18 minutes from Buffalo Trace — worlds from a chain hotel.
Buffalo Trace is on nearly every bourbon traveler’s list — and it’s just a 18-minute drive from The Woodford Hotel. Skip the highway chain in favor of a restored historic landmark in downtown Versailles, central to Buffalo Trace and the rest of Kentucky’s distilling country. Tour by day; come home to a room with a story of its own — including a suite named for Buffalo Trace itself.
Getting There
From The Woodford Hotel at 112 N Main Street, the drive to Buffalo Trace in Frankfort takes about 18 minutes through Woodford County horse country — no interstate required. Always confirm current tour availability and reservations directly with the distillery before you go.
Why Stay Here for a Buffalo Trace Visit
Most visitors book a chain hotel off a Frankfort or Lexington highway exit. Stay in Versailles instead and you get a restored downtown landmark 18 minutes from Buffalo Trace — and you’re just as close to the rest of the trail. From this central basecamp, Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, Castle & Key, and Wild Turkey are all a short drive in nearly every direction.
See real drive times to every major distillery on our distillery distances guide.
The Buffalo Trace Suite
It’s fitting to visit the distillery and sleep in the suite that carries its name. The Buffalo Trace Suite is one of eight at the hotel, each named for a bourbon that built this region. Browse the Buffalo Trace Suite or explore all eight suites.
Plan the Day
Distillery days are best without a designated driver in the group. If you’d rather not drive, we can help arrange a guided bourbon experience and transportation so everyone can relax and enjoy. Tours at Buffalo Trace are popular and can fill up — book directly with the distillery to confirm current availability, then make The Woodford Hotel your home base for the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is The Woodford Hotel from Buffalo Trace?
About an 18-minute drive to the distillery in Frankfort — with no interstate driving required.
Do I need a reservation to tour Buffalo Trace?
Tours can fill up, especially in peak season. Book directly with Buffalo Trace and confirm current availability before your visit.
What other distilleries are near the hotel?
Woodford Reserve (~14 min), Four Roses (~18 min), Castle & Key (~20 min), and Wild Turkey (~21 min) are all a short drive. See the full list on our distillery distances guide.
Is there a Buffalo Trace–themed room?
Yes — the Buffalo Trace Suite, one of eight bourbon-named suites at the hotel.
Can you arrange a tour and a driver?
Yes. We can help arrange a guided bourbon experience and transportation so your whole group can enjoy the day.
Stay central to the whole trail. Check availability at The Woodford Hotel →