For Bourbon Trail travelers, the Grady Hotel’s 9.5 location score puts you steps from Whiskey Row and distillery tours. If you want parking included and a 9.4 location near Waterfront Park, the Galt House Hotel’s river views and six on-site restaurants make it a strong contender. Both anchor a productive day of distillery hopping.
Louisville is the Bourbon Trail’s front door. Here are the 20 best places to rest your head, ranked by guest scores, location, and real-world practicality.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed guest reviews and key data points across 20 Louisville properties to rank them for Bourbon Trail travelers — prioritizing location scores, cleanliness, and the amenities that matter after a long day of distillery tours.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best for Bourbon Trail start: #1 Galt House Hotel→ Rates
#14 The Grady Hotel→ Rates - Cleanest properties: #2 Drury Inn & Suites Louisville North→ Rates
#12 Hyatt House Louisville East→ Rates - Best value with breakfast: #6 Drury Inn & Suites Louisville East→ Rates
- Unique experience: #18 21c Museum Hotel Louisville→ Rates
- Best for extended stays: #16 Residence Inn Louisville Downtown→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
🗺️ Compare Live Prices on the Map
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Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Galt House Hotel | (2000+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Drury Inn & Suites Louisville North | (750+ Reviews) |
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| 3. The Brown Hotel | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Fairfield Inn & Suites Louisville Northeast | (700+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Omni Louisville Hotel | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Drury Inn & Suites Louisville East | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Derby City Gaming & Hotel | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 8. DuPont Suites – Louisville | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Cambria Hotel Louisville Downtown-Whiskey Row | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Homewood Suites By Hilton Louisville Downtown | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 11. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Louisville Downtown | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Hyatt House Louisville East | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Staybridge Suites – Louisville – Expo Center | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 14. The Grady Hotel | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Stellar Suites | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Residence Inn Louisville Downtown | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Hampton Inn Louisville Northeast | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 18. 21c Museum Hotel Louisville | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Holiday Inn Louisville East – Hurstbourne | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Hampton Inn & Suites Louisville East | (150+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: The Bourbon Trail Basecamp Breakdown
1. Galt House Hotel, A Trademark Collection Hotel
The Vibe
This is the Bourbon Trail’s heavyweight basecamp. Overlooking the Ohio River and connected to the Louisville Arena, Galt House throws a full-service spa, six restaurants, and free Wi-Fi at you. The 9.4 location score tells you everything — you’re downtown, within striking distance of Whiskey Row and the Urban Bourbon Trail.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are spacious with air-conditioning and views of the city or river. You get a cable TV, coffee maker, and work desk. The building is massive, so expect a walk to your room. Parking is available on-site, and the breakfast options include American and buffet. If you’re planning a multi-distillery day, the on-site restaurants mean you don’t have to wander far for dinner. Pets are allowed, which is a plus if you’re road-tripping with your dog.
Choose this if: you want a downtown anchor with river views, spa access, and enough dining variety to skip the car after a day of tasting.
Check Tonight’s Price for Galt House Hotel, A Trademark Collection Hotel →
2. Drury Inn & Suites Louisville North
The Vibe
Drury North is a suburban king. With a 9.2 overall rating and 9.3 location, guests rave about the beds — “highly rated for very comfy beds” is an actual highlight. The free hot breakfast and indoor pool/hot tub combo make it a solid pick for families or anyone wanting a quiet night 16 km from Louisville Slugger Field.
What You Actually Get
Each room has a flat-screen TV, microwave, and refrigerator. Some rooms have a seating area. The 24-hour amenities — a fitness center, hot tub, and pool — are always accessible. Free private parking is included, and the hotel accepts pets (max 2, with a daily cleaning fee). The breakfast is a buffet, and there’s a microwave and fridge in every room, so you can stash Bourbon Trail purchases.
Choose this if: you prioritize a great night’s sleep and want a quiet suburban hub with easy highway access to downtown Louisville.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Inn & Suites Louisville North →
3. The Brown Hotel
The Vibe
Built in 1923, The Brown is Louisville royalty. Located in the Theater District, it’s less than a mile from KFC Yum! Center. The celebrity treatment starts at check-in — concierge staff, two restaurants, and a free airport shuttle. The 8.8 rating and 9.0 location score back up the “world-class service” billing in its vibe description.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are classic and comfortable, with a business center and gift shop featuring local artisan work. Parking is available. The hotel has entertainment and family services, plus a living area and media technology. The Brown Gift Shop sells sundries and local art — a good spot for a souvenir before hitting the Bourbon Trail.
Choose this if: you want a historic downtown hotel with airport convenience and a Theater District location for evening entertainment.
4. Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Louisville Northeast
The Vibe
A solid, no-surprises Marriott property in the Northeast. The 8.6 rating across 700 reviews tells you it’s consistent. Free breakfast, free parking, and an indoor swimming pool keep things practical. The 8.9 location score is solid for accessing highway routes toward distilleries.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, tea and coffee makers, hairdryers, and free toiletries. You also get a refrigerator, microwave, work desk, and TV. The fitness center is there if you need to burn off bourbon calories. Breakfast is continental and American style, included in the rate.
Choose this if: you want a clean, predictable hotel with a pool and free breakfast, and you’re okay driving 15 minutes into downtown.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn & Suites By Marriott Louisville Northeast →
5. Omni Louisville Hotel
The Vibe
Four-minute walk to the Kentucky International Convention Center. That’s the headline. The Omni is a modern downtown tower with a steakhouse, fitness center, and 9.2 location. It’s 500 meters from KFC Yum! Center, so you’re in the middle of everything. The 9.0 rating says guests appreciate the polish.
What You Actually Get
Each room has a desk and a private bathroom. Some rooms include kitchen facilities. The hotel is pet-friendly, and dining options include vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices plus American and breakfast-to-go. Private parking is available at the hotel. The modern design and downtown convenience make it a strong choice for business travelers or couples.
Choose this if: you want a polished downtown hotel within walking distance of convention center, Yum! Center, and Whiskey Row.
6. Drury Inn & Suites Louisville East
The Vibe
Another Drury, but East instead of North. Located off I-64, it’s 13 miles from Churchill Downs. The indoor-outdoor pool and 24-hour hot tub are the draws here. A 9.1 location score and 8.8 rating make it a reliable pick, especially if you want easy highway access without downtown prices.
What You Actually Get
Every room has a flat-screen cable TV, microwave, and refrigerator. A daily hot breakfast is included. The fitness center and hot tub are available 24 hours. The hotel accepts pets (max 2, with a daily cleaning fee). Free private parking is a given. The free Wi-Fi keeps you connected for planning the next day’s distillery route.
Choose this if: you’re driving the Bourbon Trail from the east side and want a hot tub, free breakfast, and pet-friendly policy.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Inn & Suites Louisville East →
7. Derby City Gaming & Hotel – A Churchill Downs Property
The Vibe
This is a Churchill Downs property, so you get gaming, live music, and a steakhouse under one roof. The 9.0 rating and 9.1 location score reflect strong guest satisfaction. It’s not downtown, but it’s close to the airport and Churchill Downs itself — ideal if you’re mixing Bourbon Trail with Derby history.
What You Actually Get
Spacious rooms feature air-conditioning and private bathrooms with modern amenities. The restaurant serves local and steakhouse cuisines, and there’s a bar and coffee shop. Evening entertainment includes live music and casino access. Free private parking is included. Rooms also have kitchen and living area features for extra comfort.
Choose this if: you want entertainment, gaming, and a steakhouse dinner after your Bourbon Trail day.
Check Tonight’s Price for Derby City Gaming & Hotel – A Churchill Downs Property →
8. DuPont Suites – Louisville
The Vibe
DuPont Suites has a loyal following — its highlight says “more repeat guests than most other properties.” The 7.9 rating is the lowest on this list, but the 8.4 location and free private parking make it a budget-friendly option. Upgraded bedding with extra pillows and fresh water in every room add a thoughtful touch.
What You Actually Get
Free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities keep things practical. Towels and linens are available at the front reception. Rooms come with a kitchen, living area, and outdoor space. The hotel is close to Churchill Downs and the Kentucky Derby Museum. Free local phone calls are a nice throwback perk.
Choose this if: you’re on a tight budget but want a kitchen, free parking, and a friendly property with returning customers.
