The Old Taylor Tour and Lunch Cruise

If you’re considering exploring Kentucky’s famed bourbon trail in a way that combines history, scenic views, and good old-fashioned hospitality, the Old Taylor Tour and Lunch Cruise promises a well-rounded experience. This private half-day adventure offers travelers a chance to see bourbon from multiple angles — on water and land — while savoring a hearty meal and learning about the craft that made Kentucky famous.

What draws many to this experience are two key highlights: the scenic boat ride in the Kentucky River, complete with locks, and the in-depth tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery— a name that’s almost synonymous with quality bourbon. Plus, the tour’s reviews consistently praise the guides’ knowledge and the authentic, relaxed vibe, making it clear why this experience has a perfect rating of 5.0 from 67 reviews.

One possible consideration is the physical aspect of the distillery tour, which involves a fair bit of walking and stairs. Travelers with mobility issues or discomfort walking across metal grates may want to evaluate this before booking. This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic relaxation, history, and good food, especially those who appreciate a well-organized yet informal atmosphere.

Key Points

• Private tour with a focus on bourbon history and scenic views
• Includes a boat cruise passing through historic locks
• Guided tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery’s key sites
• Tasty BBQ lunch included in the price
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, informative experience
• Not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or acrophobia

Discover Kentucky’s Bourbon and River from Multiple Angles

This experience offers a rare combination: a boat cruise along the Kentucky River and a detailed distillery tour, all wrapped into a manageable four-hour window. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an authentic taste of Kentucky’s bourbon culture without the overwhelming time commitment of longer tours.

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at 101 Riverboat Landing, Frankfort, KY, a city with a charming small-town feel. The use of a mobile ticket simplifies check-in, and even in peak times, most travelers book about 49 days in advance, indicating good demand and planning.

The cost? $125 per person, which on the surface may seem steep, but when you look at what’s included—a boat ride, distillery tour, a BBQ lunch, and guided insights—it offers considerable value. You get a variety of experiences in one package, ideal for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.

The Distillery Experience: Buffalo Trace

The highlight for many is the visit to Buffalo Trace Distillery, a revered name in bourbon circles. The tour explores the site’s historic buildings and production facilities, emphasizing E.H. Taylor Jr., a key figure credited with shaping the modern bourbon industry.

Expect to walk through iconic structures like the Old Taylor House, the OFC Building, the fermenter nicknamed “Old Taylor,” and Warehouse C. The guided walk involves stairs and a good deal of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

One reviewer notes, “Everything went perfectly we had a great river cruise and learned a lot about local history of the distillery and local area. Plus the distillery tour itself was awesome.” This confirms that knowledgeable guides make a big difference, turning a regular factory tour into an engaging story about bourbon’s evolution and Taylor’s influence.

The Scenic Boat Ride: Kentucky River Tours

The boat portion of the tour, called “The Bourbon Boat,” offers a relaxing 2-hour ride along the Kentucky River, with a unique feature: passing through Lock and Dam #4, built way back in 1840. Watching this historic engineering marvel in action while gliding along the river provides a genuinely different perspective on the landscape and the distillery’s location.

Guests have raved about the experience—one reviewer describes it as “very relaxing,” with Captain Nathan providing “history and fun facts about the river, history, and bourbon.” The boat ride also offers a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural scenery, adding a peaceful contrast to the busy distillery visit.

Lunch: Hearty BBQ and Good Company

The included lunch is designed to satisfy after all the walking and sightseeing. Choices include pulled pork or chicken sandwiches, or a pimento cheese sandwich, with two sides and a non-alcoholic drink. The BBQ offerings are straightforward but appealing, especially after a busy morning.

One reviewer highlights the “delicious food and gifts for family,” emphasizing that the meal feels genuine and satisfying, not just thrown in as an afterthought. The lunch provides a chance to relax, reflect, and swap stories with your group.

