Tag Archives: Kentucky

Discovering Frankfort: Kentucky’s Capital

Land Adventures, United States, , , , , , , , , , ,

I recall memorizing the state capitals in junior high school, but over the years, I’ve forgotten a few. Frankfort, Kentucky, was one of them. However, after a recent visit, the beautiful city has left an impression I won’t soon forget.

Steps and Gardens leading to the Kentucky Capitol in Frankfort.

A Tour of the Capitol

I make it a point to tour state capitol buildings whenever possible. Each one showcases fascinating murals, statues, and stories that bring a state’s history to life. The Kentucky State Capitol was no exception.

Approaching the grand columned façade, constructed from Indiana limestone and Vermont marble, I noticed that the exterior dome was under renovation. Restoration is common with historic landmarks, so I wasn’t surprised. The current Kentucky State Capitol is the fourth building to serve as the state’s center of government—the first two were lost to fire, and the third eventually became too small to meet Kentucky’s growing needs. In 1904, the Kentucky General Assembly approved the construction of a new capitol, selecting Frankfort due to its central location and historical significance.

The Capitol dome in Frankfort under renovation.

Designed by Frank Mills Andrews, construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1910 at a cost of $1.18 million. Over the years, various restorations have preserved its grandeur. To put modern costs into perspective, an estimated $260 million total renovation is currently delayed, while the dome restoration alone is expected to cost $26 million.

Walking past the well-manicured gardens, I entered the rotunda, where statues of prominent Kentuckians, including Abraham Lincoln and Henry Clay, stood proudly. The rotunda’s intricate plasterwork and glowing beauty exemplify the ideals of balance and harmony central to the Beaux-Arts architectural style.

Kentucky is proud of native son Abraham Lincoln.

One of the highlights was the grand staircase, crafted from Italian marble—a popular backdrop for photographs. Nearby, glass cases displayed doll-sized replicas of Kentucky’s First Ladies, with Phyllis George Brown being the only name I recognized.

Doll-size replicas of Kentucky First Ladies.

Above me, the magnificent interior dome soared 212 feet high, adorned with detailed plasterwork and allegorical murals. As our small tour group climbed the staircase, we were greeted by a welcoming man who turned out to be one of Kentucky’s Supreme Court justices. He graciously gave us an exclusive tour of the chambers and offices, even allowing each of us to sit in the Chief Justice’s chair for a photo. The chamber’s rich wood paneling and ornate carvings exuded an atmosphere of dignity befitting its role.

Sitting in the Chief Justice’s seat.

Next, we visited the Governor’s Office on the second floor, a blend of functional workspace and ceremonial grandeur, featuring antique furnishings and portraits of past governors.

The grandeur inside the Kentucky State Capitol.

The Kentucky State Capitol offers both guided and self-guided tours, with educational programs providing insights into the state’s legislative process, history, and architecture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply curious, visiting the Capitol deepens your appreciation for the Bluegrass State.

Looking up at the beautiful capitol dome.

For those eager to explore more history, the Old State Capitol—now a museum—offers a glimpse into Kentucky’s political past. While I only saw the exterior, it’s on my list for a future visit.

The Old Capitol building in Frankfort.

A Scenic River Cruise

After immersing myself in Kentucky’s history, I opted for a relaxing river cruise along the Kentucky River. The Bourbon Boat cruise provides a unique vantage point of Frankfort’s picturesque landscapes. As we glided across the water, the captain shared fascinating stories about the area’s history and wildlife. The experience was lighthearted, engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable.

The Bourbon Boat provides Kentucky River cruises.

The Bourbon Experience

No visit to Kentucky is complete without indulging in its world-famous bourbon. While I didn’t tour a distillery, I did enjoy some fine bourbon tastings during meals.

Follow th signs leading to the Bourbon Trail.

For lunch, I stopped at Bourbon on Main, where I relished a delicious burger while taking in the scenic river views from the back porch.

In the evening, I dined at Limewater Bistro and Bar, a family-owned restaurant just a short drive from downtown. Located in the historic Glen Willis House, a stunning brick home built in 1815, Limewater blends history with contemporary elegance. Designed by the award-winning Kathleen Hay Designs, the interior is warm and inviting. Chef-owner Axl Wheeler and general manager-owner Isabelle Hay craft a menu featuring fresh, homemade ingredients in a beautifully curated setting. The restaurant’s name, Limewater, pays homage to the limestone-rich soil that gives the Bluegrass Region its lush greenery.

The home of Limewater Restaurant in Frankfort, Kentucky.

