Off the Bourbon Trail

Off the Bourbon Trail
KENTUCKY POINTS OF INTEREST
Off the Bourbon Trail, there were so many wonderful places we got to see on our trip,
aside from the bourbon distilleries.
Along with the incredible distilleries we visited,
we made sure to discover some other fantastic spots during our journey.
This is the ideal opportunity to discover these hidden gems in
Kentucky by mixing them in between visits to different distilleries.
For planning help visit our Bourbon Trail Day-By-Day Itineraries.

Off the Bourbon Trail:
NATIONAL CORVETTE MUSEUM & FACTORY
(CST 1 hr. 45 min. SW of Louisville)
350 Corvette Drive, Bowling Green, KY

Don’t miss out on the chance to visit this incredible museum
if you have a love for Corvettes!

• Every corner is filled with gorgeous cars and the rich history, design evolution, and engineering of this iconic vehicle is beautifully displayed throughout the museum. Your tour guide will bring it all to life through interactive exhibits.
  
• You’ll also get to see rare memorabilia and even glimpse into the infamous sinkhole that swallowed eight valuable Corvettes in 2014 – a result of being built over part of the Mammoth Cave system.
  
• By the end of your visit, you’ll fully understand why America has such a passionate connection to this classic car. And if that’s not enough, make sure to book a tour of the plant where you can watch Corvettes being produced firsthand.
  
• And before you leave, don’t forget to enter one (or more) of their ongoing contests for a chance to win your own brand-new Corvette. Trust me, we entered a few times ourselves and anxiously awaited by the phone for hours hoping for that call.

Maybe you’ll be the lucky winner next!

 

Off the Bourbon Trail: MAMMOTH CAVES
(CST 30-minute drive from the Corvette Museum heading back NE to Louisville)

• Kentucky’s Mammoth Cave, famously known for being the longest cave on our planet with over 400 miles of intricate passages, has been thoroughly explored and meticulously mapped.
  
• Back in 1838, a remarkable man named Stephen Bishop, who was born into slavery, became one of the cave’s most renowned explorers.
  
• Starting as a guide in his late teens, he fearlessly led visitors through the caves.
  
• Close your eyes and picture Stephen Bishop roaming these underground labyrinths with just a lantern to light his way – truly an awe-inspiring sight.

Stephen Bishop called Mammoth Cave,
a “grand, gloomy, and peculiar place”.

• During our visit, the Cleveland Avenue tour was the only option available for us time wise.
  
• For almost 200 years, this attraction has drawn people from all corners of the globe.
  
• Initially, the avenue boasted abundant and intricate gypsum formations, but sadly, it has suffered significant damage due to the actions of numerous guides and tourists.
  
• The original shade of the gypsum was a pristine white, but constant exposure to time and lantern smoke has caused it to fade into a dark gray

• After arriving at the visitor center, a bus will take you to the cave entrance. Once inside, you’ll begin your descent down numerous steps that lead deep into the cave. Although there are plenty of stairs at the beginning and end, the passages in between are flat and easy to walk through.
  
• As you make your way through these tubular-shaped passages, keep an eye out for sparkling gypsum hidden in the cracks and crevices of the walls.
  
• And if you make it all the way to 267 feet below ground, you’ll reach Snowball Dining Room – the final stop on your tour. The ceiling here is adorned with natural formations of gypsum that resemble snowballs. In fact, this used to be a spot where food was served to visitors on the cave tour. You might even spot some graffiti from past tourists’ signatures on the ceiling.
  
• While Mammoth Cave may not be the most visually stunning cave out there, its geology and stories make up for it. You can easily spend a hours exploring caves or even stay for a few days to experience – camping, fishing, hiking, biking, kayaking, and even horseback riding. The opportunities are endless! 

Travel Back in Time: Two must-see historical gems to include in your itinerary!

Off the Bourbon Trail: ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S BIRTHPLACE
2995 Lincoln Farm Road, Hodgenville, KY

This National Historic Park, also known as Sinking Spring Farm,
is a special place that pays tribute to the humble beginnings of our 16th president, Abraham Lincoln.

• As you enter the Memorial Building, you will notice a replica cabin that resembles the one where Lincoln was born. This serves as a powerful symbol of his modest upbringing and invites us to imagine what life was like in the early 1800s.
  
