Daniel Boone's Grave | Frankfort

Daniel Boone's Grave is a historical burial site located in Frankfort, Kentucky, USA.

It is situated within the state capital's boundaries, specifically on a prominent hill overlooking the Kentucky River.

Visual Characteristics

The grave site is marked by a large, upright granite monument. The monument is rectangular in shape and features carved inscriptions detailing Daniel Boone's life and achievements. The surrounding area is a well-maintained cemetery with grass lawns and scattered trees. The terrain is gently sloping.

Location & Access Logistics

The grave is located at 1200 State Drive, Frankfort, KY 40601. It is approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) west of downtown Frankfort. Access is via US-60 West (Versailles Road). Turn north onto State Drive. Ample paved parking is available at the site, including designated accessible parking spaces. Public transportation options are limited; the nearest bus stop is several miles away, requiring a taxi or ride-share service for the final approach.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Daniel Boone, a renowned American pioneer and explorer, was originally buried in Missouri. His remains, along with those of his wife Rebecca, were exhumed and reinterred in Frankfort in 1845. The site is part of the larger Frankfort Cemetery, established in 1844. The cemetery is situated on a limestone bluff, a common geological formation in the region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the granite monument and read the inscriptions. The site offers panoramic views of the Kentucky River valley. Walking through the cemetery to view other historical graves is a common activity. Photography of the monument and the surrounding landscape is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the Frankfort Cemetery grounds, located near the main entrance. Shade is provided by mature trees scattered throughout the cemetery. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable within the cemetery. No food vendors are present directly at the grave site; visitors should plan to bring their own refreshments or dine in downtown Frankfort.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal lighting for photography of the monument, early morning or late afternoon is recommended. The months of April through October offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor visitation, with average temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A local legend suggests that Daniel Boone's spirit still watches over the Kentucky River from his burial site. A verified historical oddity is the extensive effort and cost involved in the 1845 reinterment, which was a significant public event at the time.

Nearby Landmarks

• Frankfort Cemetery (0km North)
• Kentucky State Capitol Building (2.5km East)
• Old State Capitol Building (2.8km East)
• Buffalo Trace Distillery (4.0km Northwest)
• Salato Wildlife Education Center (3.0km East)