Some travelers have recommended the route from Cincinnati to Elizabethtown via I-75 to Midway, 421 to Frankfort, and 127 to Elizabethtown for scenic views of Kentucky. Another scenic alternative suggested is taking River Road (US 50) west along the Ohio River from downtown Cincinnati through Lawrenceburg and Aurora, then following Indiana 56 to the Markland Dam, crossing over to Kentucky, and continuing through Warsaw up to Sugar Bay on US 127.

According to forum posts, the drive from Arkansas to Lexington via the western and Bluegrass parkways offers rural countryside views, with a recommended stop at Maker’s Mark for a tour. Travelers have also mentioned the route from Charleston, WV, to Wisconsin through Kentucky as scenic, particularly along the AA Route 9 through Grayson, KY, which passes through picturesque small towns.

For those interested in natural beauty, the drive from Florence, AL, to Charleston, SC, via the Natchez Trace is noted for its scenic landscapes and historical significance. Another scenic drive suggestion includes taking the Cumberland Parkway from Bowling Green, stopping at notable attractions like the Corvette Assembly Plant and Cumberland Falls, known as the Niagara of the South.

According to forum posts, it's crucial to plan and book distillery tours well in advance due to high demand, especially around popular events like the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Some travelers recommended using tour companies like Mint Julep for organized tours, which can handle logistics and provide a designated driver.

For many users, choosing a base city like Louisville, Bardstown, or Lexington is advisable, as these locations provide proximity to multiple distilleries and other attractions. Travelers have called out the challenge of using rideshares like Uber for distillery visits due to their rural locations, suggesting that booking a private tour might be a more reliable option.

Some travelers said focusing on fewer, select distilleries could enhance the experience, recommending not to overbook oneself with too many distillery tours in a short period. Distilleries like Buffalo Trace and Maker's Mark are frequently praised for their tours and scenic locations.

According to forum posts, incorporating non-bourbon related activities, like visiting historical sites, local eateries, or the Kentucky Derby Museum, can enrich the overall trip experience, providing diversity and breaks between distillery visits.

According to forum posts, many travelers recommend staying downtown Louisville for safety and proximity to attractions. The area bounded by 7th Street, Main Street, 1st Street, and Muhammad Ali Blvd is particularly favored.

Some travelers have specifically praised the Courtyard at the corner of 2nd and Main streets for its central location, which allows guests to walk nearly everywhere downtown. This mid-level, mid-priced hotel is favored for its balance of cost and convenience.

For those looking for accommodations with a specific feature, the Brown Hotel is noted for its iconic status and historic appeal, although it sits just outside the most recommended downtown area.