Skip to main content
DESTINATION

Frankfort

The state capital, Frankfort has been Kentucky's seat of government since 1792, when it was chosen as the capital in a compromise between rivals Louisville and Lexington. As an enticement, a group of local businessmen offered land for the capitol building and grounds as well as $3,000 in gold and the nails and window glass needed for construction.

The city's oldest residential neighborhood centers on the Corner of Celebrities, bounded by Wapping, Washington, Main and Wilkinson streets. There are more than 40 sites of historical or architectural interest in the area.

In addition to state government, the rich farmlands and bourbon distilleries are strong local industries. Scenic portions of US 60 and I-64 run east from Frankfort to Lexington.

Visitor Centers

Frankfort Tourist Commission 300 St. Clair St., Suite 102 Frankfort, KY 40601. Phone:(502)875-8687 or (800)960-7200

Self-guiding Tours

A self-guiding walking/driving tour map of Frankfort is available at the tourist commission.

Shopping

Major shopping centers include Downtown Frankfort Shoppes and Old Capital Shoppes, on Broadway and St. Clair streets.

Things to Do

Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary

Buffalo Trace Distillery

Capital City Museum

Frankfort Cemetery

Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives

The Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Kentucky Military History Museum

Leslie Morris Park on Fort Hill

Liberty Hall Historic Site

Liberty Hall

Orlando Brown House

Old State Capitol

Rebecca-Ruth Candy & Tours

Salato Wildlife Education Center

State Capitol

Governor's Mansion

Kentucky's Floral Clock

Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History

More Articles

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP