A small craft distillery on the ruins of the legendary Old Crow site in Frankfort — bourbon history nerds will love walking the grounds where some of bourbon's earliest chapters were written.
Glenns Creek Distilling operates on the historic grounds of the Old Crow distillery — one of the most important sites in bourbon history. The ruins of the original limestone buildings are still visible on the property, and walking among them gives you a sense of bourbon's deep roots in this part of Kentucky.
The current operation is small and scrappy — a genuine craft distillery that embraces its underdog identity. The owners are passionate about both the history of the site and their own spirits production. Tours here feel more like a conversation than a scripted presentation.
Located just outside Frankfort, Glenns Creek pairs naturally with Buffalo Trace and Castle & Key for a Frankfort-focused day. It's the quietest and most intimate of the three, offering a nice contrast to Buffalo Trace's crowds.
Walk the historic Old Crow grounds and tour the craft distillery operation. The history of the site is fascinating — this is where James C. Crow pioneered the sour mash process. Includes a tasting of their bourbon and other spirits.
Glenns Creek is almost never sold out. This is a small operation that flies under the radar. Walk-ups are usually fine, but checking ahead for hours is smart since they're a small team.
Booking Method: Call or website
Hardest Slots: Rarely an issue
Cancellation: Flexible
Walk-Up Chance: Excellent
Very small — a few bottles and basic merchandise. You're coming here for the history and the craft experience, not the retail therapy. Their OCD (Old Crow Distillery) bourbon is a fun souvenir.
Glenns Creek is for bourbon history enthusiasts and craft spirit lovers who want to stand where bourbon history was made. The Old Crow ruins are genuinely fascinating, and the intimate tour is a welcome break from the polished corporate experiences. Pair with Buffalo Trace and Castle & Key for the ultimate Frankfort bourbon day.
Address: 8800 Glenns Creek Rd, Frankfort, KY 40601
Hours: Thursday–Saturday 10 AM – 4 PM (limited hours — call ahead)
Parking: Free parking on-site.
Kids: Allowed, though the historic ruins require supervision. No tasting under 21.
The #1 rated stop on the trail. Must-visit.
Stunning restored grounds. Perfect Frankfort pairing.
Best Italian in Frankfort. Great post-tour dinner.
Beautiful capitol building worth a quick visit.
Itinerary Fit — See how Glenns Creek Distilling fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.