
Old Forester Distillery
Step into bourbon history at Old Forester, Louisville's oldest distillery on Whiskey Row. Experience the craft from barrel to bottle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

Old Forester Distillery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into bourbon history at Old Forester, Louisville's oldest distillery on Whiskey Row. Experience the craft from barrel to bottle.
"The tour is a start to finish journey of the distilling process, culminating in a great tasting!"

🎯 Book Tours Early!
Popular tours sell out fast. Book online weeks in advance to guarantee your spot.
🗣️ Engage with Your Guide
Guides like Trish and Carter are praised for being knowledgeable and entertaining. Ask questions!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Distilling Process
Distillery Floor
Witness firsthand the magic of barrel charring and making, a rare in-house demonstration.

The Tasting Experience
Tasting Room
Savor a curated selection of Old Forester bourbons, often accompanied by delightful pairings.

Whiskey Row History
Distillery Exterior & Interior
Explore the historic Whiskey Row location and learn about Old Forester's pioneering role in bourbon.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Old Forester Tour in Advance
Embrace the Bourbon Trail Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tours Early!
Popular tours sell out fast. Book online weeks in advance to guarantee your spot.
🗣️ Engage with Your Guide
Guides like Trish and Carter are praised for being knowledgeable and entertaining. Ask questions!
🥃 Don't Miss the Tasting
The tasting is a highlight, featuring several Old Forester bourbons.
📍 Explore Whiskey Row
The distillery's location on historic Whiskey Row adds to the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tours Early!
Popular tours sell out fast. Book online weeks in advance to guarantee your spot.
🗣️ Engage with Your Guide
Guides like Trish and Carter are praised for being knowledgeable and entertaining. Ask questions!
🥃 Don't Miss the Tasting
The tasting is a highlight, featuring several Old Forester bourbons.
📍 Explore Whiskey Row
The distillery's location on historic Whiskey Row adds to the experience.
🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop
Find unique Old Forester merchandise and spirits to take home.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Old Forester Distillery for its informative and engaging tours, highlighting knowledgeable and entertaining guides like Carter and Trish. The opportunity to witness barrel making and charring on-site is a unique draw, as is the excellent tasting experience featuring a range of their bourbons. The historic Whiskey Row location adds to the overall appeal.
"The Old Forester tour is definitely one to add to your list of things to do in Louisville!!!!! Our guide was Carter who was knowledgeable and personable!
I personally loved the Rack House on sight! The tour really is a start to finish tour of the distilling process and come full circle with a great tasting!"
Jen Dykstra
"I had a wonderful experience at the distillery in Louisville. Our tour guide was outstanding and he provided a knowledgeable and funny experience. I greatly enjoyed his dad jokes. The most interesting facts learned were of them being the first to commercialize bottle and of the book written by their founder to combat the Temperance movement. The four spirits we tasted were all outstanding and the chocolate covered marshmallows were amazing as well. I have now added Old Forrester to my collection. Also this is the first distillery tour I went on where the barrel making is done in house and the toasting and charring is witnessed. It was very fun."
Matthew Wilson
"Came here for a tour and tasting for a bachelor party. The tour was great, our tour guide (cannot remember his name, a gentleman from Scotland) was very knowledgeable and friendly, mad the tour fun and a great experience. The tasting consisted of four of their bourbons. Great experience, definitely recommend"
Robert Richter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Forester Distillery is located on the historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, ride-sharing services, or as part of a guided tour with transportation like NB Executive Shuttle.
While the distillery itself may not have dedicated parking, there are several public parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown Louisville area near Whiskey Row.
Yes, Old Forester is situated on Whiskey Row, making it walkable to several other distilleries and attractions in the downtown area, perfect for a self-guided exploration.
Many visitors opt for walking due to the close proximity of distilleries on Whiskey Row. Alternatively, ride-sharing services or pre-booked shuttle tours offer convenient transportation between locations.
While specific bus routes may vary, downtown Louisville is generally served by public transportation. Checking local transit schedules is recommended for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tour pricing can vary, but the 'Old Forester Tour' is mentioned as costing around $20-$30 per person. It's best to check the official Old Forester website for the most current pricing and tour options.
Absolutely! Tours, especially the 'Old Forester Tour,' are very popular and often sell out. Booking your tickets online well in advance is highly recommended to secure your preferred date and time.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and by day of the week. It's advisable to check the official Old Forester Distillery website for the most accurate and up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Yes, Old Forester offers various tours, with the 'Old Forester Tour' being a popular choice that covers the entire distilling process from start to finish. Other experiences might be available, so check their website.
