Whiskey Row Louisville
Louisville's historic Whiskey Row: a vibrant hub of bourbon heritage, iconic architecture, and lively bars and restaurants.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more accessible
Whiskey Row Louisville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more accessible

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Louisville's historic Whiskey Row: a vibrant hub of bourbon heritage, iconic architecture, and lively bars and restaurants.
"Amazing place. The architecture is amazing. The history of bourbon is everywhere."
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Popular distillery tours and tastings on Whiskey Row fill up fast. Secure your spot online before you go! :admission_tickets:
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Whiskey Row is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes to discover hidden gems and historic architecture. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Evan Williams Bourbon Experience
On3 Bar
Sip premium cocktails and bourbon flights in the heart of Whiskey Row. A must for bourbon trail adventurers.

Hell or High Water
Backside of Whiskey Row
Step back in time at this enchanting speakeasy. Reservations are essential for this Prohibition-era gem.

Corner Flavors of Kentucky
Whiskey Row
Indulge in Southern classics with a bold twist, from Wagyu burgers to bourbon BBQ wings. Over 90 bourbons available!
Pursuit Spirits & Trial + Error Bar
722 W. Main St
Explore a new bourbon tasting room and a hidden speakeasy bar inspired by a popular podcast.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Bourbon Trail Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Popular distillery tours and tastings on Whiskey Row fill up fast. Secure your spot online before you go!
:admission_tickets:🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Whiskey Row is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes to discover hidden gems and historic architecture.
:athletic_shoe:🤫 Speakeasy Secrets
Many speakeasies, like Hell or High Water, require reservations and have unique entry points. Plan ahead!
📱 Check Hours Daily
Business hours can vary, especially mid-week. Always confirm opening times before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours in Advance
Popular distillery tours and tastings on Whiskey Row fill up fast. Secure your spot online before you go!
:admission_tickets:🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Whiskey Row is best explored by walking. Wear comfortable shoes to discover hidden gems and historic architecture.
:athletic_shoe:🤫 Speakeasy Secrets
Many speakeasies, like Hell or High Water, require reservations and have unique entry points. Plan ahead!
📱 Check Hours Daily
Business hours can vary, especially mid-week. Always confirm opening times before your visit.
👻 Haunted History Tours
Consider a ghost tour for a unique perspective on Whiskey Row's spooky past and hidden stories.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Whiskey Row is celebrated for its rich bourbon heritage, stunning historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for whiskey lovers. Visitors appreciate the concentration of distilleries, bars, and restaurants. However, some find that businesses can be closed on weekdays, and occasional encounters with individuals seeking money can detract from the experience.
"Historic part of the bourbon trail. A must see when visiting with smaller distillery's, shops and the Louisville slugger factory. Hey tickets in advance for tours and tastings. Lunch at the Misfit!"
Keith Colodny
"A wonderful experience for whiskey lovers."
Brihan Browne
"So disappointed. We arrived on a Tuesday in June. Everything was closed! From what I had read prior to our visit, I was expecting Nashville on a smaller scale! If you go, visit early afternoon!"
Dr. Carole Garth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Whiskey Row is located in downtown Louisville, easily accessible by car, rideshare, or public transportation. Parking is available in nearby garages and street parking can be found, though it may be limited.
Absolutely! Whiskey Row is a historic street best explored on foot. You can easily stroll between distilleries, bars, and restaurants.
Walking is the most recommended way to experience Whiskey Row. For longer distances or if you're tired, rideshares are readily available in the downtown area.
Yes, Louisville's public transit system serves the downtown area, with several bus routes stopping near Whiskey Row. Check TARC (Transit Authority of River City) for specific routes and schedules.
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. Several parking garages are located downtown, and metered street parking is available. Consider using a parking app to find available spots.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Whiskey Row itself is a public street, so no tickets are needed to walk around. However, individual distilleries, bars, and restaurants may require tickets for tours, tastings, or entry, especially speakeasies.
It's highly recommended to book distillery tours and tastings in advance online, as they often sell out. Check the official websites of distilleries like Evan Williams Bourbon Experience for booking information.
While many attractions are paid, simply walking along Whiskey Row, admiring the historic architecture, and soaking in the atmosphere is a free experience. Some bars may have no cover charge for entry.
Hours vary significantly. Many distilleries and bars are open daily, but some may have limited hours or be closed on certain weekdays, particularly Tuesdays. Always check individual business websites.
