Old State Capitol
A beautifully restored Greek Revival building, once Kentucky's government seat, showcasing stunning architecture and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Old State Capitol
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautifully restored Greek Revival building, once Kentucky's government seat, showcasing stunning architecture and history.
"A beautiful building with a knowledgeable guide, a must-see for history and architecture lovers!"
Free Admission!
:moneywithwings: Entry is free, but tours are highly recommended for the full experience.
Book Tours at KHS
:ticket: Purchase tour tickets at the Kentucky Historical Society, one block east of the Capitol.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Self-Supporting Staircase
Main Rotunda
Marvel at this engineering feat – a stunning, circular stone staircase with no visible support.
Restored 1850s Chambers
Legislature Chambers
Step back in time in the meticulously restored law library and legislative chambers.
Cathedral Ceiling
Rotunda
Admire the impressive natural light filtering through the grand, cathedral-like ceiling.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Ticket & Tour Info
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Admission!
:moneywithwings: Entry is free, but tours are highly recommended for the full experience.
Book Tours at KHS
:ticket: Purchase tour tickets at the Kentucky Historical Society, one block east of the Capitol.
Knowledgeable Guides
:bustsinsilhouette: Guides are very knowledgeable and make the history come alive.
Architectural Gem
:gem: Don't miss the stunning Gothic Revival architecture and the 'Castle on the River' exhibit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Admission!
:moneywithwings: Entry is free, but tours are highly recommended for the full experience.
Book Tours at KHS
:ticket: Purchase tour tickets at the Kentucky Historical Society, one block east of the Capitol.
Knowledgeable Guides
:bustsinsilhouette: Guides are very knowledgeable and make the history come alive.
Architectural Gem
:gem: Don't miss the stunning Gothic Revival architecture and the 'Castle on the River' exhibit.
Great for Photos
:camerawithflash: The beautiful infrastructure inside and out makes for fantastic photos. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old State Capitol for its stunning architecture, particularly the self-supporting staircase and restored chambers. The free admission and knowledgeable guides are frequently highlighted as major positives, offering an educational and visually impressive experience of Kentucky's history.
"This Greek Revival building, built in 1830, was the seat of Kentucky's government until the new Capitol opened in 1910. It is a beautiful building and its law library, legislature chambers have been restored to their 1850 appearance. The highlight of the building is the circular stone staircase which is entirely self supporting. Tours taking 30 to 60 minutes are given Tuesday - Saturday at 2 pm. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the building and Kentucky history. Purchase tickets at the Kentucky Historical Society one block to the east."
Thomas Mertz
"If you want to have a good relationship with Kentucky's history, this is your place. What are you waiting for?
Here, you will experience how it was for the people and the politicians to lieve in a totally different era with a kaleidoscopic way of thinking.
I went there doing a school field trip. However, I would like to go again and have more time to enjoy history."
Alexander Leyva Serrano
"Very neat building.. I love the staircase and cathedral ceiling, the natural light is awesome. Girl at the desk was super nice."
Night Raven
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old State Capitol is located in Frankfort, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. If you're coming from out of town, consider flying into the Blue Grass Airport (LEX) in Lexington and renting a car for the approximately 45-minute drive.
While specific parking details can vary, street parking is often available in the vicinity. It's advisable to check local signage for any restrictions or to look for nearby public parking garages.
Absolutely! The Old State Capitol is a key historical site in Frankfort and can easily be combined with visits to nearby distilleries or other attractions in the region. Many visitors include it in their Bluegrass State itinerary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Old State Capitol is typically open for tours Tuesday through Saturday, with scheduled tours often starting at 2 PM. It's always a good idea to check the official Kentucky Historical Society website for the most up-to-date hours and tour schedules, as these can change.
Admission to the Old State Capitol is free! However, guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and architecture. Tickets for these tours are purchased at the Kentucky Historical Society, located one block to the east.
