Corporate Entertainment in Kentucky: A Guide to the Best Options

Kentucky is known for its stunning horse races, bourbon distilleries, and charming southern hospitality. But did you know that the state also offers a wide range of options for corporate entertainment? Whether you’re planning a team building event, client appreciation dinner, or company holiday party, Kentucky has something to offer for every occasion. In this guide, we’ll explore the top options for corporate entertainment in Kentucky and help you plan a successful and memorable event.

Horse Racing at Churchill Downs

When it comes to corporate entertainment in Kentucky, horse racing at Churchill Downs is a must-visit option. Located in Louisville, Churchill Downs is home to the world-famous Kentucky Derby, also known as the “Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports”. The Derby is held annually in May, but Churchill Downs also hosts races throughout the year that can be booked for corporate events.

Corporate groups can enjoy a day at the races in style with a private suite or box seating, complete with food and beverage packages. Guests can also take a behind-the-scenes tour of the track, visit the Kentucky Derby Museum, and even participate in a pre-race horse betting workshop. With its history and exciting atmosphere, Churchill Downs is the perfect option for a memorable corporate event.

Bourbon Distillery Tours

No trip to Kentucky is complete without a visit to one of its famous bourbon distilleries. With over 70 distilleries scattered throughout the state, there’s no shortage of options for corporate groups to explore. Many distilleries offer private tours and tastings, which can be a fun and unique activity for team building or client appreciation events.

One popular distillery for corporate entertainment is the Jim Beam American Stillhouse in Clermont, Kentucky. The experience includes a guided tour of the distillery, a bourbon tasting, and a chance to dip your own bottle of Jim Beam in the signature red wax. Other noteworthy distilleries for corporate tours include Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Angel’s Envy.

Team Building Activities

Looking to plan a team building event that’s both fun and productive? Kentucky has plenty of options to choose from. For outdoor enthusiasts, consider a day of whitewater rafting on the Russell Fork River or zip-lining at Red River Gorge. If your team enjoys a bit of friendly competition, a day at Topgolf or an escape room challenge can be a great way to bond and improve communication skills.

For a more unconventional team building experience, consider booking a bourbon blending workshop at Corsair Artisan Distillery. Your team will learn the art of blending different types of bourbon to create a customized bottle, complete with personalized labels. This unique activity is sure to be a hit with your team and make for a memorable corporate event.

Musical Entertainment

Kentucky is known for its rich musical history, and there’s no shortage of options for musical entertainment for your corporate event. Louisville is home to the Kentucky Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts a variety of shows throughout the year, including concerts, musicals, and plays. For a unique twist, consider booking a private concert at one of the many bourbon distilleries or at the famous Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Owensboro.

If you’re looking for a more low-key musical option, consider hiring a local bluegrass or country band to perform at your company event. Nothing says “Kentucky” like live bluegrass music and dancing.

Food and Drink Experiences

Kentucky is famous for its Southern cuisine and bourbon, making it the perfect destination for food and drink experiences. You can treat your team or clients to a traditional Kentucky-style BBQ at a local restaurant or go all out with a farm-to-table dinner at one of the many farms in the Bluegrass region. For a more upscale experience, book a private dinner at an award-winning restaurant, such as the 610 Magnolia in Louisville or Holly Hill Inn in Midway.

For a unique twist on a classic corporate dinner, consider booking a bourbon and chocolate pairing event. Your group will taste a variety of bourbons paired with handmade chocolates, creating a unique and delicious experience that they won’t soon forget.

The Kentucky State Fair

If you’re planning a corporate event in August, be sure to add the Kentucky State Fair to your list of options. The fair offers a variety of entertainment options, including carnival rides, concerts, and a world-renowned horse show. You can also plan a private tour of the fairgrounds and enjoy exclusive food and drink tastings.

The Kentucky State Fair is not only a fun and unique entertainment option, but it also supports local agriculture and businesses, making it a great choice for corporate social responsibility initiatives.

In Conclusion

Kentucky offers a diverse range of options for corporate entertainment, from horse racing and bourbon tours to team building activities and food experiences. With its Southern charm, rich history, and unique offerings, Kentucky is the perfect destination for a successful and memorable corporate event. So, start planning your trip to the Bluegrass State and experience all that it has to offer for corporate entertainment.