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On the National Register of Historic Places, the Kentucky Capitol is one of the most impressive Capitols in the US. After parking (large lot in back for visitors), we made our way past the Rose Garden to the main entrance just as 50 or so school children were exiting the building. Once inside, we were offered the choice of a guided or self-guided tour. We chose the latter. A useful brochure "A Self-guided Tour of the Kentucky State Capitol" is available at the entrance desk. The first floor features the Executive Branch -- the Governor's Office, Secretary of State, Attorney General, etc. -- as well as a tourist information desk and the Capitol Rotunda. The rotunda is highlighted by an Imposing dome that is 180 feet above. Four murals are featured, representing agriculture, industry, civilization, and culture. The second floor is the Judicial Branch, and includes, for instance, the Office of the Chief Justice and the Public Law Library. Interestingly, while we were visiting, there was a ceremony going on to induct young attorneys to practice before the court. The third floor houses the Legislative Branch, and features the Senate Chamber and the House of Representatives. There are some special things to look for while visiting -- (1) state seals, which features two men shaking hands, which illustrates the motto "United We Stand, Divided We Fall". These seals can be found on doorknobs, elevator doors, and more. (2) "high tech" technology from when the building was new in 1910, such as a glass-covered chute that allowed letters to be dropped from upper floors into a brass box near the entrance, and (3) symbols of power and justice, such as eagles and torches. The grounds are picturesque, and include the Floral Clock, Rose Garden, and various other buildings. Note that, in early May, 2023, there was scaffolding around the Capitol's dome, and only a limited number of flowers were in bloom.
Great tour of a beautiful Capitol building. The dome is being refurbished. The grounds are so pretty. There is ample close Parking.
The Kentucky State Capitol is small, but charming. For some reason, it took me 26 years of living in Kentucky to actually get over to visit it. They do offer tours, but via reservation and at very limited timeframes. I just explored the outside. The outside area is nice, there's a small courtyard and cute neighborhood wrapped around. You can tell the building itself is old, but it's still pretty fascinating to get to see the architecture up close. It's worth a detour for sure!
Kentucky, officially the Commonwealth of Kentucky, is a state in the Southeastern region of the United States. It's one of the states of the Upper South. It borders Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio to the north, West Virginia to the northeast, Virginia to the east, Tennessee to the south, and Missouri to the west. Its northern border is defined by the Ohio River. Its capital is Frankfort, and its two largest cities are Louisville and Lexington. Its population was approximately 4.5 million in 2020. I lived in Kentucky for Ten Years off and on. I married and divorced in Kentucky. My daughter was born there and I have a lot of family and friends that still live in Kentucky after all these years. As for the capital in the city of Frankfort, for about ten months I visited the Capital weekly. I had a family member that moved there temporarily so I visited. The atmosphere was very much like all the larger cities in Kentucky. It was just on a grander scale. Besides my family and friends that are dear to me, I never quite felt like I fit in to the Kentucky Culture. I'll never forget when I tried to rent an apartment and the women boldly said "You must be from New York" and refused to rent it to me. There was always those closed minded individuals even in a college town. Yes I would like to return to visit. One of my dearest friends of 55 years is currently in the hospital. I made friendships that last a lifetime. There's a lot of good people I would love to see. I'd have to be there for at least two weeks and travel from one city to another. Maybe I'll visit next lifetime. Right now I keep in touch on Facebook. Before you decide to reside in Kentucky spend time there. I may be jaded but I wouldn't make this decision lightly.
