Winding its way around the base of the city is the mighty Kentucky River. Sheer stone walls rise up to meet rolling hills with thick canopies of trees. A blanket of bright tulips is a colorful carpet leading to the Capitol and specialty gardens with unique features like the famous floral clock grace many of the government buildings. Away from the city, rural roads with stone stacked walls lead to a sprinkling of iconic farms. Frankfort embodies the best of bluegrass beauty.

Of course, Frankfort’s natural bounty is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Boaters benefit from the open locks on the Kentucky River where boaters can travel all the way from the Carrollton, KY on the Ohio River to the Capital City. Water lovers have their pick of marinas, boat rentals, swimming, fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Parks featuring winding trails are popular with hikers, runners, walkers and cyclists. Small and spirited Frankfort even has one private and two public golf courses, two mountain bike courses and a wildlife sanctuary!

Culturally, Frankfort offers a microcosm of Kentucky’s comfort food, candy, music, art and southern hospitality. For example, Completely Kentucky features products, crafts and artwork from more than 650 of the best artisans in the state. Rebecca Ruth candy epitomizes “Kentucky Distilled” by mixing the iconic flavors of Kentucky into nationally renowned sweet treats – Mint Kentucky Colonel and the iconic Bourbon Balls. And public art, sculpture trails, gardens, and galleries speak to the city’s commitment to the arts.

In the shadow of the Old State Capital, historic buildings (some more than 150 years old) are home to modern boutique shops, galleries and restaurants. Red brick streets are filled on Friday and Saturday nights with visitors and residents enjoying live music, special events, good food and friends.

But let’s be honest, if we’re talking Kentucky … we’re talking bourbon. 95% of the world’s bourbon is made in this state, where there are more barrels of bourbon than people. And Frankfort’s iconic Buffalo Trace Distillery is the leader among the legendary spirit makers of Kentucky, staying true to the traditions of the craft while embracing change that results in improvement. Kind of like the city of Frankfort itself.

Frankfort is the best of Kentucky, the heart of Kentucky, the soul of Kentucky. Frankfort is … Kentucky Distilled.