Beyond the Barrel: NuLu Walking Bourbon & Food Pairing Experience

Louisville , United States

Beyond the Barrel: NuLu Walking Bourbon & Food Pairing Experience

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(155 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

Uncover the secrets of Kentucky bourbon! Go beyond the barrel to dive into bourbon's storied history - and learn all the stories they won't tell you on a Kentucky Bourbon Trail distillery tour.

Visit award-winning restaurants, scenic rooftop bars, and intimate tasting rooms in NuLu. Trace the origins of bourbon whiskey from its roots in the Appalachian foothills to today's thriving bourbon scene, and leave with a profound understanding of bourbon's cultural importance in Louisville, Kentucky and beyond.

Unlock bourbon's surprising versatility and depth of flavor through paired bites, pours, and cocktails, and land a few coveted tables at some of the most hard-to-book restaurants in town, including by James Beard winning and Michelin starred Chefs.

Perfect for both bourbon newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts, this guided walking tour offers an experience that you won't find at any bourbon distillery. Reserve your spot early to experience the world's only walking food & bourbon tour!

Available options

Premium Bourbon Upgrade

Premium Bourbon Pours: Elevate your experience with 4 rare, top-shelf bourbon pours served throughout your tour.

Standard Ticket

Bourbon & Food Pairing Tour: Enjoy 3 bourbon cocktails and 2 tastings showcasing bourbon’s versatility, along with 8-10 delicious paired bites.

What's included

The unfiltered history of bourbon in Kentucky that they don't tell you on bourbon distillery tours

Upgrade available to add 4 rare and premium bourbon tastings to your tour

Opportunity to purchase rare, premium, and hard-to-find bourbon at a local bottle shop

Small group for a more personalized experience

Delicious paired bites at 5 of the best restaurants in NuLu, comprising a full dinner

Bourbon tasting and craft cocktails that showcase bourbon’s versatility

Detailed itinerary

You'll begin your tour at the Church of Bourbon, seated in front of one of the largest bourbon collections in the world.

Begin the tour at a local bottle shop for a guided bourbon tasting and cheese plate. You'll also have the opportunity to shop for rare and premium bottles.

Try a modern twist on the official Louisville cocktail at a restaurant founded by a Michelin starred Chef

Snag a coveted table at the award-winning restaurant founded by a James Beard winning Chef and enjoy a unique take on a Manhattan-style cocktail and pairing featuring a local bourbon-barrel aged soy sauce and spice blend.

Your tour will end at a rooftop view overlooking the downtown skyline at sunset. Savor a creative take on a Mint Julep cocktail alongside a decadent dessert that transforms a classic bourbon cocktail into a rich, indulgent treat.

What's not included

Gratuities

Transportation

Distillery visit

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

19 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

136 reviews

5★

129

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour is 21+ and infants are NOT allowed per Kentucky law.

Mocktail options available for non-drinkers, please message us to let us know.

Please note that the itinerary and menu is subject to change, based on the locations' availability, weather, and other circumstances.

Suitable for all fitness levels, but please note that this tour covers roughly 1 mile of walking.

Tours run in rain, shine, or snow unless weather becomes severe or constitutes a dangerous situation.

This tour can accommodate vegetarian, gluten-free and dairy-free options. Please notify us in advance at least 24h before the tour start time if you have any dietary restrictions.

Meeting point

Meet us outside in front of the giant Bob Dylan mural at The Last Refuge. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes before your tour begins.

There are not many lots or garages in this area, but street parking is typically easy to find (paid meters are free after 6PM).

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