Old Forester Distillery
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Old Forester Distillery

4.8
·2k reviews·Louisville, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

CrowdLow
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Old Forester Distillery

Old Forester Distillery

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more intimate experience

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.8
(2k reviews)

"The tour is a start to finish journey of the distilling process, culminating in a great tasting!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Distilling Process

The Distilling Process

Distillery Floor

Witness firsthand the magic of barrel charring and making, a rare in-house demonstration.

InstagramReddit
The Tasting Experience

The Tasting Experience

Tasting Room

Savor a curated selection of Old Forester bourbons, often accompanied by delightful pairings.

TikTokReddit
Whiskey Row History

Whiskey Row History

Distillery Exterior & Interior

Explore the historic Whiskey Row location and learn about Old Forester's pioneering role in bourbon.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your Old Forester Tour in Advance

Tours at Old Forester Distillery are highly sought after, especially the 'Old Forester Tour'. Booking online well in advance is crucial to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many visitors recommend booking weeks or even months ahead, particularly for popular times. Instagram

Embrace the Bourbon Trail Experience

Old Forester is a cornerstone of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Consider planning your visit as part of a larger itinerary to explore other distilleries. Many visitors use shuttle services or plan their own routes to maximize their bourbon journey. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon Tours
Why
Good balance of activity and availability
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, but busier
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#bourbontiktok #bourbon #whiskey #kentuckybourbontrail #louisville #oldforester #evanwilliams #louisvilleslugger #bsb #bigspoiledb
@vodkafelony
404 likes • 14.6K views

🎯 Book Tours Early!

Popular tours sell out fast. Book online weeks in advance to guarantee your spot. Instagram

🗣️ Engage with Your Guide

Guides like Trish and Carter are praised for being knowledgeable and entertaining. Ask questions! Reddit+1

The guide, the history, the smells, the tasting…definitely add Old Forester to your Louisville distillery list! 🥃 #bourbon #WhiskeySheSips #whiskey #oldforester #oldforesterdistillery
@whiskeyshesips
133 likes • 2.3K views
Meet Barbara Parrish, single barrel host at the Historic Old Forester Distillery on Whiskey Row in Louisville, KY. Our group was her 590th barrel pick in the past 6 years with Brown Foreman. Look out for an amazing single barrel barrel proof bottle coming from @preetliquor in the upcoming months. #whiskeyrow #viral #pick #Iouisville #fyp #bourbon #Oldforester #bttfc #bourbon #bourbontok#bourbontik...
north_coast_bourbon
18 likes • 145 views

🥃 Don't Miss the Tasting

The tasting is a highlight, featuring several Old Forester bourbons. TikTokReddit

📍 Explore Whiskey Row

The distillery's location on historic Whiskey Row adds to the experience. TikTokInstagram

Distillery review of the Old Forester Tour 🥃 We’re starting a new series, and today’s the first #whiskeywednesday where each Wednesday we will be sharing an experience, tour, event or release centered around Kentuckys famous brown-juice. @oldforester is located on Whiskey row in downtown Louisville. We took the “Old Forester Tour” which runs about $32 per person. Book tickets in advance! Whe...
mykybucketlist
247 likes • 13.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tours Early!

Popular tours sell out fast. Book online weeks in advance to guarantee your spot. Instagram

🗣️ Engage with Your Guide

Guides like Trish and Carter are praised for being knowledgeable and entertaining. Ask questions! Reddit+1

🥃 Don't Miss the Tasting

The tasting is a highlight, featuring several Old Forester bourbons. TikTokReddit

📍 Explore Whiskey Row

The distillery's location on historic Whiskey Row adds to the experience. TikTokInstagram

🛍️ Visit the Gift Shop

Find unique Old Forester merchandise and spirits to take home. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(2k reviews)

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

Knowledgeable & entertaining guides
Barrel making demonstration
Excellent bourbon tasting

What People Dislike

Tours can sell out quickly

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

🎫 🥃 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. TikTokReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Being located on Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville, there are numerous restaurants and bars within walking distance offering a variety of cuisines. Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the Whiskey Row area is known for its vibrant bar scene. Many establishments offer a wide selection of bourbons, including Old Forester. Instagram

