Pair bourbon tasting with a behind-the-scenes tour of Churchill Downs on a full-day, hotel‑picked tour through Louisville. Visit one or two distilleries, learn about aging and mash bills, then experience the Kentucky Derby’s home in a 90‑minute exhibit.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning in Louisville arrives with the smell of charred oak and the distant cadence of hooves. You start the day moving between two of Kentucky’s bourbon landmarks and the iconic Churchill Downs — a compact tour that pairs the slow, tactile world of barrel aging with the fast, ceremonial energy of horse racing.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5–8 hours
Fitness Level
Light walking and short standing tours; basic mobility required for staircases in some rackhouses.
Wildlife
History
Bourbon’s rise in Kentucky ties to 18th‑century grain farming and limestone‑filtered springs; Churchill Downs opened in 1875 and made the Derby an annual national event.
Conservation
Distilleries often participate in local sustainability practices like recycling barrels and managing water use; follow Leave No Trace principles when visiting rural properties.
Reserve your spot on the Bourbon & Derby: Makers Mark OR Buffalo trace + Churchill Down today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring valid photo ID
Tastings are 21+; have a government-issued ID handy for entry at distilleries and Churchill Downs.
Book earlier in the day
Morning departures generally avoid midday crowds and make distillery logistics smoother.
Stay hydrated and pace tastings
Bourbon pours are concentrated — drink water between tastings and eat beforehand to avoid overindulgence.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Some distillery tours involve uneven warehouse floors and walking at Churchill Downs — choose sturdy footwear.
Valid government ID
Required for alcohol tastings and entry to Churchill Downs exhibits.
Comfortable walking shoes
Protects feet on uneven distillery floors and while walking around the track grounds.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated in hot months; many operators provide bottled water but a refillable bottle is handy.
summer
Light jacket or layers
Rackhouses and early mornings can be cool; layering helps across indoor/outdoor stops.
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