The Trail Less Traveled - An Authentic Kentucky Bourbon Tour
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Sipping in the South was born from a bold idea: bourbon deserves more than a bus ride, a stamp in a book, and a cookie-cutter, self-guided checklist.
That’s where we come in.
We’re the local experts who take the trail less traveled, curating exclusive experiences with up to 5 handpicked distilleries. We book the best each one has to offer rare tastings, sipping straight from the barrel with the owner, blending your own bourbon, or mixing your own cocktail.
The Kentucky Bourbon Trail® is a nice start, but it’s not the whole story. It features a select group that pay to participate — but some of Kentucky’s best experiences aren’t even on their map.
We’re here to change that.
Every tour begins with our Private Bourbon 101 Social — a hands-on introduction to nosing and sipping that gives you the tools to truly enjoy what you’re tasting. Because when you understand bourbon, everything else gets better.
And yes — we even save 30 minutes for rare finds at local liquor stores.
Available options
Sipping in the South Bourbon
Pickup included
What's included
Tickets
Cooler snacks water
Picnic Lunch
Transportation
Expert Guide
Experimental tasting
Customized bourbon flight
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Bourbon lovers should not miss the opportunity to visit the gritty city of Louisville during their stay in Kentucky. Venture from the bustling city of Louisville to the many world reknown Bourbon distilleries to learn how their spirits is made. Start with an interactive 101 bourbon social, teaching you the proper way to nose and sip, rye vs wheat differences and a one-of-a-kind sensory training experience. This private experience is a must to make your journey truly remarkable.
2
Private Blend your own Bourbon Experience complete with 2 bottles.
3
A quick gift shop stop and self-guided tasting option
4
A must do distillery to learn the real story behind Buffalo Trace distiller, E. H. Taylor Jr. and George T. Staggs. Scandalous! The grounds a gorgeous, great cocktails and food trucks. Sip away down by the river reminiscing of the days gone by when the train took them to the river for a day of picnicing.
5
guided tasting
6
We end the day with a barn party... Drinking from barrels, tapping your foot to live music, the famous food truck, corn hole all around a campfire. Doesn't get more real Kentucky than this! Cowboy boots, hats and cigars welcome.
What's not included
Cigars
Gratuity
Know it Alls
Debbie Downers
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
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1 reviews
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Louisville
Louisville, Kentucky, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and the famous Kentucky Derby. Nestled along the Ohio River, it offers a unique blend of Southern charm and Midwestern hospitality, making it a compelling destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Churchill Downs
Home of the Kentucky Derby, this historic racetrack offers tours and year-round racing events.
Historical/Entertainment
2-3 hours for a tour
Free to enter, tours from $18
Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory
A must-visit for baseball fans, this museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Louisville Slugger bats.
Museum
1-2 hours
$20 for adults, $15 for children
Muhammad Ali Center
Dedicated to the life and legacy of boxing legend Muhammad Ali, this museum offers interactive exhibits and a glimpse into his personal and professional life.
Museum/Cultural
1-2 hours
$22 for adults, $15 for children
The Frazier History Museum
This museum offers a comprehensive look at Kentucky's history, with exhibits ranging from frontier life to modern times.
Museum
1-2 hours
$14 for adults, $10 for children
Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest
A beautiful arboretum and forest offering hiking trails, scenic views, and a chance to see wildlife.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free entry, parking fee for non-members
Must-Try Local Dishes
Hot Brown
An open-faced turkey sandwich topped with mushrooms, bacon, and a rich cheese sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains dairy, meat
Bourbon Ball
A chocolate truffle-like candy filled with bourbon-infused cream.
Dessert
Contains dairy, alcohol
Bourbon Chicken
Chicken marinated in a bourbon-based sauce, often served with rice and vegetables.
Dinner
Contains meat, alcohol
Derby Pie
A chocolate and walnut pie, a traditional treat during the Kentucky Derby.
Dessert
Contains nuts, dairy
Popular Activities
Cave exploration
Hiking
Horseback riding
Spa treatments
River cruises
Park picnics
Museum visits
Art gallery tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and festivals. The Kentucky Derby in May is a major highlight.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00, GMT-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Louisville is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious when using ATMs at night
Getting there
By air
- Louisville International Airport • 10 miles (16 km) from downtown
By train
Louisville Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with various routes covering major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
The Highlands
Nulu (NuLu District)
Old Louisville
Day trips
Mammoth Cave National Park
90 miles (145 km) • Full day
The world's longest known cave system, offering guided tours and stunning underground landscapes.
Bardstown
35 miles (56 km) • Half day to full day
A charming small town known for its historic sites, bourbon distilleries, and beautiful architecture.
Kentucky Horse Park
10 miles (16 km) • Half day to full day
A working horse farm and educational theme park dedicated to horses and horse-related activities.
Festivals
Kentucky Derby • First Saturday in May
Louisville Jazz Festival • July
Bourbon & Beyond • September
Pro tips
- Visit the Kentucky Derby Museum even if you can't attend the Derby itself
- Explore the NuLu District for unique shopping and dining experiences
- Take a bourbon distillery tour to learn about Louisville's rich history in bourbon production
- Check out local events and festivals for a taste of Louisville's vibrant culture
- Use the TARC app for easy navigation of the public transportation system
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
