FREE Things to do in Frankfort Kentucky
When is the last time you visited Frankfort Kentucky. Frankfort is the capital city of Kentucky and boasts some amazing views, historic locations and destinations for the whole family. Since we are only 2 hours from Frankfort, we have visited this city many times so we are well able to share some of our favorite FREE things to do in Frankfort, KY.
FREE Things to do in Frankfort,KY
Recently, my husband and I celebrated our anniversary and spent the day together exploring some of the free landmarks in Frankfort. The wind was blowing, the skies were blue with puffy white clouds and the temperature was gorgeous. Any day is a good day to go exploring in our great state of Kentucky.
Kentucky’s capital city nestled between Louisville and Lexington along the Kentucky River is in the heart of bourbon, horse and wine country.
Josephine Sculpture Park
Cost: FREE
3355 Lawrenceburg Rd
Frankfort, KY
502-352-7082
The Josephine Sculpture Park has been open to the public since 2009 and offers a place to get outside and enjoy art installations from artists of all ages and styles.
Cove Spring Park
Cost: Free
100 Cove Spring Rd
Frankfort, KY 40601
Cove Spring Park and Nature Preserve has something for everyone. You can enjoy this beautiful park with as little or as much effort as you decide to spend. It’s truly up to you.
Daniel Boone’s Grave
Cost: FREE
One of the classic figures of American history is Daniel Boone. He and his wife Rebecca are buried in the Frankfort Cemetery overlooking the Kentucky River and the state capitol building. Though there is some question as to whether Boone’s remains were properly moved back to the state of Kentucky, this is the recognized place of his burial.
Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Cost: FREE
The Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a special memorial that was designed to honor each of the Kentuckians who served and died in the Vietnam War. Each name is precisely located so the shadow of the sundial pointer, or gnomon (pronounced ‘noman’), touches each veteran’s name on the anniversary of his death. Thus, each individual is honored with a personal tribute. Accordingly, every day is memorial day for a Kentucky Vietnam veteran.
The Kentucky Vietnam Veterans Memorial overlooks the state Capitol and honors the 125,000 Kentuckians who served this nation so courageously and unselfishly during the Vietnam era (1962-1975). More than 58,000 Americans gave their lives during the conflict. Among that number, 1103 were Kentuckians.
Switzer Covered Bridge
Cost: FREE
For some reason, covered bridges are a fascinating roadside destination that many of us love to explore but they are often hard to find. The Switzer Covered Bridge was builtin 1855 and is unfortunately covered in graffiti like so many of the bridges in Kentucky. But it is still a beautiful place to go and explore. There are two paths down to the bridge off the main road.
One of Kentucky’s few covered bridges, was built in 1855. Totally restored after flood waters destroyed bridge. A park by the bridge offers a peaceful place to picnic and admire the scenery of Elkhorn Creek.
Coordinates for your GPS:
N 38° 15.247′
W084° 45.174′
Nearest Address:
3514 Jones Lane
Frankfort, KY
Buffalo Trace Distillery
Whether you are intrigued by the influence and rise of bourbon in Kentucky, or just appreciate the historical significance of the bourbon industry, a tour of the Buffalo Trace Distillery may be just what you are looking for.
Cost: Basic Tour FREE (or you can upgrade and pay for other tours)
Salato Wildlife Educational Center
We have visited Salato many times over the years. Take a look to see why Salato is one of those must see places in the Frankfort area.
Updated: There is now a fee to visit. Check out the ticket information here.
Learn more about the city of Frankfort, Kentuckyand Twitter.
There are many other places of great interest in Frankfort. What are your favorite places to visit in the capital city? I’d love to hear!
