Bourbon & Beyond
Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or simply enjoy a good cocktail, you can’t miss Bourbon & Beyond. Head to Louisville in your RV this fall.
Event information
Bourbon & Beyond showcases some of the best music, food, and bourbon in the world. Other successful food and music events like Epicenter and Rock on the Range were the inspiration behind the concept. Well-known music producer Danny Wimmer along with celebrated chef Edward Lee and bourbon expert Fred Minnick are the men responsible for bringing the event to life.
It takes place in Louisville, Kentucky, the Bourbon capital of the world. The first edition of the festival had performances by Music Legends like Eddie Vedder, Stevie Nicks, Steve Miller Band, and Amos Lee. At that first event, fifty of the state’s best bourbons were selected by the organizers to be featured at the event, including some rare and hard to come by blends. In the festival's history, food has been curated to complement the bourbon perfectly by high-profile chefs like Tom Colicchio, Anthony Lamas, Chris Cosentino, and Carla Hall.
In addition to the incredible live music, Bourbon & Beyond allows festival-goers to experience the best bourbons, local chefs, distillers, and bartenders. Thousands of people from all over the country and the world travel to Louisville to enjoy the great food, world-class music, fantastic bourbon and everything else the event has to offer. Onsite camping makes for a seamless experience between festival fun and relaxing accommodations.
Tickets
You can choose between General Admission, VIP, and Beyond VIP tickets. Single-day passes are available if you’re unable to commit to all three days of the event. They range in price from $90 (single-day General Admission ticket) to $1600 (Beyond VIP Weekend Pass).
Bourbon & Beyond is for all ages and children under the age of five can enter for free. You can save money by opting for the group ticketing options if you plan on experiencing the festival with friends or family. More information on tickets and pricing is available on the official event website.
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Transportation
Driving
The festival takes place at the Highland Festival Grounds at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky. Near the junction of Interstate 264 and Interstate 65, routes often include a few highway changes but are navigable with some patience at hand. The venue is conveniently located less than ten minutes from the downtown area and just south of the Ohio River, which also serves as the border between Kentucky and Indiana. Travelers can look to review weather and road conditions for both states via 511 online or by phone.
Parking areas
There is plenty of paid parking available in the lots surrounding the festival grounds. Book your spot in advance or make sure you get there early since the lots fill up fast, especially if there are other events taking place simultaneously at the Exposition Center. ADA parking spaces are available throughout the lots.
Public Transportation
Travelers can often get to the Kentucky Exposition Center by bus. Check the schedule for stops near the venue during your stay. Another option is to get there by taxi or using a ride-hailing service. While this is likely to be considerably more expensive, it will get you there much faster if needed.
Where to stay
Onsite
There are several camping options available at the venue for cars, tents, and RVs. Purchasing an RV camping pass will give you access to four nights on the campgrounds as well as onsite showers and bathrooms. However, no electrical, water, or sewer hookups are available. Your rig must fit within the 20’ X 50’ space provided.
Nearby
If you’re looking for facilities like hookups or want a more outdoor campsite-like experience, you may wish to stay at one of the other RV parks nearby. These will get you closer to nature and come with useful amenities like laundry services, pool access, cable TV, playgrounds, and convenience stores. Campers can look to find RV camping options within a 20-minute drive of the Kentucky Expedition Center in several directions.
Getting around
Bikes, golf carts, skateboards, scooters, dune buggies, off-road motorcycles or other vehicles will not be allowed on the festival grounds. While most parts of the venue are accessible, the park has some natural terrain which can be challenging to navigate, especially if it rains. Patrons with mobility disabilities may want to consider enjoying the festival with a companion who can assist them.
What to pack
Clothing
It’s a good idea to keep your attire casual and comfortable for the festival. Wear clothing made from lightweight fabrics like cotton and put on a pair of flat shoes you can walk in all day. Add a touch of individuality with a flowy poncho, unique accessories, over the knee boots or a quirky hat.
Gear
Festival guests are requested to avoid taking in bags or chairs. If you’d like to carry a few essentials, keep in mind that only small or clear bags will be allowed into the venue. A few useful things to take are binoculars, earplugs, sunscreen, a light blanket, and a refillable water bottle.
Health & Safety
Stay hydrated by making use of the free drinking water stations and take frequent breaks to get out of the sun. Onsite lockers with cell phone chargers will be available for rent if you need a secure place to store your belongings. Wear plenty of sunscreen and a hat to protect your skin from the sun.
Where to eat
Cooking
Guests cannot take coolers, picnic baskets, or outside food and beverages into the concert venue. Small propane grills will be allowed on the campgrounds, and you can also cook on the stove in your RV at the campground. Carry some snacks, bread, and sandwich fillings for a quick campsite meal or in case you want to take a break from all the indulgent food on offer. Grocery purchases may be simplest while in route to the Louisville area, although replenishment options are available along the I-265 loop.
Restaurants
The region is famous for its delicious barbecue and cajun cooking. Head to local restaurant locations that serve up tasty cajun dishes like jambalaya, gumbo and a variety of appetizers. Some are located just five minutes away from the venue. If you’re craving fast food, dine at one of the many pizza joints in the area.
Vendors
The incredible culinary experiences on offer are one of the main highlights of the Bourbon & Beyond festival. In addition to the food being sold by vendors and local restaurants, there will be exciting cooking demos by world-renowned chefs where you may get the chance to sample their incredible food. Also, be sure to experience the supper clubs where leading chefs will be preparing dishes to be served in a dine-around setting.
Safety
Security
Security personnel will be conducting bag checks at the entrances and will also be making rounds. All vehicles and belongings will be checked before entry to the campsites. Make sure you’re not carrying any prohibited items since these will be confiscated. Remember to check the size and quantity limits for all fuel, seating, shade structures, and other items that you plan to bring to your campsite.
Weather
The festival will go on rain or shine. In the rare event of severe weather, evacuation measures are in place to get guests and staff to safety. Check if any road or weather alerts have been issued in the area when preparing for your trip. Also, carry some rain gear in case you get stuck in a downpour. September can bring temperatures that are just beginning to lower as fall begins to settle into the midwest portion of the country.
Medical
There will be a centrally located first aid area staffed with trained medical professionals. You will need to present your photo ID and prescription in order to take in any medically necessary items or food. Accessible portable toilets and other ADA facilities will be available for guests with disabilities.
