RV Rentals at Kentucky Bourbon Festival
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival takes place in Bardstown, Kentucky, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World. What began in 1992 as a simple spirit-tasting accompanied by dinner has since evolved into a three-day celebration of bourbon culture and craftsmanship.
Visitors from all over the country come to enjoy the festival. It's held on the historic grounds of Spalding Hall, which is just a short walk from the downtown area. You can enjoy everything from tasting events to educational opportunities and live music on the grassy lawn.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is designed primarily for adult fun. It goes without saying that bourbon is the star of the event. There are over 50 distillery tents where you can sample spirits. Signature mixed drinks are also available on the Great Lawn.
With a three-day admission ticket, you will get a Glencairn sampling glass, a limited-edition 30th Anniversary challenge coin, and access to multiple activities and events. The World Championship Bourbon Barrel Relay features distillery warehouse teams racing against the clock to roll and position multiple full, 500-pound barrels perfectly into a rack. You will also get a chance to meet Master Distillers and attend workshops and panel discussions.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
The Bourbon Marketplace at the festival offers themed merchandise, including T-shirts, glassware, and other memorabilia. Vendors also sell food featuring classic Kentucky fare, barbecue, and bourbon-infused specialties. Guests can also enjoy comfortable seating areas, shaded rest spots, and water stations to stay refreshed throughout the event.
LOCATION
For over 29 years, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival has been held in the small community of Bardstown. The main festivities are located in the heart of downtown.
Kentucky Bourbon Festival 114 N Fifth St. Bardstown, KY 40004
LINEUP
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival always features fantastic local performers. The lineup has not been determined for the 2025 festival. However, you can check the festival's website for updates.
RVING AT THE EVENT
There is no camping directly at the event. However, don't let that stop you from renting an RV and staying at a nearby campground. Some options include:
• Grandma's RV Camping is a small family-owned RV park to the south of Louisville in Shepherdsville. They have sites that can accommodate big rigs up to 70 feet long. You will also find full hookups, free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and laundry services at the campground.
• My Old Kentucky Home State Park is a manicured estate with an 1850s-era Georgian manor. It has 39 RV sites equipped with electric and water hookups. The campground also offers shower facilities and a dump station.
• White Acres Campground is a family-owned RV park with a mix of grassy and gravel campsites. You can book one of the 88 sites with full electric, water, and sewer hookups. Pets are welcome. Some of the amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi access, bathhouses, and an event pavilion.
Tip for RVers:
The town offers the Safe Ride Home shuttle during the festival for your convenience and safety. These passenger vans make several convenient stops, including the Old Kentucky Home State Park and White Acres Campground.
WHERE TO STAY
If you are looking for an alternative to RV camping during the festival, there are several places to stay in Bardstown:
• The Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast near the Bardstown Civil War Museum offers 10 spacious guest rooms with antique furnishings. The proximity to restaurants, attractions, and shopping lets you venture out to explore local culture.
• The Jailer's Inn is within walkable distance to the festival. This well-appointed inn dates back to 1874, when it was first built as a jail. The inn offers discounts for guests who stay for more than one night.
• Several major hotel chains are available in town, including the SureStay Hotel by Best Western and the Hampton Inn Bardstown.
HOW TO GET THERE
From Lexington
Take the Bluegrass Parkway west for 64 miles to Exit 21 for Bardstown. Turn right onto U.S. 31E and continue for 1.7 miles. Turn right on W. Stephen Foster, then left at the light onto N. Fifth Street. Spalding Hall will be on your left.
From Nashville
Take I-65 north for 100 miles into Kentucky and exit at 93 onto the Bluegrass Parkway East toward Bardstown-Lexington. Take Exit 21 and turn left onto U.S. 31E. Drive two miles, then turn right onto W. Stephen Foster. At N. Fifth Street, turn left at the light. Spalding Hall will be on your left.
From Louisville and the Louisville International Airport
Take I-65 south for 35 miles to Exit 112 (Clermont-Bardstown). Turn left onto Highway 245 and follow it for 15 minutes into Bardstown. At the fourth light, turn right onto U.S. 31E. Continue to W. Flaget Street and turn right. Turn right onto N. Fifth Street at the second stop sign, and Spalding Hall will be on your left.
PARKING
Bardstown is a small town, and parking can be challenging. Many visitors park throughout the town and take advantage of the free shuttles. If you plan to drive to the festival, you will want to arrive early. There are free spaces at the Nelson County Public Library.
TICKETS & PRICING
Tickets for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival can be purchased online or at the event. While prices for this year's festival have not yet been announced, they are expected to be similar to last year's. In 2024, general admission tickets started at $105 for a single-day pass, while weekend passes and VIP experiences were available at higher prices. Upgraded tickets often included perks like exclusive tastings, early access to events, and specialty merchandise.
WRAP UP
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is a must-visit event for bourbon lovers, and it's especially appealing for RVers looking to experience the heart of bourbon country. With Bardstown's central location, nearby RV parks, and the festival's multi-day schedule, it's easy to settle in and enjoy everything the event offers at your own pace. If you're interested in visiting other popular destinations in the state during your trip, check out Kentucky's top 25 bucket list destinations. Follow the event organizers and participants on Facebook for fun recaps of past events and 2025 updates.
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page.
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