Things to do near buffalo trace distillery
Today we talk about Things to do near buffalo trace distillery.
As a passionate bourbon enthusiast, my journey to Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky, was not just a visit; it was an experience filled with history, flavor, and camaraderie. This distillery, one of the oldest in the United States, has been producing bourbon since 1773. With its rich heritage, it stands as a beacon for anyone eager to dive into the world of whiskey and the culture surrounding it. In this article, I¡¯ll share specific things to do near Buffalo Trace Distillery that can complement your visit and enhance your experience.
Visiting Buffalo Trace Distillery
Before exploring the surrounding area, I recommend immersing yourself in what Buffalo Trace offers.
Overview of Tours Available
When I visited, I was astonished to see that Buffalo Trace offers up to five different tour options. Each tour is thoughtfully designed to suit various interests:
- Free Distillery Tour: A comprehensive 30-minute tour that walks you through the bourbon-making process without any cost.
- Hard Hat Tour: A $25 intensive tour that lasts about 2 hours, allowing a behind-the-scenes look at aging warehouses, ending in a tasting of their award-winning bourbons.
- Bourbon & Food Pairing: For $75, this 2.5-hour experience pairs four bourbons with gourmet food, making for a delightful culinary adventure.
With more than 300,000 visitors per year, these tours are popular, showcasing the bourbon industry¡¯s booming impact on Kentucky tourism.
Plan Your Visit
Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience.
Best Times to Visit
From my experience, the best times to visit Buffalo Trace Distillery are during the fall and spring seasons. Why, you may ask? Well:
- In fall (September to November), the autumn foliage turns the landscape into a colorful palette, with average temperatures around 60-70¡ãF.
- Spring (March to May) brings mild weather, perfect for exploring the grounds as flowers bloom and the distillery become lively.
Additionally, weekdays tend to be less crowded, giving you a more personalized experience.
Purchasing and Tasting at Buffalo Trace Distillery
No trip is complete without indulging in tastings, with specific highlights to note.
What to Expect from Tasting Experiences
During my tasting experiences, I was taken aback by the variety offered. Buffalo Trace typically features at least five unique bourbons for tasting. Some industry data shows that their flagship bourbon won the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition’s Double Gold Medal, and at these tastings, I got to savor:
- Buffalo Trace Bourbon: A crowd favorite with notes of vanilla and caramel.
- Eagle Rare: Recognized for its complex flavors, it has a cult following in the bourbon community.
- Buffalo Trace White Dog: A fascinating opportunity to taste the unaged distillate.
The tasting allowed me to appreciate the depths of flavor and craftsmanship in every sip.
Buffalo Trace Gift Shops
Be sure to leave with souvenirs, as Buffalo Trace boasts two remarkable gift shops.
George T. Stagg Gallery and Gift Shop
This shop is a haven for bourbon lovers. With over 50 different products, I found unique items ranging from apparel to exclusive bottles, like the George T. Stagg Bourbon which often retails for $100-$300 depending on availability.
Buffalo Trace Online Gift Shop
If you can’t make it back for a visit, I found their online shop quite user-friendly and stocked with similar items. Shipping across the U.S. makes it accessible for anyone who wishes to partake in the Buffalo Trace experience from home.
Exploring the Area
There¡¯s plenty more to enjoy just outside the distillery.
Top Attractions Near the Distillery
Savoring the local history and attractions is essential. Here are some that caught my attention:
- Old State Capitol: This historic building is only a 10-minute drive and is remarkable with its Greek Revival architecture.
- Kentucky History Center: Just 15 minutes away, this center delves into the rich history of Kentucky.
- Frankfort Cemetery: Offers stunning views over the river and is the final resting place of several notable Kentuckians.
Being able to engage with Kentucky’s history, all while near Buffalo Trace, enriched my visit significantly.
Bourbon Tours
Exploring Kentucky’s bourbon industry is a bucket list experience!
