Will be in Kentucky for a few days this summer (Louisville) and was wondering if the drive south to Bardstown is worth the effort? Am interested in touring the Makers Mark Bourbon distillery, but was wondering if it is worth the trip? Any suggestions? Are there any horse farms on the drive between Louisville and Bardstown, also? Any other highlights in the Bardstown region? Thanks.

I'm from lexington and have heard the distillery tour is good and worth the trip. You get to dip and sign your own bottle. For horse farms, you need to head southeast to Versailles/Lexington area where there are some additional distilleries. The only other thing in Bardstown is the Stephen Foster story -an outdoor play that takes place in the summer.

Of all things, I went to a wedding in Bardstown 2 years ago. I thought it was quaint (the reception was at "Hillbilly Heaven" which has since been renamed). They had an old-time soda fountain and plenty of cute shops in town. Check out www.bardstowntourism.com for tourist info. We flew into Louisville and drove from there. We stayed at the Hampton Inn. There is a little "sports" bar across the street from the HI that had kareoke every night we were there (so dangerous). The wedding was at St. Joseph Proto-Cathedral/Minor Basilica, which was, I think, one of the first catholic churches west of the alleghany mountains.

Definately worth the drive from Louisville (which is not that far). There are lots of distilleries in the area, but Makers Mark is by far the best

Thanks to all of you for your replies. Looks like I definitely will be heading to Bardstown and Maker's Mark. Now, it's the trip back I am worried about !!!!

Maker's Mark is located in one of the most beautiful settings in Kentucky. We have gone back several times. One of our favorite Ky. places.