Kick Off Your Weekend with Bourbon and Football

Fall in Kentucky means two things: college football and bourbon. Whether you're cheering on the Wildcats in Lexington or the Cardinals in Louisville, there’s no better way to elevate your game day weekend than with a bourbon tour before or after the big event. These two cultural staples make for a perfect pairing—one that delivers flavor, fun, and unforgettable memories. In this guide, we'll show you how to turn your football weekend into a full-blown Kentucky experience with bourbon tastings, tailgate tips, and a winning itinerary.

Why Bourbon and Football Weekends Make the Perfect Pairing

For visitors and locals alike, bourbon and football are cornerstones of Kentucky pride. When fall rolls around, Saturdays are packed with game day energy, and bourbon country is at its most scenic. Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage provide the ideal backdrop for enjoying Kentucky’s finest spirits.

Adding a bourbon tour to your football weekend isn't just about sipping whiskey—it’s about tapping into the culture, history, and hospitality that make the Bluegrass State special. Plus, with games usually held on Saturdays, Fridays and Sundays are prime time for exploring the Bourbon Trail.

Game Weekend Itineraries: UK and UofL Fans Rejoice

University of Kentucky Game Weekend (Lexington)

Friday:

• Start with a midday tour at James E. Pepper or Town Branch Distillery.

• Enjoy dinner and cocktails at one of Lexington’s farm-to-table restaurants.

Saturday:

• Tailgate at Kroger Field with bourbon-infused BBQ.

• Cheer on the Wildcats!

Sunday:

• Head out for a private bourbon tour to Castle & Key or Woodford Reserve.

• Stop at a local cafe for brunch on the way back.

University of Louisville Game Weekend (Louisville)

Friday:

• Begin your weekend with a downtown Louisville bourbon walk: Old Forester, Evan Williams, or Angel’s Envy.

• Dine on Whiskey Row and take in the lively nightlife.

Saturday:

• Pre-game tailgate with bourbon slushies and mini hot brown bites.

• Head to Cardinal Stadium to support the Cards.

Sunday:

• Schedule a tour with Bluegrass Bourbon Tours to hit Bardstown or the Bourbon Capital Trail.

• Wind down with a late lunch and shopping in the Highlands neighborhood.

Tailgating with a Bourbon Twist

You don’t have to be at a distillery to enjoy bourbon like a pro. Tailgates are the perfect place to incorporate Kentucky’s signature spirit into your pre-game ritual. Here are a few ideas to spice up your spread:

Bourbon-Inspired Tailgate Menu

• Bourbon BBQ sliders with a sweet-and-smoky glaze

• Bourbon baked beans with bacon and brown sugar

• Spiked sweet tea or bourbon lemonade served in mason jars

• Bourbon pecan pie bars for a sweet finish

Pro Tips:

• Pre-batch cocktails so they’re easy to serve

• Choose lower-proof bourbons for mixed drinks

• Use small signage to label bourbon flavors for guests

Booking Tips: Beat the Crowds, Secure Your Spot

Fall weekends can be busy in bourbon country, especially when paired with football traffic. To ensure your tour experience goes smoothly:

• Book at least 2-4 weeks in advance for high-demand weekends

• Let your tour operator know your game schedule so they can adjust timing

• Consider a private tour for flexibility and convenience

• Bundle your bourbon experience with transportation to avoid parking headaches

Bluegrass Bourbon Tours offers customizable experiences, so you can build your itinerary around your game day plans without stress. Whether you need a half-day Friday tour or a full Sunday escape, we’ll help you make the most of your time.

FAQs: Bourbon & Football Weekend Planning

Q: Can I book a tour just for Friday or Sunday?
A: Absolutely! Those are our most popular days for football fans visiting the area.

Q: Will we have time for both bourbon tours and tailgating?
A: Yes. We help you plan around game start times and crowd patterns to maximize both experiences.

Q: Can I include custom stops or lunch breaks?
A: Yes, our private tours allow full customization. Just let us know your preferences!

Plan Your Bourbon & Football Weekend with Us

Fall is the season for tailgates, touchdowns, and tastings. If you're heading to a UK or UofL game this year, make it a weekend to remember with a personalized bourbon adventure. Let Bluegrass Bourbon Tours handle the details, from pickup to pour.

Ready to elevate your game day? Visit our website to book your bourbon tour and create the ultimate Kentucky football weekend.