Not open to the public during the pandemic, this is the 37th on my quest to visit all 50 capitols https://www.yelp.com/collection/ucwQvyGY8sZEDHaN49HU5Q and leaves Tallahassee and Baton Rouge east of the Mississippi that I have yet to visit https://www.yelp.com/collection/LdpbQ1GIW9MpQTtmVmX-8Q. Frankfort is the capital city of the Commonwealth of Kentucky (bonus points if you can name the other three Commonwealth states) and is also the seat of Franklin County. Interestingly not named after the city in Germany, it is believed that the city was named after an event in the 1780s where Pioneer Frank Ford was killed, "Frank's Ford" became Frankfort. True? Not true? It's a good story and that's what matters. The city has always been the location of the capital. Kentucky was the 15th state to join the Union, on June 1, 1792. The Capitol building is the house of all three branches of government - executive, legislative and judicial. The first floor contains the offices of the governor and his or her staff as well as the lieutenant governor, secretary of state and attorney general. The second floor has the state Supreme Court and the chambers of the justices. The chambers of the House of Representatives and Senate face each other on opposite ends of the third floor. The building was constructed between 1905 and 1909, then was dedicated in 1910. It is in the Beaux-Arts style. Access is permitted (current pandemic aside) by passing through a metal detector. [Review 13556 overall, 875 of 2020.]
This place is a must to visit. If you go for a tour ask for Nick then ask for the "Cadillac tour". He was awesome, answered alot of questions from our girls and gave them a good lesson on the 3 branches of government. I even learned alot. It was a cold day so we didn't enjoy the grounds as much as I was hoping but the inside is amazing. So much history, paintings, sculptures and architecture. I was hoping the had pizza in the canteen but it was closed.
When visiting a new state, if our destination is at all near the capitol, we try to make it a point to visit the capitol building. So, as you can imagine, I've seen my share of capitol buildings. And, though, we weren't able to venture inside, strictly from the outside, thus far, Kentucky is my favorite. The green grounds, the way the road and long path lead up to it, the lamp posts, and the blooming trees all conspire to convey a charming stateliness that hearkens to a different time. The grounds are pristine and beautifully maintained. While we were there the trees flanking the wide entry path up to the entrance were in bloom and smelled divine. The capitol building in Kentucky is located in a small town. We went in the evening and there were many locals walking the grounds (for an evening walk), which added to the overall charm of the spot. Definitely worth the trip from Louisville to check it out! Get to it!
I've been here as a chaperone on several field trips with my daughters throughout the years. Very historic and visually stunning building. The kids always enjoy this portion of the field trip when visiting our state capital. While it is very hard to contain there excitement with the open halls and huge staircases the tour guides do a good job of keeping them focused with fun facts and info along with the educational tidbits too.
I came here to get authentication for my China document, it's easy to call and get answer for my questions, so I'm fully prepared when i arrive. When i arrive, I'm surprised that the state capital building is so nice and when i walk inside, it's beautiful, and everyone is friendly. It's easy to find the secretary of state's office, and get my doc to be authenticated. No requirement for appointment, you just walk in. Unbelievable!
Absolutely FREE to tour and walk around the Kentucky State Capitol Building inside and outside on the grounds!!!! Let me first start by saying, it was like stepping back in time. A different era, I can just imagine the people in their different clothes and styles. I just like to let my imagination run wild!!! We parked in the circular drive for free...and then we went inside to the security check in. We showed our license and went through security metal detector. We stopped at the information desk, got a map and off we went on our Free self guided tour of all 3 levels of the building. It was started in 1904 and finished in 1910...took 6 yrs to complete. There is gorgeous white alabaster marble EVERYWHERE!!!!!! The rotundra is spectacular!! In the middle is a outstanding statue of President Abraham Lincoln. Also there are 4 other statues with him, Jefferson Davis, Henry Clay, Ephraim McDowell and Alben Barkley. We were able to see the Doll Collection of all the Kentucky First Ladies in replicas of their Inaugural Ball Gowns. There is a quilt of all the counties of Kentucky, portraits of Kentucky judges..Absolutely GORGEOUS architecture...if you have about an hour to kill...you should wonder these halls and take your own gander at its BEAUTY!!!!
