How to Get to Buffalo Trace: Driving, Trains, and Why a Driver Makes Sense

Driving from Louisville

Take I-64 East toward Lexington. The drive is about 1 hour, 55 miles. Once you reach Frankfort, follow signs to the distillery at 113 Great Buffalo Trace. The parking lot is limited, so arrive with time to spare.

Driving from Lexington

Take I-75 South toward Louisville. The drive is about 42 minutes, 26 miles. Exit toward Frankfort and follow signs to 113 Great Buffalo Trace. Lexington is the closest major city to Frankfort and is underrated as a base for a bourbon trip. The Distillery District tour ($110, 4 hours) is based in Lexington itself.

No train, no useful bus

Frankfort does not have a train station. There is no Amtrak service to the town. The bus options are limited and unreliable for day trips. If you are visiting Frankfort without a car, you need rideshare or to book a tour operator who handles driving.

Why hire a driver for a tasting day

If you are visiting Buffalo Trace and you want to taste bourbon, you need transport. Driving yourself between three tastings is not legal in any of these states if you are consuming alcohol. A rideshare for three distilleries costs $40–$60 each way. A bourbon tour operator is $233–$250 for the whole day, includes a guide, a small group, meals or snacks on some tours, and you return to your hotel. The math is simple. The Bourbon Trail day trip from Louisville ($233, 8 hours) is the standard.

Frankfort itself: a small capital

Frankfort is Kentucky’s state capital and sits between Louisville and Lexington. It is smaller than both and more focused on government and bourbon than tourism. The main attractions are Buffalo Trace distillery, the State Capitol building, and a few museums. It is not a "destination" in the way Louisville or Lexington is; it is where you go to see bourbon.

Frequently asked questions