The Ultimate Guide to the Best Bourbon Bars in Louisville

The Ultimate Guide to the Best Bourbon Bars in Louisville

Share this post!

picture of bourbon glasses with the words "bourbon bars in Lousiville"

If you’re traveling to Louisville, you might be going for the hundreds of bourbons made in the city. You can see where they come from at the distilleries or enjoy a variety at one of the bourbon bars in Louisville.

The city has many bourbon bars, so choosing which one to visit can be challenging. 

In this article, I’ve listed all the top bourbon bars in Louisville, where you can enjoy bourbon from various distilleries.

Last updated: June 12, 2024

Originally published: December 11, 2023

Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you click the link or make a purchase through the link. This is at no extra cost to you. This compensation may impact how and where links are placed on this site.

Are you looking for other Louisville travel guides?

Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop

Me standing on the rooftop with the city background.

Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop is a must-visit destination for bourbon lovers in Louisville. The bar offers a remarkable selection of bourbons from various Louisville distilleries.

The atmosphere at Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop is cozy and inviting, providing the perfect ambiance for savoring the rich flavors of bourbon. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to guide you in choosing the perfect pour for your palate.

Whether you’re looking to try something new or find your go-to bourbon, Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop is sure to impress with its wide variety of options. 

Address: 1139 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40204

North Of Bourbon

North of Bourbon is a unique bourbon bar nestled in the heart of Louisville. Its cozy yet modern ambiance offers a unique experience for bourbon enthusiasts and novices alike. 

The bar perfectly combines the rich history of bourbon with a contemporary twist, creating an inviting atmosphere that keeps patrons coming back for more.

From small-batch offerings to limited-edition releases, their collection boasts many options that impress even the most discerning bourbon lovers.

In addition to its impressive bourbon selection, North of Bourbon offers a carefully curated craft cocktails and spirits menu.

From classic Old Fashioneds to innovative bourbon-based concoctions, the bartenders at North of Bourbon are skilled in mixing up delightful libations that are bound to please.

Address: 935 Goss Ave, Louisville, KY 40217

Franks Whiskey Place

Me holding a drink on the rooftop with the cityscape at the background.

Franks Whiskey Place is a popular bourbon bar located in Louisville. If you’re a whiskey enthusiast, this place is worth checking out.

Whether you prefer bourbon, rye, or scotch, you’ll find a wide selection of whiskies.

In addition to the impressive whiskey selection, Franks Whiskey Place hosts various events throughout the year. From tastings to specialty cocktail nights, there’s always something happening that caters to whiskey lovers in Louisville.

Although Franks Whiskey Place primarily focuses on whiskey, they offer a few other options for non-whiskey drinkers, including a selection of craft beers and wines. So, even if you’re not a big bourbon fan, you can still enjoy a night out at this cozy establishment.

Address: 331 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202

Other Noteworthy Bourbon Bars In Louisville

In addition to Neat Bourbon Bar & Bottle Shop, North of Bourbon, and Franks Whiskey Place, several other bourbon bars are worth visiting in Louisville. Each of these bars offers a unique atmosphere and selection of bourbons. Here are a few more options to consider:

1. Taj Louisville

Taj Louisville is known for its extensive cocktail menu, including various bourbon-based drinks. The bar also features live music, making it a great spot to unwind and enjoy the local music scene.

Address: 807 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40206

2. Taste Fine Wines And Bourbons

Me holding a drink in a room filled with people.

As the name suggests, Taste Fine Wines and Bourbons offers a wide selection of wine and bourbon. Whether you’re ready for a bold red wine or a smooth bourbon, this bar has you covered.

Address: 634 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202

3. Trouble Bar

Trouble Bar is a cozy and intimate establishment that specializes in craft cocktails. While their menu extends beyond bourbon, they have a solid selection of bourbons that satisfy any bourbon lover’s palate.

Address: 1149 S Shelby St, Louisville, KY 40203

4. Hell Or High Water

With its vintage-inspired decor and relaxed atmosphere, Hell or High Water is a charming bar that offers a curated selection of bourbons. They also have a great cocktail menu featuring classic and innovative creations.

Address: 112 W Washington St, Louisville, KY 40202

5. The Bar At Fort Nelson

Located inside the historic Fort Nelson building, The Bar at Fort Nelson is a destination for whiskey enthusiasts. As the official home of Michter’s Distillery, the bar offers a range of Michter’s whiskeys, including limited edition releases and unique expressions.

Address: 801 W Main St, Louisville, KY 40202

6. Sidebar At Whiskey Row

Me holding my pineapple drink in a funky restaurant.

Situated in the heart of the Whiskey Row district, Sidebar At Whiskey Row is known for its extensive bourbon and whiskey selection. The bar’s upscale yet cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for enjoying a glass of your favorite bourbon.

Address: 129 N 2nd St, Louisville, KY 40202

7. ShopBar

ShopBar is a bourbon-centric establishment that offers an impressive list of bourbons and craft beers and wines. This bar is perfect for those looking to explore the diverse world of bourbons and expand their tasting horizons.

Address: 950 Barret Ave, Louisville, KY 40204

These are just a few examples of the many bourbon bars available in Louisville. Each bourbon bar in Louisville has its own unique ambiance and selection, so be sure to visit their websites for more information and details on their offerings.

Enjoy The Bourbon Bars In Louisville

Me standing bellow Louisville signage.

Bourbon bars in Louisville provide an extensive selection of bourbons, showcasing this beloved drink’s diverse range of flavors and profiles.

After exploring a variety of bourbon bars in Louisville, it is clear that these establishments play a significant role in the city’s vibrant bourbon culture. From classic bars to modern bottle shops, each venue offers a unique experience.

Traveling to Louisville soon? Here are my favorite trip-planning resources:

Click for the top hotel deals!

View deals on Tripadvisor

Frequently Asked Questions About Bourbon Bars In Louisville

What Is The Difference Between A Bourbon Bar And A Distillery?

Bourbon bars in Louisville differ from distilleries in that they focus on providing a wide variety of bourbon selections rather than producing the whiskey themselves. Bourbon bars offer a curated collection of bourbons from various distilleries, allowing visitors to explore and taste an extensive range of flavors without visiting individual distillery locations.

Are These Bourbon Bars Suitable For Non-Bourbon Drinkers?

While bourbon bars in Louisville primarily cater to bourbon enthusiasts, they also understand and cater to the preferences of non-bourbon drinkers. Many of these establishments offer alternative drink options such as other whiskeys, cocktails, wines, and beers, ensuring that non-bourbon drinkers can still enjoy their time at these bars.

Can Visitors Purchase Bottles Of Bourbon From These Bars?

Bourbon bars in Louisville primarily focus on providing an exceptional variety of bourbons for tastings and drinks during visits. The bars typically do not sell bottles directly to customers. However, their knowledgeable staff can often provide guidance and recommendations on where visitors can purchase bottles of the bourbons they enjoyed at the bars.

Do These Bourbon Bars Offer Food Options?

Many of the bourbon bars in Louisville understand the importance of pairing good food with great drinks. As a result, several of these establishments offer food options that complement their bourbon selections. Visitors can enjoy a variety of appetizers, small plates, and even full meals at some of the bars, enhancing their overall experience.