We found ourselves on the Minnesota–Canada border, sipping bourbon at Cantilever Distillery, when it hit us: after years of traveling the country, we’ve probably visited over 100 distilleries. From the heritage giants of Kentucky to hidden gems in the mountains of Colorado, bourbon has become one of our favorite ways to explore.
And since it happened to be National Bourbon Day, we thought — what better time to share what we’ve learned? These tips aren’t just about whiskey. They’re about travel, adventure, and connecting with the places (and people) behind every bottle. So, let’s explore America through bourbon and whiskey with our top 5 travel tips.
Here’s a sneak peek of what we’ll cover:
- Big vs. Small → Why you should balance iconic distilleries with small-batch gems.
- Beyond Kentucky → Where bourbon is thriving outside the Bluegrass State.
- Colorado Bourbon → Why the Rockies are serving some serious pours.
- Events & Festivals → How timing your trip can unlock unique experiences.
- Stay Near the Source → Making your bourbon adventure more relaxed and rewarding.
Podcast
We recorded a podcast on location at Cantilever Hotel that recaps our top 5 bourbon tourism tips. In the video we also share clips from our experiences with exploring America through bourbon & Whisky.
Watch it here:
Whether you’re planning a road trip or just curious where bourbon can take you, this guide will help you travel deeper — one pour at a time.
1. Balance Giants and Little Guys
Why Big vs. Small Distilleries Matter We always balance visits to the giants—think Maker’s Mark or Buffalo Trace—with smaller, craft spots. The big names bring history, polished tours, and iconic flavors that define bourbon culture. But smaller places offer intimacy: time with the makers, personal stories, and rare bottlings only available onsite. Experiencing both gives us perspective on consistency, scale, and innovation in bourbon.
Our Recommendations
- Glenns Creek Distillery (Frankfort, KY) – Built on the old Old Crow site, it honors bourbon history while experimenting with yeast strains and mash bills. A mix of heritage and curiosity.
- Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. (Franklin County, KY) – Known for its “barrel thieving” experience, where you sample and bottle straight from the cask. It’s hands-on, unique, and farm-based.
2. Explore Beyond Kentucky
Why Bourbon Beyond Kentucky Matters Kentucky may be bourbon’s heart, but it isn’t the whole story. Other states have begun carving their mark on the spirit—using regional grains, unique climates, and distinctive aging environments. Exploring beyond Kentucky broadens the palate, introduces new traditions, and connects us with local flavors and fans.
Our Recommendations Check local maps before every trip. We’ve stumbled on award-winning distilleries this way, from Minnesota to Colorado. Bourbon events outside of Kentucky are especially fun—they bring together distillers, enthusiasts, and regional pride in one lively tasting room.
3. Try Colorado for Whiskey in the Mountains
I know it might sound over the top to devote a whole point to Colorado—but stick with us. We love Colorado whiskey because it brings its own mountain spirit and a twist you won’t find in Kentucky. The high altitude and adventurous ethos of the Rockies all contribute to something special in each bottle.
Why Colorado Whiskey Matters for Us Colorado has become one of our favorite whiskey destinations. Distilleries here take advantage of mountain climate and altitude, which create unique maturation conditions. The result is whiskey or bourbon with depth, freshness, and often a bold twist you won’t find elsewhere. For us, sipping whiskey with mountain views nearby is a perfect combination of place and flavor.
Our Recommendations
- Laws Whiskey House (Denver, CO) – Known for heirloom grains and a meticulous focus on terroir. Their Four Grain Straight Bourbon is a standout.
- Stranahan’s Whiskey Distillery (Denver, CO) – Pioneers in Colorado whiskey, with tours that mix storytelling, craft, and some of the best American single malt out there.
- Breckenridge Distillery (Breckenridge, CO) – Both the main site and the tasting room on Main Street are must-stops. Their high-altitude bourbon is smooth yet distinct, and the mountain vibe makes it memorable.
4. Align With Local Events
Why Timing Your Trip Matters Distilleries are fun any day, but line up your trip with a festival or event, and it becomes unforgettable. Special releases, cocktail pairings, and live music bring bourbon culture to life. Planning around events lets you meet makers, join in community celebrations, and taste bottles you won’t find again.
Our Recommendation
- Bourbon on the Banks (Frankfort, KY) – Held every fall, it’s a riverside festival with 70+ distilleries, food vendors, live music, and VIP tastings. It’s one of the best ways to experience bourbon culture all in one place. (Pro tip: book tickets and lodging months in advance—this festival fills up fast!)
5. Stay Close to the Source
Why Lodging Matters for Bourbon Trips After a long day of tastings, the last thing we want is a long drive. Staying close to the distilleries saves time, cuts down stress, and makes the experience more immersive. Plus, with many distilleries only open from late morning to early evening, proximity gives flexibility to return for a second tasting or special event. Better yet, why not stay where you sip!
Our Recommendation
- Cantilever Distillery + Hotel (Ranier, MN) – A perfect example of a “stay-and-sip” spot. The distillery shares space with the hotel, so you can taste, tour, and stroll back to your room in minutes.
- In Kentucky, we often use Airbnb to find homes right in the middle of bourbon country. Staying local keeps us refreshed and connected to the region’s rhythm.
Wrapping It Up: Bourbon, Travel, and the Joy of the Journey
At the end of the day, exploring bourbon isn’t just about what’s in the glass—it’s about the stories, the people, and the places you discover along the way. Don’t forget that many distilleries offer passport programs, letting you collect stamps as you sip your way across states like Kentucky, Tennessee, or even in Minnesota. It’s a fun keepsake that adds another layer to your adventure.
And remember, bourbon is meant to be enjoyed—not overcomplicated. Whether you’re swirling it like a seasoned pro or simply savoring a pour with friends, there’s no wrong way to drink it (well… maybe don’t shoot it).
The real secret? Don’t just chase rare bottles or “allocated” finds. Chase the experiences—the mountain views in Colorado, the rolling hills of Kentucky, the quirky small-town stops in between. Every pour tells part of the journey.
Thanks for joining us and be sure to listen to the Quick Take episode of Living on the Way we recorded ON LOCATION at Cantilever. Be sure to subscribe or follow to the podcast for more short tips and full-length episodes where we share the unique places we stay, the hidden gems we discover, and of course, the bourbons we sip along the way.
Until next time—keep exploring, keep tasting, and keep living on the way.