Bardstown is a historic treasure trove, with more than 300 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Walkable and picturesque, Bardstown is the kind of small town that makes for a perfect weekend getaway or overnight adventure. In terms of lodging, there are numerous accommodations in town that range from farmhouses on the Bourbon Trail to the Maker’s Mark Family Home; however, if you’re looking for a place that’s both historic and unique, book (pun intended) a night at the Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast in Bardstown, Kentucky.
With its walkable downtown and proud history, Bardstown is a delightful destination in the Bluegrass that’s widely regarded as the best small town in Kentucky.
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Bardstown is the state’s second-oldest city, its numerous accommodations welcoming guests since 1780.
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The oldest bourbon bar in the world – and the oldest restaurant in Kentucky – The Old Talbott Tavern dates back to the late 1700s, and not much has changed in the 250+ years since. Folks can still come in for a meal and overnight lodging, and it’s a historic experience worth seeking out.
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But the Old Talbott Tavern isn’t the only historic accommodation in town. In the heart of downtown Bardstown, the Jailer’s Inn was originally a county jail that held prisoners from 1797 to 1987.
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It was purchased and turned it into a wholly unique and surprising bed & breakfast experience in 1989.
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Today, this Kentucky inn boasts nine beautifully appointed guest rooms with private baths. The rooms are so luxurious, in fact, that you might have trouble believing this building was ever a jail!
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As a Bluegrass State B&B, guests can expect welcoming hospitality and delicious meals. This beautiful breakfast plate definitely isn’t your standard prison fare.
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Dine inside or at the outdoor patio, which features lovely garden greenery and flowers. Who knew a jail could be so, well, charming?
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Features of the former jail pepper the property, most notably, the stone sign and stocks out front. It’s these little nods to the past that make Jailer’s Inn such a charming place to visit.
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Jailer’s Inn Bed and Breakfast is just one of Downtown Bardstown’s 200 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. But with its legendary history and unique digs, it’s definitely one of the highlights of this shining small town!
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Would you spend the night in this former jail? What a unique destination in the Bluegrass State! Visit the Jailers Inn Bed & Breakfast website to learn more and book your stay/sentence.
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Address: Jailer’s Inn Bed & Breakfast, 111 W Stephen Foster Ave, Bardstown, KY 40004, USA
