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Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY

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ToursFoodie FavoriteHistory BuffFree

Buffalo Trace Distillery

113 Great Buffalo Trace · Frankfort, KY

Why you should go…

Buffalo Trace sits on the Kentucky River at a site where records show distilling began in 1775, and the property is a National Historic Landmark. The Trace Tour introduces the history and science of bourbon, the Hard Hat Tour follows the full production process, and the Old Taylor Tour covers the legacy of E.H. Taylor Jr. Each tour ends with a tasting. You can also walk in to explore the campus and gift shop, though reservations are recommended for tours.

  • #bourbon distillery
  • #distillery tour
  • #whiskey tasting
  • #bourbon trail
  • #historic landmark

Good to know

General tours guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • Confirm the meeting point

    It is often a corner, a lobby, or a dock rather than the address you searched for. Check it the night before.

  • Small groups fill first

    In high season the intimate departures sell out well before the big-bus options do.

  • Ask how much is on foot

    Knowing how much of the route is walking, standing, or outdoors tells you what to wear and carry.

  • Read the weather policy

    Cancellation windows and rain rules vary by operator, and they are easier to find before you pay than after.

What's around here?

The closest stops to Buffalo Trace Distillery, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Sightseeing
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    Keeneland

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    18 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Attractions
    Family Favorite

    Kentucky Horse Park

    $25–$50

    Meet champion racehorses, see the Breeds Barn and tour the International Museum of the Horse on a working 1,224-acre horse farm.

    20 mi awaySwitch it up: Attractions

  • Sightseeing
    History Buff

    Mary Todd Lincoln House

    Under $25

    The girlhood home of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln, filled with period furniture, family portraits and Todd and Lincoln artifacts.

    23 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Sightseeing
    History Buff

    Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

    Under $25

    Tour restored 19th-century Shaker buildings, walk farm and nature trails, and stay or dine inside a preserved Shaker community.

    28 mi awaySwitch it up: Sightseeing

  • Tours
    Iconic

    James B. Beam Distilling Co.

    $25–$50

    Tour the Clermont distillery where Beam bourbon is made, from grain to barrel, and finish with a guided tasting.

    47 mi awayMore like this

  • Tours
    Iconic

    Maker's Mark Distillery

    $25–$50

    Tour a historic bourbon distillery on Star Hill Farm, taste the whisky and hand-dip your own bottle in red wax.

    47 mi awayMore like this