Day 1: Arrival and Bourbon Kickoff at Chateau Bourbon
Accommodation: Check-in at Chateau Bourbon in Louisville, KY.
Afternoon:
- Kentucky River Bourbon History Tour: Start your trip with a 1.5-hour tour along the Kentucky River, learning about bourbon's rich history while enjoying scenic views and local bluegrass tunes.
Evening:
- Happy Hour with Missy at Chateau Bourbon: Wind down your evening with a delightful happy hour at the B&B.
Dinner:
- The 502 Bar & Bistro: Enjoy a 4.5+ rated dinner close by, featuring Southern-inspired dishes like bourbon-glazed salmon.
Day 2: Bourbon Distillery Tours
Morning:
- Kentucky Bourbon Boys Tours or Mint Julep Tours: Embark on a full-day tour of 3 distilleries (e.g., Woodford Reserve, Maker's Mark, Buffalo Trace). This tour includes lunch and plenty of tastings, offering a deep dive into the bourbon-making process.
Dinner:
- Harvest: After your distillery tours, dine at this 4.5+ rated farm-to-table restaurant, celebrating Kentucky’s local produce and cuisine.
Evening:
- Relax at Chateau Bourbon or explore nearby downtown Louisville.
Day 3: Transition to Horse Country at Pillow and Paddock
Accommodation: Check-in at Pillow and Paddock in La Grange, KY.
Morning:
- Angel's Envy Private Select Tour: Before leaving Louisville, enjoy a private tour and tasting at Angel's Envy, focusing on their exclusive bourbon selections. Or
- Smoked Old Fashioned Class at Bulleit Distillery
Lunch:
- Proof on Main: Enjoy a 4.5+ rated lunch at this modern American restaurant, known for its creative dishes and focus on local ingredients.
Afternoon:
- Drive to La Grange and check in at Pillow and Paddock.
- Visit Old Friends Farm: Spend the afternoon visiting this thoroughbred retirement farm, where you’ll meet famous retired racehorses and learn their stories.
Dinner:
- 119 West Main: Dine at this 4.5+ rated restaurant in La Grange, offering locally sourced, expertly crafted dishes in a charming setting.
Day 4: Horse and History Day
Morning:
- Kentucky Derby Museum and Churchill Downs: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Churchill Downs, exploring the Kentucky Derby Museum and taking a tour of the famous racetrack.
Lunch:
- Red Pepper Deli Café: Grab a light lunch at this 4.5+ rated café in La Grange, known for its fresh, flavorful sandwiches and salads.
Afternoon:
- Hermitage Farm: Explore this thoroughbred farm with a tour of the horse facilities, beautiful grounds, and perhaps a carriage ride.
Dinner:
- Barn8 Restaurant: Dine at Hermitage Farm’s 4.5+ rated farm-to-table restaurant, enjoying seasonal dishes in a beautifully restored barn.
Day 5: Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Pillow and Paddock before heading home. If time allows, consider a final visit to a local horse farm or distillery on your way out of Kentucky.