PARKS & RECREATION
Franklin County and its surrounding area offer many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Keeneland and Churchill Downs, only minutes away, are the home of some of the world’s most prestigious Thoroughbred races and auctions, including The Kentucky Derby and the Breeder’s Cup.
The city’s parks department operates nine major parks consisting of more than 1,000 acres that provide a variety of facilities for aquatics, pickleball, baseball, soccer, football, softball, golf, tennis, volleyball, basketball, hiking, biking, canoeing and picnicking.
The Elkhorn is renowned by canoers. Because of its mild whitewater, beautiful scenery, plentiful access and proximity to four major urban areas, the Elkhorn is fast becoming Kentucky’s most popular canoeing stream.
CULTURAL ARTS
The lively arts community in Frankfort offers an endless selection of visual art, dance, theatre, architecture, history, and musical opportunities ranging from live jazz to modern dance. The historic Grand Theater welcomes musicians and films from around the world, downtown murals and public art enliven the streetscape, and history museums abound. The Capital City Museum, Kentucky History Center, Frankfort Cemetery, Old State Capitol, and The Capitol delight cultural tourists and locals alike. The Bluegrass Theatre Guild produces a variety of Broadway and off-Broadway shows for community theatre actors and the public to enjoy.
Beautiful & Brave
Anna Murphy & Paula Murphy
2019, Acrylic
LOCAL ACTIVITIES
Frankfort, Kentucky, offers a dynamic mix of outdoor recreation and cultural activities for locals and visitors alike. For adventure seekers, the city boasts mountain biking trails at Capitol View Park, scenic hiking paths at Cove Spring Park, and kayaking on the Kentucky River and Eklhorn Creek, perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty. Birding enthusiasts can enjoy the diverse wildlife in parks and along the river, while pickleball players will find numerous courts and leagues to join. Frankfort's downtown also shines with its vibrant arts scene, featuring galleries and museums, public art displays, and live performances, making it a hub for creativity and community engagement. Whether you're into outdoor pursuits or cultural experiences, Frankfort offers something for everyone.
EDUCATION
Operates Second Street School (primary and middle grades), Frankfort High School (home of the Panthers), Rosenwald Empowerment and Preparation (REP) Academy (Non-Traditional High School Program) and The Early Learning Academy.​​
Several private schools are also located in Frankfort: Capital Day School, Frankfort Christian Academy, and Good Shepherd Church School.
Operates seven elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools (Franklin County High School and Western Hills High School, homes of the Flyers and the Wolverines, respectively).​
Kentucky's historically black university, KSU was founded in 1886 as the State Normal School for Colored Persons. The campus was integrated beginning in the 1950s and received university designation in 1972. KSU today has approximately 3,000 students, including both undergraduates and graduate students.
Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) and Jefferson Community and Technical College (JCTC) are highly regarded in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System (KCTCS). With multiple campuses, these colleges are designed to meet the needs of diverse students. The colleges provide associate degrees, technical certifications, and career-focused programs that prepare students for immediate entry into the workforce or to transfer to a four-year university.
Several colleges and universities are conveniently located within a 65 mile radius of Frankfort, Kentucky. This offers residents a variety of higher education options tailored to diverse interests and career aspirations. These institutions not only contribute to the local community but also provide educational experiences that can help students thrive in their chosen fields. Click the link above to view the list of colleges within a 65 mile radius of Frankfort, Kentucky.
KY VIRTUAL CAREER ACADEMY
We Lead CS offers Kentucky high school students a jump start on computer science degrees in our virtual, dual college credit career pathways - computer programming, cybersecurity, and data science - and the opportunity to prepare for the workforce with many of America's leading tech employers. Students learn online from their schools with live, virtual instruction and support from We Lead CS teachers and College & Career Coaches.
LOCAL SPORTS
Frankfort takes pride in providing a wide range of recreational opportunities. In addition to school sports and activities, Frankfort Parks offers leagues for all ages, including youth baseball and softball, as well as adult leagues for softball, pickleball, tennis, and sand volleyball. For more information about athletic leagues click the link below.
HEALTH & SAFETY
Frankfort Regional Medical Center has attained Magnet® recognition for the second time, the nation’s highest recognition in nursing excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Only six other hospitals in Kentucky and 8% nationwide have achieved Magnet distinction. Their cancer program was granted a three-year approval by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer (CoC) Program. Considered to be the gold standard for cancer programs, accreditation by the CoC means patients can be assured they will receive high-quality patient-centered care. The hospital has also been verified as a Level III Trauma Center by the American College Surgeons and has been named as one of the Best Places to Work in Kentucky for 2020 – making the recognition the 14th consecutive for the hospital.
HOUSING
Housing choices are as varied as the people who make up the Frankfort community whether you are looking to buy a home or rent an apartment or condominium. In the downtown area, tree-lined neighborhoods with charming older homes are welcoming. South Frankfort residents often stroll around the Capitol grounds. This is an area where some prefer to walk or bike to work and visit with neighbors on the Old Capitol lawn. Many families find suburban neighborhoods that are close to schools and shopping to their liking. And others prefer rural areas with country roads and winding lanes. All are in abundance here.
REMOTE WORKER INCENTIVE PROGRAM
Frankfort is a gig community with lightening fast internet and a great place to move with your remote job.
We even have an incentive program for a select number of Remote Workers. Learn more on Make My Move.
DEMOGRAPHICS
Frankfort, Kentucky, is a vibrant and welcoming city with a population of around 28,000, offering a diverse and close-knit community. Frankfort strikes a balance between young professionals, families, and retirees, creating a lively, multi-generational environment. To learn more click the link below.
CLIMATE
Frankfort, Kentucky, boasts a captivating climate that offers a delightful blend of seasonal experiences. Spring brings a refreshing mildness, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, setting the stage for vibrant blooms and colorful landscapes. Summers invite you to enjoy warm, sun-filled days in the upper 80s to low 90s, perfect for outdoor gatherings and local festivals. As fall descends, the region transforms into a comfortable temperature in the mid-50s to mid-70s, making it an ideal time for hikes and scenic drives. Winter offers a cozy charm, with temperatures dipping into the low 20s to low 40s, inviting residents to embrace the beauty of occasional snowfall and festive seasonal celebrations. Overall, Frankfort’s climate not only enhances its natural beauty but also creates an inviting atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, making it a perfect place to call home.
LOCAL RESTURANTS
Frankfort, Kentucky, is home to several locally-owned restaurants that showcase the region’s hospitality and diverse culinary offerings. Each of these local eateries offers a unique flavor with a diverse range of tastes. Here are a few highlights.
To taste even more great Frankfort restaurants visit www.visitfrankfort.com
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Serafini – Located near the State Capitol, Serafini is a fine dining restaurant specializing in Italian cuisine and modern American dishes. It’s well-known for its elegant atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients.
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Buddy's Pizza – This family-owned pizzeria is a go-to spot for handcrafted pizzas, sandwiches, and salads, featuring fresh ingredients and homemade dough.
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Hoggy's Ice Cream & Café - Known for its delicious hand-dipped ice cream and casual café offerings, Hoggy's has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors.
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Bourbon on Main – Situated along the Kentucky River, Bourbon on Main combines riverfront dining with a menu full of Kentucky-inspired dishes, including bourbon-glazed meats and Southern sides.
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Limewater Bar and Grille – Known for its casual yet vibrant atmosphere, Limewater serves a diverse menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, and seafood, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The bar features a variety of local beers and cocktails, making it a great place to unwind.
HIGHLIGHTING LOCAL COMPANIES
We take great pride in the existing companies located here in Frankfort, KY. In order to gain a deeper understanding and form greater relationships with these companies, we began creating case studies where we interview, tour and capture media to showcase for the public.
MONTAPLAST
Montaplast represents five decades of experience in the production of plastic precision parts and systems for the automotive industry and household appliances. When Montaplast of North America, Inc. was founded in 1992 in Frankfort, Kentucky, the family business moved into a new and expansive phase. Montaplast delivers high-end products with the highest quality level to all German premium manufacturers.
BUFFALO TRACE DISTILLERY
For over 200 years, Buffalo Trace Distillery has been defined by a dedication to one craft: making fine bourbon whiskey. By honoring tradition and embracing change, Buffalo Trace Distillery has earned its place of leadership among the legendary spirit makers of the world.
