How to Plan a Custom Bourbon Tour: Map, Route, and Tips

Planning your own bourbon tour is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Kentucky’s signature spirit. Instead of following a preset itinerary, you can decide which distilleries to visit, how much time to spend at each, and what extras to include along the way. Whether you’re mapping out a day trip in Louisville or a full weekend across Bourbon Country, here’s how to design a custom tour that fits your style.

Step 1: Choose Your Region

Kentucky’s bourbon trail is spread out, and trying to cover too much in one day can leave you rushed. Start by narrowing down your focus.

• Louisville & the Urban Bourbon Trail: Great for walking tours and easy access to downtown dining.
• Central Kentucky (Bardstown & Clermont): The heart of bourbon country, full of iconic names.
• Southern Kentucky: Scenic routes and quieter distilleries for a more laid-back experience.

Pro tip: Pick one region per day to maximize your time and minimize long drives.

Step 2: Map Out Distilleries

Once you’ve chosen your area, select 3–4 distilleries for the day. That’s the sweet spot—enough variety without feeling rushed.

Here’s an example route for Louisville:

1. Start at Evan Williams Bourbon Experience for a deep dive into bourbon history.
2. Head to Old Forester Distilling Co. on Whiskey Row.
3. Walk over to Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery for small-batch tastings.
4. End with Angel’s Envy for its unique finishing process.

And for a Southern Kentucky day:

1. Begin at Maker’s Mark with its iconic red wax seal.
2. Stop at Heaven Hill for a large-scale perspective.
3. Wrap up at Limestone Branch for craft-style bourbon.

Step 3: Build in Food Stops

Bourbon pairs best with good food. Plan your meals strategically:

• Lunch halfway through – breaks up tastings and resets your palate.
• Dinner in Louisville or Bardstown – cap off the day with Kentucky classics like Hot Brown or bourbon-infused barbecue.
  
  

Local tip: Many distilleries now have in-house restaurants or food trucks, which makes lunch stops simple.

Step 4: Arrange Transportation

Safety should always come first. Bourbon tastings add up quickly, so having a plan matters.

• Bring a designated driver if you’re self-planning.
• Hire a private bourbon tour service for the easiest option.
• For larger groups, consider a van or shuttle—but keep in mind you’ll lose some flexibility.

Private tours are especially popular because they allow you to customize your schedule and routes while letting someone else handle the logistics.

Step 5: Book in Advance

Distillery tours often sell out, especially in the fall. Book tastings and experiences as early as possible. Some distilleries also offer premium tours (like single-barrel tastings or behind-the-scenes access) that require reservations.

Step 6: Add Extra Experiences

Your bourbon tour doesn’t have to stop at distilleries. Consider:

• Visiting cooperages to see how barrels are made.
• Touring local horse farms for a classic Kentucky touch.
• Stopping at historic sites along your route.

These extras round out the day and add variety to your experience.

Final Tips for a Perfect Tour

• Limit yourself to 3–4 distilleries per day.
• Stay hydrated between tastings.
• Keep notes so you remember which bourbons stood out.
• Leave some flexibility in your schedule—you may want to linger at your favorite stop.

Ready to Build Your Tour?

Planning a custom bourbon tour is about balance. With the right map, a thoughtful route, and a few smart tips, you’ll create an experience that’s as smooth as the bourbon itself.

If you’d like a tour built just for you, reach out directly. You can call us or fill out our online form to set up a personal consultation with Bob, the owner of Bourbon Hall Tours. He’ll walk you through options, recommend the best routes, and help you design a trip you’ll never forget.