Jack Daniels Smooth Distillery Tours Shopping and Barbecue

Exploring the Jack Daniels distillery is a classic Tennessee experience that draws many visitors eager to learn, taste, and shop. This tour package, offered by Super Shuttle Nashville, promises an immersive day with a blend of distillery visits, local shopping, and a hearty barbecue meal, all wrapped up in a roughly 6-hour and 45-minute journey.

What we appreciate most about this experience is its focus on authentic local flavor — from Lynchburg’s handcrafted wines to the iconic whiskey itself. The chance to browse the official Jack Daniels gift shop and the sweet treats at the Lynchburg Candy Company adds a genuine touch of southern charm. But, as with many tours, there are some considerations to keep in mind, especially regarding what’s included and what’s not.

This tour is best suited for whiskey enthusiasts, history buffs, or travelers who love blending sightseeing with shopping and good food. If you’re after a straightforward, all-in-one Lynchburg experience, this might just be right up your alley. However, if you’re expecting an in-depth distillery tour included in the price, you’ll want to read on for the details.

Key Points

• Authentic Lynchburg Experience: Visit local shops, savor handcrafted wines, and shop for official Jack Daniels souvenirs.
• Flexible Itinerary: Mix of sightseeing, shopping, and tasting, with time to explore Lynchburg at your own pace.
• Limited Tour Access: The actual distillery tour isn’t included in the main package, which might impact some visitors’ expectations.
• Food & Drink: Enjoy Southern barbecue at Miss Mary Bobo’s, plus a complimentary small whiskey pour for adults.
• Transport & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transportation makes the day comfortable, with pickup options.
• Customer Feedback: Generally positive about the driver and shopping, but some confusion about tour inclusions.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with a courteous pickup, this package is designed for travelers wanting a hassle-free day out. The journey begins with a free 0.5ml of Jack Daniels No.7 whiskey — a small but memorable gesture that sets the tone. You’ll be driven in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a definite plus for comfort, especially on a warm Tennessee day.

Lynchburg Winery: A Taste of Local Wines

The day kicks off with a 30-minute stop at Lynchburg Winery. Here, you’ll get a chance to sip on handcrafted wines mainly produced by local families. Reviewers highlight the sweet, country-style choices, making it a charming introduction to Tennessee’s wine scene. This stop is free and perfect for those who enjoy casual tastings or just browsing local products.

Lynchburg Distillery: Shopping and Free Time

Next, the bus drops off guests near the famous Jack Daniels distillery. While the main distillery tour is not included in the package (a point that has caused some confusion), you’ll have about two hours to explore at your leisure. The retail shops are a treasure trove of branded merchandise—think T-shirts, shot glasses, and whiskey barrels you can purchase as souvenirs.

One reviewer specifically praised the friendly and thoughtful driver Diane, who made the ride enjoyable and kept the group engaged. This part of the experience allows for independent shopping, photos, and soaking in the authentic Lynchburg atmosphere. You might find yourself wandering into the Jack Daniels Candy Company or picking up a bottle with custom engraving, which adds a special touch.

Jack Daniel’s Hardware and General Store

A dedicated stop at this store offers a variety of official Jack Daniels gifts. From vintage-style hats and scarves to shot glasses and whiskey barrels, this is a great place to pick up a unique souvenir or a gift. One traveler mentioned the appeal of taking home an authentic whiskey barrel — a memorable gift for whiskey aficionados or a conversation starter at home.

Lynchburg Cake & Candy Company: Sweet Treats

No trip would be complete without indulging in Jack Daniels Whiskey Cake, a recipe dating back to the early 1900s, flavored with the famous whiskey. The shop also offers whiskey-scented chocolates, pralines, and pecan treats. Reviewers appreciated the flavorful confections, which are perfect for gifting or just savoring on the spot.

Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant: Southern Hearty Cuisine

The tour culminates with a feast at Miss Mary Bobo’s, owned by Jack Daniels. Here, guests enjoy an all-you-can-eat Southern-style buffet, featuring classics such as fried chicken, BBQ pork, macaroni and cheese, green beans, mashed potatoes, and peach cobbler. While lunch isn’t included in the basic package, the two-hour sit-down meal is highly valued by those who love traditional Southern comfort food.

Several reviews pointed out that this part of the tour is a highlight, with the food described as delicious, hearty, and authentically Southern. The restaurant’s rustic charm and friendly service add to the overall experience.

Optional Whiskey Tasting

Post-lunch, guests participating in the whiskey tasting session are guided into dedicated tasting rooms. You’re offered the chance to sample different whiskey flights (ranging from $6.95 to $9.95 per glass). Plus, there’s an opportunity to purchase and engrave your own bottle — a fun and personalized souvenir.

Considerations Based on Reviews

While many travelers love the variety and relaxed pace of this tour, some reviews mention disappointment over what’s included. One reviewer noted that the main distillery tour is not part of this package, which might mislead those expecting an in-depth or guided distillery experience. Others pointed out that the driver was excellent, but the overall tour is more about shopping and leisure rather than a detailed whiskey-making process.

Plus, the cost of the whiskey tastings ($6.95 to $9.95 per glass) is extra, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge. The tour’s duration of nearly 7 hours provides a good balance of sightseeing, shopping, and eating, but it’s not a comprehensive distillery tour — rather, a curated Lynchburg experience.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The private transport ensures a comfortable and seamless experience, with pickup and drop-off included. The tour operates seven days a week from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, giving flexibility for planning your day. Since the tour is private, your group size is limited, which fosters a more personalized atmosphere.

Timing-wise, the two-hour window at Lynchburg’s main attractions allows ample opportunity to browse, shop, and snap photos, while the longer stop at the winery and restaurant rounds out the day with culinary delights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This experience offers a relaxed, enjoyable day in Lynchburg, especially if you’re interested in a mix of shopping, tasting, and Southern cuisine. The private transportation, combined with stops at iconic local spots, makes it a convenient way to explore without the hassle of planning multiple visits.

However, if your main goal is an in-depth whiskey distillery tour, you might find this package lacking, as the actual distillery tour is not included. Still, the opportunity to browse the retail shops, sample local wines, and enjoy Miss Mary Bobo’s hearty buffet adds considerable value.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate a casual, varied day with a focus on local culture and souvenirs rather than detailed whiskey-making insights. Families, groups of friends, or curious travelers wanting a taste of Lynchburg’s charm will find this tour a pleasant, hassle-free outing.

FAQs

Does the tour include the actual Jack Daniels distillery tour?
No, the main distillery tour is not included in this package. You’ll have free time to explore the retail shops and other attractions instead.

What is included in the tour?
You get private transportation, a small 0.5ml sample of Jack Daniels whiskey, visits to Lynchburg Winery, Jack Daniel’s retail store, the hardware and gift store, Lynchburg Cake & Candy Company, and a hearty Southern meal at Miss Mary Bobo’s.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts roughly 6 hours and 45 minutes, with scheduled stops at various Lynchburg attractions.

Is there an opportunity to taste whiskey?
Yes, after the meal, you can participate in a whiskey tasting session that costs extra ($6.95–$9.95 per glass). You can also buy engraved bottles if you wish.

What about accessibility?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible in some areas, such as the high barley warehouse, due to stairs.

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

Is the price worth it?
Considering the convenience, variety of stops, and included tastings and food, many find the $175 price reasonable, especially for a private, well-organized day out. However, if you’re expecting a comprehensive distillery tour, you might want to plan additional visits separately.

To sum it up, this tour offers a friendly and relaxed way to enjoy Lynchburg’s highlights, especially if shopping, tasting, and sampling Southern fare appeal to you. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Tennessee’s whiskey culture without the pressure of a structured, guided tour. With the right expectations, you’ll leave with a smile, some unique souvenirs, and plenty of stories to tell.