Explore Outdoors Three Days & Two Nights

Day 1

Start your adventure with a canoe or kayak trip along the beautiful Elkhorn Creek or the Kentucky River. Canoe Kentucky is the biggest outfitter in the state. They will have access to both the creek and the river. Take a half or full day (guided or unguided) trip. Relax as you experience Frankfort’s natural environment.

Float down the Kentucky River or Elkhorn creek and bring your best friend along for the ride! Image via Canoe KY

After a tour of our waterways you will be ready to enjoy a delicious meal. Downtown Frankfort has several fantastic Local options for you — from insanely good burgers, fresh salads, shrimp po-boys and more! You can even dine in full view of the historic Old State Capitol.

After lunch — Go take a hike! Cove Spring Park has an amazing hiking/walking trail through natural wooded habitat.  The nature preserve consists of 240 acres of wetlands, streams, springs, waterfalls, forested ravines, and other natural and historic features.  Picnic areas are available.

Waterfall at Cove Spring Park

Continue your adventure by hiking up to the Leslie Morris Park on Fort Hill.  This park features two Civil War Earthen Forts, the Sullivan House interpretive center, picnic pavilion, scenic downtown Frankfort overlook and several hiking trails.

Next, make a visit to Salato Wildlife Education Center to see plants and animals that are native to Kentucky. Explore the indoor exhibits that include a living bee tree and a warm water aquarium. Tour the grounds where you will see bobcats, bison, birds, and more. You may also schedule an interactive presentation in a classroom environment. Along with the tour you can enjoy a hike along one of their many walking trails.

Bobcat at Salato Wildlife Education Center. Image via Salato

After a full day of hiking, canoeing and/or kayaking it’s time to freshen up and go to dinner.  Check out our dining page for your Frankfort favorite!

Day 2

Start day two off with a tour of the beautiful Kentucky River. The Nation’s only Boat based Bourbon Tour is right here in Frankfort! Catch the Bourbon Boat with Kentucky River Tours and hear all about the exciting history that Frankfort has with Bourbon and Daniel Boone!  Kentucky River Tours offers additional experiences on the river so be sure to check out their listing for the most up-to-date options! Reservations are required.

Kentucky River Tours, Bourbon Boat

Jim’s Seafood is located on the banks of the Kentucky River and overlooks Lock and Dam 4.  Nearby is the Limewater Bistro, with a gorgeous view of the river from its porch seating. Thier close proximity to Buffalo Trace Distillery makes a convenient stop for lunch or dinner.

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an adventure for all of your senses and is must-do during any visit to Frankfort! Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of bourbon being made in the world’s most decorated distillery. Several different tour options are available. All tours are complimentary and include a free tasting. Don’t miss the gift shop to look for a special souvenir of your trip.

Buffalo Trace Distillery tour group tasting with Freddie. Image via Buffalo Trace Distillery

Every outdoor adventure in Frankfort Kentucky should include Josephine Sculpture Park where you can interact with nearly 70 works of art as you explore 30 acres of walking paths through native meadows. Enjoy picnic areas, native plants, wildlife habitat and a rotating exhibit of contemporary art that is all hands-on!

West Sixth Brewery Farm is the newest Frankfort outdoor attraction. The farm tour will take you through the inner loop of a 120-acre property where you’ll get to see the taproom, hop yard, cider & berry orchard, and chickens!  You’ll learn a lot about how agriculture and beer go hand in hand, with a beer in your hand!  The grounds also offer a mix-use trail system for moderate mountain-biking, trail running, and hiking. An inside tip: Don’t leave behind your fishing pole!  Check out our calendar for special events at the farm.

Enjoying cold beer and warm weather at West Sixth Farm

Day 3

We have reserved the final day of your Adventure for Juniper Hill Park. Juniper Hill Park is open March through November and offers an eighteen-hole golf course with pro shop,  two lighted sand volleyball courts, four lighted tennis courts, three horseshoe pits, a gazebo, playground,  two shelters with electricity, picnic area with grills, and a seasonal water park, complete with a lazy river and rock climbing wall.

Lazy River, Juniper Hill Aquatic Center

Be sure to contact us for information on Play and Stay discounts with local hotels and attractions.