How to book a buffalo trace tour
Today we talk about How to book a buffalo trace tour.
As a bourbon enthusiast, nothing felt more thrilling than my visit to the iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery. In the heart of Kentucky’s thriving bourbon scene, this 240-year-old distillery is home to award-winning bourbons like Buffalo Trace and Eagle Rare. My anticipation grew as I researched how to book a Buffalo Trace tour, eager to dive deep into the history and craftsmanship that make this distillery unique. In this guide, I will share detailed steps, personal experiences, and some vital industry insights that will help you book your own unforgettable tour.
About the Buffalo Trace Tour
Overview of the tour experience
The Buffalo Trace tour is a captivating insight into bourbon production, where I was able to explore the distillery’s rich history. The average tour lasts about 60 minutes and provides an in-depth overview of the bourbon-making process. I found it fascinating that Buffalo Trace produces over 15 different bourbon brands, with their annual output reaching approximately 1.2 million cases! The excitement is palpable, particularly when I learned about their commitment to quality, which includes handpicking barrels and aging for several years.
Booking Your Buffalo Trace Tour
Step 1: Pick a reservation date
To begin planning how to book a Buffalo Trace tour, I looked at their online calendar. Popular times, especially weekends, can fill up quickly—thus booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance is advisable. This ensures you secure your desired date and provides time to prepare for the experience.
Step 2: Enter your reservation information
Upon selecting my preferred date, I entered key information during the booking process, including my name, email address, and the number of guests (up to 10 per reservation). The user-friendly online form took me just a few minutes to complete—a convenient process that kept me excited for the upcoming tour.
Step 3: Special requests
The reservation page includes a section for special requests, which I found particularly useful. For example, if anyone in your party has dietary restrictions, you can note that here. Providing specific requests helps guarantee a comfortable experience for everyone, ensuring we all enjoy our visit to the fullest.
Step 4: Review your order and confirm
After entering all my reservation details, I took a moment to review my order carefully. Confirming details helped me double-check everything was accurate before hitting the confirmation button. This small step provided peace of mind, knowing my spot was securely booked for the Buffalo Trace tour.
Tour Options Available
The Trace Tour
The Trace Tour costs nothing and offers a comprehensive overview of the distillery’s history and production. As a first-time visitor, I found this tour ideal for beginners. Around 45 minutes long, the experience culminates in an impressive tasting session where I sampled three distinct bourbons.
Hard Hat Tour
For the more adventurous, the Hard Hat Tour is a must. This 90-minute tour includes exclusive access to production areas. At only $25 per person, it’s a steal for anyone looking to dive deeper into the bourbon-making process. During my visit, I got to see the fermentation tanks and learned that Buffalo Trace uses a yeast strain over 100 years old!
Old Taylor Tour
This tour costs $15 and focuses on the history of the Old Taylor Distillery, featuring artifacts and unique stories. It’s approximately 60 minutes and gives significant insights into bourbon’s evolution. I particularly enjoyed discovering how whiskey production has transformed over centuries.
Botanical Gardens Tour
I greatly appreciated the Botanical Gardens Tour for its serene beauty. At a cost of just $10, guests can enjoy a 30-minute stroll through the stunning grounds. During my visit, I felt a sense of tranquility surrounded by the natural beauty interspersed with bourbon history.
National Historic Landmark Tour
For history buffs, the National Historic Landmark Tour is $15 and highlights the distillery’s legacy. Lasting about an hour, this tour showcases the architecture and historical importance of the distillery. I left truly appreciating why Buffalo Trace is a symbol of Kentucky heritage.
Preparing for Your Visit
Check-in best practices
I found that arriving 15-30 minutes early was best practice for my Buffalo Trace tour. This allowed me time to explore the visitor center and shop before joining my group. Being prompt ensured I felt relaxed and ready for the experience.
Safety guidelines
Buffalo Trace prides itself on a safe visit for all guests. During my tour, guides enforced safety protocols, including wearing closed-toe shoes while inside production areas. This attention to detail made me feel reassured during my visit.
Driving directions
For first-time visitors, I recommend using GPS to navigate to Buffalo Trace Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky. Located just off US Highway 60, it’s quite accessible. The drive itself is scenic, with lush landscapes reminding me I was in bourbon country!
Where to stay
I stayed at a nearby hotel within a 10-minute drive from the distillery. Options range from budget-friendly to upscale. Booking ahead assures you a comfortable stay, perfect for unwinding after your day exploring the distillery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation to take a tour?
Yes, making a reservation is crucial when booking a Buffalo Trace tour. I quickly learned that tours can fill up, especially during weekends and holidays.
What if the tours are full?
If you’re unable to secure a spot, consider visiting on a weekday, which typically has more availability. You can also check the possibility of waiting for a cancellation or explore nearby distilleries.
Can we just do a tasting?
No, tastings are reserved for guests who complete a tour. I found that learning about the process significantly enhanced my tasting experience, making it well worth the time spent on the tour.
Is Buffalo Trace family-friendly?
Absolutely! Buffalo Trace is family-friendly, with options for younger visitors. I enjoyed seeing families engage during the tours, making it a collective experience for all ages.
Is the distillery ADA accessible?
Yes! Buffalo Trace Distillery is ADA accessible, enabling everyone to navigate the premises. I observed several accommodations for guests with mobility challenges during my tour.
Are there any dining options at the distillery?
While there’s no formal restaurant, the gift shop offers light snacks for purchase. I loved grabbing a quick bite after my tour, enjoying the local flavor while still feeling connected to the distillery experience!
Can we visit the gift shop without a reservation?
Yes, you can visit the gift shop without a prior reservation. I took advantage of this after my tour, discovering unique bourbon memorabilia and gifts for friends and family.
How can I keep up to date with all the changes and news at Buffalo Trace Distillery?
I found the best way to stay updated is to subscribe to Buffalo Trace’s newsletter and follow them on social media. They regularly share news on special events, tours, and releases!
Do you need a reservation to go to Buffalo Trace Distillery?
Yes, a reservation is necessary for all tours at Buffalo Trace Distillery. I recommend booking in advance to avoid disappointment, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
How much does a Buffalo Trace tour cost?
Most tours are complimentary or have minimal fees, ranging from $10 to $25. I was pleased to find that the value of the experience far exceeded the cost!
What is MSRP for Buffalo Trace?
The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for Buffalo Trace bourbon is typically around $25 per bottle. Prices in stores may vary, especially where demand outstrips supply!
How long is the Old Taylor tour at Buffalo Trace Distillery?
The Old Taylor tour lasts about 60 minutes, making it an enriching experience without taking up your entire day. This length felt just right for the amount of fascinating history shared during the visit.
