Frankfort KentuckyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Frankfort, Kentucky.
1. Buffalo Trace Distillery
HISTORIC BOURBON EXPERIENCE
Buffalo Trace Distillery offers visitors an immersive journey into Kentucky's rich bourbon heritage with comprehensive guided tours of their historic facilities. Visitors can explore the distillery grounds, learn about the meticulous bourbon-making process, and sample award-winning spirits in their tasting rooms. This National Historic Landmark has been continuously operating since 1787, surviving Prohibition and establishing itself as one of America's most celebrated distilleries.
2. Castle & Key Distillery
RESTORED BOURBON CASTLE
Castle & Key Distillery invites guests to experience bourbon-making in a stunning restored castle-like distillery originally built in 1887. Visitors can wander through botanical gardens, marvel at the European-inspired architecture, and enjoy tastings of their gin, vodka, and bourbon in an elegant setting. The distillery represents one of Kentucky's most remarkable restoration stories, bringing a historic property back to life with modern craftsmanship while honoring traditional distilling methods.
3. Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours & Museum
HISTORIC CANDY MAKING
Rebecca Ruth Candy Tours & Museum offers guided tours showcasing both antique candy-making equipment and modern production methods in this beloved family confectionery. Visitors can learn about the company's fascinating history dating back to its founding and watch artisans create their famous bourbon balls and other Kentucky specialties. This sweet destination provides a delicious glimpse into a century-old candy-making tradition that has become an integral part of Kentucky's culinary heritage.
4. Salato Wildlife Education Center
KENTUCKY WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Salato Wildlife Education Center offers an up-close experience with Kentucky's diverse native wildlife in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can observe black bears, bobcats, eagles, and other indigenous species while learning about conservation efforts throughout the state. The center provides both indoor and outdoor exhibits along with educational programming that appeals to nature enthusiasts of all ages.
5. Cove Springs Park
NATURAL WATERFALL RETREAT
Cove Springs Park features picturesque hiking trails, beautiful waterfalls, and abundant wildlife just minutes from downtown Frankfort. Visitors can enjoy easily accessible waterfalls, explore the network of scenic trails, and experience tranquility in this natural oasis. The park offers a perfect blend of recreational opportunities and natural beauty with its limestone outcroppings, streams, and diverse forest ecosystems.
6. Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.
MICRO-DISTILLERY WITH PERSONALITY
Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. welcomes bourbon enthusiasts to experience their charming micro-distillery nestled in a picturesque outdoor setting. Visitors can enjoy personal bourbon bottling experiences straight from the barrel while exploring various bourbon profiles in a cozy atmosphere. The distillery often features live music and friendly animal companions, creating a unique and intimate Kentucky bourbon experience.
7. Three Boys Farm Distillery
CRAFT FARM SPIRITS
Three Boys Farm Distillery offers an authentic farm-to-bottle bourbon experience in a rustic, countryside setting just outside Frankfort. Visitors can tour the small-batch operation, learn about the grain-to-glass process, and sample their handcrafted spirits in an intimate tasting environment. This family-run distillery embodies the artisanal spirit of Kentucky's bourbon renaissance with its focus on quality ingredients and traditional methods.
8. Glenns Creek Distillery
HISTORIC RUINS REBORN
Glenns Creek Distillery offers intimate tours and tastings amid the atmospheric ruins of the historic Old Crow Distillery. Visitors can explore the boutique operation while learning about Kentucky's bourbon heritage in a setting that blends past and present. The distillery's unique historical backdrop provides a distinctive context for experiencing their small-batch bourbon production methods.
9. Daniel Boone's Grave
FRONTIER LEGEND'S REST
Daniel Boone's Grave sits atop a hill in the scenic Frankfort Cemetery, offering visitors a connection to early American frontier history. The site provides sweeping panoramic views of the Kentucky River and the Capitol building, creating a contemplative setting for reflecting on the legendary frontiersman's legacy. Visitors can pay respects to this iconic American pioneer while enjoying one of the most spectacular vistas in the Frankfort area.
10. Juniper Hill Golf Course
LOCAL GOLFING FAVORITE
Juniper Hill Golf Course presents golfers with a challenging yet enjoyable experience on beautifully maintained greens with scenic Kentucky views. Players can test their skills on the well-designed course that balances difficulty with playability for all skill levels. This popular local favorite provides a peaceful golfing retreat with excellent conditions and friendly atmosphere just minutes from downtown Frankfort.
11. Elkhorn Creek
PRISTINE PADDLING WATERS
Elkhorn Creek offers outdoor enthusiasts exceptional kayaking, canoeing, and fishing opportunities in the heart of Kentucky's scenic bluegrass region. Paddlers can navigate the gentle flows through limestone bluffs and forested shorelines, spotting local wildlife along this picturesque waterway. The creek provides a refreshing natural escape with multiple access points around Frankfort, making it a favorite destination for water-based recreation.
12. Kentucky State Capitol
BEAUX-ARTS GOVERNMENT WONDER
The Kentucky State Capitol showcases impressive Beaux-Arts architecture with its stunning 215-foot dome, ornate interiors, and Vermont marble throughout the historic structure. Visitors can tour the legislative chambers, view the magnificent rotunda, and explore exhibits highlighting Kentucky's governmental history. The Capitol grounds feature monuments, gardens, and views of the Kentucky River, creating a dignified setting for the state's seat of government.
13. Kentucky Horse Park
EQUINE PARADISE DESTINATION
Kentucky Horse Park celebrates the state's equine heritage with its expansive 1,200-acre working horse farm and educational theme park just a short drive from Frankfort. Visitors can watch exciting horse shows, tour the International Museum of the Horse, and meet retired champion thoroughbreds and various horse breeds up close. This world-class facility hosts major equestrian events throughout the year while offering daily activities that showcase Kentucky's deep connection to horse culture.
14. The Kentucky Castle
ROYAL BLUEGRASS EXPERIENCE
The Kentucky Castle stands as a remarkable medieval-style fortress offering luxury accommodations, farm-to-table dining, and special events in the rolling hills near Frankfort. Visitors can tour the castle grounds, enjoy gourmet meals featuring ingredients from the castle's organic garden, and even book overnight stays in royal-themed rooms. This distinctive landmark provides a fairy-tale experience with modern amenities surrounded by Kentucky's beautiful horse country landscape.
15. Fort Boonesborough State Park
PIONEER SETTLEMENT RECREATION
Fort Boonesborough State Park features a reconstructed 1775 fort where costumed interpreters demonstrate pioneer life skills and crafts from Kentucky's early settlement days. Visitors can explore the blockhouses, cabins, and stockade walls while learning about Daniel Boone and the challenges faced by early Kentucky settlers. The park also offers camping, swimming, boating access to the Kentucky River, and hiking trails through beautiful natural surroundings not far from Frankfort.