The Ultimate Kentucky Gift Guide with 42 Kentucky Themed Gifts

Kentucky, with its rolling hills, bourbon-filled barrels, and the thundering hooves of the Derby, has a cultural richness that’s as deep as the Ohio River. In this Kentucky gift guide, we’re diving headfirst into the eclectic world of Kentucky-themed treasures, exploring everything from bourbon-infused delights to Derby-ready fashion and home decor that screams Bluegrass pride.

So, saddle up and join us on a journey through the heart of the Bluegrass State – we’re your one-stop-shop for the most charming, unique, locally-made, and downright Kentucky-fied gifts out there.

Check out a few of these other posts:

Leather coaster inlaid with the shape of Kentucky from Clayton & Crume, made in Louisville

Kentucky Stocking Stuffers

These small gifts are full of big Bluegrass charm and Kentucky flair – the perfect small surprises for your loved ones.

Here are our favorite Kentucky-themed stocking stuffers:

Kentucky State Ornament: Add a touch of Kentucky charm to your holiday decorations with these Kentucky-shaped Christmas ornaments. Each handmade ornament is meticulously cut from an authentic bourbon barrel stave or barrel head and tied with suede. The perfect stocking stuffer for bourbon aficionados or anyone craving a touch of rustic elegance in their holiday décor.
Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey Soap: Whiskey soap is a perfect stocking stuffer gift for bourbon lovers with a rich, peppery, and oaky scent. Crafted with all-natural, quality ingredients, including crushed oats, apricot seeds, rosemary leaf extract, and real whiskey!
Blanton’s Miniature Bourbon Shot: This teeny tiny bottle of Blanton’s packs a PUNCH in a tiny package. Blanton’s Bourbon is incredibly challenging to find due to its reputation as a highly sought-after and limited-edition whiskey. So if you slip this into a bourbon lovers stocking, that’s it: you win Christmas, like, officially.
Horse Bottle Stopper: This lil’ Kentucky Derby-inspired wine bottle stopper features a silver horse. For a standout birthday or Christmas gift, pair it with a stylish bottle of your vintage. Or maybe a bottle of bourbon, so your gift recipient can pretend it’s Blanton’s…
Shape of Kentucky Gold Necklace: This sweet necklace features a beautifully crafted Kentucky state charm suspended gracefully from a delicate chain. Simple yet elegant, this necklace goes with everything (seriously, I have one and wear it constantly) and makes for a thoughtful and meaningful gift for someone with a special connection to the Bluegrass State.
Bourbon Barrel Kentucky Stud Earrings: What says “Kentucky” more than Kentucky-shaped stud earrings made from literal bourbon barrels? If bourbon-barrel earrings tickle your fancy, this cute Kentucky-based shop makes theirs by hand and has plenty of other earring designs, like fleur de lis and literal miniature bourbon barrels (so meta).

Makers Mark Hot Chocolate — Kentucky hot chocolate is better with bourbon … and maybe some bourbon caramel sauce and bourbon chocolate sauce, too.

Taste of Kentucky: Edible & Culinary Gifts

If there’s one thing that Kentucky does as well as bourbon, it’s food (especially if it’s made with bourbon). If your loved one is a cook or a foodie, these gifts celebrating Kentucky’s delicious culinary heritage will be the perfect addition to their kitchen!

