Taste Lexington’s industrial past and present on a 3-hour Distillery District walking tour. Sample bourbon, cider, and local plates while guides trace the Pepper distillery’s history and the limestone geology that shaped the city.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step into the Distillery District and the city rearranges itself around scent and story: limestone-filtered bourbon, hot savory plates, and the low rush of Town Branch Creek daring you to look closer. The tour threads through the revitalized James E. Pepper property, where brick warehouses and copper stills stand like chapters in a long, gritty book of local industry.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires standing and short walks between tasting stops.
Wildlife
History
Lexington’s Distillery District centers on the James E. Pepper Distillery, established in the late 1800s; the site’s revival reflects the city’s bourbon resurgence and adaptive reuse of industrial buildings.
Conservation
The district emphasizes local sourcing and small-batch producers; visitors can support sustainability by minimizing single-use plastics and following leave-no-trace practices in shared outdoor areas.
Reserve your spot on the Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring your ID
You’ll sample alcoholic beverages; a government-issued photo ID is required to participate in tastings.
Comfortable footwear
Expect 3 hours of mostly paved walking and brief standing at tasting stations—supportive shoes make the route easier.
Pace your tastings
Sip water between samples to stay hydrated and keep flavors distinct—this tour includes three drinks and multiple small plates.
Check timing and accessibility
Meet inside RELIC early to explore local products and note that the route is wheelchair accessible but may include narrow vendor areas.
Government photo ID
Required to verify legal drinking age for included alcohol tastings.
Comfortable walking shoes
Support and traction for paved surfaces and short standing periods.
Reusable water bottle
Staying hydrated between samples keeps you comfortable during warm months.
summer
Light rain layer
Protects against sudden showers or cooler evening breezes during shoulder seasons.
spring