What Makes Bourbon Tours Unique
Bourbon tours in the area provide a unique insight into the distillation process. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail hosts over 18 distilleries, and Buffalo Trace is the crown jewel. I loved hearing that over 95% of the world¡¯s bourbon comes from Kentucky, making every distillery visit feel vital. Each visit gives insight into each distillery’s unique mash bills, aging processes, and flavor profiles.
Outdoor Activities Near Buffalo Trace
When you need a break from bourbon, nature awaits!
Canoeing and Kayaking Options
I discovered that the nearby Kentucky River is breathtaking, and numerous services offer canoeing and kayaking trips. Rentals range from $15 to $40 for a day, and it¡¯s an incredibly peaceful way to connect with nature while enjoying the picturesque views.
Fishing Spots in the Area
Additionally, I learned that nearby Elkhorn Creek is an ideal fishing spot, popular for its bass and trout. Fishing licenses cost around $25 annually, and it offers some of the best fishing experiences that can be had all while soaking up the sun.
Local Dining Options
After a day of adventures, it’s time to eat like a local!
Restaurants to Try Nearby
Here are a few dining spots I highly recommend:
- Revelry Boutique and Bar: A farm-to-table spot featuring seasonal ingredients.
- Ricardo¡¯s: Offers not just food but a wholesome Italian experience.
- Gray’s on Main: This local restaurant provides a charming atmosphere with Southern-inspired dishes.
Each of these restaurants adds to the wonderful dining experiences that Kentucky offers.
Visiting Midway, KY
Just a short drive from Buffalo Trace, Midway is waiting to be explored.
Attractions and Activities in Midway
Midway boasts a rich history and a charming downtown area filled with Victorian architecture, local shops, and horse racing nearby at the Midway Race Course. A delightful way to experience local culture!
State Capitol & Old State Capitol
Two iconic buildings worth visiting.
A Brief Overview of the Capitol Buildings
The Kentucky State Capitol is an architectural wonder, completed in 1910, and is a must-see for history lovers and architecture buffs alike. It is free to enter and offers guided tours. The Old State Capitol, on the other hand, built in 1830, showcases stunning classical design and offers a glimpse into the state¡¯s legislative history.
Visitor Resources
Lastly, here¡¯s some essential info for first-time visitors.
Parking Directions
Upon arriving at Buffalo Trace Distillery, I found ample parking available, conveniently located within steps of the visitor center, making it stress-free to explore right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
I found that many visitors wonder about tour times and availability. It¡¯s wise to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, as many tours can fill up quickly!
Other Experiences in Buffalo Trace Distillery
If you¡¯re still looking for more to do, don’t miss these exclusive offerings!
Evendo’s Choice Experiences
Buffalo Trace offers curated experiences through Evendo, providing premium tasting opportunities and masterclasses that highlight the intricacies of bourbon production.
Top 10 Experiences at Buffalo Trace Distillery
From specialized tours to bourbon-paired dinners, there are endless opportunities to deepen your appreciation of this iconic beverage ¨C I highly recommend keeping an eye on their seasonal offerings!
Get the Latest Updates
Finally, staying connected can lead to richer experiences.
Sign Up for News and Events
By signing up for their newsletter, I received timely updates about local events, exclusive tastings, and limited bottling releases. Believe me, you don¡¯t want to miss out!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s around Buffalo Trace Distillery?
A variety of attractions surround Buffalo Trace, including local parks, historic sites, and other distilleries, creating a perfect itinerary for exploration.
Is Frankfort, KY worth visiting?
Absolutely! Frankfort is rich in history with beautiful landscapes and, of course, the illustrious Buffalo Trace Distillery.
How long is the Old Taylor tour at Buffalo Trace Distillery?
The Old Taylor tour typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, providing a thorough overview complemented by a tasting session.
What other distilleries are near Buffalo Trace?
In addition to Buffalo Trace, notable distilleries nearby include Woodford Reserve and Four Roses, enhancing any bourbon road trip!
