A creative, arts-inspired craft distillery in Ludlow with unique flavor profiles, inventive cocktails, and a welcoming community vibe just across the river from Cincinnati.
Second Sight Spirits brings a creative, arts-forward approach to craft distilling in Ludlow, a small Northern Kentucky town just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati. The distillery stands out for its willingness to experiment — their portfolio goes beyond standard bourbon to include unique spirits with unexpected flavor profiles. The tasting room has a warm, neighborhood-bar feel that's welcoming to both bourbon enthusiasts and curious newcomers. The cocktail menu showcases their spirits in creative ways, and the staff is enthusiastic about guiding you through the lineup. Second Sight is part of the growing Northern Kentucky bourbon scene alongside New Riff and Boone County, and together they make a strong case for adding the Northern region to your trail itinerary. Ludlow's proximity to Cincinnati means excellent dining and hotel options just minutes away.
Tour the craft production space and learn about their experimental approach to spirits. Includes a tasting of their bourbon, whiskey, and specialty spirits. The creative portfolio means you'll try things you won't find elsewhere on the trail.
Skip the tour and settle into the tasting room for craft cocktails made with their spirits. The cocktail menu is creative and the bartenders know their stuff.
Second Sight rarely sells out. The Ludlow location is small-town and low-key. Walk-ups are usually fine. Book a couple days ahead for weekend tours.
Booking Method: Website or walk-up
Hardest Slots: Sat afternoon
Cancellation: Flexible
Walk-Up Chance: Good
Their spirits are available for purchase along with merchandise. The experimental nature of their portfolio means you might find bottles here that stand out from the standard bourbon trail haul — a nice change of pace.
Second Sight is the creative wild card on the Northern Kentucky trail. If you've been doing traditional bourbon tours and want something different, the experimental spirits and arts-forward vibe are refreshing. Pair with New Riff and Boone County for a full Northern KY day, using Cincinnati as your base.
Address: 301 Elm St, Ludlow, KY 41016
Hours: Thursday–Saturday (check website for current hours)
Parking: Street parking in Ludlow. Easy to find.
Kids: Tasting room atmosphere — better for adults. No tasting under 21.
The best distillery in Northern KY. Must-visit.
Pre-Prohibition heritage in Independence.
Waterfront dining and entertainment across the river.
World-class dining, hotels, and nightlife minutes away.
Itinerary Fit — See how Second Sight Spirits fits into our 3-Day Bourbon Trail Itinerary and plan your day-by-day route with nearby stops.