Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington

Lexington , United States

Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington

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(84 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Join us in the lively Distillery District for a journey in time you won't forget! Town Branch Creek won't be the only thing flowing as we sip on limestone filtered bourbons, sample long-standing Kentucky cuisine, and explore the stories behind this revitalized piece of Lexington's history. You'll sample cider, farm-to-table fare, German inspired bites, sophisticated cocktails, Kentucky staples like burgoo, award-winning ice cream, and the bourbon that built this 25 acre property, all while hearing well-researched history woven into a day filled with fun and new friends!

Available options

Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington

What's included

Cider, bourbon, cocktail, or mocktails included (3 beverages)

This tour includes four small food plates, plus dessert (5 total)

Detailed itinerary

Your fun foodie guide will take you through the historic James E. Pepper Distillery property, which began making bourbon in 1879. Today, this spot has been revitalized as a lively downtown Lexington destination, with diverse food and drink offerings...and lots of fun!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

13 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

71 reviews

5★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We look forward to meeting you inside RELIC, a public warehouse of vintage, rustic, and reclaimed home decor. Come early to check out lots of great Kentucky-made products!

About Lexington

Lexington is a vibrant city in the heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass region, renowned for its horse farms, bourbon distilleries, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of Southern charm, outdoor recreation, and cultural attractions, making it an appealing destination for travelers of all interests.

Top Attractions

Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park is a 1,200-acre park dedicated to preserving the heritage of the horse. It features museums, a working farm, and daily horse shows.

Nature/Adventure 3-4 hours Moderate ($20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children)

Keeneland Race Course

Keeneland is one of the world's premier Thoroughbred race courses, known for its beautiful grounds and prestigious races. Visitors can enjoy races, tours, and shopping.

Entertainment/Cultural 2-3 hours Free to enter, ticket prices vary for races and events

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a historic Shaker community that offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved buildings, museums, and scenic trails.

Historical/Cultural 3-4 hours Moderate ($20 for adults, discounts for seniors and children)

Rupp Arena

Rupp Arena is a multi-purpose arena that hosts basketball games, concerts, and other events. It is home to the University of Kentucky Wildcats basketball team.

Entertainment/Sports 2-3 hours Variable (ticket prices depend on the event)

Lexington Cemetery

Lexington Cemetery is a historic cemetery that features beautiful landscapes, notable graves, and a rich history. It is a peaceful place to stroll and learn about Lexington's past.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Hot Brown

A classic Southern open-faced sandwich made with turkey, bacon, and Mornay sauce, topped with melted cheese and often served with a side of tomato aspic.

Lunch/Dinner Contains dairy and meat, can be made vegetarian or vegan with substitutions.

Bourbon Ball

A sweet and boozy treat made with bourbon, chocolate, and cream cheese, rolled in crushed nuts.

Dessert Contains dairy, nuts, and alcohol.

Fried Chicken

Crispy and flavorful fried chicken, often served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and coleslaw.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and gluten, can be made gluten-free with substitutions.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Red River Gorge Horseback riding Bourbon distillery tours Spa treatments Picnicking in parks Wine tasting Visiting museums Attending concerts and events

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant landscapes, with spring featuring blooming flowers and fall showcasing stunning foliage. These seasons are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C 60-85°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States 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

Lexington is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Blue Grass Airport • 6 miles (10 km) from downtown
Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport • 80 miles (130 km) from downtown

By bus

Lexington Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

Lextran offers an affordable and convenient way to get around Lexington. Buses run frequently and cover most major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Lexington The Distillery District Chevy Chase Southland Drive

Day trips

Bourbon Trail

30-60 miles (50-100 km) from Lexington • Full day or overnight

The Bourbon Trail is a collection of distilleries in Kentucky that offer tours, tastings, and a glimpse into the bourbon-making process.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

30 miles (50 km) from Lexington • Half day or full day

Natural Bridge State Resort Park features a stunning natural sandstone bridge, hiking trails, and scenic views of the Red River Gorge.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

10 miles (16 km) from Lexington • Half day or full day

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a historic Shaker community that offers a glimpse into the past with its preserved buildings, museums, and scenic trails.

Festivals

Kentucky Horse Park's Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event • Late April to early May Bourbon & Bites Festival • October Lexington's Gallery Hop • First Thursday of each month

Pro tips

Visit the Kentucky Horse Park to learn about the region's rich equestrian history and see live horse shows.
Explore the Bourbon Trail to experience the art of bourbon-making and sample some of the world's finest bourbon.
Stroll through the historic Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill to learn about the Shakers' way of life and their contributions to American history.
Enjoy a meal at a local Southern restaurant to experience the region's unique cuisine and hospitality.
Take a scenic drive through the Bluegrass region to admire the rolling hills, horse farms, and picturesque landscapes.