awarded the “Best Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky” by the International Travel & Hospitality Awards. These winners were picked based on guest reviews, online ratings, and feedback. It’s such an honor to be recognized, especially when hospitality is a passion.
At our B&B, our welcoming atmosphere begins from the moment you check in! Our warm staff will show you to your guest room in our historic manor house. Rooms are all equipped with luxurious Comphy brand linens, antique furnishings, and everything you need for a restful stay. There are also all kinds of wonderful touches on-site, from a massage room (schedule these in advance) and our brand new state-of-the-art bourbon bar, a second iteration of the Bung Hole Bar that sadly burned down many years ago.
Each morning, we will treat you to a beautiful homemade breakfast with Southern classics, sweet and savory options, and all the hot coffee and tea you can drink. It’s the best way to start your day as you plan your itinerary for bourbon tastings and tours, stroll downtown, and head to the local museums and parks. There are so many great things to do in Bardstown! Start planning your next couples getaway and book your lodging today.
