There are a handful of excellent museums in Kentucky on Bardstown’s Museum Row, including the famed Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History and the immersive Civil War Museum. Aside from these curated museums, one of the most popular things to do in Bardstown is explore the historic mansions, homes, bourbon distilleries, and businesses that are indeed the heart of our cozy small town.
Adding a visit to one of these museums in Kentucky to your itinerary is the perfect way to beat the heat in the summer. It’s also a nice break between bourbon tastings and tours. What may come as a surprise to some is that touring the Bardstown bourbon distilleries is actually quite the history lesson in itself! For example, the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is one part tasting, one part teaching, and one part exploring a museum of artifacts and family history.
Additionally, touring these historic buildings is such a lovely activity for couples visiting Kentucky. However, one of the best ways to connect with the history in Bardstown is to stay at a property with deep roots, and the Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast offers luxurious accommodations while maintaining that old-world charm. With impeccable Southern hospitality, beautiful guest rooms, a bountiful breakfast, and one of the best bars in Bardstown on-site, you’ll love staying at our historic bed and breakfast in Bardstown. Book your lodging today!
The Best Museums in Kentucky are in Bardstown on Museum Row
Bardstown, Kentucky, often hailed as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” is significant in American history. Established in 1780, Bardstown is one of Kentucky’s oldest cities and offers a long list of historical sites, including the Civil War Museum, My Old Kentucky Home State Park, and the charming downtown district filled with preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings.
The city’s unique blend of historical charm and vibrant bourbon culture make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts eager to explore the roots of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage and American history. Here are the top museums in Kentucky and historical sites to visit during your stay.
- Civil War Museum: One of the largest and most comprehensive Civil War museums in the United States, the museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibits, and dioramas that vividly portray the tumultuous period of the American Civil War. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits detailing military strategies, soldiers’ personal stories, and the war’s impact on civilian life.
- Women’s Civil War Museum: Stroll through a historic village and learn more about women’s role in the Civil War, an often overlooked and underappreciated element of this period in America.
- Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History: Visitors can explore exhibits featuring rare whiskey bottles, vintage advertising, and historic documents, providing a comprehensive look at the industry’s evolution. The museum, housed in the landmark Spalding Hall, also showcases memorabilia from prohibition and the contributions of influential figures in whiskey history.
- Kentucky Railway Museum: Just down the road in New Haven, this is one of the best railway museums in Kentucky. It offers visitors an immersive journey into the history of railroads in the United States. It showcases an extensive collection of historic locomotives, railcars, and memorabilia. Guests can experience the nostalgia of train travel through scenic excursions on restored vintage trains.
- Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral: This historic cathedral, next to Spalding Hall and Flaget Hall, is a must-see on a tour of downtown Bardstown.
- My Old Kentucky Home State Park: This beautiful state park has so many things to do! Tour My Old Kentucky Home, a federal-style mansion with original furnishings and antiques. Your guide will give you insights into this historic site. If you’re visiting during the summer, be sure to get tickets to The Stephan Foster Story musical.
If you’d like more information on the best museums in Kentucky located in Bardstown, feel free to ask your innkeepers during your stay at our bed and breakfast.
The Best Bed and Breakfast in Bardstown, KY
Our bed and breakfast in Bardstown is a historic treasure, offering luxurious accommodations that reflect the elegance of a bygone era. The manor comprises two pre-Civil War plantation structures, thoughtfully restored to provide modern comforts while retaining a historical authenticity. Each guest room is elegantly decorated with period furnishings, fine bedding, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy spacious suites featuring antique furniture, fireplaces, and private baths, creating an atmosphere of refined luxury that transports visitors back to the grandeur of the 19th century.
In addition to its luxurious accommodations, Guests can indulge in gourmet breakfasts served in the manor’s elegant dining room, unwind with a drink at the newly opened Bunghole Bourbon Bar, or relax with a massage at the spa. We offer a range of enhancements and special packages designed to make your getaway to Bardstown unforgettable. These curated packages, including bourbon tasting tours, romantic touches, and local experiences, allow guests to tailor their stay to their interests.
These fantastic additions ensure that every stay at Bourbon Manor B&B is comfortable and rich in the cultural and historical experiences that make Bardstown a unique destination. As long-time Innkeepers, Todd and Tyler, as well as their outstanding staff members, strive to create a welcoming and memorable experience in a place they love and cherish. They hope that you feel the same way and join us time and again for your getaways in Kentucky! Start planning and book your lodging today!