What Travelers Love Most

Based on reviews, the standout aspects include the guides’ depth of knowledge and their ability to make history engaging. Captain Nathan and Allison receive praise for their “informative,” “relaxing,” and “fun” commentary.

The boat’s scenery, combined with the storytelling, helps travelers feel connected to Kentucky’s natural beauty and bourbon heritage. Coupled with the taste of samples and the chance to buy souvenirs, it’s a comprehensive experience that appeals to both bourbon connoisseurs and curious visitors.

The Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour is well-loved, some might find the physical demands of the distillery tour challenging. The walking involves stairs and numerous steps, and if you’re not comfortable crossing metal grates or walking extensively, you might want to prepare accordingly.

Plus, as with all outdoor activities, the experience is weather-dependent. If rain or storms roll in, the boat ride could be canceled, but the tour provider offers free cancellation or rescheduling, which adds peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy relaxed sightseeing combined with a bit of history and culture. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of bourbon’s roots without the hassle of multiple separate bookings. The tour is also family-friendly, given the included lunch and scenic boat ride, provided the participants are comfortable with walking.

It’s less ideal for those with mobility issues or fears of heights or crossing metal grates, but otherwise, it’s a well-balanced introduction to Kentucky’s famous spirit.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Buffalo Trace Distillery (2 hours):
This segment is a walk through bourbon history and production. You’ll see historic buildings, fermentation tanks, and aging warehouses. The tour emphasizes the craftsmanship and Taylor’s influence, making it more than just a factory visit. Expect to learn about the bourbon making process—from mash to barrel—while soaking in the historic ambiance.

Kentucky River Cruise (2 hours):
The boat departs from the same area, offering scenic views of the river, locks, and surrounding landscape. It’s a gentle ride, with commentary from Captain Nathan that makes the history and geography of Kentucky come alive. Passing through Lock and Dam #4 is a highlight, providing insight into the engineering marvels that control river traffic.

Lunch:
Following the boat ride, the group gathers for a BBQ meal, a satisfying way to cap off the tour. The inclusion of a pulled pork or chicken sandwich, plus sides, offers good value and sustains energy for the rest of the day.

Wrapping Up: Is It Worth It?

Considering the reviews, the thoughtful combination of scenic boat ride, engaging distillery tour, and hearty lunch makes this a compelling option. It’s especially suited for travelers who want an all-in-one experience that’s rich in local flavor and history without spending an entire day.

The price point is justified when factoring in the guided tour, boat ride, and meal. The tour’s small group size—limited to 20 people—ensures a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

The Old Taylor Tour and Lunch Cruise offers a well-balanced glimpse into Kentucky’s bourbon legacy, set against the backdrop of scenic river views. It’s a tour that marries education with relaxation, making it ideal for those eager to understand bourbon’s story while enjoying beautiful natural surroundings.

From the knowledgeable guides to the historic distillery sites and the tranquil boat cruise, this experience delivers more than just a taste of bourbon—it provides a sense of place and history that’s hard to find in larger, more commercialized tours.

For anyone interested in Kentucky’s signature spirit, their heritage, and the beauty of the river landscape, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, covering both the boat cruise and the distillery visit, plus time for lunch and walking around.

What is included in the price?
You get a scenic boat cruise passing through historic locks, a guided tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery, a BBQ lunch with sides, soda, and non-alcoholic drinks.

Are there any physical demands?
Yes, the distillery tour involves walking and stairs, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Those with mobility issues should consider this before booking.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a flexible cancellation policy—free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is alcohol included or available for purchase?
Alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price, but the distillery offers tastings on-site, which can be purchased separately.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic views, history, and good food, especially if you prefer a small-group, relaxed atmosphere. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility concerns.

Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the physical demands of the distillery tour and the boat ride might be more enjoyable for older children or teenagers.

In all, the Old Taylor Tour and Lunch Cruise stands out as a comprehensive, enjoyable way to experience Kentucky’s bourbon culture and natural beauty—an experience that’s as educational as it is relaxing.