• Here at the farm, Lincoln’s family cultivated vegetables, utilized trees for their home and warmth, hunted for food, and dreamed of raising their children – Abraham and his sister Sarah.
  The farm got its name from the sinking spring that provided water to the Lincoln’s. The water disappeared into the earth after dropping into a pit, giving it the name Sinking Spring.
  
• Nestled just beyond the spring was the Boundary Oak, which caught Thomas Lincoln’s eye in 1808 when he purchased this land for his family. Standing tall on the western side of the farm, this magnificent white oak served as a boundary marker for many years. However, after enduring time, weather, insects, and disease, the once mighty oak succumbed to its fate and now only a stump remains. It is estimated that this grand oak lived for an impressive 195 years before bidding farewell to the farm.
  
• Unfortunately, the Lincolns ran into a land dispute which ultimately led to their relocation. It’s safe to say that those involved in making them move had no clue they were messing with the future leader of the United States! So, with no choice but to pack up and go, they settled down just 10 miles away.

Step back in time and experience the simple beauty of this historic farm where Lincoln’s journey began.

The Birthplace Unit of the park is located approximately 2 miles south of the town of Hodgenville on U.S. Highway 31E South. The Boyhood Home Unit at Knob Creek is located approximately 10 miles northeast of the Birthplace Unit of the park.

Off the Bourbon Trail: ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S BOYHOOD HOME
at Knob Creek
7120 Bardstown Road, Hodgenville, KY

• Although the Lincoln family only lived in this home for a brief 5 years before moving to Indiana in 1816, it holds great significance in history. Unfortunately, there is not much documented about their time here.
  
• However, with its proximity to Knob Creek, this home was essential in providing the family with access to water.
  
• In 1931, Hattie and Chester Howard paid tribute to Abraham Lincoln by building the charming Lincoln Tavern at Knob Creek. This quaint roadside tavern welcomed visitors exploring the area and still maintains its charm after two centuries, with the addition of modern amenities like paved roads, utility poles, and signs.
  
• The tranquil atmosphere of this secluded location remains reminiscent of the 1800s and is definitely worth a visit.

Off the Bourbon Trail: CHURCHILL DOWNS RACETRACK
The World’s Most Legendary Racetrack®
700 Central Ave, Louisville, KY – Only 15 minutes out of Louisville

Experience this iconic racetrack and Kentucky Derby Museum for just $20.

• Inside, immerse yourself in the rich history of the Kentucky Derby and get a taste of the thrilling atmosphere at its center with the 360° show “The Greatest Race.”
  
• During the Guided Track Tour, your knowledgeable guide will lead you to the rail of this legendary track where you can stand and take in the same view as some of the world’s most famous racehorses.
  
• As you imagine their thundering hooves on the ground, don’t forget to keep an eye out for a glimpse of the iconic twin spires. Various inclusive tours that cater to different preferences are offered.
  
• Make sure to check their calendar to see if any races are scheduled during your visit – You wouldn’t want to miss out on the thrilling experience of watching a race at Churchill Downs! 

However, due to our busy schedule and last-minute planning,
we were only able to secure the $20 track tour during our visit.
Sadly, there were no races scheduled at that time.

Off the Bourbon Trail: LOUISVILLE SLUGGER MUSEUM & FACTORY
800 West Main St., Louisville, KY

• Nestled in the heart of Whiskey Row, this prime location is ideal for a pit stop between distillery tours. Need a break, come by and experience this museum and factory tour.
  
• As you delve into our tour, you’ll discover that the first bats were crafted way back in 1884.
  
• Start with a captivating video that takes you on a journey through the forests and mills where our production process begins.
  
• Walking through the factory, your senses will come alive with the scent of wood and symphony of wood chipping, as you witness the bat-making process firsthand. You’ll be amazed as you witness the intricate process of crafting a bat.
  
• You may even spot which baseball legends prefer Louisville Slugger bats.
  
• Have you swung a bat recently? Take advantage of our batting cages for a small fee to get back into the swing of things.
  
• And don’t forget, at the end of your tour, you’ll receive a free souvenir mini bat to commemorate your visit.

