Slickway, Frankfort, NY

Slickway Neighborhood Overview

Overview

Slickway is a historic and architecturally significant neighborhood located just west of downtown Frankfort, Kentucky. Its boundaries are roughly defined by the Kentucky River to the north, Shelby Street to the east, and the Capital City Museum/Cottages area to the south and west. The neighborhood's name is derived from "Slickaway," a 19th-century term for a smooth, fast road, referencing the path that once led from the city to the river landing.

Developed primarily between the 1870s and 1920s, Slickway served as a residential enclave for a diverse mix of Frankfort's working and middle-class citizens, including state government employees, tradespeople, and business owners. Its location allowed for easy walking access to the downtown commercial district and the state capitol complex. Today, Slickway retains its historic charm and quiet, tree-lined streets while benefiting from its proximity to the vibrant heart of the state's capital.

Housing & Real Estate

The housing stock in Slickway is a distinctive collection of late-Victorian and early 20th-century American vernacular architecture. Predominant styles include Folk Victorians, Shotgun houses, American Foursquares, and simple Gable-front homes, many featuring ornate woodwork, stained glass, and original hardwood floors. Lot sizes are typically modest, contributing to a close-knit, pedestrian-friendly streetscape.

As a historic district, many homes have been meticulously restored, attracting buyers interested in preservation and character. The real estate market is competitive, with prices generally ranging from the mid-$200,000s for a smaller fixer-upper to over $400,000 for a fully renovated, larger home. The neighborhood is predominantly owner-occupied, with a small percentage of long-term rentals, fostering a strong sense of community investment and stability.

Schools & Education

Slickway is served by the Frankfort Independent School District, a small, historic district encompassing the downtown core. Students typically attend Second Street School for elementary and middle grades (K-8), a highly regarded school known for its strong community ties and historic building. For high school, students attend Frankfort High School, which offers a variety of college preparatory and career pathway programs.

Several private and parochial school options are also nearby, including Good Shepherd Catholic School and the Frankfort Christian Academy. For higher education, the neighborhood is just minutes from Kentucky State University, a public historically black university, and a short drive from several community colleges and technical schools in the surrounding region.

Parks & Recreation

Residents enjoy immediate access to some of Frankfort's most prized green spaces. The scenic River View Park, with its walking paths, playgrounds, and stunning views of the Kentucky River and the Capitol dome, forms the neighborhood's northern border. The park is a hub for community events, jogging, and leisurely strolls along the riverfront.

Just a short walk east leads to the grounds of the Old State Capitol and the Kentucky History Center. For more extensive recreation, the 500-acre Cove Spring Park and Nature Preserve, with its waterfalls, hiking trails, and historic stone structures, is less than a ten-minute drive away. The neighborhood's central location also provides easy access to downtown's cultural attractions, including the Grand Theatre and the Capital City Museum.

Local Dining & Shopping

Slickway's greatest amenity is its walkability to downtown Frankfort's thriving dining and shopping scene. Just blocks away, residents can find a variety of local favorites such as Bourbon on Main, Serafini, and the award-winning Rick's White Light Diner for eclectic cuisine. Coffee shops like Kentucky Coffeetree Cafe and social spots like The Brick Alley are popular neighborhood gathering places.

For daily needs, the downtown area offers specialty shops, boutiques, and art galleries. A full-service Kroger grocery store is conveniently located on the western edge of the neighborhood on Leestown Road. The Frankfort Farmers Market, held seasonally on Broadway, is a major weekly destination for fresh, local produce, baked goods, and artisan products, further enhancing the neighborhood's connection to local commerce.

Who Lives Here

Slickway attracts a diverse mix of residents united by an appreciation for history, community, and urban living. The neighborhood is popular with young professionals and state government employees who work in the nearby Capitol and Annex buildings, as well as with empty-nesters and retirees seeking a walkable, low-maintenance lifestyle with cultural amenities at their doorstep.

The community vibe is active and engaged, with neighbors often seen gardening on their front porches, walking dogs, or socializing in the parks. There is a strong sense of civic pride and preservation, with many residents involved in neighborhood associations and historic conservation efforts. Ultimately, Slickway appeals to those who desire the character and quiet of a historic district while being just steps from the energy and functionality of a small state capital's downtown.

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