Barrels & Bourbon: Private Distillery and Cooperage Tour
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in the spirit of Kentucky on this exclusive full-day private tour through the heart of bourbon country. From the craftsmanship of barrel-making to sampling high-end whiskeys straight from the source, this 8-hour experience is perfect for whiskey lovers and cultural explorers alike. Discover the full story behind Kentucky’s iconic spirits—from stave to still.
Starting and ending at your hotel in Louisville, this seamless day includes premium transportation, tastings, guided tours, and a hearty lunch in the scenic bluegrass region.
Important Notes:
Closed-toe shoes are required for the cooperage tour. PLEASE BE ADVISED ANYONE NOT WEARING CLOSED-TOE SHOES WILL NOT BE ALLOWED ON TOUR. NO EXCEPTIONS
No cameras allowed inside the cooperage.
Valid ID required for all alcohol tastings.
Available options
Private Tour for 5 passengers
Private transfer : Includes private transportation to and from hotel<br/>Private guide : Enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 3 passengers
Private transfer : Includes private transportation to and from hotel<br/>Private guide : Enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 4 passengers
Private transfer : Includes private transportation to and from hotel<br/>Private guide : Enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 1 passenger
Private transfer : Includes private transportation to and from hotel<br/>Private guide : Enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 2 passengers
Private transfer : Includes private transportation to and from hotel<br/>Private guide : Enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
Driver-Only Tour
No guide, fixed 7:30 AM pickup: Private transportation only. No guide, no entry tickets. Available on Tuesdays with a fixed 7:30 AM pick-up.<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour for 6 passengers
Private transfer : Includes private transportation to and from hotel<br/>Private guide : Enjoy the company of a private guide<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Modern, air-conditioned private transportation
Professional local tour guide
Pick up and drop off at the hotel or address indicated in your booking
Detailed itinerary
1
Your private driver-guide will greet you at your accommodation in a comfortable, luxury vehicle.
2
Step inside the world of barrel-making with a behind-the-scenes look at Independent Stave Company. Watch skilled coopers craft oak barrels used for aging the world’s finest bourbons.
3
Arrive at this charming craft distillery for an interactive tour and exclusive tastings, including a Bacon Bourbon Bloody Mary, locally brewed coffee, and pastries. Get a close look at their small-batch production process and sample straight from the barrel.
4
Tour the grounds of this major distillery, enjoy a full sit-down lunch, a welcome cocktail, and a high-end tasting of their premium products. You’ll also get the rare opportunity to thieve bourbon directly from the barrel. Bottles are available for purchase onsite.
5
Relax and enjoy the Kentucky countryside on your way back to your hotel.
What's not included
Admissions at the client's request (average around $15-$60 per person, per venue)
lunch fees (paid by the clients on site)
Gratuities (15–20% recommended)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
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
Instant confirmation