Bourbon Caramel Sauce and/or Bourbon Chocolate Sauce: Gift the ultimate dessert (or hot chocolate!) upgrade with a delicious duo of bourbon smoked sea salt caramel sauce and a rich chocolate sauce blended with crunchy bourbon smoked cacao nibs. Top things off with a sprinkle of bourbon smoked sugar for the ultimate bourbon dessert trifecta! All three are made by Bourbon Barrel Foods in Louisville.
Woodford Reserve Bourbon Balls: Bourbon balls are a classic Kentucky holiday gift, and we especially love the version served during Woodford Reserve tastings along the Bourbon Trail. Order a box online from Amazon, pair it with a bottle of Woodford Double Oaked, and it will be like giving a trip to the distillery.
Derby Pie®: The ultimate Louisville original! Picture a buttery, flaky crust hugging a decadent filling of chocolate and walnuts (think pecan pie, but way better). Shipped frozen for that home-baked perfection, each slice is a Kentucky celebration – the perfect treat for anyone yearning for a bite of Derby City. Grab one on Amazon!
Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake: Treat your loved ones’ taste buds to a slice of Southern decadence with this Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake. Crafted with love and a dash of Kentucky spirit (we mean bourbon, of course) this dessert is a luscious combination of rich, buttery goodness fused with the unmistakable flavors of aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Each bite is a journey into the heart of the Bluegrass State. This is one of those gifts that you hand over and then immediately demand to try.
Kentucky Fried Spice Mix: Love the taste of a certain giant corporate chicken magnate, but wish you could recreate delicious Kentucky-style fried chicken at home (perhaps gluten-free)? This spice mix is as close as you can (legally) get.
Bourbon Smoked Spice Kits: Created by our favorite local purveyors of bourbon-in-edible-form, Bourbon Barrel Foods, these spices are smoked low and slow with broken bourbon barrels for a delicious, smoky depth. The set of six includes Bourbon Smoked Chili Powder, Bourbon Smoked Citrus Pepper, Bourbon Smoked Garlic Salt, Bourbon Smoked Togarashi, Bourbon Smoked Sugar and Bourbon Smoked Chef’s Blend. Pair it with Louisville’s famous bourbon barrel aged soy sauce for the ultimate Kentucky kitchen upgrade!
Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup: Transform breakfast into a bourbon-infused feast by drizzling this rich syrup over pancakes or waffles, creating a delightful fusion of sweet and smoky flavors.
Kentucky Cookbook: Anyone who’s ever thrown a Derby party knows that you can’t just slap a bowl of chips and some salsa together and call it a day. No; you need pomp and circumstance and miniature hot browns and benedictine sandwiches with the crusts cut off and things made with pimento cheese. You need a cookbook filled with classic Southern recipes! This one has been a Kentucky staple since 1949 – her recipes are tried and true and STILL beloved to this day. Or try this one, for a more modern take on some Kentucky classics.
Bourbon Country Cookbook: This book distills the spirit and hospitality of a Kentucky kitchen into 90 accessible recipes. From traditional fare like pickles and ancient grains to modern bourbon cocktails, these recipes pay homage to Kentucky’s culinary heritage, blending old rituals with the vibrant flavors of contemporary Southern cuisine.
Louisville Food Tour Gift Card: We love an experience gift! Send your gift recipient on a culinary adventure through Louisville’s most iconic neighborhoods and savor the city’s distinct culinary creations on a delightful walking food tour. There’s tons to taste and learn, even for seasoned locals! Use the code LGL10 for 10% off your gift card on the Louisville Food Tours website.

Help your gift recipient decorate their bar cart with bourbon… and bourbon accessories.

Bourbon Lover Gifts

If your gift recipient is a bourbon lover, these Kentucky-themed bourbon gifts are neat and sure to go over smoothly.

Get it?? Like smooth like the mouthfeel? When you taste bourbon??

In this section, we’re uncorking the secrets of Kentucky’s most famous export, from rare bottles that could make a collector weak in the knees to custom glasses that elevate the sipping experience. So, grab your favorite bourbon glass and join us on a journey through the intoxicating world of Kentucky’s liquid gold.