Yes, speakeasies like Hell or High Water typically require reservations well in advance due to their intimate nature and popularity.
🎫 🥃 Bourbon & Drinks
Whiskey Row is packed with great options! Consider the On3 Bar at Evan Williams Bourbon Experience for crafted cocktails, Trial + Error Bar for a speakeasy vibe, and Sidebar at Whiskey Row for burgers and bourbon.
Yes, many distilleries and tasting rooms on Whiskey Row offer bourbon tastings. The Evan Williams Bourbon Experience and Pursuit Spirits tasting room are popular choices.
Absolutely! Look for speakeasy bars like Hell or High Water for a unique atmosphere, or explore tasting rooms like the one from Green River Distilling.
You'll find a wide range of cocktails, with a strong emphasis on bourbon-based drinks. Many bars offer creative twists on classics and signature creations.
While bourbon is king, most bars and restaurants on Whiskey Row will offer a selection of other spirits, wine, and beer to cater to all preferences.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Corner Flavors of Kentucky offers Southern classics and burgers,
Doc Crows is known for BBQ and seafood, and Number 15 on Whiskey Row serves Kentucky-inspired food.Yes, places like Corner Flavors of Kentucky offer a casual vibe with bold flavors,
and Sidebar at Whiskey Row is known for its burgers.You'll find a mix of Southern comfort food, BBQ, seafood, and classic American fare. Many restaurants highlight local Kentucky ingredients.
Number 15 on Whiskey Row features a rooftop bar and dining experience, offering great views of the city.
Prices can vary, but you can find a range from casual and affordable to more upscale dining experiences. Expect mid-range to higher prices for dinner at many establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic architecture of the 19th-century buildings is incredibly photogenic. Look for unique signage, the Ohio River views, and the charming entrances to speakeasies.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the historic streetscape. Evenings can be atmospheric with the lights on.
Yes, many distilleries have visually appealing exteriors and interiors. Capturing a bourbon bottle or a cocktail in front of the historic backdrop can make for great shots.
Generally, yes, but be respectful of other patrons and staff. Some speakeasies might have restrictions on photography to maintain their ambiance.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, is great for capturing both street scenes and interior shots. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the architecture. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities will also work well.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day when the atmosphere is more relaxed. While distillery tours are generally for adults, some may have visitor centers or shops that are accessible. Always check age restrictions beforehand. The historic architecture itself can be interesting for children to observe.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of multiple paid tours, consider one well-chosen distillery experience or focus on enjoying a single, well-crafted cocktail at a bar. Many restaurants offer more affordable lunch specials or happy hour deals.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many acclaimed restaurants, followed by a bourbon tasting or craft cocktails. Consider a haunted history tour for a bit of spooky fun together.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bourbon Heritage of Whiskey Row
Today, Whiskey Row is experiencing a renaissance, with many of these historic structures being revitalized to house distilleries, tasting rooms, bars, and restaurants. It's a key part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the spirit of Kentucky. From the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience to newer ventures like Pursuit Spirits, the legacy of bourbon is alive and well here.
Exploring Whiskey Row is more than just a bar crawl; it's a journey through bourbon history. You can learn about the distillation process, sample a wide array of bourbons, and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every bottle. The area's transformation ensures that both long-time bourbon aficionados and newcomers can find something to enjoy.
Speakeasies and Hidden Gems
Another notable spot is Trial + Error Bar, located beneath the Pursuit Spirits visitor experience. This bourbon-forward cocktail lounge offers a moody ambiance and is inspired by the podcast 'Bourbon Pursuit.' It's a perfect spot for a date night or a sophisticated evening out.
These hidden gems add an element of mystery and exclusivity to the Whiskey Row experience. They often feature creative cocktail menus and intimate settings, making them a must-visit for those looking for something beyond the typical bar scene. Remember to check their specific entry requirements and booking policies before you go.
Culinary Delights on Whiskey Row
For those craving barbecue and seafood, Doc Crows is a highly recommended establishment on Whiskey Row, blending land and sea flavors with a robust selection of bourbon and cocktails.
Number 15 on Whiskey Row provides a social hall experience with Kentucky-inspired food across its five floors, and it also boasts a rooftop bar for enjoying drinks with a view.
Whether you're looking for a casual lunch or a memorable dinner, Whiskey Row's restaurants provide a range of options to satisfy your appetite, often with a nod to local flavors and, of course, bourbon.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit