For those planning a restful retreat out to the countryside of the Bluegrass State, there are some charming small towns to add to your itinerary. First, you’ll want to visit the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” where you’ll find so many great things to do in Bardstown, KY! From immersive tastings at the local bourbon distilleries and romantic dinner train rides to elegant restaurants and historic museums and sites, there’s no shortage of attractions for everyone.
One of our favorite things to do in Bardstown is the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. It’s the perfect couple’s outing for a romantic getaway or a group activity. The scenic train ride departs from the Bardstown depot and heads through the rolling hills. The rides are themed, from Murder Mysteries to dinners with bourbon or wine pairings to add to the adventure. It’s a lovely way to see the countryside and relax in a vintage train car.
While our Kentucky bed and breakfast is just under a half hour from all of the best things to do in Bardstown, you’ll love retreating to our historic Inn after a day of exploration. Our beautiful B&B stands as a testament to timeless Southern charm and hospitality. Located in Springfield, this landmark 1851 Greek Revival plantation home is celebrated as one of Kentucky’s best-preserved Antebellum-style residences and can be your home away from home. Book your lodging today!
The Best Things to Do in Bardstown, KY
Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown offers visitors a unique array of experiences, from exploring historic sites to indulging in world-renowned distilleries. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a picturesque getaway, Bardstown has something special in store for you.
Here are the best things to do in Bardstown on your next visit:
- The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is an epic journey through the state’s most iconic distilleries. Bardstown serves as a central hub for this trail, providing easy access to multiple stops where you can immerse yourself in the heritage and flavors of Kentucky bourbon.
- Heading to the bourbon distilleries is by far one of the best things to do in Bardstown! There are several well-distinguished and world-renowned distilleries to visit. One of the favorites is the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience, which has impressive rickhouses, an on-site museum of the brand and spirits history, and an immersive tasting.
- Delve into the storied past of America’s native spirit at the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History. Located in historic Spalding Hall, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, including rare bottles, vintage advertisements, and memorabilia spanning centuries of whiskey production.
- Take a leisurely walk through downtown Bardstown’s historic district, where charming streets are lined with well-preserved buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Explore unique shops, dine at local eateries, and soak in the town’s timeless ambiance.
- Visit My Old Kentucky Home State Park, home to the iconic Federal Hill mansion that inspired Stephen Foster’s famous ballad. Guided tours offer insights into the home’s history and significance in Kentucky’s cultural heritage.
- Enjoy a unique dining experience aboard the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. This scenic excursion offers a gourmet meal as you travel through the picturesque countryside surrounding Bardstown, combining culinary delights with historic charm.
- History enthusiasts will appreciate the Civil War Museum, which focuses on the Western Theater of the American Civil War. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, uniforms, and exhibits detailing this tumultuous period in American history.
- Adjacent to the Civil War Museum, the Women’s Museum of the Civil War highlights the often-overlooked contributions of women during the conflict, offering a unique perspective on this chapter of history.
- Dining out is one of the best things to do in Bardstown, KY! Be sure to head to the bourbon mecca at The Rickhouse, farm-to-table eats at Toogie’s Table, or locally crafted brews at Scout & Scholar Brewing.
- Don’t miss shopping and antiquing in Bardstown. The charming downtown area is perfect for a stroll and stopping into the local businesses and boutiques.
Stay at the Best Bed and Breakfast Near Bardstown
While there are so many fantastic places to stay and things to do in Bardstown, when you book our country estate just outside Springfield, KY, you’ll be so pleased that you chose our quiet property—it’s the true definition of unplugging. Tucked away in the rolling farmland, you’ll be surrounded by our pastoral grounds with gardens, meadows, and horse pastures. Enjoy a morning cup of coffee in the garden gazebo or sit by the fire in the evening with a glass of wine.
Each of the seven spacious, smoke-free guest rooms is individually decorated with antique furnishings and features a private bathroom equipped with plush Turkish towels and custom toiletries. The Stephen Collins Foster Room, pictured above, is a magical escape with soft sage walls, a stunning four-poster bed, and an en suite bathroom with a jetted tub for two. This is just one of the fine examples at our bed and breakfast!
Consistently recognized for excellence, Maple Hill Manor has garnered numerous accolades, including being voted “Kentucky’s Best Bed and Breakfast” by readers of Kentucky Monthly Magazine. Its reputation for outstanding service, historic charm, and luxurious accommodations makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a distinctive and enriching stay in the Bluegrass State. Start planning your next getaway and book your lodging today!
