If you’re exploring Lexington and want a taste of Kentucky’s famous drinks scene, the Brewery and Distillery Campus Tour offers a friendly, behind-the-scenes look at how some of the region’s best beers and bourbons are made. While it’s not a sprawling, all-day adventure, it packs enough to keep you interested—especially if you’re into craft drinks or just curious about the process.
What really appeals to us are the knowledgeable guides who walk you through each step of the production and the chance to sample a variety of beers and spirits with 4 tasting tokens included in the price. Plus, the fact that children can join the tour makes it a more inclusive outing for families or groups with mixed ages.
One potential downside? If you’re expecting a lengthy tour or a comprehensive history lesson, this one clocks in at around an hour and may feel a bit brief, especially if you’re already familiar with bourbon or brewing. Still, it’s a good intro for those new to the subject or anyone looking for an easy, relaxed activity while in Lexington.
This tour is ideal for beer lovers, bourbon enthusiasts, or curious travelers seeking a friendly, straightforward experience that offers a taste of Lexington’s drink-making heritage without overwhelming details.
Key Points
- Affordable and short: At $15 per person for around an hour, it’s a budget-friendly, quick intro.
- All ages welcome: Kids can join the tour, making it family-friendly, although those under 9 or pregnant women may find it less suitable.
- Learn from guides: Expect friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the process easy to understand.
- Tastings included: Four tokens allow sampling at both the brewery and distillery, providing a tangible taste of Lexington’s signature drinks.
- Two-in-one experience: Combines brewery and distillery tours for a well-rounded look at Kentucky’s drinks production.
- Walk-ins possible: No reservations are necessary, but availability depends on first-come, first-served basis, especially on busy days.
What to Expect from the Tour
The Lexington Brewing & Distilling Campus Tour is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re a drink connoisseur or just a curious visitor. The first stop is the brewery, where you’ll get a close look at the production of the famous Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale. You’ll learn how local ingredients and traditional brewing methods shape the flavor, along with some historical context about Lexington’s brewing past.
Next, you’ll walk across the street to the distillery, where the process of making Town Branch Bourbon is explained from start to finish. From grain to bottle, guides will describe what makes Kentucky bourbon unique and what sets Town Branch apart. This part is particularly engaging if you want to understand the craftsmanship involved.
The guided nature of the tour ensures you’re not just looking at equipment but gaining insights that make the tasting experience more meaningful. The guides clearly know their stuff, which helps make each step understandable and interesting. Several reviews highlight this, with one saying, “Excellent experience,” and another calling the guides “great,” which adds a lot to the overall value.
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The Tasting Experience
Your four tasting tokens are a highlight. You can exchange them for samples of beer and spirits from both the brewery and distillery. While the specific drinks aren’t detailed, you’ll likely sample a selection representative of Lexington’s offerings, including the signature Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale and Town Branch spirits.
For drinkers, this is a nice way to try different flavors without committing to a full glass. For non-drinkers or families, the tour as a whole remains interesting, as children are welcome to join and simply observe.
Some reviews mention that the tour is “not much to see,” which might be true if you’re expecting an extensive sightseeing experience. But for those interested in the production process, the guided explanations and tasting tokens make it worthwhile.
The Practicalities: Timing, Cost, and More
Priced at just $15, this tour offers good value considering the insights and tastings included. It’s about an hour long, with sessions typically available in the morning and afternoon, giving you some flexibility to fit it into your day.
Walk-ins are accepted if reservations aren’t booked out, but keep in mind that during busy times, availability may be limited. The online booking system closes 2 hours before each tour, so planning ahead or arriving early can secure your spot.
The tour is not suitable for children under 9, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility challenges, mainly because of the nature of the production facilities and the need to walk between different areas.
The Authentic Voice: What Real Travelers Say
While the majority of reviews are glowing, a few point out small downsides. For instance, one traveler from France expressed disappointment about “not much to see,” which might reflect a quieter day or different expectations. However, others rave about the friendly, knowledgeable guides and the overall experience.
One U.S. visitor summarized it as “excellent,” and many echoed that sentiment, calling it a “great” activity to do in Lexington. It’s clear that the guides’ expertise really make a difference, turning what could be a basic tour into an engaging educational experience.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect if you’re looking for a light, engaging activity that offers a peek behind the scenes of Kentucky’s famed drinks industry without requiring a huge time commitment. It’s especially suited for:
- First-time visitors interested in local craft production
- Families (with children over 9), wanting a fun, educational outing
- Budgets-conscious travelers seeking good value
- Drink enthusiasts, eager for a curated tasting experience
- Those who enjoy guided tours with friendly, knowledgeable hosts
It’s less ideal if you want an in-depth, lengthy exploration or if you’re particularly interested in the historical or technical details of brewing and distilling.
Final Thoughts
The Lexington Brewery and Distillery Campus Tour with tastings offers a relaxed yet informative way to understand Kentucky’s famous drinks. The friendly guides, combined with the chance to sample local brews and spirits, make this a worthwhile stop for curious travelers. The modest price and short duration make it accessible, and the fact that kids can join means it’s more inclusive than many specialized tours.
While it might not satisfy those seeking an in-depth or lengthy experience, it excels as an easy, pleasant introduction to Lexington’s craft scene. Whether you’re in town for a quick visit or looking for a family-friendly activity, this tour provides a genuine taste of Kentucky’s famous drinks culture—a good balance of education, fun, and flavor.
Lexington: Brewery and Distillery Campus Tour with Tastings
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are welcome to join the tour, but those under 9 years old may find it less engaging. It’s a good activity if you’re traveling with slightly older kids interested in the process.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately one hour long, including guided explanations and tastings.
Do I need to book in advance?
Walk-ins are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, but reservations close 2 hours before the tour. Booking ahead guarantees your spot, especially during busy times.
What does the $15 include?
The price covers a guided tour of both the brewery and distillery and 4 tasting tokens to sample beers and spirits.
Can I visit if I don’t want to taste?
Yes, non-drinkers or those not wanting to taste can still enjoy the tour, but the tasting part is integral to the experience.
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 9, or individuals with mobility issues due to walking and production area access.
What is the best time to visit?
Tours are usually available in the morning and afternoon. Booking early or arriving early for walk-ins helps ensure availability.
What kind of drinks will I taste?
While specific drinks aren’t listed, expect to sample some of Lexington’s signature beers like Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale and spirits such as Town Branch bourbon.
Is the tour educational?
Absolutely. Guides explain the production process in a friendly, approachable way, making it informative even if you’re new to brewing or distilling.
If you’re after a straightforward, friendly introduction to Lexington’s drink-making scene, this tour hits the mark. It’s a solid choice for those who appreciate good guides, tasty samples, and a relaxed pace.
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