What to Expect
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. Getting out among the ruins is seasonal though, so time your visit accordingly.
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.
Glenns Creek does not typically walk visitors around the old Old Crow grounds in summer, because of the heat. If the historic site is the reason you are making the drive, plan for fall. The distillery and the tasting bar are worth a stop year round, but the ruins are the part that goes seasonal.
Photos from Our Visit
Bourbon without the BS, which is a fair summary of the place
The old Old Crow campus, most of it long out of use
Nature has taken back most of the site, and they have left it that way
The tasting bar sits in among the working equipment
Tour Options
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.
How to Book
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
Gift Shop
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.
Our Honest Ratings
The Bottom Line
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.
Practical Info
Address: 8800 Glenns Creek Rd, Frankfort, KY 40601
Hours: Monday–Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM, Sunday 11 AM – 5 PM
Parking: Free parking on-site.
Kids: Allowed, though the historic ruins require supervision. No tasting under 21.
Nearby & Pair With
Official Bourbon Trail
🏛️ Old Crow Heritage
Top Pick
$10–$15