Franklin County, Kentucky

The Capital, the River, the Bourbon.

Frankfort sits in a river valley lined with limestone bluffs, historic homes, and distilleries you've heard of.

Frankfort — Kentucky's Capital City

Frankfort is the state capital of Kentucky, and it's unlike any other capital you've visited. It's small, walkable, and set in a dramatic Kentucky River valley between limestone bluffs. The city has a mix of historic homes — many pre-Civil War — mid-century neighborhoods, and rural properties outside the city limits.

Buffalo Trace Distillery, one of the most iconic bourbon distilleries in the world, is right here. So is Kentucky State University, the Old State Capitol, the new Capitol building, and the Governor's Mansion. Government is the biggest employer, and state jobs provide a level of economic stability that most small cities simply don't have.

The Kentucky River runs through the heart of the city. Downtown Frankfort has been revitalizing — new restaurants, a growing brewery and distillery scene, and meaningful community investment. For bourbon enthusiasts, history buffs, or government workers, Franklin County is hard to beat.

Key Facts

County Seat Frankfort — State Capital
Population ~52,000
Distance to Lexington ~30 minutes
Notable Buffalo Trace Distillery, State Capitol, Kentucky River

What Makes This County Stand Out

🍻

Bourbon on Your Doorstep

Buffalo Trace is a mile from downtown. Castle & Key, Glenn's Creek, and others are minutes away. This is the epicenter of bourbon country.

🏘

Historic Homes

Frankfort's older neighborhoods have some of the most interesting architecture in the state. Victorian, Federal, Greek Revival — many at prices well below what you'd pay in Lexington.

📈

Stable Economy

State government provides an economic baseline that most small cities don't have. Combined with growing tourism and distillery revenue, Franklin County's economy is resilient.

Historic Renovation, New Builds, and More — in Franklin County.

Frankfort's historic housing stock is perfect for renovation — and Toni is both a Realtor and General Contractor. Whether you're restoring a downtown Victorian or building new on a ridge above the river, she handles both.

Ready to Explore Franklin County?

Let's Find Your Place in Frankfort.

Whether you're buying a historic home downtown, building on acreage above the river, or relocating for a state job — Toni Schafer is your guide. No pressure, no obligation. Just a real conversation.