Yes, the Old Forester Distillery has a gift shop where you can purchase a variety of their bourbons, including special releases and single barrel selections.
🎫 🥃 Onsite Experience
The tour provides a comprehensive look at bourbon making, from ingredients to bottling. You'll learn about the distillery's history, witness barrel making and charring, and enjoy a tasting of their finest bourbons.
Visitors rave about witnessing the barrel making and charring process firsthand. Some tours also include unique pairings, like chocolate-covered marshmallows, and opportunities to learn about historical aspects of bourbon.
The tasting typically includes several Old Forester bourbons, allowing you to sample their range. Guides often share insights into the flavor profiles and history of each spirit.
While the tasting is a significant part, the tour offers a rich historical and educational experience about bourbon craftsmanship that can be appreciated even by those new to whiskey.
The group size is often kept manageable, with some visitors noting groups of around 14 people, which allows for a more personal and interactive experience with the guide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Old Forester Distillery primarily focuses on the bourbon experience and does not typically have a full-service restaurant on-site. However, they may offer small snacks or pairings during tastings.
Being located on Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, there are numerous restaurants and bars within walking distance offering a variety of cuisines.
Outside food is generally not permitted inside the distillery or during tours. It's best to enjoy meals before or after your visit at nearby establishments.
Yes, the Whiskey Row area is known for its vibrant bar scene. Many establishments offer a wide selection of bourbons, including Old Forester.
Some visitors have mentioned enjoying pairings like chocolate-covered marshmallows during the tasting, which complement the bourbon flavors.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the Old Forester Distillery, especially in public areas and during the tour. However, always be mindful of your surroundings and any specific restrictions mentioned by your guide.
The historic Whiskey Row facade, the barrel charring area, and the tasting room offer great photo opportunities. The overall ambiance of the distillery provides a picturesque backdrop.
You can typically take photos during the tasting, but it's polite to be discreet and not disrupt other guests' experiences. Focus on capturing the beautiful bottles and the atmosphere.
Drones are generally not permitted inside or around most distillery properties due to safety and operational concerns. It's best to assume drone photography is prohibited.
Capture the details of the distilling process, the historic architecture of Whiskey Row, and the elegant presentation of the bourbon during the tasting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's important to note that the tasting portion is strictly for those 21 and over. Consider the age and interest level of your children when planning a visit. If you have younger children, focusing on the historical narrative and the visual aspects of the distillery might be more suitable. Many visitors recommend booking tours in advance, which is also a good practice for families to ensure they get a slot that works for their schedule.
🥃 Bourbon Enthusiasts
The tasting experience is a major draw, allowing you to sample Old Forester's core range and potentially limited releases. Keep an eye out for special barrel picks, like the President's Choice or the Birthday Bourbon, which are highly coveted by collectors. Engaging with knowledgeable guides, such as those who have hosted hundreds of barrel picks, can offer unique perspectives and recommendations for future selections. The distillery's location on Whiskey Row also places you at the epicenter of bourbon culture in Louisville.
🥂 Couples & Special Occasions
Many visitors celebrate milestones like bachelor parties or anniversaries at the distillery, highlighting the fun and celebratory atmosphere. The knowledgeable and entertaining guides contribute to a positive experience, making it enjoyable for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and newcomers. After your tour and tasting, explore the charming shops and restaurants nearby on Whiskey Row for a complete date experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Old Forester
This rich history is palpable throughout the distillery. Visitors often comment on the smell of sweet oak and history that permeates the air, creating an immersive experience. The distillery's location on the iconic Whiskey Row further emphasizes its historical importance, placing it at the heart of Louisville's bourbon heritage.
Exploring Old Forester is more than just a tour; it's a journey through over 150 years of bourbon innovation and tradition. The guides, like Carter and Trish, are praised for their ability to bring this history to life with engaging stories and even dad jokes, making the educational aspect enjoyable.
Experiencing the Craft: Tours and Tastings
The tasting experience is equally impressive, allowing visitors to sample a range of Old Forester bourbons. Guests often rave about the quality of the spirits and the insightful commentary provided by the guides. Some tours even include delightful pairings, such as chocolate-covered marshmallows, which enhance the tasting notes. The intimate group sizes, often around 14 people, ensure a personalized and engaging experience for everyone.
Beyond the standard tour, Old Forester also offers special releases and barrel picks, such as the highly sought-after Old Forester Birthday Bourbon and President's Choice single barrels. These limited editions add an extra layer of excitement for bourbon enthusiasts looking for unique finds.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit