LOUISVILLE DISTILLERY FIELD GUIDE
A Full-Day Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill & Bardstown Bourbon Co.
A fully curated, 9.5-hour Saturday tour from downtown Louisville that handles transportation, distillery reservations, guided tastings and a locally sourced lunch.
A Full-Day Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill & Bardstown Bourbon Co..
Adventure brief
A Full-Day Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Maker’s Mark, Heaven Hill & Bardstown Bourbon Co.
Travel through Bourbon Country aboard a comfortable Mint Julep Experiences vehicle for guided tours and tastings at celebrated distilleries, a locally sourced lunch, and expert storytelling that ties the day together — all arranged so you can relax and savor the experience.
Experience the heart of bourbon country with Mint Julep Experiences on a private tour of Maker's Mark, Heaven Hill, and Bardstown Bourbon Co. This unique adventure offers a deep dive into the art and tradition of bourbon-making across three renowned distilleries near Louisville, Kentucky. Each stop reveals expert insights into distillation, aging, and tasting, brought to life by engaging local guides. Between tastings, enjoy a delicious locally sourced lunch that perfectly complements the day’s rich flavors. Comfortable transportation is provided, making your day stress-free and fully immersive. Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or just discovering this iconic American spirit, this curated journey combines education, flavor, and unforgettable memories. With every sip and story, you gain a deeper appreciation for Kentucky’s bourbon heritage in a relaxing and friendly atmosphere. This private tour ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for groups, couples, or individuals seeking an exclusive, authentic experience.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
The day follows a curated loop through Bourbon Country with scheduled stops for tours, tastings and lunch.
Meet at the Mint Julep Hub — Omni Hotel, Downtown Louisville
Guests gather at the Mint Julep Hub at the Omni Hotel for departure; public tours depart from this downtown location.
Maker’s Mark Distillery
Guided tour and tastings focusing on Maker’s Mark’s production and iconic presentation.
Heaven Hill Distillery
A premium connoisseur tasting that highlights Heaven Hill’s notable bourbons.
Bardstown Bourbon Co.
Tour and tasting at Bardstown Bourbon Co., showcasing their blend of innovation and tradition.
Locally Sourced Lunch
A stop for a meal at a locally loved spot is included as part of the curated day.
Return to Downtown Louisville
After the final tasting and lunch, the group returns to the Omni Hotel in downtown Louisville.
Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a valid photo ID if you plan to consume alcohol. Mint Julep tour vehicles are non-smoking; possession of firearms or other weapons is prohibited. A small cooler (12×12 or smaller) with snacks and beverages is permitted on public tours.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Maker’s Mark Distillery
Explore a household name on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail with a guided tour and tastings that emphasize Maker’s Mark’s craftsmanship and its signature red wax seal.
Heaven Hill Distillery
Enjoy a premium connoisseur tasting showcasing Heaven Hill’s renowned bourbons, presented as part of the curated Saturday itinerary.
Bardstown Bourbon Co.
Visit Bardstown Bourbon Co. for a tour and tasting at a distillery known for blending modern approaches with traditional bourbon-making.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
From meet-up in downtown Louisville to the return at day's end, the tour moves at an easy, well-paced rhythm: comfortable group transport between distilleries, guided tours and tastings that unpack production and provenance, a stop for a locally sourced lunch, and an expert guide weaving history and insider stories throughout the day.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this day is best for — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Closed-toe shoes are required; dress is casual. Bring a valid photo ID if you intend to consume alcohol. You may bring a cooler 12×12 or smaller with snacks and beverages on public tours; ice and bottled water are provided. Gratuity of 15–20% is suggested.
All Mint Julep Tours vehicles are non-smoking. Some distilleries have designated smoking areas. Possession of firearms or other weapons is strictly prohibited.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Are there age restrictions on bourbon tours?
To legally drink in Kentucky you must be 21 and have a valid form of identification. Underage guests or guests without ID will not be permitted to drink on a Mint Julep Tours bus or at a distillery; most distilleries allow underage guests to tour without tasting. For ticketed public bourbon tours through Mint Julep Tours, children must be 12 years of age or older.
Do I have to drink on a bourbon tour?
No. Many guests choose to enjoy Bourbon Country without tasting bourbon; the tours share the history and craftsmanship of the spirit and are informative for non-drinkers as well.
What kind of vehicles do you use for tours?
Most public bourbon tours travel in one of Mint Julep Tours’ comfortable 22-passenger buses.
Can I bring alcohol on the tour bus?
Yes. On public tours guests may bring a cooler (12×12 or smaller) with snacks and beverages; you must be 21 years of age to consume alcohol. Ice and bottled water are provided on all Mint Julep Tours.
Is it customary to tip the tour guide or driver?
Gratuity is always appreciated and up to your discretion; Mint Julep Experiences suggests 15–20%.
Where should I park for the ticketed tour that departs from the Omni Hotel?
All public tours depart from the Omni Hotel in downtown Louisville. It is recommended to park in the Omni Parking Garage or the Starks Garage, both across the street from the Omni Hotel.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-18T12:03:07.226Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.