Bardstown, Kentucky Travel Guide
Springhill Bed & Breakfast / Winery & Vineyards
“The Prettiest Small Town in America”
Just minutes from Springhill Bed & Breakfast / Winery & Vineyards, Bardstown invites you to slow down and savor Kentucky at its best. Often voted the “Prettiest Small Town in America,” Bardstown charms visitors with its historic downtown, beautifully preserved architecture, and welcoming streets lined with shops, cafés, and cultural landmarks. You can explore world‑renowned bourbon distilleries along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, browse local boutiques, or simply enjoy the scenery that has earned Bardstown national recognition. The town’s rich history, from Civil War sites to centuries‑old churches, adds depth to every visit, while seasonal festivals and community events bring its small‑town spirit to life. Full of stories, flavor, and genuine hospitality, Bardstown is an easy, memorable addition to your stay — a perfect complement to Bloomfield’s quiet countryside and Springhill’s warm, relaxing atmosphere.
Bardstown is full of history, flavor, and small‑town charm. Explore more local favorites and trip ideas at the official tourism site, visitbardstown.com.
BARDSTOWN ATTRACTIONS
MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME DINNER TRAIN
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers a nostalgic, fine‑dining journey through the rolling Kentucky countryside aboard beautifully restored 1940s railcars, complete with gourmet meals prepared fresh in the onboard kitchen. Departing from Bardstown’s historic depot, the 2–3 hour excursion pairs Southern hospitality with scenic views, vintage charm, and a truly memorable rail‑and‑culinary experience.
MY OLD KENTUCKY HOME
My Old Kentucky Home State Park welcomes visitors to tour the iconic Federal Hill mansion, where costumed guides bring its history, architecture, and Stephen Foster’s legacy to life. With formal gardens, seasonal performances of The Stephen Foster Story, golf, picnicking, and scenic grounds, the park offers a rich and memorable experience in the heart of Bardstown.
OSCAR GETZ MUSEUM OF WHISKEY
The Oscar Getz Museum of Bourbon History, located in historic Spalding Hall, showcases one of the world’s finest collections of rare whiskey artifacts—spanning pre‑Colonial days through Prohibition and featuring treasures like Abraham Lincoln’s liquor license and early moonshine stills. With free admission, guided tours, and more than 1,500 unique bottles and exhibits, it offers an engaging and memorable stop in the heart of Bardstown’s Bourbon Capital of the World.
THE NATIONAL CIVIL WAR MUSEUM
The National Civil War Museum in Bardstown, Ky is one of the largest Civil War museums in the United States—immerses visitors in the history of the Western Theater with rare artifacts, compelling exhibits, and stories from both Union and Confederate perspectives. Located along Bardstown’s Museum Row, it offers an engaging journey through 8,000+ square feet of exhibits, including the Women’s Civil War Museum and Old Bardstown Village.
HURST DISCOUNT DRUGS
Hurst Discount Drugs is a charming Bardstown staple, best known for its old‑fashioned soda fountain that feels like a step back in time. Visitors can enjoy classic treats like hand‑mixed fountain drinks, milkshakes, and simple lunch counter favorites while soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere. It’s a warm, local spot that captures the small‑town character Bardstown is famous for, making it a fun and memorable stop during your visit.
MAKING GOOD SCENTZ
Making Good Scentz is a fun, hands‑on candle‑making experience where visitors can create their own custom candles from start to finish. Guests choose their favorite fragrances, blend scents, and pour their own candle to take home — a creative, memorable activity that’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone who enjoys a personalized keepsake. It’s a charming local spot that adds a touch of artistry and relaxation to your time in Bardstown.
RESTAURANTS & BARS
THE RICKHOUSE RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
The Rickhouse Restaurant & Lounge, tucked beneath historic Spalding Hall in Bardstown, offers an unforgettable dining experience with outstanding service, expertly crafted cocktails, and a menu built around perfectly prepared steaks and Southern favorites. With more than 150 bourbons to choose from and a warm, barrel‑inspired atmosphere, it’s a must‑visit stop for anyone wanting to savor Kentucky cuisine in the heart of the Bourbon Capital of the World.
CAFE PRIMO
Café Primo, located in the heart of downtown Bardstown, serves authentic Italian‑style pizzas, pastas, salads, and homemade desserts in a warm, casual setting. With friendly service, indoor and outdoor heated seating, and a menu featuring stone‑oven pizzas, fresh bread, and classic tiramisu, it’s a welcoming stop for anyone craving comforting Italian flavors during their visit to Bardstown.
TOOGIE’S TABLE
Toogie’s Table is Bardstown’s modern gathering place, where Southern comfort meets Kentucky tradition through scratch‑made favorites like fried catfish, pork chops, hearty brunch plates, and rotating house‑made pies. With an easygoing atmosphere, an extensive whiskey list rooted in local bourbon heritage, and warm hospitality, it’s a welcoming stop for travelers and locals looking to savor refined classics with regional flair
SCOUT & SCHOLAR BREWING COMPANY
Scout & Scholar Brewing Co. in Bardstown is a welcoming gathering place known for great beer, exceptional food, and a warm, community‑focused atmosphere. Named for the Bard brothers who founded the city, it celebrates Bardstown’s rich history while offering a modern craft‑brewery experience in the heart of downtown.
BARDSTOWN BURGER
Bardstown Burger is a hometown favorite serving handcrafted, juicy burgers made fresh at both their vibrant downtown dine‑in spot and their convenient Bloomfield Road drive‑through. Guests consistently praise the friendly service, quick turnaround, and well‑seasoned classics.
LIAM ASH COCKTAIL EMPORIUM
Liam Ash Cocktail Emporium is a cozy, upscale lounge in downtown Bardstown known for creative, artfully crafted cocktails enriched with smoke, bubbles, and fire. With charcuterie boards, small plates, and a warm, intimate atmosphere, it’s a favorite spot for relaxed evenings and date nights.
Ready to see more of Kentucky? From the quiet charm of Bloomfield to the handcrafted spirits of our local distilleries, and the scenic countryside that stretches beyond Bardstown, there’s so much waiting just a short drive from Springhill. Keep exploring and discover the places that make our corner of Kentucky unforgettable.
Book Your Stay Today
Springhill Bed & Breakfast / Winery & Vineyards is always adding small touches to elevate your stay. Check back for seasonal specials and curated promotions designed to help you experience the estate at its best.