Rare Bourbon Bottles: Elevate their collection with a bottle of small-batch or limited-edition bourbon, unlocking the nuanced flavors and heritage of Kentucky’s finest distilleries. How about a Bottle of Blanton’s – or something even more hard to find? Wooden Cork has the best availability of bourbon we’ve found online, and they’ll ship straight to your gift recipient! Get $10 off your purchase of $149 or more when you shop using our link.
Custom Bourbon Glasses & Decanter Set: Raise the bar on sipping sophistication with a personalized decanter and matching bourbon glasses, adding a touch of elegance to their favorite pour.
Woodford Reserve Bitters Set: What’s better than the classic Old Fashioned, invented right here in Kentucky? How about a twist (and not just the orange peel) like spiced cherry or Sassafras and Sorghum bitters. Throw in a bottle of Woodford-soaked cherries and you’ve got the perfect gift for an Old Fashioned lover!
Bourbon Decanter: Elevate their home bar with a stylish bourbon decanter set, complete with crystal-clear glassware that shows off that beautiful amber color. Perfect for sipping in style or showing off when guests are over! This style is absolutely classic.
Kentucky Engraved Whiskey Stones: Keep your loved ones’ bourbon perfectly chilled without dilution by gifting a set of engraved whiskey stones. Crafted from small cubes of natural cut soapstone, these whiskey stones offer a touch of Kentucky pride. Each stone in the set is intricately engraved with the shape of the Bluegrass State and is accompanied by a handmade bourbon barrel tray, fashioned from a reclaimed bourbon stave sourced from a local Kentucky distillery.
Cocktail Smoker Kit: There are many delicious ways to upgrade the classic Old Fashioned, and a smoker kit is definitely of the most fun! This personalized, easy to use kit comes with a butane torch and wood chips to add the perfect smoky flavor to a bourbon cocktail. Plus, the presentation when you have guests over is *chef’s kiss*
Bourbon Bar Cart Decor: The bar cart – or wherever your bourbon collection is displayed – is the center of a Kentucky home and the pride and joy of every collector. And it’s really fun to decorate! This Kentucky-shaped artwork made from bourbon barrel staves (naturally) is an absolute must-have. This cute tea towel is the perfect bar cart accessory.
Bourbon Barrel Stave Kentucky Shelf: Know what your gift recipient really needs to show off their bourbon collection? A set of shelves shaped like Kentucky, made from bourbon barrels. I mean. This is a showstopper of a gift, y’all. And I want one soooo badly.
Pappyland: A Story of Family, Fine Bourbon, and the Things That Last: Dive into the captivating world of Pappy Van Winkle whiskey with “Pappyland,” an Amazon Best Book of November 2020. This delicious tale unfolds the fascinating story of a whiskey legacy lost and reclaimed, a testament to perseverance, craftsmanship, and the rich tapestry of Kentucky’s heritage. Much like savoring a glass of the rare Pappy, this book is a smooth and satisfying experience that celebrates family, tradition, and the enduring allure of a truly exceptional bourbon. The perfect gift for those who appreciate the finer notes of both storytelling and spirits.
The Kentucky Bourbon Cookbook: Eat your bourbon, y’all! Featuring over fifty recipes, from classic cocktails to delectable desserts, this cookbook elevates every meal with the rich flavors of bourbon. Beyond recipes, the book is a treasure trove of bourbon lore, Kentucky history, and captivating personal anecdotes, making it a delightful gift for both food enthusiasts and whiskey connoisseurs.

Modern kitchen covered in Kentucky decor. — No Kentucky home is complete without Kentucky art made from bourbon barrels – and several bottles of bourbon!

Gifts for the Old Kentucky Home

Is your house truly a home without some Kentucky paraphernalia made out of barrels or without it *smelling* like Kentucky? No, no it is not!

Here are some gifts for your old Kentucky home:

Kentucky Bourbon Soap: If you can’t have a glass of Kentucky bourbon in hand, why not settle for the next best thing – soap that captures the rich aroma of that smooth Kentucky bourbon goodness! Handcrafted with a blend of orange, bergamot, clove, midnight orchid, musk, leather, oak cask, and patchouli, it’s a fragrant journey into the heart of bourbon country.
Kentucky Wood Tray: This stunning wooden tray in the shape of Kentucky showcases a captivating mix of wood colors, creating a standout accent bowl. Gift this, and your loved one will never misplace their keys again!
Kentucky City Map: These beautiful map prints feature Kentucky cities like Louisville, Lexington, Owensboro Covington, Florence and Paducah.
Kentucky Rain Candle: Light this candle and close your eyes, and you’ll swear you’re standing in a field of bluegrass just after a gentke early morning rain. The soothing scent of green leaves, Lily of the Valley, Rose, and Sandalwood is a soothing journey into the serene beauty of Kentucky.
Bourbon & Bluegrass Julep Candle: Infused with base notes of rich wood and musk and harmoniously layered with the aromatic touch of herbs and amber, this candle is a symphony for the senses. Light it up and let the room be filled with the warm embrace of bourbon country. Plus, the reusable Julep cup isn’t just packaging – it’s a thoughtful keepsake, ready to be repurposed for a delightful Julep cocktail set.
Kentucky State Bourbon Barrel Wall Art: Add rustic charm to any space with this Kentucky-shaped wall art crafted from repurposed bourbon barrels, showcasing history of Kentucky’s iconic distilleries.
Bluegrass State Throw Pillow: Infuse a touch of Kentucky pride into the living room or bedroom with a cute throw pillow adorned with the outline of the state and subtle bluegrass details.

Horses Grazing in a Field in Kentucky — Listen, it’s against the law here to publish a blog post without a picture of a horse *somewhere* in it. I don’t make the rules.

Derby Delights: Horse & Equestrian Themed Gifts

Giddy up, equestrian enthusiasts and horse lovers! From chic accessories that celebrate the grace of the track to charming decor that captures the spirit of the stables, this section is a celebration of all things equine.

Whether your gift recipient is a seasoned rider, a Derby aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates the majestic beauty of Kentucky’s most beloved animal, these gifts will bring a touch of equestrian elegance to your loved ones’ life.

Stirrup Necklace: This simple but elegant handmade sterling silver stirrups necklace is a truly unique piece that makes the perfect gift for any horse enthusiast! Choose from gold, rose gold, or silver.
Personalized Gold Horseshoe Necklace: This beautiful hand-engraved necklace features a delicately crafted horseshoe pendant, exquisitely engraved with your chosen name (or perhaps the name of a beloved horse). Made from luxurious 14k gold, this personalized accessory is lovely gift to bestow its recipient with good fortune.
Derby Day Hat: Gift them the iconic Derby experience with a stylish and eye-catching hat, perfect for adding a touch of southern charm to their wardrobe. Pick from a beautiful handmade hat or a smaller and more *ahem* budget-friendly fascinator. (Psst: put together a whole outfit using our Derby outfit guide!)
Derby Day Earrings: Put the perfect touch on your loved ones’ Derby outfits with a pair of handmade earrings featuring some of Derby’s most iconic symbols, like jockey silks, horses, roses, and Mint Juleps.
Race Day Artwork: How do you capture the excitement of a day at the races: the roar of the crowds, the thunder of pounding hooves, and a sea of colorful dresses and hats? Well, just ask an artist whose stunning prints can transport your gift recipient to the track every time they look at their wall! This Etsy shop features art from the official artist of the 148th Kentucky Derby, and this Etsy shop is full of stunning watercolor paintings of Keeneland and Churchill Downs.
Derby Mint Julep Glasses: Every year, the Kentucky Derby releases a new design of Derby-themed mint julep glasses, perfect for toasting to the most exciting two minutes in sports. I’ve got a collection dating back 30+ years (as many Kentuckians do) but your gift recipient can start with this year!

Basketball Christmas Gift — The greatest gift for a basketball lover is a winning team, but these Kentucky basketball gifts are a close second. (This image is AI generated.)

Gifts for Kentucky Basketball Fans

Calling all die-hard Wildcats, devoted Cardinals, and sports enthusiasts beyond the sidelines!

Whether your heart beats blue or red, or you’re a fan of Kentucky’s sporting legacy beyond the major teams, here are a few gifts that will have your gift recipient cheering louder than ever.

Historic Basketball Plays Coaster Set: Celebrate iconic moments in the rich history of Wildcats or Cardinals basketball with these laser-etched slate coasters! Each coaster features the winning play for four epic games, like the 2012 National Semifinals vs. Louisville (Red vs. Blue showdown) or Louisville vs. Duke in 1986. This is the perfect gift for a truly devoted basketball fan! (Psst: they’ve also got these plays on coffee mugs.)
Basketball Bourbon Ice Cube Molds: Score points with a bourbon-loving basketball fan by gifting them these cool basketball shaped ice cube molds! These whiskey ice molds create giant, basketball ice rocks that melt slowly, ensuring your Old Fashioned or bourbon on the rocks will stay cold to the last drop. The perfect gift for those who appreciate both a good game and a perfectly chilled drink.
Bourbon, Bluegrass, Basketball Shirt: Y’all, someone managed to sum up the perfect Kentucky gift in one shirt (or sweatshirt, or tote bag – whatever you prefer). Am I upset these don’t come in red, too? Yeah. But is it still super cute?? Yup!

Which items from our Kentucky gift guide are you adding to your wishlist or your cart? Drop us a comment below!

Before you go, be sure to check out these other posts:

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