Uncle Nearest Distillery Bus Tour with Tastings from Nashville

If you’re visiting Nashville and want to explore a bit beyond the honky-tonks and country music, a trip to the award-winning Uncle Nearest Distillery is a must. This tour offers not just a chance to taste some of the finest whiskey around but also to learn about a groundbreaking story of African American craftsmanship that’s often overlooked. Based on reviews and details from the tour provider, it promises a smooth, educational, and memorable experience — and it’s particularly praised for its guides and the quality of the whiskey.

What we love about this experience? First, it’s a hassle-free way to visit the distillery, with transportation and logistics handled for you. Plus, the guided tasting and stories about Nathan “Nearest” Green add a layer of depth you won’t get just wandering the grounds alone. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that there’s no restroom on the bus, so plan accordingly. This tour appeals most to whiskey lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers who want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at a storied part of Tennessee’s spirit tradition.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Nashville makes logistics simple and stress-free.
• In-depth guided tour offers rich insights into Nathan “Nearest” Green’s influential role in whiskey-making.
• Tastings included at the distillery provide a genuine chance to savor Uncle Nearest whiskey and explore its flavors.
• Beautiful grounds and the Humble Baron bar with the world’s longest bar make for a memorable setting.
• Weather doesn’t cancel the tour; it runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
• No restroom on board, so plan your timing and comfort needs.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour is built around convenience and education, making it an excellent pick for those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience over navigating on their own. From the moment you’re picked up in downtown Nashville, everything’s taken care of, so all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. The round-trip transportation is via an air-conditioned coach bus, ensuring comfort from start to finish, whether you’re traveling in a larger coach or a smaller van depending on your group size.

The Pickup and Transportation

Your journey begins at Bob’s Steak & Chop House, right off Broadway, a location connected to the Omni Hotel. This central starting point makes it easy to meet your guide and fellow travelers. The bus ride to Shelbyville takes around 30-40 minutes, giving you a moment to settle in and maybe chat with your fellow whiskey enthusiasts or simply enjoy the Tennessee scenery.

The Distillery Tour in Shelbyville

Once there, you’ll spend about 90 minutes exploring the Nearest Green Distillery. The guides here are well-educated, passionate, and dedicated to sharing the story of Nathan “Nearest” Green — the first known African American master distiller, who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey. As several reviewers noted, the guides make the history come alive, making you appreciate the craft and the significance of this story.

The distillery showcases the beautiful grounds and production spaces, offering a look into the whiskey-making process. You’ll get to see what makes Uncle Nearest so special and how the brand has become one of the fastest-growing in the country. The guided tasting experience is a highlight, allowing you to sample multiple whiskeys and learn about their flavor profiles directly from experts.

The Humble Baron and the Longest Bar in the World

After the tour, you’ll have about 45 minutes at the Humble Baron, which features the longest bar in the world. This spot is more than just a bar; it’s a fun photo op and a chance to enjoy a drink in a lively atmosphere. The reviews highlight the friendliness and knowledge of the staff, making it a welcoming spot to soak in the ambiance and perhaps sample a few more before heading back.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

The Pickup Point

Your day starts with an easy, centrally located pickup. Since it’s right off Broadway, it’s easy to get to, and the process is straightforward. Expect a comfortable coach, friendly driver, and a small group size—maximum 57 travelers—that fosters a more intimate experience.

The Distance and Duration

The total duration is around 5 hours, which includes the drive, the distillery tour, tasting, and time at the bar. This is a good length—long enough to feel immersive but not so drawn out that it becomes tiring. It’s perfect for a relaxed day trip without eating into your Nashville sightseeing.

The Distillery Experience

The 90-minute guided tour is detailed but accessible. You’ll learn about Nathan Green’s life and contributions, and the guides make the history engaging. It’s a chance to see behind the scenes and understand why Uncle Nearest whiskey is so well regarded.

Tasting and Grounds

The guided tasting offers a variety of whiskey samples, and several reviewers praised the quality and the storytelling that accompanied each sip. You’ll also have some time to explore the grounds, take photos, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Shelbyville.

The Bar and Final Stop

Ending your tour at Humble Baron with the longest bar in the world is a fun way to cap off the day. The atmosphere is friendly, and the staff are knowledgeable, making it a great place to relax and reflect on what you’ve learned and tasted.

The Practical Side: Price, Group Size, and Tips

At $129.99 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering all the inclusions—transportation, guided tour, tastings, and access to the grounds and bar. That said, keep in mind there’s no restroom on the bus, so plan your snacks and hydration accordingly.

The group size is capped at 57 travelers, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social fun. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately—Tennessee weather can be unpredictable, and it’s wise to bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for whiskey lovers, those interested in African American history, and travelers who want a convenient and informative excursion outside Nashville’s city limits. It’s also well-suited for adults who appreciate storytelling, good spirits, and scenic grounds. The tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility challenges, as there are many stairs and no mention of accessibility accommodations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free visit to a celebrated distillery with a meaningful backstory, this tour delivers. The guided experience and tastings are praised repeatedly, and the transport logistics make it super easy to enjoy without stressing about driving or parking. The setting at Shelbyville provides a peaceful counterpoint to Nashville’s lively city scene, adding a quiet dimension to your trip.

The reviews consistently highlight knowledgeable guides, friendly staff, and the quality of whiskey tastings. While the experience is somewhat structured, that’s part of the charm—no need to worry about planning or logistics, just focus on soaking it all in and enjoying the stories and sips.

If you’re a fan of whiskey, curious about the history behind it, or simply want to add a different flavor to your Nashville visit, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with others who appreciate a good story along with a good drink. Just remember, if restroom accessibility or a flexible schedule are critical for you, plan ahead accordingly.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you are picked up and dropped off in downtown Nashville, and all transportation to Shelbyville is provided via an air-conditioned coach bus or van.

How long is the bus ride?
The ride from Nashville to Shelbyville takes approximately 30-40 minutes each way, depending on traffic.

Are the whiskey tastings included?
Yes, guided whiskey tastings are part of the experience, allowing you to sample a variety of Uncle Nearest whiskeys.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, covering pickup, travel, the distillery tour, tastings, and visiting the bar.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this is an 21+ event; valid ID is required to participate.

Are there any physical limitations I should know about?
The tour involves ascending and descending many steps, so it’s not recommended for those with mobility challenges.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for Tennessee weather—comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised since parts of the tour are outdoors.

Is there a restroom on the bus?
No, there is no restroom on the vehicle, so plan your needs accordingly.

Can I get souvenirs or merchandise?
Yes, there is a gift shop at the distillery, though some reviews mention limited sizes and styles.

In the end, this Uncle Nearest Distillery Bus Tour strikes a good balance between education, enjoyment, and convenience. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that offers more than just whiskey tasting—it’s a story about innovation, resilience, and craftsmanship, all set in lovely Tennessee surroundings. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or just curious to learn about an important part of American spirits history, this tour makes for a meaningful addition to your Nashville trip.