.png)
Inside the World’s First KFC: Our Visit to Colonel Sanders' Original Restaurant
- Jenn & Leon
- 3 days ago
- 7 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When you think of Kentucky, chances are fried chicken isn’t far behind — and for good reason.
On our recent travels through the Bluegrass State, we made a special stop in Corbin, Kentucky, to visit the World’s First KFC, which we found out did not start as a KFC at all.
This historic spot is where Colonel Harland Sanders first perfected his famous Original Recipe and launched a global phenomenon, originally starting as a gas station and bed and breakfast.
Today, the original KFC Café and Museum still welcomes visitors, offering a fascinating glimpse into how it all began. We have been enjoying KFC for many years around the world, and this was an opportunity we simply could not pass up on.
Whether you’re a die-hard KFC fan, a history lover, or just someone who enjoys quirky roadside attractions, stepping into the birthplace of KFC is an unforgettable experience.
Here’s what we discovered on our visit to the first KFC in Corbin, Kentucky — and why you might want to add it to your travel bucket list!
In This Post...
See More...
Travel Resources & Offers
Please note that some of the links in this post are affiliate links.
At no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you purchase through these links, which helps support our blog and keeps it free to use. ℹ️ Privacy Policy
A Brief History of the First KFC
Before KFC became a global fast-food icon, it all started in a humble service station in Corbin, Kentucky.
In 1930, Colonel Harland Sanders opened a small café inside his Shell gas station, serving travelers hearty Southern meals.
He went on to establish a small bed and breakfast-style inn, creating several rooms in which he took great care and pride in providing maximum comfort for his guests.
One of the rooms is preserved in the center of the museum, almost untouched, giving one an idea of how important travelers were to the Colonel.
Over time, Sanders perfected his method of frying chicken using a pressure cooker, creating the "Original Recipe" of 11 herbs and spices that would eventually make him famous.
You can see the original pressure cooker and some of the kitchen items used as you walk through.
By 1940, the restaurant’s growing popularity turned it into a full-fledged dining destination, eventually leading to the company exiting the gas and bed & breakfast business.
Today, the Colonel Sanders Café and Museum stands as a tribute to the beginnings of one of the world’s most beloved food brands, offering visitors a glimpse into the early days of KFC.
It is also a fantastic tribute to the man himself, who, as you will find out if you visit, was so much more than just a man who created the perfect fried chicken.
His charity work, generosity, kindness, and work ethic genuinely make him one of the very top businessmen of his generation.
Our Experience Visiting the World’s First KFC
Pulling into Corbin, we immediately spotted the classic red and white building that proudly honors KFC's roots.
From the outside, the original KFC restaurant looks like a charming slice of mid-century Americana, complete with a statue of the Colonel himself welcoming guests.
Inside, it’s part modern restaurant and part museum. We wandered through exhibits showcasing original kitchen equipment, Sanders’ personal office, vintage advertisements, and even a replica of the motel rooms that once operated alongside the café.
We honestly had no idea about the humble roots of this worldwide fried chicken phenomenon. It was somewhat of a surprise to discover what a revolutionary, visionary, and philanthropist the Colonel was.
The attention to detail brought the Colonel’s story to life, making it feel like stepping back into the 1940s. The pride in preserving this piece of history was obvious, and it made the visit even more special.
Pro Tip: If you're traveling through the U.S., stay connected without the hassle of swapping SIM cards by grabbing a quick and easy eSIM before you go!
It’s perfect for road trips like ours. Find your eSIM here ➔
Can You Eat at the First KFC?
Yes, you can still grab a bite at the World’s First KFC!
Alongside the museum exhibits, there's a full working KFC restaurant where you can order the classic favorites — from Original Recipe chicken to mashed potatoes and biscuits.
We couldn’t resist ordering a traditional two-piece meal to complete the experience.
While the menu is similar to a regular KFC, knowing we were enjoying it where it all began made every bite feel a little more legendary.
