When you go on a bourbon tour, you expect to tour various distilleries and sample plenty of bourbons. You probably also expect to encounter several gift shops where you can buy memorabilia and bourbon to take home. But that's not all that happens during a bourbon tour. The following are a few other elements of bourbon tours that you might not expect.

History Lessons

Bourbon has a long, rich history in the United States. On your bourbon tour, you are almost certain to learn more about this history. Some distilleries share their own history and a little about the overall history of bourbon during tours. There may be plaques to read and small history "museums" at some other distilleries. And some of the oldest distilleries are a part of bourbon history, just waiting to be admired for their architecture and story. 

Delicious Food

Some bourbons are best when paired with food. As such, you will likely be offered food samples as a part of some of your bourbon tastings. Some distilleries even have little cafes or sandwich shops where you can grab a bite to eat, and the food at these places is typically incredible. So, not only will you get to experience the region's cuisine, but you'll probably get some new ideas for foods to pair with your bourbon.

Mixed Bourbon Drinks

Serious bourbon drinkers may sometimes act incensed at the idea of mixing good bourbon into a cocktail. However, there are bourbons that truly are best-suited for use in cocktails, and there are some people who just prefer their bourbon in cocktails. As such, it is common to see cocktails offered during bourbon tours. You don't have to try them, but if you're looking to enjoy bourbon in a different way, trying them can be fun.

Gorgeous Landscapes

The bourbon belt is a truly beautiful region with rolling, grassy hills and land as far as the eye can see. As such, many distilleries have lovely views you can enjoy while sipping your bourbon. You can also enjoy these landscapes as you're driving or riding from distillery to distillery. The feeling of being out in nature can add to the fun of a bourbon tour.

Going on a bourbon tour is about more than sipping drinks and buying bourbon. You can also sample new foods, learn about the history of bourbon, discover new cocktail ideas, and admire the scenery.