Sleep in a Bourbon Barrel in Kentucky

Travelers have long flocked to Kentucky for the state’s Bourbon Trail, but why not take your exploration of the state’s spirited side a step further by actually staying inside of a bourbon barrel?

No, there’ll be no squeezing and squirming your way into tight confines. Instead, this accommodation option comes from Bourbon Barrel Retreats, a property set among the rolling hills of Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, where each 300-square-foot private unit is shaped like an oversized bourbon barrel. Each standard unit is outfitted with a king bed, private bathroom and kitchenette, while premium units also feature private hot tubs. Each guest enjoys access to common areas outfitted with further amenities like firepits, hammocks and grills. All the while, you’re within easy reach of nearly two dozen bourbon distilleries.

Plan your trip for summer 2025 and you’ll enjoy an added bonus. The property plans to open an on-site restaurant and whiskey tasting room in just a few months.

“We wanted to elevate the experience for visitors in this region, and came up with the idea of bourbon barrels,” said Tony Happeny, owner, Bourbon Barrel Retreats. “At that point, it was just a concept, no one had done it, so we couldn’t just copy something and run with it. We built a prototype to test the dimensions and be sure it was weatherproof. I knew that if we could make it work, people would be into it — and they are. It took off fast. We’re drawing plenty of out-of-staters visiting in groups, so it’s been great.”