If you love bourbon, Louisville is the place to be. This city is the beating heart of whiskey country, home to some of the most iconic distilleries in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your bourbon journey, Louisville offers a perfect mix of history, craftsmanship, and hospitality.
I spent 48 hours in Louisville last October, soaking up the best of the bourbon scene—from distillery tours to incredible food and lively bars. If you’re planning a trip, this guide will help you make the most of your time, covering where to stay, what to drink, and where to eat.
Where to Stay In Louisville
Luxury: Hotel Genevieve (~$180 per night)
During my trip, I stayed at Hotel Genevieve, and it was an excellent choice. The rooms were spacious, comfortable, and stylishly designed, blending modern luxury with a touch of Louisville charm. The hotel also has a fantastic rooftop bar—perfect for unwinding with a cocktail after a long day of distillery visits.
Budget: Econo Lodge Downtown (~$70–$90 per night)
If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, Econo Lodge Downtown is a solid option. It’s simple but well-located, meaning you can save money on accommodation and spend more on bourbon.
Getting Around
Public transport isn’t great, but Lyfts are easy to find, and downtown is very walkable. If you’re venturing outside the city to Bardstown or Stitzel-Weller, renting a car is a good idea.
Day 1: Distilleries & Downtown Vibes
Morning – Distillery Tours
Start your day at Angel’s Envy. As the first full-production distillery to open on Whiskey Row after Prohibition, it sets a high bar for modern bourbon experiences. The tour is polished and informative, but the real highlight is the bourbon and chocolate tasting—a perfect pairing that enhances the rich, complex flavors of the whiskey. (Try the Orange Chimère with Angel’s Ency Port Finish..trust me)
Next, head to Old Forester Distilling Co. This is the only distillery on Whiskey Row with an in-house cooperage, meaning you can watch barrels being made on-site. The tour gives you a fantastic look at the history of Old Forester and its role in shaping Kentucky bourbon.
Lunch – Troll Pub Under the Bridge
For lunch, head to Troll Pub Under the Bridge, a quirky underground pub with a historic setting. If you want a true Louisville experience, order the Hot Brown sandwich—a rich, cheesy, open-faced classic.
Afternoon – More Bourbon & Exploring
In the afternoon, make your way to Rabbit Hole Distillery. Unlike traditional distilleries, Rabbit Hole embraces a sleek, contemporary design, offering an innovative take on bourbon-making. The distillery shop is also full of beautiful bourbon merchandise.
If you have time, stop at Michter’s Fort Nelson Distillery, a small-batch distillery known for its high-quality whiskey. The guided tasting experience is excellent, and the lineup of Michter’s expressions is worth savoring.
Evening – Dinner & Drinks
Dinner at Jack Fry’s is a must. This Louisville institution has an old-school, speakeasy vibe with warm lighting and classic Southern fare. I had the fried oysters followed by the pork shank, which was excellent, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
After dinner, end the night at Proof on Main, located inside the 21c Museum Hotel. The bourbon selection is impressive, and the atmosphere is sophisticated but welcoming. Proof on Main also has a fantastic food menu, if you would rather dine in the center of the city.
Day 2: Beyond the City & More Bourbon
Morning – Distillery Road Trip
For your second day, venture beyond downtown to experience Kentucky’s bourbon history.
If you want a taste of bourbon’s past, visit Stitzel-Weller Distillery, once home to Pappy Van Winkle. The tour here is a deep dive into Louisville’s bourbon legacy and the history of the drink in Louisville.
If you’re looking for a modern distillery with excellent food, head to Bardstown Bourbon Company. It’s about 55 minutes outside the city, but well worth the trip. The restaurant serves fantastic Southern-inspired dishes, and the tasting experiences are top-notch. If you don’t have time for the full drive, they also have a Tasting Room in Downtown Louisville.
Lunch – Lou Lou on Market
Back in Louisville, stop at Lou Lou on Market for lunch. The restaurant has an extensive menu complete with Southern comfort dishes (oh…that gumbo), and classics like burgers and pasta dishes.
Afternoon – Final Bourbon Experience
For your last afternoon in Louisville, you have a few options:
- Revisit your favorite distillery for an in-depth tasting.
- Explore the Frazier History Museum, which has bourbon-related exhibits and activities.
- Relax at a whiskey bar—somewhere with a deep selection like Hell or High Water. This bar has an immersive, underground speakeasy vibe and a sophisticated cocktail menu.
Evening – Closing Out the Trip
For a final meal, head to Lobby Bar & Grill. It’s a great spot to wind down, reflect on the trip, and enjoy one last pour of Kentucky’s finest.
Pick Up A Souvenir
Almost every distillery in Louisville has a well-stocked gift shop, offering everything from branded glassware and apparel to bar tools and cocktail books. If you’re a collector or just looking for a unique souvenir, keep an eye out for distillery-exclusive bottles—limited-edition releases that you won’t find anywhere else. These exclusives can range from special barrel picks to unique cask finishes, making them a great way to take home a piece of your bourbon experience.
Enjoy Your Trip!
Louisville is a city that lives and breathes bourbon. Whether you’re touring historic distilleries, sipping cocktails in a rooftop bar, or diving into a Hot Brown sandwich, this city delivers an unforgettable whiskey experience.
I only scratched the surface in 48 hours, but Louisville’s bourbon scene is one I’d gladly return to. If you love whiskey, great food, and Southern hospitality, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this vibrant city.
Read the full article at A Bourbon Lover’s Guide To Louisville: How To Spend 48 Hours In Whiskey Heaven
