old state capitol

Self guided, and had nice displays. The attendant was helpful and answered our questions cheerfully.

Good to see that the building is still functioning and in use. Seems to be in a better location in the heart of town near other businesses and restaurants, as opposed to the new Capitol which is in a residential area.

As others have pointed out, this review is about the OLD State Capital and yet some reviewers have added photos and comments about the newer state capitol which has another review page. The OLD state capitol, having been built around 1830, is actually the third permanent capitol constructed on the public square. The other two burned down in 1813 and 1824. This beautiful building served the citizens of Kentucky until 1910 when the NEW state capitol was dedicated. Although a very stately building, it is somewhat plain lacking the majestic grandeur of the new and current state capitol. One of the most interesting things you will see upon entering the building is the self-supporting marble staircase. An engineering marvel well lighted from the windows in the rotunda.Tours are available but be advised they are conducted from early March to mid-December and limited to Wednesday thru Saturday beginning at 10:30 AM at The Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History, 100 W. Broadway, Frankfort. Tours take place at 10:30; noon; 1:30 and 3 PM with Thursday having an extra 4:30 tour. Admission fees are very reasonable at cost of $4 for adults, Veterans $3, and youth $2 and include exhibits at the Center; the Old State Capitol; and the Kentucky History Military Museum. That is a bargain in itself! There is no fee to visit the new state capital and I highly recommend seeing this one first and then head across town and see the unbelievable beauty and majesty of the new state capitol. Frankfort is a neat town. Enjoy it leisurely.If this info assisted you, a helpful vote below would be much appreciated.

We just were driving through Frankfort, KY and stopped by the Capitol to take some pictures. It was Fall and the giant Sundial was filled with beautiful flowers and shrubry. Didn't go inside but, still got some great pics. Otherwise, there is really nothing in Frankfort, KY.

A beautiful example of classical architecture set right in the middle of the city. In contrast with the current capitol, this building is smaller and more intimate -- a reflection of an earlier time when public policy decisions were simpler. But a brief walk through the building and more time to reflect brings to mind that this was the center of the debate about what American would become as a nation in the midst of significant changes in an emerging world. The pioneers of Kentucky were passionate in their discussions about the shape of life in the new state as well as its place in the emerging nation. A little quiet time alone should bring to mind those voices of the past.

We enjoyed a great tour with a knowledgeable guide at the old state capitol building. Tours depart from the Historical Society (Clark Center for Kentucky History). A small fee at the Clark Center allows admission to the history museum (at the Clark Center), the old capitol building (1/2 blocks down the street) , and the military museum (about 3 blocks up the hill).The tour guide delivered a great deal of information about the building and the history of Kentucky in about an hour. While the building is not as grand as the current state capitol building, it's nicely preserved and presented.

First, the pictures shown on TripAdvisor are of the current state capitol and not the old capitol. The old capitol is much less impressive in beauty and size. I was disappointed in the old capitol as it could be seriously renovated. Kentucky should use Arkansas as an example where the Old State House has been renovated and turned into a nice museum. At present, it helps add a little bit of history to Frankfort but pales in comparison to states like Arkansas which keep their old capitols in quality condition.

I had to be at the capitol for our Government Day in LTC, and was amazed at how beautiful it was. It was a great experience, if you can try to sit in on some of the legislative sessions, they are a fantastic experience.

I worked in this building and it's the "New" State Capitol. The old one is across the Kentucky River in downtown Frankfort and is also worth a visit. If you can find a parking space, which can be a challenge on the rare occasions that the General Assembly is in session, this is a beautiful building. The Executive Branch offices are on the first floor, the Supreme Court is on the second floor, and the legislative branch chambers for the House and Senate are on the third floor. Be sure to see the State Reception Room, which is elegantly appointed and has mirrors strategically placed so that the room appears endless. My wife and I were married in the Supreme Court's courtroom, which is paneled thought in cherry.

Make sure you pop over and visit the Old State Capitol. My Mom and I travel with our basset hound, Daisy Lynn so we take turns at area attractions. My Mom went in the Old Capitol building and would have spent more time but they buttoned up at 4:00pm, which seemed a bit early to us. Just make sure you get there earlier if you want to mill around the inside of the building. It is a rare treat. Beautiful art and historic documents. This review will focus on the dog friendly areas of the Old State Capitol. Dogs are allowed up on the huge veranda that sweeps around the Old Capital Building. It is just stunning with it columns and carvings. Also, there are a few wrought iron tables and chairs up on the veranda. If I had known, I would have packed a lunch and enjoyed the people watching with Daisy Lynn. We will do that the next time. You can park really close and the grounds surrounding the Old Capital Building are beautiful. I saw plenty of dogs walking and people jogging. In the spring there is a huge floral clock that is fun to see. So, I suggest you pack a lunch and your dog and head on over to the Old Capital Building for a fun filled day of history and exercise. Bring a friend so you can take turns touring the building. Don't forget to see the Senate Chambers. Frankfort is a very cool city in Kentucky! Enjoy your trip...Cat and Daisy Lynn Rudertbassethoundtown.com

We ate dinner at a restaurant right across the street from the old capital and watched a lovely outdoor wedding take place. We didn't actually tour the building but the grounds were just lovely.

We didn't have the chance to stop in and visit but would recommend that you drive up Louisville Road/highway 60 to view the Capitol building from the lookout. You get a great view of the building.

I came here with a private group and knowledgable tour guide and I'm not sure if there are public tours. The building is from the 1800s and has a very cool staircase. Great photo op. There are also some nice busts and portraits throughout. Worth a visit if you're in the area and have about 20-30 minutes on your hands.

An amazing building surrounded by beautiful gardens. Also the governor's house is a nice mansion to walk around and enjoy the peacefulness of the place.

The Old State Capitol was listed is the U.S. National Historic Landmark in 1971 and rightly so. It's a beautiful building without windows in the front. You can almost invision orator Henry Clay giving a famouse speech here. Vieiwing the old furniture of the House & Senate was interesting.