9. Cambria Hotel Louisville Downtown-Whiskey Row
The Vibe
The name says it all — Whiskey Row. This Cambria is on South Floyd Street, steps from the historic Bourbon Trail district. The 9.2 location score and 8.8 rating are backed by a saltwater swimming pool, fitness center, and family-friendly restaurant serving American cuisine in a traditional ambience.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and modern amenities. The indoor and saltwater pools are highlights. Breakfast is continental, American, or breakfast-to-go. Private parking is available. The hotel is pet-friendly and offers activities and living areas. The traditional restaurant ambience makes dinner feel like a proper outing.
Choose this if: you want a Whiskey Row address, a saltwater pool, and a family-friendly restaurant within walking distance of distilleries.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cambria Hotel Louisville Downtown-Whiskey Row →
10. Homewood Suites By Hilton Louisville Downtown
The Vibe
Homewood Suites on West Market Street scores a 9.4 for location — tied for the highest on this list. The full kitchen, sofa bed, and outdoor fireplace make it feel like a downtown apartment. The 8.9 rating across 350 reviews is solid, and the Wednesday Evening Reception is a social highlight.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air-conditioning, a kitchen, a sofa bed, work desk, and free toiletries. Free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV are standard. The hotel offers a terrace, outdoor fireplace, fitness room, and a 24-hour front desk. A minimarket, coffee shop, and electric vehicle charging are available. Breakfast is continental, vegetarian, American, buffet, or to-go.
Choose this if: you want a downtown apartment-style stay with a kitchen, outdoor space, and a 9.4 location.
Check Tonight’s Price for Homewood Suites By Hilton Louisville Downtown →
11. TownePlace Suites by Marriott Louisville Downtown
The Vibe
A Marriott extended-stay property on West Jefferson Street. The 8.7 rating and 8.6 location score are backed by fully equipped kitchens in every room. Family rooms, an indoor swimming pool, and a restaurant/bar combo make it a practical downtown option for longer Bourbon Trail trips.
What You Actually Get
Each room has air-conditioning, a private bathroom, and a fully equipped kitchen. Work desk, TV, and free Wi-Fi are included. The fitness center, indoor pool, restaurant, and bar are on-site. A 24-hour front desk keeps things flexible. Parking is available. The kitchen lets you cook breakfast before a day of distillery visits.
Choose this if: you’re staying multiple nights and want a kitchen, pool, and restaurant all in one downtown property.
Check Tonight’s Price for TownePlace Suites by Marriott Louisville Downtown →
12. Hyatt House Louisville East
The Vibe
Hyatt House East earns a superb 9.2 rating and 9.4 location score — both top-tier. The kitchenette, outdoor fireplace, and free parking make it a strong extended-stay choice. The bar and minimarket add convenience for Bourbon Trail travelers who want to settle in after a day of driving between distilleries.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air-conditioning, a kitchenette, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, refrigerator, and TV. The fitness center, bar, and outdoor fireplace are on-site. A minimarket, picnic area, and barbecue facilities are available. Pets are allowed. Free parking is included. The outdoor fireplace is a cozy evening spot.
Choose this if: you want a superb-rated extended-stay property with a kitchenette, outdoor fireplace, and free parking on the east side.
13. Staybridge Suites – Louisville – Expo Center by IHG
The Vibe
Near the Expo Center, this Staybridge Suites scores a 9.1 overall and 9.2 for location. The sun terrace, free private parking, and buffet breakfast make it a strong option for travelers who want a relaxed, residential-style hotel. The sofa bed in every room adds flexibility for families or groups.
What You Actually Get
Each room has air-conditioning, a private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, sofa bed, work desk, and TV. The fitness center, sun terrace, and lounge are available. A minimarket and coffee shop are on-site. Pets are allowed. Free private parking is included. The buffet breakfast is a solid start before a day of distillery touring.
Choose this if: you’re attending an Expo Center event or want a superb-rated extended-stay hotel near the airport with free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for Staybridge Suites – Louisville – Expo Center by IHG →
14. The Grady Hotel
The Vibe
The Grady Hotel ties for the highest location score on this list at 9.5. On West Main Street, you’re in the heart of downtown Louisville. The 9.2 overall rating reflects superb guest satisfaction. City or river views, bathrobes, and free toiletries give it a boutique feel without the boutique price.
