Frankfort- Kentucky’s Capital
The State Capital Building - Courtesy of KY Legislature
As flowers and trees are in bloom, Kentucky’s beauty is ever-present. This month many eyes are turned to the Capital as politics heat up, we recommend visiting Frankfort for many additional reasons. History comes alive in the state capital and the views of historic architecture and landscaping are amazing.
Frankfort is known for many historical and scenic places to visit. Some of these places include the Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary, the Switzer Covered Bridge, the Zeigler House by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Kentucky Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial and of course the State Capital. To decide where to start, we recommend stopping by the Visitors Center. It is located in the Gooch House at 100 Capital Avenue. There you can find brochures, directions, dinning and lodging information. The center is open Monday through Friday from 8am until 5pm, on Saturday from 10am until 2 and Sunday from noon until 4pm. Before you go, you can also visit the Visitors Center online at www.visitfrankfort.com.
 Floral Clock - Courtesy of www.visitfrankfort.com |
The Old State Capital is on Broadway and Lewis Street in Frankfort. This building served as the Government building from 1830 until 1910. This building is maintained by the Kentucky Historical Society and has become a national landmark. One of the most magnificent features of the house is the self-supporting staircase. Tours of this building are free and run Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 5pm. Tours can also be scheduled for large groups or on weekends with appointment by calling (502) 564-1792. |
The New Capital building was designed by Frank Mills Andrews. The plan was to build it in the old square, but his plans proved too colossal. Therefore, the present site proved fitting for the new design. The ground breaking took place in 1905 and was dedicated in 1910. The first floor accommodates the Governor’s and other offices and the second floor is the State Reception Room. The Supreme Court room is located at the east end of the building. The Legislative decisions are made on the third floor. The whole building is decorated with marble, ornate architecture, murals and windows. The Capital building is maintained and preserved by the office of Historic Properties of the Finance and Administrative Cabinet. Tours are available Monday through Friday starting at 8am and running through 4:30pm, and on Sundays from 1pm until 4:30pm.
One last amazing view is that of the floral clock. It runs continuously, the face is 34 feet across and holds more than 10,000 plants. The clock is over a pool of water, in which visitors throw coins for good luck. Coins from the pool are used to aid younger generations of Kentucky. All year long the clock continues to keep time and captivate visitors.
A great way to sum up the whole trip, or a place to retreat in the case of bad weather, is the Kentucky History Center. Located at 100 West Broadway Street and online at www.kyhistory.org, this museum and research facility holds the clues to the past. The museum welcomes children, has interactive exhibits, genealogical research library’s, programs and gardens. The facility is 167,000 square feet and free to the public. Visitors have the option of a guided tour or a self-guided tour. To find current summer hours visit their web site or call (502) 564-1792.
Kentucky’s Capital is guaranteed to fascinate and amaze all ages. From tall buildings to small flowers, the views are amazing. Therefore, proving that Frankfort isn’t only for history buff’s and politicians. This day trip reminds Kentuckians of the importance of our history, and provides a little hands-on education for all of those kids out of school for the summer.
