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Frankfort, Kentucky is the capital city of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the county seat of Franklin County. With a population of approximately 28,000, it is one of the smallest state capitals in the United States, yet it holds an outsized role in Kentucky’s history and government. Situated along the Kentucky River in the heart of the Bluegrass region, Frankfort offers visitors a compact but rich blend of historic sites, outdoor recreation, and Southern charm.
Frankfort was founded in 1786 and was named after Stephen Frank, a frontier settler who was killed near the site. The city was chosen as Kentucky’s capital in 1786 after a contentious competition among competing cities, a decision that shaped the region’s development for centuries to come.
The Kentucky State Capitol, completed in 1910, is the centerpiece of the city’s government district. This Beaux-Arts building replaced an earlier Greek Revival structure and features a distinctive copper dome that is visible from throughout the city. The Capitol grounds include several monuments and memorials honoring Kentuckians who served in wars and public service.
Frankfort’s historic downtown retains much of its 19th-century character, with brick streets and buildings that date to the city’s early commercial prime. The city was an important hub on the Kentucky River, with river commerce flowing between Lexington and Louisville. Today, the river provides scenic beauty rather than commercial transportation.
| Era | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1786 | City founded | Named after Stephen Frank |
| 1792 | Became capital | First capital of new state |
| 1910 | Capitol completed | Current state house built |
| Today | Government center | Seat of Kentucky democracy |
Frankfort offers several significant attractions within easy walking distance of downtown:
The Kentucky State Capitol stands as one of Frankfort’s most recognizable landmarks. The building’s interior features marble floors, bronze staircases, and murals depicting key moments in Kentucky history. Guided tours are available and provide insight into the state’s legislative process and history.
Buffalo Trace Distillery, located just outside Frankfort, is one of the oldest continuously operating whiskey distilleries in the United States. Founded in 1773, it has produced bourbon for more than 250 years. The distillery offers tours that showcase the bourbon-making process and the facility’s historic aging warehouses.
The Old State Capitol, also known as the Old Capitol Building, served as the seat of government from 1830 to 1910. This Greek Revival structure now operates as a museum and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its four fluted columns and symmetrical facade are iconic examples of early 19th-century American architecture.
Frankfort’s location along the Kentucky River and its proximity to forested areas provides several outdoor activity opportunities:
Kellytown Park offers green space along the river with walking trails and picnic areas. The park serves as a starting point for paddlers using the Kentucky River water trail, which provides a scenic route for kayaks and canoes.
Cedar Creek Lake, managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a popular destination for fishing and kayaking. The lake is stocked with bass, catfish, and sunfish, making it a favored spot for local anglers.
Devils Punchbowl, a small but dramatic natural feature near Frankfort, attracts hikers interested in geology and natural history. The area offers a short trail with steep terrain leading to views of the eroded limestone formations.
The best times to visit Frankfort depend on your interests:
| Season | Temperature | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | 50-75°F | Capitol grounds in bloom, mild weather |
| Summer | 70-90°F | River activities, festivals downtown |
| Fall | 45-70°F | Fall foliage, distillery tours |
| Winter | 30-50°F | Holiday events at Capitol, small crowds |
Spring brings comfortable temperatures and the blooming of dogwoods and redbuds throughout the city. Summer offers the warmest weather and outdoor concerts in downtown parks. Fall is arguably the most beautiful season, when the surrounding Bluegrass countryside displays vibrant autumn colors. Winter sees fewer visitors, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet tour of historic sites without crowds.
Here are some of our recommended things to do near Frankfort. Choose your favorite!
Josephine Sculpture Park is Kentucky’s only sculpture park, set across 30 acres of restored native meadows and forest in the hills above Frankfort. The park was founded by artists Janel and Todd Fischer , who transformed a former limestone quarry in…