Beautiful architecture, fantastic landscape, and lots to see! There is a rose guardian, a giant floral clock and fountain, and plenty of parking. Heads up, hours for tours are on weekdays not the weekend. This is not the original capital building for KY and was built 1904 to replace the original. The original building is not to far away but could not house the growth of KY government officials. Our family enjoyed visiting and as you can see by the phots posted there are plenty of great photo opportunities. I look forward to coming back on a weekday to go through the tour.
So this is where all the marble went!!! On the way to Louisville I noticed the sign for the capitol building which turned out to be a pleasant (albeit very very brief) visit on the trip back. First, I was a bit confused. (not difficult to accomplish- don't feel special) Is it the "old" capitol building or the governor's mansion just behind the newer building? Eh...walked around it, as it's being redone/remodeled to the newer building. If you squinted enough and came at night, it almost looks like the Sacramento one but with a much more lovely Capitol Mall. Googling them up, many capitol buildings look similar. Hmm. Then I went inside! Seemed pretty empty- was given a map which told me where things were on each of the 4 floors. The Supreme Court section is smaller than California (for obvious reasons) and was empty. Most of the place was empty actually. Security at each door seemed very concerned with my reasoning for wanting to visit. I really just wanted to visit another state's capitol building and check another off the list...so I did!
Unfortunately I didn't get to see the inside of this place but the outside was absolutely beautiful. I came in the end of the summer and the weather here was fantastic. The lawns are well-kept and it was very clean.
It's the great state of Kentucky, and here we stand at the capital building. It's closed for renovations until 2029. The latest news on the old capital is it's unsafe. It needs a revamp. Modernization. It's getting a 291 million dollar renovation project to make it even grander. If you did not know Frankfurt is the capital of Kentucky. It's two competing cities of Lexington and Louisville negotiate a neural point. The city of Frankfurt has seen so many changes to its state capital's. A few ended by fire . One was too small. Finally the last one built in 1910, is still standing today. It's under construction but will be even grander than before. On the capital grounds make sure and see the property and all the gardens. The rose gardens on the property are very beautiful. They have a clock made of flowers and other flora of the area. The old state annex is where government business is handled. The governor's mansion is located close and is being used in addition. Come and see what's happening in your community and government today. read more
Kentucky's picturesque and historic capital is not in a giant bustling city. Instead, it is in the smaller and friendly welcoming burg of Frankfort. I've stayed in town here on several occasions, and found the people to be quite welcoming. It is a beautiful historic building and if you're a fan of classic revival architecture it is worth coming to have a look. And while you're in town, there are many restaurants and other interesting places to visit. read more
It is a beautiful building with a lot of history. Construction started in 1905 and was finished at 1909. Granite and marble inside was from, Vermont, Georgia, and India. honestly, I wouldn't enjoyed it as much if George and Linda hadn't been there, they were delightful. Good people! I WOULD RECOMMEND read more
On the National Register of Historic Places, the Kentucky Capitol is one of the most impressive Capitols in the US. After parking (large lot in back for visitors), we made our way past the Rose Garden to the main entrance just as 50 or so school children were exiting the building. Once inside, we were offered the choice of a guided or self-guided tour. We chose the latter. A useful brochure "A Self-guided Tour of the Kentucky State Capitol" is available at the entrance desk. The first floor features the Executive Branch -- the Governor's Office, Secretary of State, Attorney General, etc. -- as well as a tourist information desk and the Capitol Rotunda. The rotunda is highlighted by an Imposing dome that is 180 feet above. Four murals are featured, representing agriculture, industry, civilization, and culture. The second floor is the Judicial Branch, and includes, for instance, the Office of the Chief Justice and the Public Law Library. Interestingly, while we were visiting, there was a ceremony going on to induct young attorneys to practice before the court. The third floor houses the Legislative Branch, and features the Senate Chamber and the House of Representatives. There are some special things to look for while visiting -- (1) state seals, which features two men shaking hands, which illustrates the motto "United We Stand, Divided We Fall". These seals can be found on doorknobs, elevator doors, and more. (2) "high tech" technology from when the building was new in 1910, such as a glass-covered chute that allowed letters to be dropped from upper floors into a brass box near the entrance, and (3) symbols of power and justice, such as eagles and torches. The grounds are picturesque, and include the Floral Clock, Rose Garden, and various other buildings. Note that, in early May, 2023, there was scaffolding around the Capitol's dome, and only a limited number of flowers were in bloom. read more
