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.

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Top Kentucky State University Hotel Reviews

Comfort Suites Georgetown

10/10 Excellent

"Really liked the temperature of the pool, not too hot. Very comfortable. Excellent breakfast even at 8:30"

The Manchester

10/10 Excellent

"Great stay at the Manchester. Beautiful lobby and restaurants and super helpful staff. Despite other reviewers complaining about noise, we found it to be quiet and peaceful (stayed 5 nights). Complimentary coffee was excellent and the many of the food items reasonably priced. A few tweaks might make the stay truly too notch but the hotel exceeded my expectations. Probably the closest thing you’ll get to a SoHo house as you’ll get in Kentucky! "

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Georgetown, KY

10/10 Excellent

"THE ROOM WAS CLEAN AND VERY SPACIOUS. WE HAD THE 2 BEDROOM SUITE ROOM 201. IT WAS COMFORTABLE AND THE FRONT DESK HAD EVERYTHING THAT WE FORGOT. TOOTHBRUSH AND RAZOR. SHEILA AT THE FRONT DESK WENT OUT OF HER WAY TO ACCOMODATE OUR CHECKIN. THE ASSISTANT MANAGER ON THE SATURDAY NIGHT SHIFT WAS SO NICE TO TALK TO. "

Hotels near other Kentucky State University attractions

Old State Capitol

4.5/5 (21 reviews)

You can study the exhibits at Old State Capitol, a museum with a storied past, during your holiday in Frankfort. You can seek out the hiking trails in this family-friendly area.

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Leslie Morris Park

Explore the great outdoors at Leslie Morris Park, a lovely green space in Frankfort. You can seek out the hiking trails in this family-friendly area.

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Frequently asked questions

What's the area like around Kentucky State University?

Kentucky State University is located in an area of Frankfort that travellers like for its hiking. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, take a look at the 16 hotels and other accommodation options you'll find within a mile.

Where is the best place to stay close to Kentucky State University?

The Delegate is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveller data, and this hotel offers a restaurant and a bar. It's located just a short 1 mi (1.6 km) from Kentucky State University. Other good choices within a few miles include Capital Plaza Hotel and Bluegrass Inn.

How many hotels should I expect to find close to Kentucky State University?

Expedia has 16 hotels and other accommodation options within a mile from Kentucky State University.

If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Kentucky State University, will I receive a refund?

Yes! The majority of hotel reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your check-in date. If you have a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and be given a refund within 24 hours of booking. Put your dates in and click on "Search", then use the "fully refundable" filter to get the best deals near Kentucky State University.

What can I see and do near Kentucky State University?

Kentucky Governor's Mansion, Liberty Hall and Old State Capitol feature captivating exhibits. Sights like Buffalo Trace Distillery, Berry Hill Mansion and Daniel Boone Burial Site are must-sees while exploring the area. You can wander around Capitol View Park, Leslie Morris Park or Old Governor's Mansion if you want a dose of fresh air.

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Our top choices for Kentucky State University hotels

The Delegate

The St. Clair

Capital Plaza Hotel

Bluegrass Inn

University Lodge Motel

The Ashbrook Hotel

Home2 Suites by Hilton Frankfort

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lexington Frankfort

Hampton Inn Frankfort

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Frankfort

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Frankfort by IHG

Best Western Parkside Inn

The B & B at Queenslake

Days Inn by Wyndham Frankfort

The Aldenberg Hotel

Top Kentucky State University Hotel Reviews

Comfort Suites Georgetown

Hotels near other Kentucky State University attractions

Old State Capitol

Leslie Morris Park

Frequently asked questions