Fun Facts About the First KFC
● Colonel Sanders didn’t initially set out to create a fried chicken empire — he just wanted to serve good food to hungry travelers.
● Sanders was awarded the honorary title of "Colonel" by the Governor of Kentucky in 1935, in recognition of his contributions to the state's cuisine.
● The original pressure cooker Sanders used to fry his chicken faster, without losing flavor, is still on display.
● KFC’s first franchise outside of Corbin opened in Utah in 1952, not Kentucky!
● The recreated kitchen setup inside the museum features many of the same tools and appliances Sanders used when developing his Original Recipe.
How to Visit the World’s First KFC in Corbin, Kentucky
The world’s first Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant—also known as the Harland Sanders Café and Museum—is located in Corbin, Kentucky, where Colonel Sanders first developed his famous fried chicken recipe. Here’s how to plan your visit:
By Car
Driving is the easiest and most popular way to reach the original KFC. Set your GPS to:
688 US-25W, Corbin, KY 40701, USA.
The café is conveniently located just off Interstate 75 (I-75), about halfway between Lexington, Kentucky, and Knoxville, Tennessee.
Take Exit 29 toward Corbin and follow signs for US-25W; it’s less than 10 minutes from the interstate.
By Air
By Bus
Once There
If you're renting a car for your road trip, we found great deals using this trusted service ➔ We highly recommend it for smooth travels around Kentucky!
Don’t forget travel insurance, especially for U.S. road trips — it’s an affordable peace of mind. Get flexible coverage here ➔
⪢ Easily Find Hotels in Corbin and Beyond
Looking for a place to stay nearby? Browse Corbin hotel deals below to find great rates for an overnight stay.
Ticket Prices, Opening Times & Best Time to Visit
⪢ Ticket Prices (2024)
● Admission: Free
There’s no charge to visit the Harland Sanders Café and Museum. You can explore the original restaurant, museum exhibits, and dining area at no cost.
Of course, you can also order a meal from the still-operating KFC on-site if you’d like to taste history!
⪢ Opening Times
● Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
(Open daily, though hours may vary slightly on major holidays.)
The museum portion is integrated into the restaurant, so you can visit anytime during KFC's regular operating hours.
⪢ Best Time to Visit
Mornings (around 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM) tend to be the quietest, perfect for exploring the museum without crowds.
Weekdays are less busy than weekends, especially during the lunch rush.
Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for road-tripping to Corbin and less crowded conditions compared to summer travel.
For a deeper experience, consider pairing your visit with a stop at nearby Laurel River Lake or a drive through the Daniel Boone National Forest, both close to Corbin.
FAQs About Visiting the First KFC
Where is the first KFC located?
In Corbin, Kentucky, at 688 US-25W.
Is the first KFC still open?
How much does it cost to visit the First KFC Museum?
How long should I plan to spend there?
Final Thoughts: Is the First KFC Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you’re a fan of fried chicken, American history, or quirky roadside attractions, the World’s First KFC is a fascinating stop that mixes nostalgia, delicious food, and an inspiring entrepreneurial story.
We loved every minute of it, and visiting made us appreciate how a simple café in Corbin changed fast food forever.
If your U.S. travels include a road trip through Kentucky, this is one stop you won’t want to miss.
And if you’re planning your trip now, don’t forget to stay connected easily with an eSIM, book your hotel here, and grab reliable travel insurance before you hit the road!
Easily Find Hotels in Kentucky and Beyond
Use our interactive map to easily locate the top hotels nearby, sourced from various reputable platforms such as Booking, Vrbo, Expedia, Get Your Guide, and Hotels.com.
Our map offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to zoom in and out, providing a comprehensive view of the area and enabling you to identify the most convenient hotel options based on your current location or desired destination.
Closer Lives Travel Hub – Destinations, Tips & Essentials
Head over to our Travel Hub – it’s packed with free country guides, helpful travel blogs, videos from the road, and tips to help you travel smarter (and cheaper!).
Whether you're dreaming, planning, or already out exploring, we've got resources to help you every step of the way.
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
Comments