Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington
Overview
Available languages
3 hours
Mobile ticket
Join us in Lexington’s lively Distillery District for a journey you won’t forget. This historic area was once home to one of the most important bourbon distilleries in Kentucky, founded in 1880 by legendary third-generation distiller James E. Pepper. Today, the district has been revitalized into one of Lexington’s most exciting gathering places — but the stories of bourbon, business, and big personalities still live here.
On this tour, we’ll explore the beginnings of bourbon, the drama and rivalries of early distillers, and the often-overlooked stories — including the women who helped build the bourbon industry. Along the way, you’ll enjoy great food, cocktails, and a bourbon tasting while experiencing one of Lexington’s most unique neighborhoods through storytelling.
Learn the stories you haven’t heard — and taste the district that helped build Kentucky’s most famous industry.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
James E. Pepper Distillery
Your fun foodie guide will take you through the historic James E. Pepper Distillery property, which began making bourbon in 1879. Today, this spot has been revitalized as a lively downtown Lexington destination, with diverse food and drink offerings...and lots of fun!
What‘s Included
Cider, bourbon, cocktail, or mocktails included (3 beverages)
This tour includes four small food plates, plus dessert (5 total)
Options
Distillery District Food & History Tour in Lexington
Reviews
90 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Best Day Ever!!!
Karen Y,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was so much fun. Kat was our guide & she was amazing. Everyone we met was so nice. I would recommend this completely!
Great afternoon tour of some of the downtown restaurants in Lexington.
ronaldrJ9061TF,Apr 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Lilly was a wonderful guide. The history of Lexington is fascinating. The art, architecture and murals around town are amazing. Each restaurant that we visited was very unique.
Great Tour and Host
BeaverdamDan,Apr 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed the walking food tour. Each destination was a short and easy walk filled with conversation from our host and new acquaintances. Like others have said, don’t eat before you go, you’ll have plenty to eat and drink. The bourbon tasting was informative and a unique experience. We enjoyed every stop along the way.
An Essential Way to start your Bourbon Trail experience
ContractsDave,Mar 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was such a great way to start our siblings weekend on the Bourbon Trail. Caroline was wonderful and shared so many cool, fun pieces of information about the distillery district and even broader history of Lexington. The food and tasting hosts along the way are must see destinations for anyone visiting the area - Dark Arts, Wise Bird, Elkhart Tavern, Pepper Distillery, Ethereal Brewing, good fellows pizza and Crank and Boom. Highly recommended!
Kentucky Bourbon Fun
Vacation28586699572,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Me and my man had a wonderful experience with our tour and tour guide Kat! I am a native Kentuckian who decided to bring my boyfriend who is from Colorado. The admission fee was very affordable and the amount of food and drinks that we got was perfect ! The crowd size was absolutely perfect since it was just me, my man, and the tour guide. I highly recommend the Distillery District Food & History Tour to locals and to those visiting KY!
Good food and History!
kavlee89,Jan 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was a lovely experience Kat was knowledgeable and easygoing. Food was delicious. Lasted about 3.5 hours. Would definitely try other tours!
Fabulous and tasty learning adventure!!!
Kristin919,Oct 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Absolutely fantastic tour! Energetic and fun tour - our 21+ “kids” had a great time too!!! Highly recommend this for a great afternoon in Lexington!!!
It was so fun! Kay was...
lauren k,Oct 14, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was so fun! Kay was great and very informative. Lots of excellent food, drinks and conversation!!
Great food tour!
Wanderer58576701694,Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Elena was a great tour guide! We had plenty of delicious food and learned so much along the way. The tour included everything from fascinating local history and Kentucky legends to fun facts about Lexington today. Highly recommend this experience to anyone wanting to explore the city through its stories and flavors!
Pleasant, informative tour but could be shorter, less expensive.
deltaboy,Sep 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
3.00We enjoyed this slow paced walk, talk and tasting around the District. Guide was informative about the area and the city. Food offerings were okay. Believe it could be a faster tour (a bit too much lingering and small talk), cut an hour off of it and lower the tour price.
From US$125.00
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Operated by Bites of the Bluegrass