The Kentucky State Capitol is small, but charming. For some reason, it took me 26 years of living in Kentucky to actually get over to visit it. They do offer tours, but via reservation and at very limited timeframes. I just explored the outside. The outside area is nice, there's a small courtyard and cute neighborhood wrapped around. You can tell the building itself is old, but it's still pretty fascinating to get to see the architecture up close. It's worth a detour for sure! read more
4 years ago
Kentucky, officially the Commonwealth of Kentucky, is a state in the Southeastern region of the United States. It's one of the states of the Upper South. It borders Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio to the north, West Virginia to the northeast, Virginia to the east, Tennessee to the south, and Missouri to the west. Its northern border is defined by the Ohio River. Its capital is Frankfort, and its two largest cities are Louisville and Lexington. Its population was approximately 4.5 million in 2020. I lived in Kentucky for Ten Years off and on. I married and divorced in Kentucky. My daughter was born there and I have a lot of family and friends that still live in Kentucky after all these years. As for the capital in the city of Frankfort, for about ten months I visited the Capital weekly. I had a family member that moved there temporarily so I visited. The atmosphere was very much like all the larger cities in Kentucky. It was just on a grander scale. Besides my family and friends that are dear to me, I never quite felt like I fit in to the Kentucky Culture. I'll never forget when I tried to rent an apartment and the women boldly said "You must be from New York" and refused to rent it to me. There was always those closed minded individuals even in a college town. Yes I would like to return to visit. One of my dearest friends of 55 years is currently in the hospital. I made friendships that last a lifetime. There's a lot of good people I would love to see. I'd have to be there for at least two weeks and travel from one city to another. Maybe I'll visit next lifetime. Right now I keep in touch on Facebook. Before you decide to reside in Kentucky spend time there. I may be jaded but I wouldn't make this decision lightly. read more
Not open to the public during the pandemic, this is the 37th on my quest to visit all 50 capitols https://www.yelp.com/collection/ucwQvyGY8sZEDHaN49HU5Q and leaves Tallahassee and Baton Rouge east of the Mississippi that I have yet to visit https://www.yelp.com/collection/LdpbQ1GIW9MpQTtmVmX-8Q. Frankfort is the capital city of the Commonwealth of Kentucky (bonus points if you can name the other three Commonwealth states) and is also the seat of Franklin County. Interestingly not named after the city in Germany, it is believed that the city was named after an event in the 1780s where Pioneer Frank Ford was killed, "Frank's Ford" became Frankfort. True? Not true? It's a good story and that's what matters. The city has always been the location of the capital. Kentucky was the 15th state to join the Union, on June 1, 1792. The Capitol building is the house of all three branches of government - executive, legislative and judicial. The first floor contains the offices of the governor and his or her staff as well as the lieutenant governor, secretary of state and attorney general. The second floor has the state Supreme Court and the chambers of the justices. The chambers of the House of Representatives and Senate face each other on opposite ends of the third floor. The building was constructed between 1905 and 1909, then was dedicated in 1910. It is in the Beaux-Arts style. Access is permitted (current pandemic aside) by passing through a metal detector. [Review 13556 overall, 875 of 2020.] read more
This place is a must to visit. If you go for a tour ask for Nick then ask for the "Cadillac tour". He was awesome, answered alot of questions from our girls and gave them a good lesson on the 3 branches of government. I even learned alot. It was a cold day so we didn't enjoy the grounds as much as I was hoping but the inside is amazing. So much history, paintings, sculptures and architecture. I was hoping the had pizza in the canteen but it was closed. read more
7 years ago
