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DESTINATION

Bardstown

The principal industry is distilling, due to an abundance of lime in the community's water supply; some of Kentucky's largest distilleries are in the area. Heaven Hill offers exhibits and a video presentation about the bourbon-making process, and Maker's Mark conducts tours of its complete plant.

O'Connell Hall, on the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth's campus 3 miles north of Bardstown on US 31E, has a museum devoted to the order's history and ministries; phone (502) 348-1500.

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival, held in September or October, celebrates Bardstown's bourbon-making heritage. Among the festivities are a barrel relay, historical tours, art exhibits, food, activities and games. Phone (502) 275-8384 to confirm schedule.

Visitor Centers

Bardstown-Nelson County Tourist & Convention Commission One Court Square Bardstown, KY 40004. Phone:(502)348-4877 or (800)638-4877

Self-guiding Tours

Walking tour brochures of Bardstown's historic sites are available from the tourist and convention commission.

Things to Do

Bardstown Historical Museum

The Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History

Basilica of St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral

Civil War Museum of the Western Theater

Heaven Hill Distilleries Bourbon Heritage Center

My Old Kentucky Dinner Train

My Old Kentucky Home State Park

The Stephen Foster Story

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