Rabbit Hole Distillery Named the Best Bourbon Tour in America

Louisville’s Award-Winning Gem Earns Top Honors from the World Travel Awards

When you think of bourbon, Kentucky comes first to mind — but now one Louisville distillery has officially risen above them all. Rabbit Hole Distillery has been crowned North America’s Leading Bourbon Distillery Tour by the World Travel Awards, solidifying its place as the premier bourbon experience in the United States.

This recognition doesn’t just highlight Rabbit Hole’s exceptional spirits — it celebrates its innovation, storytelling, and immersive guest experience that’s changing how the world sees Kentucky bourbon.

A Global Stage for Bourbon Excellence

The World Travel Awards (WTA) are often called the “Oscars of the travel industry.” Founded in 1993, WTA honors excellence across all sectors of travel — from hotels and airlines to tour operators and cultural attractions. Winning an award from this organization places Rabbit Hole among elite company, alongside the world’s best-known destinations.

In 2024, Rabbit Hole took home the title of North America’s Leading Bourbon Distillery Tour, outperforming historic giants and well-known names on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. For visitors and locals alike, it confirms what many already knew: Rabbit Hole has redefined the modern bourbon experience.

The Heart of Louisville’s Bourbon Revolution

Located in the vibrant NuLu (New Louisville) district — known for its art galleries, boutique shops, and craft restaurants — Rabbit Hole Distillery stands as a modern architectural masterpiece. Its sleek, glass-and-steel design mirrors the brand’s forward-thinking approach to bourbon making.

While most distilleries in Kentucky rest on rural farmland, Rabbit Hole is unapologetically urban. It celebrates Louisville’s resurgence as the heart of bourbon innovation, inviting travelers to explore the city’s cultural energy alongside its liquid heritage.

Walking into Rabbit Hole feels more like stepping into a contemporary art museum than a factory. The 55,000-square-foot facility combines clean lines, natural light, and cutting-edge technology to create an immersive environment where tradition and modernity meet.

What Makes Rabbit Hole the Best Bourbon Tour in America

1. Immersive Design & Transparency

Rabbit Hole’s open-concept design allows guests to see the full bourbon-making process — from grain to glass. The tour winds through towering stills, fermentation tanks, and aging rooms, all visible through glass walls and elevated walkways.

Unlike many distillery tours that keep production behind closed doors, Rabbit Hole brings visitors directly into the experience. You’ll see, smell, and feel every step — with expert guides explaining how creativity and chemistry come together in each bottle.

2. A Personalized Guest Experience

Tours are intimate and intentional. Groups are kept small, encouraging one-on-one interaction with guides who are both knowledgeable and engaging. Guests are encouraged to ask questions, take photos, and truly connect with the craft.

As one visitor put it:

“The Rabbit Hole tour was the most interactive and visually stunning distillery experience I’ve had — modern, creative, and deeply personal.”

3. An Unforgettable Tasting Moment

The grand finale of the tour takes place in The Overlook Bar, perched high above the city with panoramic views of Louisville’s skyline. Guests are guided through a curated tasting of Rabbit Hole’s award-winning lineup:

• Cavehill Four-Grain Bourbon — complex, rich, and balanced

• Heigold Bourbon — bold, high-rye flavor with a sweet finish

• Boxergrail Rye Whiskey — spicy yet smooth

• Dareringer Bourbon (PX Sherry Cask Finish) — indulgent with notes of cherry and cocoa

• Bespoke Gin — a refreshing surprise in a bourbon world

After the tasting, guests are welcome to linger at the bar for handcrafted cocktails, flights, or seasonal specialties. The ambiance — all glass, copper, and skyline views — transforms the experience from a simple tour into a luxurious afternoon escape.

4. A Blend of Art, Science & Storytelling

Rabbit Hole isn’t just about bourbon; it’s about creativity and courage. Founder Kaveh Zamanian, a clinical psychologist turned distiller, left his profession to follow a dream — creating spirits that push boundaries while honoring Kentucky’s heritage.

That narrative, woven into every part of the tour, resonates with visitors. It’s a story about taking risks, breaking molds, and daring to innovate — themes that reflect Louisville’s own artistic and entrepreneurial revival.

Why This Award Matters to Louisville and Kentucky

Kentucky may be the birthplace of bourbon, but Louisville is shaping its future. Rabbit Hole’s win brings international attention not only to the brand but also to Louisville’s growing reputation as a global travel destination.

The recognition from the World Travel Awards positions the city alongside world-class culinary and cultural destinations — showing that a trip to Kentucky can be both authentic and cosmopolitan.

For local businesses, it’s a win, too. Increased tourism means more visitors exploring nearby restaurants, hotels, and attractions, many of which partner with companies like Honeypot Experiences to curate bourbon-focused travel adventures.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re ready to experience America’s best bourbon tour for yourself, here’s what to know before you go:

• Tours Run Tuesday through Sunday: Each lasts about 1 hour, with multiple time slots available.

• Location: 711 E Jefferson Street, Louisville, KY 40202 (NuLu District)

• Reservations: Required — book ahead via Rabbit Hole’s official site.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly with accessible restrooms and elevators.

• Parking: Available onsite and nearby.

• Age Policy: Guests 21+ for tastings (under 21 welcome on tours with adult supervision).

Pair Your Visit with More Louisville Experiences

If you’re visiting with Honeypot Experiences, you can pair your Rabbit Hole tour with curated stops at nearby attractions:

• Angel’s Envy Distillery – another NuLu favorite known for port-finished bourbon

• NuLu Marketplace – local boutiques, food halls, and craft coffee

• Bourbon Bistro or Mayan Café – top-rated spots for post-tour dining

• Waterfront Park – a perfect end-of-day stroll by the Ohio River

Our team at Honeypot Experiences can even arrange custom bourbon tours that include multiple distilleries, dinner pairings, and private transportation aboard our luxury party bus.

The Future of Bourbon Tourism

Rabbit Hole’s win is part of a bigger movement in Kentucky bourbon. Today’s travelers want more than a drink — they want a story, a sense of place, and an experience that feels personal.

Modern bourbon tourism is evolving: immersive storytelling, architectural beauty, and cultural context are now just as important as the pour itself. Rabbit Hole leads that charge — blending design, innovation, and hospitality in a way that’s reshaping how visitors connect with Kentucky’s signature spirit.

Final Sip

Rabbit Hole Distillery’s recognition as North America’s Leading Bourbon Distillery Tour by the World Travel Awards cements Louisville’s place on the global bourbon map. It’s more than an accolade — it’s proof that Kentucky’s bourbon story continues to evolve, one visionary pour at a time.

Whether you’re a lifelong bourbon enthusiast or simply bourbon-curious, Rabbit Hole offers an unforgettable experience that captures the soul of modern Kentucky.

So the next time you’re planning a trip to Louisville, make sure your adventure begins (or ends) with a toast at Rabbit Hole Distillery — the best bourbon tour in America.