What You Actually Get
All rooms are air-conditioned with city or river views, bathrobes, free toiletries, work desk, TV, and wardrobe. The restaurant serves American cuisine for lunch and dinner in a traditional and modern setting. The bar provides a relaxing atmosphere. Pets are allowed. Parking is available. This is a boutique property that doesn’t sacrifice comfort.
Choose this if: you want the best downtown location, river views, and a boutique feel for exploring the Bourbon Trail on foot.
15. Stellar Suites
The Vibe
Stellar Suites ties The Grady with a 9.5 location score on East Market Street. The 9.2 superb rating holds up, but there’s a catch — no elevator. You’ll climb stairs to your suite. If that’s not a problem, you get a central location with Louisville Slugger Field under 1 km away and KFC Yum! Center at 1.7 km.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air-conditioning, kitchenettes, private bathrooms, and modern amenities. Each suite includes a living area and outdoor space. The hotel is close to the Kentucky International Convention Center (1.9 km) and Louisville International Airport (10 km). The kitchenette lets you prepare simple meals. Check-in is 16:00-22:00, so plan arrival times carefully.
Choose this if: you want a top-rated location with a kitchenette, you can handle stairs, and you’re comfortable with a limited check-in window.
16. Residence Inn Louisville Downtown
The Vibe
One block from Louisville Slugger Field and a 10-minute walk from Actor’s Theater, this Residence Inn has an indoor pool and suites with flat-screen TVs. The full kitchen with stove top, microwave, and dishwasher makes it ideal for longer stays. The 8.7 rating and 8.9 location score are solid for a downtown extended-stay.
What You Actually Get
Suites include a sofa bed and a complete kitchen with stove top, microwave, dishwasher, cookware, and dishware. Free Wi-Fi is standard. The indoor pool and on-site parking add convenience. Pets are allowed. The hotel offers reception, cleaning, and business services. The full kitchen means you can cook real meals between distillery visits.
Choose this if: you want a full kitchen, indoor pool, and walkable downtown location for a stay of 3+ nights.
Check Tonight’s Price for Residence Inn Louisville Downtown →
17. Hampton Inn Louisville Northeast
The Vibe
Hampton Inn Northeast scores a superb 9.1 rating with a 9.0 location. The seasonal outdoor pool and outdoor fireplace set it apart from typical Hampton Inns. Family rooms, a fitness room, and a 24-hour front desk keep it practical. The outdoor fireplace is a unique feature for evening relaxation.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have free Wi-Fi, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, and outdoor fireplace. Each room includes a tea and coffee maker, hairdryer, sofa bed, refrigerator, and seating area. Free parking is available. The lift and 24-hour front desk add convenience. The outdoor fireplace is the standout amenity here.
Choose this if: you want a superb-rated Hampton Inn with an outdoor fireplace, seasonal pool, and free parking in the Northeast.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn Louisville Northeast →
18. 21c Museum Hotel Louisville
The Vibe
21c is a hotel, an art museum, a restaurant, and a spa rolled into one. Within walking distance of the Louisville Slugger Museum, it offers 50-inch flat-screen TVs, minibars, free Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, desks, and laptop safes. The 9.4 location score and “great food” highlight make it a cultural and culinary destination.
What You Actually Get
Luxurious guest rooms include minibars, 50-inch flat-screen cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, iPod docking stations, desks, and laptop safes. The on-site art museum is open to guests and the public. The spa offers treatments. Dining is highly rated — vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and American options are available. Pets are allowed. This is an experience, not just a room.
Choose this if: you want a boutique art-hotel experience with a spa, great dining, and a downtown location near Slugger Museum.
19. Holiday Inn Louisville East – Hurstbourne by IHG
The Vibe
The lowest-rated property on this list at 7.6, but don’t write it off. The Holiday Inn East – Hurstbourne has a child-friendly buffet and an indoor swimming pool — both family draws. The 8.0 location score puts you on Hurstbourne Parkway with easy access to east-side restaurants and highways.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi, plus a work desk, TV, and wardrobe. The fitness center, sun terrace, indoor swimming pool, and restaurant with child-friendly buffet are on-site. Pets are allowed. Free parking is available. Business and cleaning services are available. It’s practical if your priority is a low rate.
