Modest Luxury: The Best Places to Stay in Bardstown KY

Photo courtesy Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn

Travel writer Kim Kerr, fresh from a two-week tour of the Bluegrass State, shares this list of the best places to stay in Bardstown KY for a modest luxury getaway

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Located in the heart of the Bluegrass State, Bardstown is a charming small town with a rich history and plenty of character. Known as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” Bardstown boasts an array of distilleries and bourbon-themed attractions that draw visitors from all over the world in search of great food and drink experiences.

This, along with its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and friendly locals, makes Bardstown a perfect Kentucky getaway destination for anyone looking for a quintessential small-town experience.

But where to stay during your visit to Bardstown? While the town doesn’t boast any big-name luxury hotels or resorts, those prepared to tone down the luxury-quotient just a little will still find themselves treated royally.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast, an historic inn, or unique country accommodations, you’ll find something to satisfy your needs on our list of the best places to stay in Bardstown KY.

Best Places to Stay in Bardstown KY

Talbott Tavern Restaurant & Inn

If your idea of luxury is staying in a centuries old hotel that doubles as a bourbon bar, you’re in luck. The historic Talbott Tavern Restaurant & Inn offers an authentic Kentucky accommodation experience in the heart of Bardstown’s downtown district, steps away from the town’s public square.

Built in 1779, this historic tavern and hotel has been carefully restored, maintaining its original architecture and features, while adding modern amenities. Each of its guest rooms is unique and individually decorated with antique furnishings and named after historic figures known to have frequented the premises.

Our favorites include the Daniel Boone Room with its antique queen bed and private bathroom with tub and shower; and the Jesse James Room, named after the infamous bandit. Apparently he even left his mark in the form of a handful of bullet holes in the walls. Worth noting is the fact the tavern rooms can be a little noisy on weekends due to live music performances on the ground floor.

The Talbott Tavern also owns the neighboring Talbott Inn. Built in 1913, the rooms here are rather more modern and come with a choice of queen or king beds. Also, if you want a quieter weekend experience, be sure to reserve a room here in the inn.

You’ll definitely want to experience a drink and a meal in the tavern, too.  A visit to the famous Bourbon Bar, which offers an extensive selection of bourbons and other spirits, is certainly time well spent. The 

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Talbott Tavern Restaurant & Inn

Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn

The Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn is located just outside Bardstown’s downtown district. This classy inn features 10 beautifully appointed guest rooms, each with its own unique décor and theme.

A highlight of your stay will be the gourmet breakfast served in the elegant dining room or on the outdoor patio. The inn also features a full-service spa offering a range of treatments to help you relax and unwind.

Considering a romantic getaway? Bourbon Manor is perfect for couples looking for some quality time together in an intimate, peaceful setting.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Bourbon Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn

Wildflower Ranch Inn

Wildflower Ranch Inn is a charming country bed and breakfast style accommodation located just a short drive from Bardstown. The inn features four cozy guest rooms, each with its own private bathroom, and is perfect for nature lovers and those looking for a peaceful, rural escape.

The real dal here is the fact the property is situated on a 20-acre horse farm with stunning views of that beautiful rolling Kentucky countryside. You’ll also enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.   

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Wildflower Ranch Inn

Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast 

Located in the very heart of Bardstown and steps away from the famous Talbot Tavern Bourbon Bar, the Jailer’s Inn is a unique bed and breakfast set in an historic building that once served as the county jail.

This quirky inn features just nine guest rooms, each with its own unique décor and amenities. In addition to a great stay, fun tours are provided that include a look at the old jail cells while providing a fascinating insight into the building’s fascinating history.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast  

Red Rose Inn

The Red Rose Inn is offers cozy bed and breakfast style lodgings in a charming historic home in Bardstown’s downtown district.

The inn features just five uniquely decorated and furnished guest rooms, ensuring a quiet, intimate accommodation experience. A highlight of your stay is the delicious homemade breakfast served each morning. In the warmer months, you can even enjoy your first meal of the day on the B&B’s patio.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Red Rose Inn

Hampton Inn Bardstown

No list of the best places to stay in Bardstown KY would be complete without including at least one or two hotels from the big chains. One of the best is the 3-star Hampton Inn Bardstown.

This modern, comfortable hotel located just outside Bardstown’s downtown district features 106 guest rooms, each with comfortable bedding and modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and large flat-screen TVs.

You’ll also enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, as well as use of a swimming pool and fitness center.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Hampton Inn Bardstown

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bardstown

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bardstown is another modern hotel located just outside the downtown area. The hotel features 74 guest rooms, each with comfortable bedding and modern amenities. A complimentary breakfast is included with your stay.

On-site amenities include a fitness center and indoor pool. The hotel is also conveniently located near several popular attractions, including the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, as well as a variety of dining and shopping opportunities.

Riley Recommends: For the latest reviews, rates, and reservations, visit Holiday Inn Express & Suites Bardstown

Kentucky Bourbon House – Colonel’s Cottage Inns

A collection of cozy and charming cottages located in Bardstown’s downtown district, The Kentucky Bourbon House – Colonel’s Cottage Inns is certainly worth including on your list of the best places to stay in Bardstown KY.

The cottages are beautifully decorated and feature modern amenities including free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. In addition to enjoying a complimentary breakfast each morning, you’ll also get to sample a selection of bourbon and wine in the evening.

Learn more at www.colonelscottageinns.com

The Samuels House

The Samuels House is an historic vacation rental located just outside Bardstown’s downtown district. This charming red brick house was built in 1829 and features beautifully preserved original architecture and décor, along with plenty of chic living space.

A highlight of your stay will be relaxing on the plush leather seating  in the home’s large lounge area. Rentals can be customized to include bourbon tastings during your stay. 

Visit www.thesamuelshouse.com for more info.

Springhill Winery Plantation

Springhill Winery Plantation is a unique bed and breakfast located on a working winery and vineyard in Bloomfield, just outside Bardstown. The property features four cozy guest rooms, each with its own wine-theme, private bathroom, and vineyard views.

As well as a complimentary breakfast, you’ll also be treated to a tasting session featuring the winery’s award-winning wines.  

Learn more at www.springhillwinery.com.

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Kim Kerr is a Contributor to RileyMag.com and its subsidiary luxury lifestyle websites, including LuxuryKentucky. She loves Owensboro, bourbon, and fried green tomatoes.