Things to do in Frankfort, Kentucky for Kids

Frankfort is the capital city of Kentucky and the seat of Franklin County. With less than 30,000 people residing in the place, it is considered as United States’ fourth-smallest capital in terms of the municipal population.

But just because Frankfort is fairly “small” doesn’t mean it couldn’t compete with other towns. It is, in fact, an overachiever if we get to the subject of good destinations and attractions.

Visit this place if you want to enjoy eccentric adventures and more than a few hidden gems.

Is Frankfort family-friendly?

You bet it is. Frankfort is home to beautiful attractions where you can learn about wildlife, nature, and the fascinating stories of the land. There are more than several ways to spend your time here, and each destination will only make you appreciate the place more.

Here are our top suggestions on what to do in Frankfort KY for kids:

1. Visit the Salato Wildlife Center

Source: Salato Wildlife Center

Educational activities are interesting for kids, but it should be fun for adults too!

Take your kids to Salato Wildlife Center and discover the abundance of plants, fish, and other animals. The Nature Center is a good place to teach them about the diverse regional ecosystems that make up Kentucky. On the other hand, you can take them to the Eastern Forest Diorama so they can get up close with giant turtles and live snakes.

If that sounds too intense, you may opt to go to the fully-stocked fishing lakes and the picnic area, which many guests frequent for relaxation. The bolder and more adventurous guests can follow the hiking trails which are open daily sunrise to sunset.

Admission Fee

• $3 Youth 5-18
• $5 Adult
• FREE Children 4 and under Youth

Address: 1 Sportsman’s Ln, Frankfort, Kentucky

Why your kids would love this: The Salato Wildlife Center is beautiful and educational. Your family can even go on a picnic after taking the animal tour. There are also special events held regularly such as the snapping turtle feeding, raptor encounter, groundhog training, and more.

2. Hone Your Football Skills at Capitol View Park

Source: Capitol View Park | Frankfort Youth Football League

Football for the kids, a picnic for the adults.

Make that your agenda for the day when you visit Capitol View Park. This 150-acre park, located off the East-West Connector at Glenn’s Creek Road, is famous for its recreational facilities and view of the Kentucky River.

The grounds are well kept so the kids will surely enjoy playing football with their friends. There are also games being held during the summer, with some free of charge. If you want to take a break from the football game or picnic activity, you may also explore the park’s other facilities:

• Basketball Courts
• Softball Fields
• High School Baseball Field
• Harrod Football Field
• Nature Trails
• Off-Track Bicycle Trail

This park is open from 8:00 A.M. – 11:00 P.M. during the months of April through October *except during softball tournaments; and it closes at dark from November to March.

Address: Corner of St Hwy 676 & Glenn’s Creek Road, Frankfort, Kentucky

Why your kids would love this: Need we say more? Frankfort’s premier football field is right here. This is a great place for kids to have fun and hone their football skills while also enjoying nature.

3. Check out the Floral Clock

Source: Floral Clock | Active Boomer Adventures

If you’re visiting the Kentucky State Capitol, you might also want to check out the Floral Clock that’s just across from it.

The time you spend at this place won’t go to waste because the giant clock will definitely leave you in awe. Its giant hands weigh about a quarter of a ton each, with the hour hand and minute hand measuring 15-feet long, and 20 feet long, respectively.

Make your stopover count if you’re already in the area. This lovely clock is one of the largest in the world and is pretty similar to other famous clocks in other parts of the world such as those in Scotland and Canada.

Address: 700 Capital Ave, Frankfort, Kentucky

Why your kids would love this: They will appreciate the clock’s gargantuan characteristic, as well as the foliage plants that beautify it.

4. Take an Archery Class at Cove Springs Park

Source: Cove Springs Park | KY Capital Living

Cove Springs Park is famous for its wetlands, waterfalls, streams, and other natural and historic features. But who says you need a huge amount of time spent on walking or hiking to have fun?

Let your kids discover their archery prowess by taking the class offered to all visitors. The course is set up along the trails in the woods, giving you access to nature’s beauty, while you work on your targets. There are three separate ranges in the course, the practice Range NASP range, and the 3D range.

Address: 100 Cove Spring Rd, Frankfort, Kentucky

Why your kids would love this: Archery is more than just shooting bows. It’s also a way for kids to learn about sportsmanship, self-control, and mental acuity. But of course – the activity will simply register as “fun” for them. If you ask us, this is one of the best things to do in Frankfort KY for kids.

5. Interact With Nearly 70 Works of Art at Josephine Sculpture Park

Source: Josephine Sculpture Park

See the beautiful rolling fields of central Kentucky while enjoying your time at this community-centric art park known for the sculptures, music, and arts. The Josephine Sculpture Park is a place where its founder, Melanie VanHouten, practiced her creativity as a child and developed curiosity and connection to the land. Today, it is known as a successful art hub that gives off exciting energy for those who will visit.

Don’t be surprised if you chance upon civic or cultural groups, as well as at-risk youth using the park at any one time. They are known to frequent Josephine Sculpture Park on several occasions. If you’ll be in Kentucky for the summer, you should also try to catch their theater productions which feature a commissioned sculpture as the set for a play. The Fall Arts Festival is also a good time to visit if you wish to participate in artistic events, among other activities. Now, this is what you call a good destination in Frankfort KY for kids.

Address: 3355 Lawrenceburg Rd. Frankfort, Kentucky

Why your kids would love this: The Josephine Sculpture Park is sprawling with art and fun.

Are you dropping by Frankfort anytime soon? Check out what makes Frankfort KY for kids!