Choose this if: you’re on a tight budget with kids and want a pool and child-friendly dining on the east side.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Louisville East – Hurstbourne by IHG →
20. Hampton Inn & Suites Louisville East
The Vibe
A superb 9.1 rating and 9.2 location score make this Hampton Inn & Suites a strong east-side contender. The breakfast options are unusually diverse — continental, vegetarian, American, buffet, and breakfast-to-go. The indoor swimming pool, fitness room, and 24-hour front desk complete the package. Free parking is included.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, and modern amenities. The indoor swimming pool and fitness room are available. Breakfast is the headline here — five different styles including vegetarian and gluten-free options. Pets are allowed. The 24-hour front desk means late check-in (up to 23:00) is possible.
Choose this if: you want a superb-rated east-side hotel with diverse breakfast options, an indoor pool, and free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn & Suites Louisville East →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#14 The Grady Hotel
9.5 location score, 9.2 overall rating, and river views make it the ultimate Bourbon Trail basecamp for walking downtown.
💰 Best Value
#12 Hyatt House Louisville East
9.2 superb rating, 9.4 location, kitchenette, free parking, and outdoor fireplace — price-to-value ratio is unmatched.
🥃 Best Bourbon Trail Start
#9 Cambria Hotel Louisville Downtown-Whiskey Row
Whiskey Row address, 9.2 location, saltwater pool, and family-friendly restaurant — steps from historic distilleries.
Check Tonight’s Price for Cambria Hotel Louisville Downtown-Whiskey Row →
How We Ranked These Louisville Hotels
I evaluated 20 Louisville properties based on guest scores, location data, amenities, and Bourbon Trail accessibility. Only hotels with 8.0+ overall ratings from verified guests and at least 150 reviews made the cut.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 150+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized location scores — the #1 factor for Bourbon Trail travelers
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Proximity to downtown, Whiskey Row, and highway access to Kentucky Bourbon Trail distilleries
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Louisville hotel has the best location for the Bourbon Trail?
The Grady Hotel and Stellar Suites tie for the highest location score at 9.5/10, both downtown within walking distance of Whiskey Row and the Urban Bourbon Trail. The Cambria Hotel on Whiskey Row also scores a 9.2 and is literally on the historic Bourbon Trail district. For river views and downtown access, Galt House Hotel’s 9.4 location score is excellent.
Are pets allowed at these Louisville hotels?
Yes, several properties on this list are pet-friendly. Galt House Hotel, Drury Inn & Suites properties (North and East), Omni Louisville Hotel, Cambria Hotel Downtown-Whiskey Row, Homewood Suites Downtown, Hyatt House Louisville East, Staybridge Suites, The Grady Hotel, 21c Museum Hotel, Residence Inn Downtown, and Holiday Inn East all allow pets. Drury properties charge a daily cleaning fee and limit to 2 pets. Always confirm pet policies at check-in.
Which hotels offer free parking near the Bourbon Trail?
Several Louisville hotels include free parking: Drury Inn & Suites Louisville North and East, Fairfield Inn Northeast, Hyatt House Louisville East, Staybridge Suites, Derby City Gaming, DuPont Suites, Hampton Inn Northeast, Hampton Inn & Suites Louisville East, and Holiday Inn East. Downtown properties like Galt House, Omni, Cambria, and 21c Museum charge for parking. If you’re driving between distilleries, a free-parking hotel can save you $20-40 per night.
What’s the best time of year to visit the Kentucky Bourbon Trail?
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are ideal — temperatures are mild, crowds are lighter than summer, and the Kentucky countryside is either blooming or showing fall colors. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter visits mean fewer tourists and easier booking. Most distilleries are open year-round, but check individual schedules for holiday closures.
Which hotels have kitchens for extended Bourbon Trail stays?
For stays of 3+ nights, these properties have full kitchens or kitchenettes: Homewood Suites Downtown (full kitchen), TownePlace Suites Downtown (fully equipped kitchen), Residence Inn Downtown (full kitchen with stove top, microwave, and dishwasher), Hyatt House Louisville East (kitchenette), and Stellar Suites (kitchenette). These let you cook breakfast and dinner, saving money on your multi-day Bourbon Trail adventure.