The Bourbon Trail attracts "bourbonators" from all over the world, but what is the appeal for those who perhaps (gasp) don't like the taste of it? Or those who start to doze off at the start of any detailed explanation of how bourbon is made? There's still a place on this trail for you, and I urge you to give it a try, just once. But chances are, you'll want to try it again and again when you visit Bardstown, one of the best small towns in the U.S.
In the past 5 years, more than 2.5 million people have flocked to Kentucky's most famous trail - The Bourbon Trail. If you weren't one of them, perhaps because bourbon isn't your "thing," you are truly missing out. True, the trail has knowledgeable tours and plenty of opportunities to taste this Kentucky whiskey, but there is something for everyone.
If you like a challenge, or perhaps you love a good checklist, then be sure to pick up a Bourbon Trail Passport. You can get them at any stop along the trail and if you complete it, you get a free t-shirt! This is a photo of the Bourbon Trail Almanac and other souvenirs, also great collectibles from your experience.
If you love beautiful buildings and classic architecture, then the trail is for you. Even if you're just along for the ride, this trail could be known for its stunning locations, along with the bourbon. From porch-wrapped large cottages, to stone front stunners, you'll love the architecture along the trail.
If you're more into art than bourbon, the trail is still a destination for you. At Maker's Mark Distillery, you'll be rewarded at the end of your tour with this gorgeous colorful ceiling by renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. Each distillery is filled with gaze-worthy art and of course they are all a great backdrop for beginning to experienced photographers.
A drive in the country is a Kentucky pastime and you can achieve this along the Bourbon Trail. Classic fence-lined pastures, stone walls, grazing horses and fields of flowers are all waiting for you to visit.
The Bourbon Trail may be known for its beverages, but it's stepping up its food game as well. Star Hill Provisions recently opened at Maker's Mark and is serving fresh, Kentucky-inspired meals, perfect if you're a foodie, rather than a lover of bourbon.
Bourbon is a big business in Kentucky, but there are also ways to get right to the heart of the distilling industry. You can opt to take the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, with its own passport, and get deep into the process and history of Kentucky's whiskey. This tour will continue to take you through the rolling hills of the Bluegrass State, on a picturesque experience.
If you don't care for bourbon, that doesn't mean you shouldn't care for your experience on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. You'll love the scenery, hidden treasures, artwork, food and time spent on the trail, and perhaps you'll develop a new appreciation for Kentucky's infamous drink of choice.
Are you ready to hit the trail? Are you already a Bourbon Trail expert? Any tips for those wanting to experience it for the first time? For more info, visit their website here.
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