Bardstown
,Bardstown is a charming city in Kentucky known for its bourbon distilleries and rich history. The historic downtown area features well-preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings, along with quaint shops and restaurants. Visitors can explore attractions like the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History and My Old Kentucky Home State Park.
Bardstown also hosts the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival, drawing bourbon enthusiasts from around the world.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Historic Bardstown
morning
:Start your day by visiting the Bardstown Historical Museum to learn about the rich local history. Don't forget to grab a coffee at a nearby café before heading out.
afternoon
:In the afternoon, take a stroll through the quaint streets, checking out local shops and boutiques. Stop for lunch at a family-owned restaurant to enjoy Southern cuisine.
evening
:Wind down with a visit to the My Old Kentucky Home State Park for a guided tour of the mansion. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Bardstown's renowned eateries.
Bourbon Trail Adventure
morning
:Start your day at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Heritage Center and learn about the bourbon-making process. Sample some local bourbons to kick off your adventure.
afternoon
:After lunch, tour the Willett Distillery for a unique tasting experience. Enjoy the beautiful grounds created for bourbon enthusiasts.
evening
:Spend your evening at the Bourbon Marketplace, where you can shop for local spirits. Grab dinner at a pub and enjoy live music to celebrate the day.
Highlights
Good
- Rich history and culture, known for its connection to bourbon production
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and outdoor recreational opportunities
- Strong sense of community and local events
- Growing tourism sector with various attractions, such as distilleries and historical sites
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
Bad
- Limited job market outside of the tourism and manufacturing sectors
- Public transportation options may be limited
- Access to higher education institutions can be more challenging than in larger cities
- Extreme weather conditions, including hot summers and cold winters
- Potential for slower pace of life, which may not appeal to everyone
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Bardstown Community Park
Enjoy a day in Bardstown Community Park, which features walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields suitable for various outdoor games and family activities.
Bourbon Trail
Explore the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which offers opportunities for tours and tastings at nearby distilleries, combined with scenic outdoor experiences.
My Old Kentucky Home State Park
Visit My Old Kentucky Home State Park, where you can engage in hiking, picnicking, and touring the historic house, all while enjoying the beautiful landscapes.
Cedar Creek Lake
Spend time at Cedar Creek Lake for fishing, kayaking, or swimming, with designated areas for picnics and relaxation amid nature.
Old Bardstown Village
Wander through the historic Old Bardstown Village, where you can enjoy guided tours, outdoor exhibits, and beautiful landscaping that provides a glimpse of local history.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Bardstown with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
My Old Kentucky Home State Park
This historic park offers beautiful landscapes and the iconic mansion that serves as a backdrop for stunning photographs.
Bardstown Arts District
A charming area filled with art galleries, unique shops, and colorful murals, perfect for capturing the local culture and aesthetics.
Cedar Creek Lake
A picturesque lake surrounded by nature trails, offering serene views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Bardstown Bourbon Company
An innovative distillery with beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings, ideal for both photography and learning about bourbon-making.
Downtown Bardstown
The historic downtown area features charming buildings, brick streets, and lovely parks, perfect for capturing the essence of Bardstown.
Old Bardstown Village Civil War Museum
Not only a history museum but also a beautiful setting with unique displays, offering various photography opportunities.
Willy's Locally Known
A local favorite restaurant with outdoor seating and vibrant decorations, providing a great spot for food photography.
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
Located just outside Bardstown, this expansive arboretum offers diverse gardens, trails, and stunning views of nature.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Bourbon-Glazed Pork Chops
Tender pork chops coated in a sweet and savory bourbon glaze, often served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables. A classic dish that captures the essence of Bardstown's culinary heritage. Must-try at the Rickhouse Restaurant's historic dining room.
Must-Try!
Bourbon Ball Dessert
Indulge in a decadent bourbon-infused chocolate confection, a beloved local treat perfect for those with a sweet tooth. Visit the Old Talbott Tavern to savor this delightful dessert and explore the rich history of the establishment.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bardstown better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bardstown Farmers Market
Experience the vibrant Bardstown Farmers Market, where you can browse a diverse array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local delights. Engage with friendly vendors and sample freshly made snacks while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Food Truck Friday
Immerse yourself in Bardstown's street food culture at Food Truck Friday, a popular weekly event featuring a variety of mobile culinary offerings. Sample a range of dishes from savory BBQ to gourmet tacos, and enjoy live music and a lively community atmosphere.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for Traditions
Bardstown has a rich history and strong ties to traditions, especially with its bourbon culture and historical landmarks. Visitors should respect local customs, participate in community events thoughtfully, and show appreciation for the town's heritage.
