Outdoor Theatre

The groundbreaking National Conference on Outdoor Theatre brings together renowned artists, directors, and enthusiasts from across the nation to explore the captivating world of open-air performances. This year's Conference will be October 8–11, 2025 at The Stephen Foster Story in Bardstown, Kentucky, with additional programming in Louisville, Kentucky, provided by the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival.

Hotel & Travel

Experience true Southern hospitality at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Bardstown. Situated right on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, our hotel is less than seven miles from Bardstown Bourbon Company, Lux Row Distillers, Willett Distillery, Barton 1792 Distillery, Preservation Distillery, and Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience. While staying, enjoy visiting historic Downtown Bardstown, Museum Row, My Old Kentucky Home, and My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. Our spacious and comfortable sleeping rooms are equipped with 55-inch flat panel TVs, complimentary Wi-Fi, and plush bedding. Our hotel features a 24-hour fitness center, indoor pool, and 24-hour Corner Market.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Bardstown

1070 Morton Avenue
Bardstown, Kentucky, USA, 40004

502-350-6720 (for information only—do not use for discounted reservations)

Room Rates:

• King Room: $134 + tax

Discounted Reservations:

The hotel reservation cutoff date is September 8, 2025

Note: Your stay at our designated host hotel makes it possible for NCOT/SETC to provide the great discounts, services, and experiences offered during the conference.

Getting There

By Air

Louisville International Airport — Distance from hotel: 35 miles

By Car

Visit the Louisville Airport website for rental car information.

In 2017, the Institute of Outdoor Theatre transitioned into its new partnership and management relationship with SETC. SETC is maintaining and building upon services that have long been valued by the outdoor theatre community, including Summer and Outdoor Theatre Auditions.

Each fall, theatre leaders from all backgrounds convene for a multi-day networking event where conference attendees trade insights and explore new concepts in design/technology, management and artistic approach.