governor's mansion

HeidiM929

We visited the KY Governor's Mansion before Christmas when it was open to the public. It was fabulous. We were able to look around the downstairs and see all of the rooms. It was especially enjoyable to see all the holiday decorations and Christmas trees. The hostesses were kind and knowledgeable if you have any questions. We honestly didn't expect it to be this good and really had a wonderful time. We drove from Cincinnati.

mawdooms

The guide only had the 2 of us, so very relaxed tour. We only got to see the first floor, which consisted of 6 rooms. Not much memorable, mostly gifts or pieces from old military ships on display. We went through the mansion and capitol in 51 minutes, not impressed.

Frank3473

What a beautiful mansion. It was difficult believing that the governor made his home so accessible. The grounds were well manicured

gandmfausel

My sister and I enjoyed a Patron of the Arts tour today with David Buchta. We were treated in the most royal way, as we toured the current exhibition of Livestock and Landscapes. Many of these pieces belong in private collections and would not be otherwise be available for viewing. Engravings, watercolor, and oils. In addition there was an exhibition, Early Frankfort containing decorative art of the sort that might have furnished Ky's 1st Governor's Mansion, dating back to 1798. Tip: Plan ahead, as this is an active and occupied residence, tour dates and times can fluctuate. For example, PGA celebrities and guests were being hosted that evening. Patron of the Arts tours are given once a month, with prior arrangement.

BionicOne

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Governor’s Mansion is located adjacent to the new state capitol. Having served numerous governors since 1914, it is both a private home and a public building. Apparently, it is one of only a handful of governor’s mansions that is open to the public for tours. However, tour times are very limited and only conducted on Tuesday and Thursday morning from 9:00 to 11:00 AM. Visitors are encouraged to call the Capitol tour desk at 502-564-3449 to determine if any last minute changes have been made in the tour schedule. Unfortunately, we were unable to view the inside due to the day we were in Frankfort. The grounds are quite beautiful and worth seeing.If this info assisted you, a helpful vote below would be much appreciated.

Millard74

We stopped to take a picture of the Governor's Garden, and while there a man got off his motorcycle and welcomed us to the Capital grounds and specifically the Governor's Garden. He introduced his name as Garth. He said he was the Governor's/ Capital grounds gardener. He was very informative, took a pic of us in the gardens and recommended several other places to visit while in Frankfort.

RetiredTravelerTN

We arrived for the first tour of the day and experienced a very good tour led by an excellent tour guide. The public first floor rooms are all beautifully and elegantly decorated -- a delight to the eyes. Our guide not only told of the architecture and furnishings, he also told stories of the first families who have lived in the mansion -- well worth the time. Give yourself a little more time to enjoy the grounds and gardens. Do not fail to visit the beautiful State Capitol building. Parking for mansion visitors is conveniently located between the mansion and the capitol.

Sarasota_Gal

The mansion is quite imposing from the outside but softened by a fountain and colorful flowers and bushes.The 4 large main first-floor rooms(the Governor's and First Lady's Reception Rooms, The Ballroom and the Dining Room) off the long entrance hall are imposing and quite ornate. There are many paintings of KY's famous horses, naturally! It's interesting to see a gallery of formal photos of all the governors on one wall with the first ladies on an opposite wall. Our guide(the Houseman has been in his job for many years) gave us quite an insight on the building and the furnishings. The Mansion visit was quite informative and a great experience!

Hectorsmom

The Governor's mansion is right next to the "new" State Capitol building. The grounds are very lovely. Tours are available 2 days a week, so check if you want to tour the inside.

Jen313

If you happen to be in Frankfort when the Mansion is open for tours, be sure to take one. Lots of history, beautiful décor, guides share entertaining info.

Tadouglas1

Ground floor visit only. It is worth the time. Only open on certain days for tours but really cool. We did not have time to look at the kitchen. Would go again.

Wyyll

Walking through the mansion is like stepping back in time. The antique furnishings and architecture (from Versailles of all places) is something to see. Each room is tied to a bit of the states history, and the guides are good at tailoring the talk to the age level of the group. The mansion is open Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 11 am. Space is limited, so plan ahead, and call ahead.

PS357

I have been to the mansion numerous times as a government employee. I have gone with family and friends on the visitor tours offered on specific days of the week. The tour guides do a great job of giving interesting information and answering question. The group size is limited so get your tour reservation in as far in advance as possible so you don't miss out on this wonderful experience.

Jonc66

This is something pulled out of 1800 lore. It feels like a Southern mansion from Civil War times. It is rich in history and the guides are great. M y ADD son simply LOVED IT!

pooloo

A place to visit when in Frankfort! Very nice mansion both outside and inside, well inside is more to see. Visitors can see the first floor only; dinning rooms, salon, leisure room. Lots of old items and furnitures. Near the State Capitol, free parking and admission. Reservation is required, open only Tues/Thurs. You can take pictures. Guided tour only. Also visit the State Capitol, just across the street, another wow place!