Bourbon is a drink rooted in history. Its rich flavors, deep amber color and American roots make it a favorite spirit for sipping. Take a trip just ninety minutes south to the birthplace of bourbon to discover the charming town of Georgetown, Kentucky—the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
Elijah Craig is credited as being the founder of both Georgetown and bourbon when, in 1789, he became the first distiller to age his whiskey in charred oak barrels. Around every corner, Georgetown offers connections to its long-standing bourbon legacy. But that’s just the beginning of all there is to see, do and taste in Georgetown.
Dining
Naturally, Georgetown knows how to craft a sophisticated cocktail, but they also have a fabulous food scene. Local Feed offers something to please everyone. This farm-to-table restaurant with exposed brick walls and rustic décor is oozing with character. Great care is taken with each cocktail; even the juices and syrups are made in-house. They feature scratch-made, elevated southern cuisine with comfort foods like corn bread, fried chicken, catfish and Wagyu meatloaf. Pair your meal with a flight of rare bourbons—which are abundant throughout Georgetown.
Rodney’s on Broadway is set in a historic 1840’s home with a fireplace in each room. This exquisite, fine-dining restaurant is known for its mouthwatering steaks and creative seafood dishes like Woodford Reserve shrimp and diver scallops. It’s the perfect place for a romantic dining experience.
If you’re seeking something a bit more casual, there are plenty of options, including a host of places to grab breakfast, lunch or pick up a sweet treat. Desserts by Rebecca is a great choice for coffee, dirty soda, crepes and delectable desserts.
Fava’s 1910 Diner is the type of community eatery where neighbors come to see a familiar face and visitors go to make new friends. The owner makes a wide variety of pies from coconut cream to chocolate peanut butter, all pillowy with meringue. When an elderly man asked for a table alone, and sadly told his server that he couldn’t find anyone to eat with him, the server paired him with a breakfast buddy, a young man that entered solo just moments later. Their meal was filled with conversation and companionship. As the town’s motto goes, “That’s Georgetown, Kentucky for ya!”—the kind of welcoming town where no one is a stranger.
Bourbon, Beer + Beverages
In the evenings, locals love to grab a drink at Chinkapin Brewery or Slainte Public House. Visit the latter on open mic night to be blown away by the amazing, local talent or throughout the week for events ranging from Singo to line dancing. Don’t let the casual look fool you—the drinks may be served in disposable cups, but they’re delicious. The Lavender Lemonade, with a homemade simple syrup crafted from lavender grown locally in Georgetown, is a testament to the care they pour into every cocktail.
A short drive from downtown is Country Boy Brewing. Started by four Kentuckians, they’ve grown their craft beer business in part due to refreshing hits like Cougar Bait (American blonde ale) and Shotgun Wedding (brown ale aged with vanilla beans), both of which are now locally available. If you visit, make sure to take the tour; their full story is inspirational.
Entertainment
Perhaps the only thing Kentucky is more known for than bourbon is horses. Old Friends Thoroughbred Retirement Farm provides a relaxing place for race horses to enjoy retirement, including Silver Charm, the oldest living Kentucky Derby winner. Visitation requires a scheduled tour and times are limited, so plan ahead.
Georgetown is home to the country's first and world’s largest Toyota Motor Manufacturing facility. The guided tram tour takes visitors through the expansive and pristine facility to see all the stages of vehicle production in action and is a must-see for any car enthusiast.
Evan’s Orchard & Cider Mill is the ideal place for a family to spend the afternoon. Kids will love playing in the expansive play area that includes a zip line, pedal carts, jumping pillow, gigantic slides, petting zoo and more. Stop by their market for local goods and try their signature apple cider slushie, fried pies and apple cider donuts. Throughout the year they have a wide variety of festivals and options to hand-pick fresh fruits and berries.
Georgetown boasts dozens of unique places to shop. Downtown on Main Street you can find a three-story antique store, boutiques, art galleries and gift shops—shopping to suit everyone. If you’re looking for that hard to find bourbon, Maime's Fine Wine and Gifts just may have it.
Georgetown is overflowing with southern charm and makes an ideal location for a relaxing weekend getaway. For additional information and ideas to plan your itinerary, visit GeorgetownKY.com.
Where to Stay
Bleubird Studio + Suites is a picturesque home that looks like it was transplanted from Key West. From its location right off Main Street, most restaurants and stores are within easy walking distance. The first floor features an art gallery, the large kitchen hosts cooking classes on the weekends and there is a full yoga studio. There are two guest suites, each with their own private sleeping quarters and bathroom. The owner and her friendly dog make guests feel welcome and comfortable.
As the town’s motto goes, “That’s Georgetown, Kentucky for ya!”