The number of century-old places you can visit, both in Kentucky and across the country, is dwindling; however, the few that are still standing are filled with history and intrigue. Once such place in Frankfort is over 200 years old and has been a part of the Bluegrass State’s bourbon industry since day one. Buffalo Trace Distillery crafts some of the most famous bourbon in the world, and guests are welcome to come and tour the distillery and learn all about this unique piece of Kentucky history. It’s an unforgettable experience!
Buffalo Trace Distillery sits on a 400-acre property in Frankfort and has watched the city grow up around it since its founding over 200 years ago. Today, it is a sought after destination for bourbon lovers, history buffs, and anyone looking for a unique Kentucky experience.
The sprawling property is a mixture of buildings - both new and old - and beautiful green spaces. The distillery actually dates back to the late 1700s. In 1792, Richard Taylor built a one-story stone house on the property, where it still stands to this day. From that point on, many other buildings were added, distilling methods were tested, and dreams were realized.
In 2013, Buffalo Trace was designated as a National Historic Landmark, making it an incredible tourist destination in our region. You can check out an interactive timeline of the distillery on its website here.
Several tours are offered so that you can experience this history for yourself. All of the tours are free of charge, are about an hour long, and include a tasting of a few of Buffalo Trace’s award-winning products. If you a looking for a fun, last-minute activity, take the Trace Tour, which runs regularly during open hours and does not require a reservation.
Buffalo Trace also offers a Hard Hat Tour, a Bourbon Barrel Tour, and others that take you behind the scenes of this amazing production. You'll learn all about the past 200 years, including how the distillery was able to continue to produce spirits during Prohibition.
If you are more interested in the history than the bourbon, definitely consider either the National Historic Landmark Tour or the E.H. Taylor Tour. Given the immense history here, it's not surprising that they also offer a Ghost Tour, as it's rumored that bourbon is not the only spirit hanging out at the distillery.
During your visit, you are welcome to roam around the property and, of course, purchase a few of the bourbons they have for sale. If you are curious about what to expect when visiting, take this amazing virtual tour before you arrive.
Bourbon is big business in Kentucky, and Buffalo Trace has long been a player in this historic scene since its earliest days. The past 200 years have been filled with fascinating stories and delicious creations - and you can experience it all for yourself on these unforgettable tours.
A tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery is not only for bourbon lovers, but for anyone who appreciates the history of Kentucky. A visit to this 200-year-old destination is truly an unforgettable experience. Have you taken a tour of this popular and historic distillery? Share your experience with us in the comments!
Buffalo Trace Distillery is located at 113 Great Buffalo Trace, Frankfort, KY 40601. For more information, visit its website here.
And for more reasons everyone in Kentucky should hit the Bourbon Trail at least once, check out our previous article here.
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