Frankfort, KY Tourist Attractions
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Frankfort, capital of the state of Kentucky, grew out of a fort established by a pioneer named Frank. It is the chief place in a productive grain- and tobacco-growing region on the Kentucky River. The Museum of the Kentucky Historical Society is housed in the old State Capitol of 1836. Daniel Boone and his wife Rebecca are buried in the town cemetery.
Rebecca-Ruth Candy Factory
Rebecca-Ruth Candies was founded in Frankfort in 1919 by two schoolteachers who are credited with originating bourbon chocolates. Highlights include "Edna's Table," a 12-foot curved marble table that was used during Prohibition for candy-making, and an antique candy furnace with hand-stirred copper kettles that are still used to this day.
Frankfort Cemetery
The Frankfort Cemetery overlooks the city with a monument that marks the graves of Daniel Boone and his wife, Rebecca. A black granite wall bears the names of Kentuckians who have died defending their country from the War of 1812 through the Gulf War.
Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives
Reference materials, genealogical information and public records from state and local government are housed within the Kentucky Department for Libraries and Archives in Frankfort. There is a research room available.
Kentucky History Center
Interactive displays depicting periods in Kentucky's history are featured at the Kentucky History Center in Frankfort. Genealogical records are housed in the research library.
Kentucky's Floral Clock
The Kentucky Floral Clock in Frankfort is 34ft/10m across with a minute hand that weighs 530 pounds and is more than 20ft/6m long. More than 10,000 plants fill the clock.
Liberty Hall Historic Site
Liberty Hall Historic Site in Frankfort was the home of one of Kentucky's first senators, John Brown. Two houses are located on the four acres with formal gardens. Tours are offered of the houses focusing on the lives of the Brown family.
Liberty Hall
Construction of Liberty Hall began in 1796 in Frankfort and continued to 1800. Period furnishings and many original Brown family items are included in the house. A formal garden extends to the Kentucky River behind the house.
Orlando Brown House
The Orlando Brown House in Frankfort was designed in the Greek Revival style and completed in 1835. Displays include original furnishings, silver, brass, china and family portraits.
Old State Capitol
Completed in 1830, the Old State Capitol of Kentucky in Frankfort is an example of Greek Revival architecture. The interior has been recreated to appear as it was in the 1850s with fine paintings, sculpture, prints, and furniture.
Salato Wildlife Education Center
The Salato Wildlife Education Center features interactive exhibits of native plants and animals. An aquarium, mounted local birds and mammals, and a nature trail are highlights of the center.
State Capitol
The State Capitol Building in Frankfort is a Beaux Arts-style structure which was built in 1910 of Indiana limestone. The building's interior is finished in marble and accented with murals and paintings.
Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary
The Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary in Frankfort features 374 acres with nature trails and a bird blind for wildlife and bird watching.
Kentucky Military History Museum
The Kentucky Military History Museum in Frankfort features firearms, edged weapons, artillery, uniforms, flags, photographs, personal items, and other equipment.