Even for those who aren’t familiar with baseball,
this museum and factory is sure to pique your interest in this beloved American pastime.

Off the Bourbon Trail: HISTORIC OLD LOUISVILLE
Visitor’s Center: 1340 S 4th Street, Louisville, KY
Tours are available with guides or Click here for a SELF GUIDED WALKING MAP.
Closed: Sunday & Monday

Looking for a break from touring distilleries all day?

• Take some time to explore Historic Old Louisville, made up of twelve lovely neighborhoods.
  
• Swing by the Old Louisville Visitor Center in Central Park for some helpful tips or grab a self-guided walking map. The park itself is a gorgeous spot to take a leisurely stroll along its scenic paths.
• During our visit, we checked out St. James Court and Belgrave Court and were fascinated by the unique charm of these homes.
  
• If you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of restaurants in the area serving up a variety of cuisines. And for those craving some Bourbon, there are even a couple of bars where you can sip delicious Bourbon cocktails.

Off the Bourbon Trail: THE BIG FOUR PEDESTRIAN BRIDGE
129 E River Road, Louisville, KY

Craving some fresh air and exercise? Look no further than this spot.

• Originally built as a six-span railroad truss bridge, this structure spans the Ohio River to connect Louisville, Kentucky with Jeffersonville, Indiana.
  
• Take on the challenge of walking the entire length of the bridge and back for a total round-trip distance of 2 miles. By doing so, you can proudly claim that you walked from Kentucky to Indiana and back! Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the river, cityscape, and Waterfront Park – especially at sunset.
  
• This bridge is affectionately known as the “Big Four” because it was used by four railroads – namely the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago, and St. Louis Railway – before its retirement.
  
• On the base of the bridge stands a Vietnam Memorial featuring an impressive American flag flying 70 feet high. What are you waiting for? Get some fresh air and take a stroll on this historic landmark today!

LOUISVILLE WATERFRONT PARK (By the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge)

• An alternate method for stepping away from the distilleries would be to leisurely walk beside the Ohio River.
  
• Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful art sculptures and pay respects at the Lincoln Memorial.
  
• Have a delightful picnic or try your hand at rowing.
  
• For those with young ones, embrace some family time at the playground and splash park or rent a bicycle and simply relax.

Off the Bourbon Trail: KEENELAND RACETRACK 
4201 Versailles Rd., Lexington, KY

• Keeneland, founded in October 1936 as a non-profit racetrack, has now been designated as a National Historic Landmark.
  
• Take the opportunity to explore the exquisitely landscaped venue and enjoy various activities such as guided tours, exhilarating races, shopping at their store, perusing the Keeneland Library, and savoring delicious meals at their restaurant.
  
• We were lucky enough to catch the last three races and even place some bets (unsuccessfully!). Even so, it was definitely a highlight of our trip.
  
• Don’t miss out on this amazing experience during your visit! Just be sure to check their website for race times and note that there is no racing on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The grounds are absolutely stunning and well worth a visit.

Off the Bourbon Trail: KENTUCKY CASTLE
230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY

• Did you know that Kentucky has its very own castle situated in the heart of the Bourbon Trail Distilleries?
  
• You can even spend the night in one of their many accommodations, enjoy delicious meals from their dining rooms, and even indulge in a spa treatment or take a tour.
  
• While we didn’t stay overnight, we did have dinner there and let me tell you, it was fantastic! The service was top-notch and it’s not every day that you get to dine like royalty in a castle.

Wow, there’s just too much to do and so many amazing places to see!
We’ve got bourbon tasting, caves to be explored, historical sites for you to discover,
exciting racetracks for some betting fun, baseball bats being made, and even a castle to visit.
How’s that for an awesome adventure?

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

The KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®
Kentucky Bourbon Trail ROADMAP.
Bourbon Trail DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARIES.
For those that want to know BOURBON TRIVIA.
Learn how to KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL LINGO!
What is the proper way to SAVOR BOURBON?
Exciting POINTS of INTEREST to explore.
Kentucky Bourbon Distillery PHOTO GALLERY.
Louisville Kentucky PHOTO GALLERY.
Kentucky Points-of-Interest PHOTO GALLERY.