16 Things to do in Frankfort, Kentucky

Published July 19, 2024

1. Visit the Kentucky State Capitol

Frankfort has an abundance of history! Check out some of the museums, historic homes, and more here.

2. Taste the spirit of Kentucky while you tour the distilleries.

Frankfort is home to Castle & Key Distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery, Whiskey Thief Distilling, J. Mattingly Distillery, and Glenns Creek Distilling!

3. Get lost in a book at Poor Richard’s

Poor Richard’s Books is a cozy spot with thousands of books. Make sure you check out the attic– you might just find some treasure!

4. Get some fresh air while hiking or biking at Cove Spring Park! See more places for outdoor adventures here.

Cove Spring Park has a few of Frankfort’s many hiking trails.

5. Miley Cyrus said it best- “I can buy myself flowers”. You can too, at Kentucky Flower Market.

Sourcing directly from local farms, The Kentucky Flower Market brings you the freshest mixed bouquets, straight bunches, and more!

6. Enjoy a cocktail from one of Frankfort’s swanky bourbon bars!

With a rich history in bourbon culture, HOC: A Bourbon Library in Frankfort is a one stop for dusty, uncommon, and local favorite sips.

7. Visit Josephine Sculpture Park and see over 80 ever changing sculptures on 30+ acres of Kentucky’s rolling hills.

Along with over 80 sculptures, Josephine Sculpture Park also has tours and events, so make sure you check out their website!

8. Treat yourself to something sweet (or salty) at Andy’s Artisan Bread, B’s Bakery, or Poppy’s Bakery!

Andy’s has a variety of artisan, European style treats to choose from! Photo by Andy’s Artisan Bread.

9. Watch the world pass by while floating down Elkhorn Creek or the Kentucky River.

Along with kayaking, Frankfort has canoeing, paddle boarding and several boat tours! Photo by Canoe KY.

10. Get off your feet with a free ride on the Frankfort Trolley!

The Trolley will take you on a 45-minute tour of downtown Frankfort and stops at the Kentucky State Capitol and Buffalo Trace Distillery!

11. Learn something new on a Bourbon and History Walking Tour! You can book on our events page.

Local historian Russ Kennedy will be your entertaining guide.

12. Stroll downtown and have lunch at one of our local establishments.

Limewater Bistro + Bar, which is located in the historic Glen Willis house, offers fine dining in Frankfort, Kentucky. They sit on the Kentucky River just down the road from Buffalo Trace! Photo by Limewater Bistro.

13. Check out the views at Daniel Boone’s Monument

Standing at Daniel Boone’s Monument, to the left you can see the State Capitol Building and to the right you will see downtown!

14. Sit back, relax, and have a cold one at one of our breweries

Sig Luscher was originally found in Frankfort, Kentucky in 1866 by Swiss immigrant, Sigmund Luscher. The brewery has been brought back to life by Sig’s great, great, great grandson Timothy Luscher. Photo by Sig Luscher.

15. Strike a pose next to The Bourbon Pole or any of our beautiful downtown murals!

Wanderlust by Cecilia Lueza can be found at 220 West Main Street.

16. Check out our events calendar! There’s always something fun happening downtown!