Politeness and Hospitality
Kentuckians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Using polite greetings, saying 'please' and 'thank you,' and engaging in small talk are appreciated. Being welcoming in return will foster good relations with locals.
Dress Appropriately
Casual dress is common in Bardstown, but dressing appropriately for specific occasions, such as church services or formal events, is important. Being mindful of attire helps to show respect towards the local culture and values.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bardstown with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Bardstown, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a customary practice in service industries. It is common to tip service workers such as restaurant staff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel personnel. The standard tip is typically between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service received. In some establishments, tips may be included in the bill, especially for larger parties.
Payment
Payment practices in Bardstown generally align with those in broader American culture. Cash is accepted nearly everywhere, but credit and debit cards are also widely used. Many establishments offer the option of mobile payments and digital wallets. It is advisable to inquire about accepted payment methods if you're visiting or dining at local businesses. Additionally, some establishments may have minimum purchase amounts for credit card transactions.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bardstown.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Spring in Bardstown offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and festivals. Expect temperatures to range from the mid-50s to low 70s °F. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival in mid-April is a highlight.
Summer
Summer in Bardstown is warm and humid, with temperatures typically in the 70s to 90s °F. This season is perfect for enjoying the local wineries and distilleries. The annual July 4th celebrations include fireworks and parades.
Fall
Fall is perhaps the most picturesque time to visit Bardstown, with the foliage changing colors. Temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F. The Bardstown History Tour and various harvest festivals occur during this season.
Winter
Winter in Bardstown can be cold, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to 40s °F. Snow is possible, adding a scenic aspect to the city. Visitors can enjoy holiday lights and events, as well as indoor activities such as whiskey tastings.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
My Old Kentucky Home State Park
A scenic park featuring hiking trails that wind through beautiful landscapes, including views of the historic House and gardens.
Bernheim Forest
A vast nature preserve and arboretum with numerous hiking trails that provide a unique blend of natural beauty and environmental education.
Cedar Creek Lake
A natural area offering hiking trails around the lake, perfect for observing wildlife and enjoying serene waterfront views.
Salt River Trail
A scenic trail along the Salt River, providing opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural riverside environment.
Mammoth Cave National Park
Though a bit of a drive from Bardstown, this national park offers extensive hiking trails in addition to its world-famous cave system.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bardstown through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Bardstown by plane.
Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF)
Located approximately 40 miles north of Bardstown, this airport serves as the primary international gateway for the area.
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
Situated about 90 miles northeast of Bardstown, this airport serves a large number of international flights and is a major hub in the region.
Nashville International Airport (BNA)
Located approximately 120 miles southwest of Bardstown, this airport offers numerous domestic and international flights.
Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
About 120 miles northwest of Bardstown, this airport provides various international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
White
Predominantly, the majority of the population identifies as White or Caucasian.
Black or African American
A significant demographic group, representing a notable portion of the community.
Hispanic or Latino
Includes individuals from various Latin American backgrounds, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Asian
A smaller demographic group compared to others, representing individuals of Asian descent.
Native American
A minority group that includes individuals from native tribes or indigenous backgrounds.
Two or more races
Individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds, reflecting a diverse mix.
Other races
Includes individuals who may identify with races not categorized above.
The Soul of Bardstown
Discover the essence of Bardstown through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball
A widely played team sport in Bardstown, with schools and communities hosting competitive leagues.
Baseball
A popular summer pastime in Bardstown, featuring youth leagues and local teams.
Soccer
Gaining traction in Bardstown, with youth programs fostering interest and participation.
Football
High school football is especially popular, with games drawing large crowds and community support.
Golf
Bardstown offers several golf courses, popular among residents for recreational play.
Running
An increasing trend with local races and running clubs encouraging fitness and community engagement.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Several eateries in Bardstown offer creative and flavorful vegetarian and vegan dishes, embracing the abundance of fresh produce. Notable options include the farm-fresh salads at Bottle & Bond and the delectable vegan creations at The Rickhouse Restaurant.
Gluten-Free Friendly Offerings
Visitors adhering to a gluten-free diet can find accommodating choices at various establishments in Bardstown. From gluten-free pastas to inventive grain bowls, discerning options are available to cater to diverse dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bardstown with these cultural adventures.