Some visitors have mentioned enjoying pairings like chocolate-covered marshmallows during the tasting, which complement the bourbon flavors. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Capture the details of the distilling process, the historic architecture of Whiskey Row, and the elegant presentation of the bourbon during the tasting. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Old Forester Distillery is primarily an adult-focused experience due to the alcohol tasting, families can still find value in the historical and educational aspects of the tour. The demonstration of barrel making and charring is visually engaging and can capture the attention of older children interested in crafts and processes. Instagram The guides are often praised for being entertaining, and their storytelling might appeal to a younger audience interested in history. Reddit+1

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. Instagram

🥃 Bourbon Enthusiasts

For true bourbon aficionados, Old Forester Distillery is a pilgrimage site. As the oldest continuously operating distillery in Louisville, it offers a deep dive into bourbon's rich heritage. TikTok+1 Enthusiasts will appreciate the detailed explanation of the distilling process, including the rare on-site barrel charring and making demonstrations. InstagramReddit The opportunity to witness these crafts firsthand provides invaluable insight into what makes bourbon unique.

The tasting experience is a major draw, allowing you to sample Old Forester's core range and potentially limited releases. TikTokReddit Keep an eye out for special barrel picks, like the President's Choice or the Birthday Bourbon, which are highly coveted by collectors. Instagram+1 Engaging with knowledgeable guides, such as those who have hosted hundreds of barrel picks, can offer unique perspectives and recommendations for future selections. Instagram The distillery's location on Whiskey Row also places you at the epicenter of bourbon culture in Louisville. TikTok

🥂 Couples & Special Occasions

Old Forester Distillery offers a sophisticated and engaging experience perfect for couples or celebrating special occasions. The historic ambiance of Whiskey Row and the distillery itself provides a charming backdrop for a memorable outing. TikTokInstagram A guided tour followed by a tasting can be a romantic and educational activity, allowing you to learn about bourbon history and savor fine spirits together. TikTokReddit Consider booking a tour during a less crowded time, like a weekday morning, for a more intimate experience. Instagram

Many visitors celebrate milestones like bachelor parties or anniversaries at the distillery, highlighting the fun and celebratory atmosphere. Reddit The knowledgeable and entertaining guides contribute to a positive experience, making it enjoyable for both seasoned bourbon drinkers and newcomers. Reddit+1 After your tour and tasting, explore the charming shops and restaurants nearby on Whiskey Row for a complete date experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Old Forester

Old Forester holds a significant place in bourbon history as the oldest continuously operating distillery in Louisville, founded in 1870 by George Garvin Brown. TikTok+1 It was the first to bottle bourbon and sell it in sealed glass bottles, a revolutionary step that guaranteed quality and authenticity. TikTok Even during Prohibition, Old Forester was one of only six distilleries granted a license to produce medicinal whiskey, a testament to its enduring legacy and the Brown family's commitment. TikTok+1

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. TikTok The distillery's location on the iconic Whiskey Row further emphasizes its historical importance, placing it at the heart of Louisville's bourbon heritage. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit+1

Experiencing the Craft: Tours and Tastings

The Old Forester Tour is a highlight for many, offering a comprehensive, start-to-finish look at the bourbon-making process. InstagramReddit A particularly captivating part of the tour is witnessing the barrel making and charring demonstration right on-site, a rare opportunity that showcases the craft involved in creating the perfect barrel. InstagramReddit This hands-on element provides a deeper appreciation for how barrel treatments, like different char levels, unlock distinct flavor profiles in the bourbon. Instagram

The tasting experience is equally impressive, allowing visitors to sample a range of Old Forester bourbons. TikTokReddit 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. Reddit The intimate group sizes, often around 14 people, ensure a personalized and engaging experience for everyone. Reddit

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. Instagram+1 These limited editions add an extra layer of excitement for bourbon enthusiasts looking for unique finds. Instagram

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