Bourbon is the drink of choice in Kentucky, celebrated around the state in historic distilleries and at bourbon-focused festivals, but there is no best way to experience the bourbon scene than by traveling along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The trail stretches 60 miles from Louisville to Lexington to Bardstown. From boutique hotels to quaint inns, you’ll want to book a room at one of these best hotels along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
21c Museum Hotel Louisville
One of the best hotels in Louisville, 21c Museum Hotel Louisville is a downtown hotel that is a luxury accommodation option that will complement your experience along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. This boutique hotel is not only a great place to lay your head but also a contemporary art museum as well. The hotel is a centrally-located hotel near popular attractions like the Museum of Art & Craft and Louisville Slugger Field.
The Brown Hotel - Louisville
Another top pick in Louisville, The Brown Hotel is a historic property built in 1923. This hotel will stop you in your tracks the moment you walk through its historic doors. The grand marble lobby is fit for royalty, so there is no surprise why a number of celebrities have stayed here, like Elizabeth Taylor, Muhammad Ali, and Presidents Barack Obama and George H.W. Bush. While you’re here, make sure to try the famous sandwich served in the hotel’s English Grill restaurant called simply as the “hot brown.”
Louisville Marriott East - Louisville
If you’re going to do the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, you might as well stay in the official hotel of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, which is the Louisville Marriott East. This Marriott location is perfect for bourbon fans, from the bourbon-colored guest rooms to the hotel restaurant and lounge, Charr’d Bourbon Kitchen and Lounge, that is home to over 200 different varieties of bourbon and offers easy access to Louisville’s most popular attractions.
Beaumont Inn - Harrodsburg
After a day of sampling bourbon from Wild Turkey Distillery or Four Roses Distillery, The Beaumont Inn is a convenient bed and breakfast within a 30-minute drive of these iconic distilleries. This family-owned inn is actually four historic houses with 31 guest rooms total, perfect for those looking for a quaint stay. Found in Harrodsburg, the state’s oldest town, you’ll be within walking distance of the town’s charming downtown area when you stay at The Beaumont Inn.
The Seelbach Hilton - Louisville
No matter if you’re in Kentucky for the Derby or to experience the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, The Seelbach Hilton Louisville is a great place to stay. This historic hotel has hosted iconic guests from John F. Kennedy to Al Capone. During your stay here, try the Seelbach cocktail, the hotel’s signature drink with the main ingredient being bourbon of course.
Maple Hill Manor Bed & Breakfast - Springfield
Relax in Kentucky’s countryside when you stay at Maple Hill Manor Bed & Breakfast. Commonly referred to as Kentucky’s best bed and breakfast, Maple Hill Manor delights guests with in-room fireplaces and gourmet breakfasts. With Maker’s Mark Distillery only nine miles away, this inn is truly an ideal place for Kentucky Bourbon Trail travelers.
Omni Louisville Hotel - Louisville
This downtown Louisville hotel has over 600 guest rooms, so you’re sure to find a room here even during the city’s busiest times. Omni Louisville Hotel is perfect for bourbon lovers and foodies alike, since Omni Louisville is home to six restaurants and dining options. However, you’ll want to venture out to explore the nearby distilleries such as Rabbit Hole Distillery, Evan Williams Bourbon, and Jim Beam Urban Stillhouse.
The Campbell House - Lexington
Nestled in the rolling hills of Kentucky, Campbell House is a top hotel in Lexington that exudes southern charm. This hotel is located only minutes from downtown Lexington and attractions like the Red Mile racetrack and Town Branch Distillery. This boutique hotel recently went through a multi-million dollar renovation, so even guests looking for a modern stay will enjoy a night at this elegant accommodation.
Bourbon Manor - Bardstown
With a name like Bourbon Manor, this bed and breakfast couldn’t be more perfect for Kentucky Bourbon Trail travelers. Found in Bardstown, Kentucky, which just so happens to be the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” this charming inn features 10 bourbon-themed rooms. There are a number of distilleries in Bardstown such as the Bardstown Bourbon Company, Barton 1792 Distillery, Jim Beam, and Heaven Hill Distilleries.