When visiting a new state, if our destination is at all near the capitol, we try to make it a point to visit the capitol building. So, as you can imagine, I've seen my share of capitol buildings. And, though, we weren't able to venture inside, strictly from the outside, thus far, Kentucky is my favorite. The green grounds, the way the road and long path lead up to it, the lamp posts, and the blooming trees all conspire to convey a charming stateliness that hearkens to a different time. The grounds are pristine and beautifully maintained. While we were there the trees flanking the wide entry path up to the entrance were in bloom and smelled divine. The capitol building in Kentucky is located in a small town. We went in the evening and there were many locals walking the grounds (for an evening walk), which added to the overall charm of the spot. Definitely worth the trip from Louisville to check it out! Get to it! read more
I've been here as a chaperone on several field trips with my daughters throughout the years. Very historic and visually stunning building. The kids always enjoy this portion of the field trip when visiting our state capital. While it is very hard to contain there excitement with the open halls and huge staircases the tour guides do a good job of keeping them focused with fun facts and info along with the educational tidbits too. read more
I came here to get authentication for my China document, it's easy to call and get answer for my questions, so I'm fully prepared when i arrive. When i arrive, I'm surprised that the state capital building is so nice and when i walk inside, it's beautiful, and everyone is friendly. It's easy to find the secretary of state's office, and get my doc to be authenticated. No requirement for appointment, you just walk in. Unbelievable! read more
9 years ago
Absolutely FREE to tour and walk around the Kentucky State Capitol Building inside and outside on the grounds!!!! Let me first start by saying, it was like stepping back in time. A different era, I can just imagine the people in their different clothes and styles. I just like to let my imagination run wild!!! We parked in the circular drive for free...and then we went inside to the security check in. We showed our license and went through security metal detector. We stopped at the information desk, got a map and off we went on our Free self guided tour of all 3 levels of the building. It was started in 1904 and finished in 1910...took 6 yrs to complete. There is gorgeous white alabaster marble EVERYWHERE!!!!!! The rotundra is spectacular!! In the middle is a outstanding statue of President Abraham Lincoln. Also there are 4 other statues with him, Jefferson Davis, Henry Clay, Ephraim McDowell and Alben Barkley. We were able to see the Doll Collection of all the Kentucky First Ladies in replicas of their Inaugural Ball Gowns. There is a quilt of all the counties of Kentucky, portraits of Kentucky judges..Absolutely GORGEOUS architecture...if you have about an hour to kill...you should wonder these halls and take your own gander at its BEAUTY!!!! read more
Beautiful architecture, fantastic landscape, and lots to see! There is a rose guardian, a giant floral clock and fountain, and plenty of parking. Heads up, hours for tours are on weekdays not the weekend. This is not the original capital building for KY and was built 1904 to replace the original. The original building is not to far away but could not house the growth of KY government officials. Our family enjoyed visiting and as you can see by the phots posted there are plenty of great photo opportunities. I look forward to coming back on a weekday to go through the tour. read more
So this is where all the marble went!!! On the way to Louisville I noticed the sign for the capitol building which turned out to be a pleasant (albeit very very brief) visit on the trip back. First, I was a bit confused. (not difficult to accomplish- don't feel special) Is it the "old" capitol building or the governor's mansion just behind the newer building? Eh...walked around it, as it's being redone/remodeled to the newer building. If you squinted enough and came at night, it almost looks like the Sacramento one but with a much more lovely Capitol Mall. Googling them up, many capitol buildings look similar. Hmm. Then I went inside! Seemed pretty empty- was given a map which told me where things were on each of the 4 floors. The Supreme Court section is smaller than California (for obvious reasons) and was empty. Most of the place was empty actually. Security at each door seemed very concerned with my reasoning for wanting to visit. I really just wanted to visit another state's capitol building and check another off the list...so I did! read more
4 years ago
Unfortunately I didn't get to see the inside of this place but the outside was absolutely beautiful. I came in the end of the summer and the weather here was fantastic. The lawns are well-kept and it was very clean. read more
