Bardstown

Bardstown is a city in Nelson County in the US state of Kentucky, located about 50 kilometers south of Louisville. The downtown area gathers around a central square with a courthouse and wide streets lined with brick houses and old shops.

The settlement started in 1770 and received its current name in 1788 after David Bard, who owned a large tract of land here. During the 19th century the place grew into a center of whiskey production and later became the seat of Nelson County government.

The town carries the title Bourbon Capital of the World and shows its tradition in distilleries where visitors can watch barrels aging in warehouses. Many buildings from the 19th century line the main street and recall the time when merchants and craftspeople ran their businesses here.

Several distilleries offer tours where you can follow the production process and taste samples. The area has accommodations in inns and hotels that work well for a stay of several days.

A museum in town preserves tools, bottles and documents on the history of American whiskey production since colonial times. In some cellars barrels older than a human lifetime continue to age.

Location: Nelson County

Inception: 1770

Elevation above the sea: 197 m

Website: https://cityofbardstown.org

GPS coordinates: 37.81528,-85.46278

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:00