Lodging in Downtown Frankfort

I spent two nights at the St. Clair Hotel, a boutique-style rental in historic downtown Frankfort. Designed to be a bourbon lover’s retreat, this spacious loft-style accommodation featured a full kitchen and decor that created a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere.A highlight of my stay was enjoying a cocktail at Howser Tavern & Speakeasy, located within the hotel. The ambiance was warm and inviting—perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Howser Tavern

The Main Street Diner with a vintage vibe is a fun place for breakfast.

The Main Street Diner

A Worthy Stop in the Bluegrass State

If you’re planning to visit Kentucky’s horse country—Shelbyville, Lexington, and Georgetown—or attending the races at Keeneland or Churchill Downs in Louisville, consider spending at least a day in Frankfort. Beyond the Capitol, there’s much to see and experience in this charming city. Whether you’re drawn by history, scenic beauty, or bourbon culture, Frankfort is well worth the visit.

For More information: VisitFrankfort.com

Thoroughbred Horses Racing at Keeneland.

Have You Been to Lexington?

Travel Journal/Blog, , , , , ,

Have you been to Lexington begs the answer, “Which one?” Lexington, Massachusetts is the oldest municipality with the name and Lexington, Kentucky is the largest city. There are cities named Lexington in Alabama, California (now a ghost town), Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia. I’ve visited three, so far, all memorable for very different reasons.

Massachusetts

When I first hear the name Lexington, my thoughts skip to the famous Battle at Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts. On April 19, 1775, they became the first military engagements of the American Revolutionary War, 

The Battle of Lexington

On the night before the clash, Paul Revere and Samuel Prescott galloped on horseback to warn that the British were coming. The first shots were fired just as the sun was rising in Lexington. Eight militiamen died. The confrontation proceeded on to Concord, resulting in many casualties. 

Patriot’s Day Parade

Patriot’s Day, originally April 19, is now observed on the third Monday in April. A reenactment of the horse ride and battle coincides with the historical event, so you must get to Lexington’s Battle Green before sunrise. The entire drama takes no more than 40 minutes, but the poignant scene stabbed me to the core, like a wound from the bayonets carried by the soldiers. We often forget the Revolutionary War, but this annual drama pays tribute to those early colonists and the freedoms they sought. 

Re-enactors of the Battle at Lexington

Virginia  

Another Lexington I’ve visited a few times is Lexington, Virginia, a small town in the Shenandoah Valley. Lexington is home to the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), Washington & Lee University (where my son graduated), and about seven thousand residents. While Confederate generals are no longer celebrated, I must say I fondly recall the serene Lee Chapel as the campus highlight.  This National Historic Landmark is the burial site of Robert E. Lee. His horse, Traveller, is interred outside, and many people leave sugar cubes on the horse’s grave.  The church’s basement contains a museum featuring the history of the school, highlighting the time when Lee was the college president. 

The Lee Chapel

Other attractions to see include the restored Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson house.  Tours revolve around Jackson’s life before the Civil War, including his tenure as a VMI professor. 

Lexington’s carefully preserved downtown is on the State and National Registers of Historic Places. Shops offer fine art, Virginia-made gifts, jewelry and more. Visitors enjoy a carriage ride through the downtown and remember Virginia is for Lovers.

Carriage Ride in downtown Lexington, VA

North Carolina

Lexington, North Carolina, calls itself the Barbeque Capital of the World. No visit is complete without Lexington style barbeque, made from pork shoulders cooked over hardwood coals. This century-old method involves smoking the pork for hours and then chopping or slicing it, leaving bits of crispy, brown skin.  The meat comes with a thin ketchup-and-vinegar sauce called “dip,” a distinctive red slaw, hush puppies, and sweet tea. While the meal is nothing fancy, you’ll find it finger-licking good in all of Lexington’s 15 BBQ restaurants. 

Smoking the BBQ

Lexington. NC also offers a fascinating collection of artifacts, memorabilia, and furniture from  North Carolina’s most famous living artist, Bob Timberlake. Visitors also enjoy the Richard Childress Racing Museum,  one of NASCAR’s top race shops and museums. The championship cars driven by Dale Earnhardt Sr. prove to be the most popular.  To round out your visit, stop by any of the 19 vineyards and tasting rooms that are earning NC winemakers rave reviews. 

Richard Childress Racing Museum

Kentucky

Lexington, Kentucky, is another famous city, this one known as the Horse Capital of the World, plus the birthplace of Bourbon and Bluegrass music.  

Kentucky is horse country.

While it ranks high on my bucket list,  I have not been there—yet.  Visitors tour Keeneland Race Course and Kentucky Horse Park in the early morning to see workouts, plus walk the pastures at  Old Friends, a thoroughbred retirement farm. Don’t miss the 14 bourbon distilleries and their tasting rooms, Mary Todd Lincoln’s historic home, plus the famous Kentucky Castle in the middle of Horse Country.  

Again barrels of bourbon

You can’t go wrong in any of four of the cities named Lexington.   How many have you seen?