Tourism and Bourbon Drive Economic Growth Across Urban and Rural Kentucky

Leaders from across Kentucky are highlighting how the state’s bourbon, hospitality, and tourism industries are fueling economic growth and connecting communities. At the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, a special Elijah Craig barrel selection brought together elected officials and business leaders on Tuesday to highlight the role of these sectors in creating jobs, attracting visitors, and strengthening local economies.

At the event, Senate President Robert Stivers said these industries represent Kentucky’s cultural identity and are major economic drivers that reach every corner of the state. He emphasized that food and bourbon serve as common ground for Kentuckians while showcasing the Commonwealth’s culture to visitors from around the world.

Kentucky’s tourism industry generated $14.3 billion in economic impact in 2024, supported more than 97,000 jobs, and welcomed 80 million visitors—the third consecutive year of record-breaking growth. Spending on food and drink reached $2.6 billion, underscoring the central role of bourbon, culinary, and hospitality in fueling the economy.

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said bourbon is a cultural strength that sets Kentucky apart nationally, noting that Louisville’s success is closely tied to the hospitality and traditions of rural communities like Corbin and Bardstown. Leaders from Hotel Distil and the Louisville Marriott Downtown were also present, representing the city’s hospitality industry and its role in driving the experiences that attract visitors to Kentucky.

Corbin Mayor Suzie Razmus noted that growth is being felt across large cities and small towns, with restaurants and hospitality businesses being a cornerstone for communities. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase two very distinct cities and the restaurants that anchor them, highlighting not what separates us but what connects us, our shared love of bourbon, food, and community,” she said.

Kristin Smith, owner of The Wrigley in Corbin, added that farm-to-table dining gives visitors new reasons to explore rural Kentucky. “Every dish tells the story of southeastern Kentucky farms and the people behind them,” she said. “Farm-to-table dining in Corbin draws on the same traditions that make bourbon country legendary — it’s about food and about connection.”

Stivers also pointed out that bourbon’s impact extends beyond hospitality. In his home region of Manchester, a stave mill employs around 50 people, underscoring how the industry supports jobs even in communities without a distillery presence.

Looking ahead, leaders pointed to opportunities to expand Kentucky’s role as a hub for storytelling and cultural tourism. With the creation of the Kentucky Film Office under Senate Bill 1 and expanded entertainment incentives, Stivers said the state is positioning itself to attract productions that highlight Kentucky’s culture, food, and hospitality.

He added that ongoing tariffs remain a challenge for distillers, but state leaders will continue working to ensure Kentucky provides the best environment for the industry to thrive.