Rebecca Ruth Candy Factory and Museum
Discover the birthplace of the world-famous Bourbon Ball! A historic, family-run candy factory and museum celebrating over 100 years of sweet innovati...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See candy being made
Rebecca Ruth Candy Factory and Museum
Best Time
See candy being made
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the birthplace of the world-famous Bourbon Ball! A historic, family-run candy factory and museum celebrating over 100 years of sweet innovation.
"A truly UNIQUE experience with wonderful flavors and the warmth of its people."
🎯 Sample the Delights!
Don't miss the free samples! The Bourbon Balls are a must-try, living up to their legendary status. :candy:
📅 Weekday Visits are Best
Catch the candy-making action live by visiting on a weekday. Weekends might only show videos. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Original Bourbon Ball
Shop
Savor the legendary Bourbon Ball, the world's first, crafted with a unique blend of bourbon and chocolate.
Candy Making Demonstration
Factory Floor
Witness the magic of candy creation firsthand, a delightful spectacle for all ages.
Historic Marble Slab
Museum Area
Touch the very marble slab where Rebecca Ruth crafted her sweet innovations over a century ago.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Taste of History: Bourbon Balls
Weekday Wonders & Sweet Samples
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sample the Delights!
Don't miss the free samples! The Bourbon Balls are a must-try, living up to their legendary status. :candy:
📅 Weekday Visits are Best
Catch the candy-making action live by visiting on a weekday. Weekends might only show videos. :clock1:
Week Road Trip from Raleigh, NC to Kansas City, MO - What should I see and Eat?
🛍️ Stock Up on Sweets
You'll likely leave with more candy than you planned! The shop offers a wide variety of delicious treats. :shopping_bags:
🗣️ Chat with the Staff
The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the warm, family-run atmosphere. :smiley:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sample the Delights!
Don't miss the free samples! The Bourbon Balls are a must-try, living up to their legendary status. :candy:
📅 Weekday Visits are Best
Catch the candy-making action live by visiting on a weekday. Weekends might only show videos. :clock1:
🛍️ Stock Up on Sweets
You'll likely leave with more candy than you planned! The shop offers a wide variety of delicious treats. :shopping_bags:
🗣️ Chat with the Staff
The staff are knowledgeable and friendly, adding to the warm, family-run atmosphere. :smiley:
🚶♀️ Explore the History
Learn about Rebecca Ruth's fascinating story and her impact on confectionery. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Rebecca Ruth Candy Factory and Museum, particularly praising the historical significance of the Bourbon Ball and the friendly, family-run atmosphere. Many highlight the delicious free samples and the opportunity to see candy being made, though some note that live demonstrations are more common on weekdays. Overall, it's considered a unique and sweet stop for anyone visiting Frankfort.
"A Very unique part of history of kentucky, Rebecca, made the very first bourbon balls that are famous world wide now. You can take a tour of the chocolate 🍫 😋 factory. I recommend going on a weekday so you can watch candy being made. You get free samples of the candy and it so good. I tried two bourbon balls in the shop and on the tour. Its worth the trip to see the history of who they were and how she made this delicious chocolate. You get to touch the cool marble slab she made candy on for all those years."
John Rankin
"Just passing through and stopped by to check out this cute little shop. We didn't have time for the tour but the shop staff were very knowledgeable. Of course the bourbon balls and dark chocolate cherries were a must have."
Selena
"If you visit Frankfort, this is a must-see. A family-run business making chocolates for over 100 years and now operated by its third generation, it offers not only wonderful flavors but also the warmth and generosity of its people. For my family and me, it was a truly UNIQUE experience. Thanks!"
Eric Prieto
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The factory is located in Frankfort, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors find it a convenient stop on road trips through the region.
Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors. It's advisable to check their website or call ahead for specific details, especially during peak times.
Absolutely! It's a popular stop for road trips, especially for those traveling through Kentucky. Many travelers mention it as a delightful detour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While you can visit the shop without a ticket, a tour is recommended to fully experience the history and see candy making. Check their official website for tour availability and pricing.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead. Weekdays are generally recommended for seeing candy being made.
Yes, tours are available and highly recommended to learn about the history and see the candy-making process. Some visitors noted not seeing candy made live on weekends.
The museum aspect is often integrated into the tour. While the shop is free to enter, a tour fee may apply for the full historical experience.
Yes, the shop is open to the public, and you can purchase their famous chocolates and other confections without taking a tour.
🎫 🍬 Onsite Experience
Tours typically cover the history of Rebecca Ruth, the invention of the Bourbon Ball, and sometimes include a video of candy making if live demonstrations aren't happening. You'll also get to touch the historic marble slab.
Yes, free samples are often offered, especially of their signature Bourbon Balls. This is a highlight for many visitors! :candy:
The most famous and popular item is undoubtedly the Bourbon Ball, which Rebecca Ruth is credited with inventing. Dark Chocolate Cherries are also a favorite.
Yes, it's a fun and educational experience for families. Kids often enjoy seeing how candy is made and, of course, tasting the treats.
Beyond the delicious candy, you can often find branded merchandise and other sweet-themed souvenirs in their shop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Frankfort has several local eateries. Visitors often recommend exploring the downtown area for dining options after their candy factory visit.
You can enjoy your purchased candies inside the shop or take them with you. It's a sweet treat to savor!
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the shop and public areas. For specific restrictions during tours or demonstrations, it's best to ask staff.
Capture the historic marble slab, the charming shop interior, and of course, your delicious candy purchases. The exterior of the building can also be picturesque.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍬 Sweet Tooth Enthusiasts
🚗 Road Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sweet Legacy of Rebecca Ruth
Visitors can explore the museum area, which often features the very marble slab where Rebecca Ruth meticulously crafted her candies. This tangible connection to the past offers a profound sense of history. The family-run nature of the business, now in its third generation, adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the experience. It’s this blend of historical significance and genuine passion for candy making that draws visitors from near and far.
Many travelers highlight the personal touch they receive, with staff often sharing stories and offering insights into the candy-making process. While seeing live candy making is best on weekdays, the dedication to preserving this sweet legacy is evident throughout the visit. It’s a place where you can not only indulge your sweet tooth but also appreciate the ingenuity and dedication behind a beloved American confection.
Experiencing the Candy Making Process
When live demonstrations aren't available, such as on some weekends, the factory often supplements the experience with informative videos. These videos provide a visual journey through the candy-making process, explaining the techniques and care that go into each confection. Even without seeing it live, you gain valuable insight into the artistry involved. The staff are also excellent resources, happy to answer questions and share details about their craft, making the experience educational and engaging regardless of the day you visit.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit