Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history of Western Pennsylvania with a tour that brings the Whiskey Rebellion to life. The Rebellion is historically significant as it tested the authority of the newly-formed U.S. federal government under the Constitution, demonstrating its ability to enforce laws and maintain order, while also highlighting tensions between federal power and local resistance. In addition to the historical knowledge you will gain, we will also be touring, tasting, and enjoying libations at 3 fantastic and operational distilleries; one being the birthplace of Pittsburgh tycoon, Henry Clay Frick. We will be joined for the duration of our tour by Professor Timothy Hemmis, PhD, who will be providing commentary throughout and a contextual overview the night of arrival in the Lawrence Welk room of the gorgeous Omni William Penn hotel located in downtown Pittsburgh.
Make sure you do your pre-tour homework! Read The Whiskey Rebellion and the Rebirth of Rye: A Pittsburgh Story by Mark Meyer and Meredith Meyer Grelli (founders of Wigle Whiskey).
Timothy C. Hemmis is an Associate Professor of History with a specialization in Early American History at Texas A&M University-Central Texas. His research focuses on empire, national identity, the frontier, war and society in Revolutionary America (1750-1815). His edited collection titled A Republic of Scoundrels: The Schemers, Intriguers, and Adventurers Who Made a New American Nation (Pegasus Books, 2023) examines the shadowy figures of the founding American generation including Benedict Arnold, James Wilkinson, Aaron Burr and other lesser-known scoundrels. Currently, he is writing a biography of Captain Thomas Hutchins, the only Geographer of the United States, who was one of the highest-ranking British officers to defect to the American cause. Hemmis is also a 2025-2026 George Washington Presidential Library Fellow at Mt. Vernon.
On tour scholar
Dr. Hemmis will be providing an evening lecture on Day 1 and will be joining us for the duration of the tour providing commentary and answering questions
Tour director
A Cultured Travel tour director will be present for the duration of the tour to ensure it is a great experience
Lodging
3 nights lodging at the beautiful and historic Omni William Penn Hotel
2 Meals
Lunch on days 2 and 3 are included
Tastings & Cocktails
Tastings are included and alcoholic (or non... if you really want...) beverages are included at each distillery on the itinerary
Site entrances
Admission and private tours to all sites per itinerary
Local guides and docents
As applicable
Transportation
Bussing from the Omni William Penn to all sites and back on Day 2 and 3 (not including Wigle Whiskey)
Snacks & Bottled Water
Will be included on bus rides
Gratuities
Gratuities are included for our bus driver as well as site docents/guides
Food & Beverage
Meals or beverages not specified per itinerary
Transportation to hotel
Flight or vehicle transportation to the hotel and any associated costs such as parking or gas (Uber is easily available for any who have mobility issues or just don't feel like walking)
Wigle Whiskey Transport
Transportation to and from Wigle Whiskey at the end of day 3 is not included as it is an easy walk of approximately 1 mile from the hotel
Hotel parking
Parking is not included at the hotel, however, there is a garage immediately across the street which is relatively inexpensive
Additional gratuities
Gratuities not specified or any additional you may wish to give on your own
Travel insurance
Highly recommended
Kick off your journey in style with your arrival at the historic Omni William Penn Hotel in Pittsburgh, a timeless gem that exudes elegance and charm.
Parking is easiest at the Mellon Square Garage located directly across from the with the entrance off of Sixth Avenue. Full Day parking Monday - Friday, $20 and full day parking Saturday and Sunday, $8.
Valet parking is also available directly in front of the hotel and is $55 per night.
Settle in before diving into the fascinating history of the Whiskey Rebellion with an engaging lecture by historian Timothy Hemmis, PhD. Gain fresh insights into this pivotal chapter of American history as Dr. Hemmis brings the era to life, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.
Jewel's advice: Arrive early and be sure to get a cocktail in the Speakeasy of the hotel (it opens at 5PM). Rumor has it that this was a real speakeasy during prohibition.
There are also several great restaurants very close to the hotel. Check out of my preferred and vetted places on this MAP. PLEASE NOTE THAT MOST RESTAURANTS ON MY LIST WILL WARRANT RESERVATIONS FOR ANY NIGHT.
9AM - We will gather in the lobby of the Omni at and depart for our first site of the day.
10AM - We will begin at the David Bradford House, the home of one of the rebellion's key leaders, and explore the fascinating stories that sparked this pivotal moment in American history. Next, we will dive deeper into the era at the Whiskey Rebellion Education Center, where interactive exhibits uncover the rebellion’s cultural and political impact.
12:30PM - Let's raise a glass at Liberty Pole Spirits, a craft distillery named after the rebels' symbol of defiance, where you’ll savor locally made whiskey inspired by the past and eat a delicious lunch prepared by chef Alex Baker.
3PM - Rounding out our day, we will journey by the site of Bower Hill (the location of General Neville's home which was burned to the ground during the rebellion) and then on to the Woodville Plantation, the home of the Presley Neville family and a beautifully preserved 18th-century estate that offers a glimpse into everyday life during the time of the rebellion.
We will return to the hotel at approximately 5PM so you may enjoy the evening exploring Pittsburgh and dining on your own. Fully vetted recommendations are provided in this MAP.
9AM - Gather in the lobby of the Omni and get ready to depart.
9:30AM - We will start at the Oliver Miller Homestead, where the first shots of the Whiskey Rebellion were fired, and step into the lives of the early settlers who shaped the region.
11:30AM - We continue on to Mingo Cemetery, a historic resting place that offers a solemn connection to the past and the stories of those who lived it such as John Hollcroft (Tom the Tinker), Major James McFarlane, and more.
1PM - Next, we will visit West Overton Village and Distillery, the birthplace of industrialist Henry Clay Frick and home to one of Pennsylvania’s most storied whiskey legacies, where you’ll delve into 19th-century distilling traditions. Of course I will make sure you are fed first! Your pre-ordered lunch is included here.
5:30PM - This is our approximate return time to the hotel leaving you time to freshen up, get dinner, and work your way down to "The Strip" where you will cap off your day with a private tour of Wigle Whiskey.
8PM - Wigle Whiskey Tour - After making your own way here, we will gather inside near the entrance to commence our tour.
Wigle was named after "farmer and distiller Philip Vigol (later Wigle) who was sentenced to hang for treason. Wigle was one of only two men convicted of high treason in connection with what was, at the time of his sentencing, already known as the Whiskey Rebellion. Wigle was later pardoned by President Washington." Wigle Whiskey is Pittsburgh’s award-winning craft distillery, and one where we will have an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at modern-day whiskey-making and a toast to the region’s enduring spirit of innovation and rebellion (not to mention your new and old friends made on this tour).
It’s a day that blends history, culture, and flavor into an unforgettable experience!
As your journey comes to an end, you'll want to take a moment to reflect on the rich history, unforgettable stories, and meaningful connections made along the way. From tracing the footsteps of Whiskey Rebellion pioneers to savoring the craft and spirit of modern-day distilleries, this tour will have been a celebration of heritage, culture, and community. Depart with a deeper appreciation for the region’s legacy and plenty of memories worth raising a glass to!