What is the capital of Kentucky?

The capital of Kentucky is Frankfort, a small and historic city on the Kentucky River known for its beautiful state capitol building and bourbon distilleries.

How many people live in Kentucky?

Kentucky has a population of approximately 4.5 million people, making it the 26th most populous state in the U.S.

When was Kentucky admitted to the Union?

Kentucky was admitted to the Union on June 1, 1792, becoming the 15th state and the first state west of the Appalachian Mountains.

What is Kentucky known for?

Kentucky is known for producing 95% of the world's bourbon whiskey, the Kentucky Derby, thoroughbred horse racing, Mammoth Cave, Abraham Lincoln's birthplace, and its automotive manufacturing industry.

Kentucky

The Bluegrass State

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Quick Stats

4.5MPopulation

#26Rank

1792Joined

40.4kArea (mi²)

Map

Seal & Motto

"United We Stand, Divided We Fall"

Additional Information

AbbreviationKY

Motto Origin

Reflects the necessity of cooperation for survival.

Adopted 1792.

Official WebsiteKentucky.gov

Population Growth

Overview

Kentucky, the 'Bluegrass State,' is a mesmerizing blend of rolling limestone hills, world-renowned horse culture, and deep-rooted Southern charm. Best known as the global birthplace of bourbon and for the legendary Kentucky Derby, it is a leading center for automotive manufacturing, logistics, and high-tech agriculture today.

Historical Significance

Kentucky officially joined the Union on June 1, 1792, as the 15th state. Originally part of Virginia, it became the first U.S. state west of the Appalachian Mountains, serving as a critical frontier gateway and the birthplace of legendary American figures like Abraham Lincoln and Daniel Boone.

Top Cities & Hubs

Louisville

Population: ~630,000

The state's largest metropolitan center and home to the world-famous Kentucky Derby, a booming city famed for its historic Victorian architecture and its status as a massive global hub for shipping and logistics.

Lexington

Population: ~325,000

Known as the "Horse Capital of the World," this vibrant city in the heart of the Bluegrass region is a significant center for the thoroughbred industry, education, and high-tech manufacturing.

Bowling Green

Population: ~75,000

A fast-growing city in south-central Kentucky, best known as the home of Western Kentucky University and the legendary National Corvette Museum and the Corvette assembly plant.

Owensboro

Population: ~60,000

The "BBQ Capital of the World," this historic riverfront city on the Ohio River is a significant center for arts, agriculture, and its world-famous annual bluegrass music festivals.

Covington

Population: ~40,000

Located directly across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, this significant historic city is famed for its stunning German-inspired architecture and vibrant revitalized urban living.

Neighbors

Region: South

Capital: Frankfort

Key Landmarks & Economy

Churchill Downs: The legendary racetrack in Louisville, home of the Kentucky Derby — the oldest continuously held major sporting event in American history, run every May since 1875.

Mammoth Cave: The world's longest known cave system, stretching over 400 miles of explored passageways, a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracting global researchers and tourists.

Bourbon & Automotive: Kentucky produces 95% of the world's bourbon whiskey while being one of the nation's leading states for vehicle production, hosting plants for Toyota, Ford, and GM.

Did You Know?

Kentucky is the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, who was born in a one-room log cabin near Hodgenville on February 12, 1809.
The state is home to the world's largest collection of gold, stored deep within the high-security United States Bullion Depository at Fort Knox.
Kentucky is the only U.S. state that has a continuous border with seven different states, highlighting its unique central geographic position.