Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour — Frankfort, Kentucky

Discover the Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour in Kentucky

The Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour in Frankfort, KY, is one of the most iconic and historic bourbon experiences in America. As the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States — dating back to 1775 — Buffalo Trace has survived Prohibition, multiple ownership changes, and centuries of innovation, all while crafting award-winning bourbons such as Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Blanton’s, and Pappy Van Winkle.

Visitors can choose from several free guided tours, including the Trace Tour, which offers an inside look at the distillation, aging, and bottling process. Guests explore the fermenters, still house, and aging warehouses, where the scent of bourbon-soaked oak fills the air. Every visit concludes with a complimentary tasting of select Buffalo Trace spirits in the Tasting Room.

Why it’s special:
Buffalo Trace isn’t just a distillery — it’s a living piece of American history. It has produced bourbon for over 200 years on the same Kentucky River site, combining tradition, craftsmanship, and storytelling in a world-class tour. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a curious traveler, it’s one of the must-visit factory tours in Kentucky.

History/Story of Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace’s roots stretch back to 1775, when early pioneers settled along the Kentucky River and began distilling whiskey. The site’s name honors the ancient buffalo migration paths (“traces”) that crossed the area.

In 1857, the facility became one of the first to use steam power in whiskey production. Despite challenges like Prohibition, the distillery continued to operate under a special permit to produce “medicinal whiskey.” Reborn as Buffalo Trace Distillery in 1999, it remains family-owned by the Sazerac Company and has been recognized as a National Historic Landmark.

What You’ll See & Do on the Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour

• Walk through the historic distillation buildings and aging warehouses.

• Learn about grain selection, fermentation, distilling, and barrel aging.

• Visit the bottling hall where select bourbons are hand-labeled and packaged.

• Explore exhibits on Buffalo Trace’s history and famous brands.

• Enjoy a guided tasting of several award-winning bourbons.

• Shop for limited-edition bottles and branded merchandise in the gift shop.

Hands-On Elements: Tastings, whiskey-scented barrelhouse experience, and Q&A with expert guides.

Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed in most areas; flash not permitted inside barrel warehouses.

Souvenirs & Extras:

• Visitor center and gift shop with bourbons, apparel, barware, and collectibles

• Specialty tastings and VIP experiences available for booking

Pricing of Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour

• Trace Tour: Free (includes guided tour + tasting)

• Hard Hat Tour / Old Taylor Tour / Expansion Tour: Free, limited spots (reservation required)

• Custom Experiences & Private Tastings: Prices vary

Practical Info for Visiting Buffalo Trace

Duration: ~60–90 minutes
Format: Guided walking tour through production areas + tasting session
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; tours daily by reservation (closed major holidays)
Audience: Adults 21+, bourbon enthusiasts, tourists, and history lovers
Accessibility: Visitor center and most tour routes accessible; warehouses have uneven floors
Safety & Restrictions:

• Must be 21+ for tastings (ID required)

• Children allowed on tours with adult supervision

• Pets not permitted indoors

Languages: English; printed materials available in multiple languages
Group & School Visits: Group bookings available; ideal for adult education and travel groups

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes, valid ID, curiosity for bourbon and history
Facilities: Visitor center, tasting room, gift shop, restrooms, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located 1 hour from Louisville and Lexington; free onsite parking
Booking: Reserve tours online at Buffalo Trace
Cancellation & Refunds: Free cancellations; reschedule via the website
On-Site Extras: Bourbon tastings, heritage exhibits, distillery gift shop

Nearby

• Kentucky State Capitol (Frankfort)

• Woodford Reserve Distillery

• Bourbon Trail attractions in Bardstown and Lexington

FAQs About Visiting the Buffalo Trace Distillery Tour

Is the Buffalo Trace tour free?
Yes, the standard Trace Tour and tastings are free, but reservations are required.

Do I get to taste the bourbon?
Yes, guests 21 and over receive complimentary tastings at the end of the tour.

How long does the tour last?
Most tours take 60–90 minutes, depending on the experience selected.

Can children join the tour?
Yes, children may accompany adults but cannot participate in tastings.

Do I need to book ahead?
Yes, tours often fill up weeks in advance — online reservations are strongly recommended.

Can I buy limited-edition bottles?
Yes, the gift shop sells select and seasonal bourbons, often including exclusive releases.

What makes Buffalo Trace unique?
It’s America’s oldest continuously operating distillery and one of the most awarded in the world.