Of all the state capitals I've visited, I think this might be the most friendly! The staff at the visitor's desk was so kind and helpful, directing me where to find everything on a self-guided tour. This is also one of the more beautiful buildings I've visited, with a dome that changes colors. The grounds are beautifully landscaped, and parking here was very easy in the visitor lots, beyond the building. Everyone here is laid back and chill and nice......I seriously think there must be something in that bourbon...... read more
What a wonderful surprise! Totally worth a day trip! My friend was visiting from out of state and I thought I take her for a Tour de Bluegrass. After Lexington, we were curious enough to stop by Frankfort. As we rounded the curve on the way to the capitol building. We were totally surprised by the Capitol Overlook that presented The Capitol to us above the lush trees of the valley below. It is like a smaller version of DC's capitol building, but just as grand and stately. The interior is full of beautiful marble and granite. The Governor's Mansion is right next to the capitol building, we did not tour the inside, but the exterior is just as beautiful. Downtown Frankfort: compact, historic with quaint, old buildings. We marveled at just how green the Kentucky River is. A free boat cruise is offered on the Capitol visitor's website. I am surprised how few Louisvillians have been to Frankfort. It is really a gem that is worth discovering. read more
14 years ago
Just a word of advice - there are two state capitols - the new and the old. Both are beautiful, but of course the new Kentucky State Capitol is the newer and bigger capitol building. Came here on a late Saturday afternoon in October and was mesmerized by the well-kept landscaping and the building itself. Unfortunately for me, tours are not offered on weekends. Instead, I just walked around the gardens and steps of the capitol building and imagined myself in a bygone era. Not much to say about this place. This is a great place to visit as part of a day trip along the Bourbon Trail or from Louisville to Lexington (or vice versa). For me, I stopped by here on my way as I made my way along the Bourbon trail. It was a great pit stop to get a bit of history in. There's plenty of parking here on the weekends, so getting here and stopping off to snap some photos is really easy. The area is also very quiet on the weekends, so it makes for a serene spot for some deep thinking or mediation! I would definitely recommend people to come visit here as part of their Bourbon Trail adventure or traveling to/from Lousiville/Lexington. Four stars! read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
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8 years ago
This building is so beautiful!! Really enjoyable and calming to walk through, and the people there are so friendly and helpful! One of the people at the governors office just struck up a conversation with us and made us feel very welcome. I was surprised at how much you have access to walk around and see--it's really open! Check it out if you're looking for a free and pretty place to walk around. read more
This was a pretty nice building with some interesting architectural features. The center of the Rotunda was a recessed floor with stairs on the sides going up to the other levels. The first floor was executive, 2nd judicial, and 3rd legislative. Lots of nice marble all around and nice grounds on the outside! The tour guide named Annie was extremely friendly and passionate about the building! I would recommend it her giving the tours :-) read more
11 years ago
5 years ago
This is more about the grounds than building. As a local, I'm here a lot. The area is always well maintained and beautiful. It's rarely busy, aside from special events. There's lots of weekend parking and great for working out or exercising pets. Make sure you clean up after those pets though. There are a good number of trash cans for that. There are really cool and very big flower baskets attached to trees that they hang from. The flower clock is pretty. There are several Pókestops and a gym in the area. If you see someone else walking around feel free to ask them for a photo if you're here to sightsee. Most locals are really nice and if they're in a rush most will still nicely say so. read more
7 years ago
14 years ago
19 years ago
I saw the Kentucky State Capitol in Frankfort, KY on 5/5/2016. It was my 2nd time there. It was part of my Tauck: Run for the Roses event. The Kentucky State Capitol is an impresive building, as are most state capitols. Plus, this time, I took photos. read more
8 years ago
14 years ago
As one who has seen most of the state capitols I can certainly say this is architecturally one of the most impressive and has beautiful grounds. Their rose garden is a fail but otherwise all thumbs up. Staff are always kind and friendly. read more
12 years ago
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