5 Ways to Enjoy Bourbon in Louisville

Photo Credit: Louisville Convention & Visitors Bureau

Did you know that 95% of the country's bourbon is made in and around Louisville, Kentucky? That's a lot of bourbon in one place!

If you are into all things whiskey and bourbon, a trip to Louisville should definitely be on your list. As a native Kentuckian, here are my 5 favorite ways to enjoy bourbon in the Derby city.

1. Go to the Derby and Drink Mint Julep

Louisville is known as the Derby City for a reason: it's the home of the Kentucky Derby! One of the most famous horse races in the world, held at Churchill Downs, the race is known for viewers wearing fancy hats and drinking mint juleps. Check it off your bucket list and go to the Derby once in your life and don't miss the opportunity to sip the famous mint julep made with Kentucky bourbon.

2. Explore the Urban Bourbon Trail

While there's also the Bourbon Trail, which takes you into the country to visit distilleries, Louisville boasts its own city version, called the "Urban Bourbon Trail." On this trail, you'll visit many tasting rooms and bars in downtown. Get your free Urban Bourbon Trail map and passport at the Louisville Visitors Center located at 4th and Jefferson.

3. Book the Urban Bourbon Package at the Galt House

If you want a fully bourbon-infused getaway, reserve the Urban Bourbon package at the beautiful and historic Galt House hotel in downtown, the city's only waterfront hotel. You'll get tickets to the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience, a $25 gift certificate to use at the on-site Down One Bourbon Bar (heck, down two if you want! ;-)) and a box of bourbon balls to cure your sweet tooth.

4. Sip a Bourbon Flight in the Lobby Bar at the Brown Hotel

When in Louisville, you must try the famous "hot brown" dish. It's one of my favorites! Made famous at the Louisville Brown Hotel, the recipe includes ham and turkey on toast doused in a rich cream sauce with cheese, tomato and bacon on top. Pair that with a bourbon flight in the Lobby Bar for the ultimate Louisville experience.

5. Visit the Bourbon Museum at the Frazier History Museum

For a look at the history of bourbon and how it's made, head to the Frazier History Museum's Bourbon Museum, which also is the official start of the Bourbon Trail.

For more fun stuff in the area, check out 31 Things to Do in Louisville, KY.