True lovers of Kentucky know that the literal and figurative heart of this gracious southern state is the capital city of Frankfort, perfectly positioned on the shores of the Kentucky River between Louisville and Lexington. Frankfort embodies the essence of everything that makes Kentucky special from her natural charm and beauty to her brains to her world-renowned bourbon, all in one distinctly small but spirited package.
You could say that Frankfort is Kentucky Distilled.
We learned in Part 1 of this article that Liberty Hall, the National Historic Site, on the corner of Wapping and Wilkinson Streets, is one of the most hallowed houses in America, dating to 1796. We learned that its owner John Brown, lawyer, politician and social leader, was one of the most influential men…
The two-story red brick building at 202-218 Wilkinson Street may look like any other Federal-style dwelling in Frankfort’s historic district. But if ever there was a case of “if these walls could talk, what a story they would tell” – a story of both a newly minted Kentucky and a fledgling America in the…
"Frankfort serves as the capital of the Commonwealth of Kentucky, but it also plays host to several restaurants, family-friendly activities, universities and, what the state is known for best, bourbon distilleries. If you’re looking for a quick getaway, 24 hours in Frankfort is an ideal trip." Read the full article here. You can also find itineraries,…
For the past 30 years, locals have flocked to the tiny white structure just across from the “Singing Bridge,” making Rick’s White Light Cajun Diner one of Frankfort’s most celebrated eateries. Some may wonder why. It has limited seating – only two tables and a scattering of stools at the counter. Filled to capacity, it seats…
Yesterday, December 15th, Buffalo Trace Distillery rolled out their 8,000,000th barrel since Prohibition. This milestone barrel arrived in record time for the historic distillery, replacing the 7 millionth barrel only four years later (previously, it had taken the distillery an average of 12 years). Governor Andy Beshear was in attendance and said, “I…
Image from Kentucky Gentlemen Cigars What do John F. Kennedy, Babe Ruth, Sigmond Freud, Michael Jordan, Mark Twain, Clint Eastwood, General George Patton and Arnold Schwarzenegger all have in common? All the men were (presumably) gentlemen and they all enjoyed a fine cigar. Thus, they would have felt right at home at the Kentucky Gentlemen…
Image from Mami Monchita's For those who collect ethnic restaurants, here’s one to add to your collection. Mami Monchita’s, tucked into an off-the-beaten path neighborhood somewhat removed from Frankfort’s downtown dining establishments, offers diners a flavorful tour of Honduras. The cuisine of this Central American nation is a tantalizing mix of Spanish and indigenous,…
The capital city got a jump start on the holiday season with Candlelight Weekend, which was scheduled this year for November 10-12. A festive atmosphere prevailed throughout downtown with carriage rides, carolers and open houses at many of the stores. Even if you missed the celebration, you haven’t missed the great opportunities to shop…
From the mid-19th century to the mid-20th century, nearly every city of any size built an ornate theater meant to mimic the great opera houses and theaters of Europe. Frankfort was no exception. Beginning in the mid-1800s, it had five such theaters. By the mid-1900s, all but one of them had closed. The lone survivor was…
Join us for holiday spirit, shopping, music, kids' activities, food, drink, and more festive fun! Thursday Trolley Route Friday/Saturday Trolley Route Carriage Route
Frankfort/Franklin County Tourist & Convention Commission
300 Saint Clair St., Suite 102
Frankfort, KY 40601