While not always mandatory, booking tours in advance is recommended, especially if you are visiting during peak season or on a weekend. This ensures you secure a spot on your desired tour time. You can purchase tickets at the Kentucky Historical Society.
Tours of the Old State Capitol typically last between 30 to 60 minutes, providing a comprehensive overview of the building's history and significance.
Tickets for Old State Capitol tours are purchased at the Kentucky Historical Society, which is conveniently located just one block east of the historic building.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The self-supporting stone staircase is a major highlight, showcasing incredible engineering. You'll also want to explore the beautifully restored 1850s legislature chambers and law library, and admire the natural light from the impressive cathedral ceiling.
While the historic nature of the building may present some challenges, efforts are often made to accommodate visitors. It's best to contact the Kentucky Historical Society directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and any potential limitations.
The Old State Capitol is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture. Architect James Dakin also referred to its style as 'Castellated Gothic,' particularly evident in its unique design elements.
Photography is generally permitted inside the Old State Capitol, and many visitors find it to be a very photogenic location due to its beautiful infrastructure and restored interiors.
The 'Castle on the River' exhibit at Louisiana's Old State Capitol (note: this seems to be a confusion with the Baton Rouge location, the Kentucky Old State Capitol focuses on its own history) delves into the unique architectural style and history of the building, often highlighting its Gothic Revival elements.
📸 📸 Photography
The self-supporting staircase offers a dramatic perspective, as does the rotunda with its cathedral ceiling. The restored legislative chambers also provide excellent opportunities for capturing historical ambiance.
Drone photography regulations can be strict, especially around historic buildings and government sites. It's essential to check with local authorities or the Kentucky Historical Society regarding any permits or restrictions on drone usage.
The rotunda benefits from significant natural light due to its cathedral ceiling, making it ideal for photography. Interior chambers may have more artificial lighting, but the overall ambiance is conducive to capturing historical scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more enjoyable for kids, consider bringing along a small notebook for them to sketch their favorite parts of the building or to jot down interesting facts they learn. The tours are relatively short (30-60 minutes), which is ideal for shorter attention spans. Pack snacks and water, as amenities inside might be limited.
🏛️ History Buffs
Engage deeply with the knowledgeable guides who can offer nuanced perspectives on the building's role in significant historical events. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere, imagine the debates that took place, and appreciate the architectural details that reflect the era. The proximity to other historical sites in Frankfort further enhances a history-focused itinerary.
📸 Photographers & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Experiment with different angles to showcase the scale and intricate details of the building. The natural light in the rotunda is particularly advantageous. Be sure to check for any photography restrictions, though generally, it's a very welcoming spot for capturing stunning images.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Kentucky's Past
One of the most striking features of the Old State Capitol is its self-supporting circular stone staircase. This remarkable feat of engineering, with no visible central support, is a true marvel and a highlight for many visitors. The interior also boasts beautifully restored legislature chambers and a law library, offering an authentic glimpse into the past. The natural light flooding through the cathedral ceiling in the rotunda further enhances the building's grandeur and provides a serene atmosphere for reflection.
Guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the historical context and architectural details. Knowledgeable guides bring the building's stories to life, sharing insights into the lives of the politicians and citizens who frequented its halls. The Kentucky Historical Society, located just a block away, is where you can purchase tickets for these insightful tours, making it a convenient starting point for your visit.
Architectural Marvels and Restoration
Key to its architectural fame is the self-supporting stone staircase. This engineering marvel is not only visually stunning but also a testament to the innovative construction techniques of the era. The rotunda, with its soaring cathedral ceiling, is another focal point, designed to maximize natural light and create an awe-inspiring central space. The careful preservation of the legislature chambers and law library allows visitors to see the spaces where history was made, complete with period-appropriate furnishings and decor.
Restoration projects, like those undertaken by contractors such as Cangelosi Ward, emphasize the commitment to maintaining the building's timeless beauty. These efforts ensure that the Old State Capitol remains a significant landmark, preserving Kentucky's architectural heritage for future generations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit