Staying at buffalo trace

Today we talk about Staying at buffalo trace.

Staying at Buffalo Trace

As I approached the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery, the excitement was palpable. Known as one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the U.S., it has been producing bourbon since 1773. I was eager to immerse myself in the history and, of course, the award-winning spirits they offer. With more than a hundred years of whiskey-making experience themed around exceptional craftsmanship, staying at Buffalo Trace is an experience every bourbon enthusiast should cherish.

Overview of Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is situated on a sprawling 130-acre property in Frankfort, Kentucky. The facility produces over 1 million cases of bourbon annually, which is significant in the bourbon industry. Over 250,000 visitors make their way here each year, drawn by its reputation for quality and historic significance.

What to Expect During Your Stay

During my stay at Buffalo Trace, I was delighted by several compelling experiences:

Guided Tours: The distillery offers over 10 different tours, including the popular Hard Hat Tour, which reveals the inner workings of bourbon production.
Exciting Tastings: Guests enjoy sampling a variety of offerings, from the flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon to the exclusive Pappy Van Winkle, which can sell for thousands on the resale market.
Rich History: The distillery’s history during Prohibition and its resilience is a fascinating part of the narrative shared by knowledgeable guides.
Beautiful Grounds: I wandered through the picturesque landscape, which includes a visitor center and a charming gift shop filled with exclusive merchandise.

Accommodations Near Buffalo Trace

When planning my visit to Buffalo Trace, I discovered ample options for accommodations, catering to all budgets and preferences.

Types of Lodging Options Available

Here¡¯s a list of specific lodging options near Buffalo Trace that enhanced my visit:

Luxury Hotels: The Capital Plaza Hotel offered rooms at around $150 per night, providing modern amenities and beautiful views.
Bed and Breakfasts: Local B&Bs, like the Old Franklin School Inn, give a cozy experience with rates starting at $120, perfect for a personalized touch.
Budget Motels: Options like Quality Inn keep rates under $100, making them ideal for travelers looking to save.
Vacation Rentals: I found homes on platforms like Airbnb available from $90, catering to families or larger groups seeking extra space.

Traveling to Buffalo Trace Distillery

Traveling to Buffalo Trace was an enjoyable journey filled with scenic views, enhancing my excitement.

Directions and Parking Tips

Here are key specifics for a smooth arrival at Buffalo Trace:

Directions: Use Interstate 64; exit onto US-60 W. It¡¯s a short drive from downtown Frankfort, about 3 miles, making it easily accessible.
Parking: Buffalo Trace boasts ample free parking, with dedicated spots for buses and RVs. I recommend arriving at least 30 minutes before my scheduled tour to find the best parking spot.
Carpooling: I carpooled with fellow bourbon lovers, which made for an eco-friendly trip and allowed us to share tips for the best distillery experiences.

Check-In Process

The check-in process set the tone for my visit and was straightforward.

Best Practices for Checking In

To make the check-in for staying at Buffalo Trace seamless, I followed these tips:

Arrive Early: Getting there at least 15 minutes in advance ensures a relaxed experience.
Reservation Confirmation: Having my digital confirmation ready facilitated a smooth check-in.
Engage with Staff: Starting a friendly conversation with the staff not only expedites the process but also enhances the overall experience, making me feel welcomed.

Booking Tours at Buffalo Trace

One of the highlights of my stay was the variety of tours available, each showcasing a different aspect of the distillery.

How to Reserve Your Tour

Booking a tour was easy; here are the details:

Online Reservations: Their official website offers an easy-to-use booking system, and I particularly appreciated securing my spot on the highly sought-after Ghost Tour.
Phone Reservations: A phone call can guide me through available options, especially if I had specific days in mind. +1 (888) 812-4427 is the number to reach them!
Walk-In Reservations: While available, I found timely reservations significantly enhance the experience, so I recommend booking ahead, particularly during peak seasons.

Dining Options During Your Stay

The culinary options around Buffalo Trace truly complimented the bourbon experience.

Where to Eat Near Buffalo Trace

Here are some dining locations I enjoyed while on my stay:

Revelry Boutique and Bar: Famous for its local craft beers and quality burgers; I indulged in a delicious bacon cheeseburger for around $14.
The Brown Barrel: Just 10 minutes from the distillery, offering a seasonal menu with elevated comfort food.
Local BBQ Joints: I highly recommend the nearby BBQ spots, where I savored tender smoked brisket paired with cobbler, all for about $15.

Safety Guidelines for Visitors

Visitor safety is a top priority at Buffalo Trace, ensuring a comfortable environment.

