To visit this modern university, make your way to Frankfort. You'll find lots of other interesting attractions in the area, like Kentucky State Capitol, Buffalo Trace Distillery, and Prodigy Vineyards & Winery.
Kentucky State University Tours
![Kentucky State University was chartered in May 1886 as the State Normal School for Colored Persons, only the second state-supported institution of higher learning in Kentucky.[1] During the euphoria of Frankfort's 1886 centennial celebration, the city donated $1,500 towards the purchase of land for a new college on a bluff overlooking Frankfort.
The new school formally opened on October 11, 1887, with three teachers, 55 students, and John H. Jackson as president.[1] Recitation Hall (now Jackson Hall), the college's first permanent building, was erected in that year.
KSU became a land-grant college in 1890, and the departments of home economics, agriculture and mechanics were added to the school's curriculum.[1] The school produced its first graduating class of five students in the spring of that year. A high school was organized in 1893. This expansion continued into the 20th century in both name and program. In 1902, the name was changed to Kentucky Normal and Industrial Institute for Colored Persons. The name was changed again in 1926 to Kentucky State Industrial College for Colored Persons.](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/7262/80b239a0-cf4a-4e00-8ea0-fb6e64265ab6.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1040&h=580&q=mediumHigh)
Visit Kentucky State University
Plan a trip to see Kentucky State University
Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Sleep Inn
Price was $704, price is now $620 per person
$620
per person
Apr 7 - Apr 12
found 13 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Philadelphia (PHL) to Lexington (LEX)
8.2/10 Very Good! (599 reviews)
This is a nice hotel. New and clean. Breakfast is good. Id stay here again
Reviewed on Feb 3, 2026
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Lexington, KY
Price was $802, price is now $706 per person
$706
per person
Mar 18 - Mar 23
found 15 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Minneapolis (MSP) to Lexington (LEX)
8/10 Very Good! (1,001 reviews)
Room was very clean and beds were nice and firm. The bathroom has been renovated but the workmanship is somewhat inferior. The breakfast was good; sausage eggs biscuits waffles.
Reviewed on Feb 3, 2026
The Manchester
Distillery District
Price was $1,104, price is now $976 per person
$976
per person
Mar 18 - Mar 23
found 15 hours ago
Roundtrip non-stop flight included
Minneapolis (MSP) to Lexington (LEX)
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,046 reviews)
Clean rooms, friendly staff, and good restaurants. I especially like the music selections played through the hotel.
Reviewed on Jan 30, 2026
Reviews of Kentucky State University
4.2
Top Destination
5/5 - Excellent
John
City in itself The arboretum is wonderful
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveler
Spent an afternoon at the UK Arboretum reading and soaking up beautiful surroundings. Amazing grounds and picturesque setting for reading and enjoying God’s creation!
Popular places to visit
Old State Capitol
You can study the exhibits at Old State Capitol, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Frankfort. You can seek out the hiking trails in this family-friendly area.
Kentucky Governor's Mansion
Kentucky Governor's Mansion is just one of the places to see in Frankfort, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Attend a sporting event in the area, or seek out the hiking trails.
Buffalo Trace Distillery
You can take time to visit Buffalo Trace Distillery during your travels to Frankfort. You can seek out the hiking trails while in the area.
Kentucky State Capitol
After visiting Kentucky State Capitol, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Frankfort. Attend a sporting event in the area, or seek out the hiking trails.
Cove Spring Park
You can take time to visit Cove Spring Park during your travels to Frankfort. Attend a sporting event in the area, or seek out the hiking trails.
Frankfort Cemetery
Learn about the local history of Frankfort when you take a trip to Frankfort Cemetery. You can seek out the hiking trails while in the area.
Best Lodging Options Near Kentucky State University
Check availability on hotels close to Kentucky State University
The Delegate
106 E. Broadway Street Frankfort KY
Capital Plaza Hotel
405 Wilkinson Blvd Frankfort KY
Bluegrass Inn
635 Versailles Road Frankfort KY
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lexington Frankfort
55 MILL ROAD Frankfort KY
Hampton Inn Frankfort
1310 U.S. 127 South Frankfort KY
Heated Pool, Hot Tub, Mini Golf, Theater-Sleeps 28
Frankfort KY
Bourbon Trail, Ark Encounter, Family Gatherings, WiFi, Cabin, Sleeps 29!
Bagdad KY
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lexington W - Versailles by IHG
365 Commerce Drive Versailles KY
Best Western Lawrenceburg Inn
200 Plaza Dr Lawrenceburg KY
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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