Health and Safety Measures in Place

Here¡¯s what I observed during my visit regarding health measures:

Sanitation Practices: Hand sanitizers were readily available at various stations, including the entrance and tasting rooms.
Staff Training: All employees were well-trained in health protocols, wearing masks and engaging safely with guests.
Limited Group Sizes: Tours were appropriately sized, usually not exceeding 15 people, allowing space for social distancing.

Exploring the Surrounding Area

Exploring the charm of Frankfort added depth to my visit.

Local Attractions to Visit

Here are nearby attractions that I found exceptional:

Woodford Reserve Distillery: Just a 30-minute drive, known for its picturesque estate and premium bourbons.
Frankfort Cemetery: A beautiful, serene place with stunning views, perfect for those who enjoy nature.
Kentucky State Capitol: Located 4 miles from Buffalo Trace, offering public tours to explore local history.

Shopping at Buffalo Trace

Before heading home, shopping at Buffalo Trace¡¯s gift shop was a must.

What Items to Bring Home

Here are some of the unique items I considered essential to pick up:

Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Aged bourbons that often come with special labels¡ªperfect to share with friends or aged longer at home.
Merchandise: Items like glassware and branded apparel made wonderful keepsakes for a reasonable price of around $20 each.
Exclusive Barrel Picks: Unique tasting bottles you can¡¯t find elsewhere; these often sell out quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Queries About Visiting Buffalo Trace

To ensure I had all the knowledge before visiting, I looked up answers to common questions:

Yes, many bourbon enthusiasts consider Buffalo Trace top-shelf due to its history and craft quality.
The average cost to tour the Buffalo Trace Distillery is around $10, an unbeatable deal for the experience!
While visits without a tour are allowed, access is typically restricted to the gift shop area.
Buffalo Trace bourbon is difficult to find today, primarily due to its popularity and the limited releases that happen each year.

Tips for the Perfect Stay

I’ve gathered invaluable tips for making the most out of my stay at Buffalo Trace.

Insider Advice for Visitors

Timing is Everything: Arriving early really allows you to soak in the atmosphere and engage with staff.
Keep the Tasting Notes: I recommend jotting down flavors and preferences during tastings for later reference.
Ask for Recommendations: The staff are incredibly knowledgeable; don’t hesitate to ask for their favorite bourbons.

Enjoying the Experience at Buffalo Trace

The experience at Buffalo Trace was beyond just tasting liquor; it was about savoring every moment.

Maximizing Your Visit and Memorable Moments

To maximize my experience:

Engage with Others: I made connections with fellow bourbon lovers, sharing stories and recommendations.
Take Photos: Capturing memories is essential; I documented the beautiful distillery grounds and enjoyed the scenic backgrounds.
Participate in Events: I took part in seasonal events, which often offered unique tastings not available during regular visits.

Booking Your Next Trip to Buffalo Trace

As my visit ended, I felt eager to plan my next trip with even more insights on how to do it efficiently.

Finding the Best Deals and Availability

Book Early: I found that booking months in advance could save up to 20% on accommodations.
Follow Social Media: By following Buffalo Trace on social channels, I stayed informed about exclusive deals and promotional events.
Join Newsletters: Signing up for their newsletter provided me with insider offers and special event notifications.

Guest Reviews of Buffalo Trace

Feedback from fellow visitors enhances my overall understanding of what to expect.

What Past Visitors Are Saying

Past guests frequently applaud the knowledgeable guides, delicious tastings, and the genuine hospitality displayed, echoing my own delightful experience at Buffalo Trace.

Wrapping Up Your Visit

As I wrapped up my visit, I reflected on all the fantastic experiences and connections I made.

Post-Visit Recommendations and Future Plans

I recommend creating a list of distilleries to visit next since Kentucky has more distilleries to explore¡ªlike Four Roses and Maker’s Mark. I look forward to returning to Buffalo Trace to see how the distillery continues to evolve its craft!

Is Buffalo Trace considered top shelf?

Indeed, Buffalo Trace is often classified as top shelf, given its craftsmanship and the incredible accolades it has received in the bourbon industry.

How much does it cost to tour the Buffalo Trace Distillery?

The cost to tour the Buffalo Trace Distillery is typically $10, which includes a tasting¡ªa fantastic value for bourbon enthusiasts!

Can you visit Kentucky distilleries without a tour?

Yes, you can visit Kentucky distilleries without a tour, but access may be limited, primarily allowing you to explore the gift shop.

Why is Buffalo Trace hard to get now?

Buffalo Trace is hard to find currently due to high demand and limited special releases, which contribute to its status as a collector’s item in the bourbon community.