
Vincennes State Historic Sites Vincennes
Explore Indiana's territorial capital, where French colonial history meets early American frontier life. Discover historic buildings and the birth of ...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Pleasant weather for exploring

Vincennes State Historic Sites Vincennes
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Indiana's territorial capital, where French colonial history meets early American frontier life. Discover historic buildings and the birth of Indiana's first newspaper.
"We enjoyed the buildings and the information as the tour guide took us from building to building and explained the town."

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking between historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Book Guided Tours :clipboard:
Knowledgeable guides bring history to life and answer all your questions. Highly recommended!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indiana Territory Capitol
Original Territorial Capitol Building
Explore the 'Red House,' the oldest major government building in the Midwest and Indiana's first capitol.

Elihu Stout's Print Shop
Recreation of original print shop
Discover the origins of Indiana's first newspaper, the Indiana Gazette, and learn printing terms.

French Colonial History
Various reconstructed buildings
Immerse yourself in the French influence on territorial Indiana and its early frontier life.
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Planning Your Visit
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Navigating the Sites
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking between historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Book Guided Tours :clipboard:
Knowledgeable guides bring history to life and answer all your questions. Highly recommended!
Check Hours Online :computer:
Verify operating hours and tour availability before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Combine with Other Sites :world_map:
Vincennes has a rich history; consider visiting other related sites for a fuller experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
You'll be walking between historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.
Book Guided Tours :clipboard:
Knowledgeable guides bring history to life and answer all your questions. Highly recommended!
Check Hours Online :computer:
Verify operating hours and tour availability before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Combine with Other Sites :world_map:
Vincennes has a rich history; consider visiting other related sites for a fuller experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who bring Vincennes' rich history to life. Many appreciate the educational value and the opportunity to step back in time, learning about Indiana's territorial beginnings and French colonial influences. Some visitors noted a slight confusion regarding which homes were part of the tour, suggesting clearer signage or communication about separate ticketed areas.
"We had a wonderful tour guide. She was so knowledgeable and answered all out questions."
Glenda Pimentel
"Pretty interesting place. Didn't know about the history so I learned a lot on my visit."
Marty McMann
"My wife and I and another couple came to check out the history related to Vincennes. We enjoyed the buildings and the information as the tour guide took us from building to building and explained the town, the buildings and the history surrounding the area. It was really neat to see and to learn about the capital of the northwest territory."
Dr. Aaron Campbell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vincennes State Historic Sites are located in Vincennes, Indiana. The sites are spread out, so it's best to drive or use a ride-sharing service to navigate between them. Parking is generally available near the main visitor areas.
Public transport options within Vincennes itself may be limited. It's recommended to have a car or plan for ride-sharing services for convenient access to the various historic locations.
Many visitors opt to drive between the sites. Consider downloading an offline map or using a GPS app to navigate the city.
The closest major airports are in Evansville, Indiana (EVV) and Terre Haute, Indiana (HUF), both of which are about an hour's drive from Vincennes.
While some sites are relatively close, others are spread out. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, but you may need transportation to efficiently visit all locations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees can vary depending on the specific sites and any special exhibits or tours. It's best to check the official Vincennes State Historic Sites website for the most current pricing information.
While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets or booking guided tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or for popular times to ensure availability.
Operating hours can vary seasonally and by individual site. Always consult the official Vincennes State Historic Sites website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit.
Information on combo tickets or passes is typically available on the official website. These can sometimes offer savings if you plan to visit multiple sites within the historic area.
Some areas of the grounds may be accessible without a ticket, but entry into specific buildings, exhibits, and guided tours will likely require admission. Check the website for details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the Indiana Territory Capitol, Elihu Stout's Print Shop, historic homes, and learn about French colonial history and early Indiana life.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides provide in-depth historical context and answer visitor questions, making the experience very educational.
A thorough visit, including guided tours and exploring the various buildings, can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours or more, depending on your interest level.
The sites offer an educational experience that can be engaging for older children and teens interested in history. Younger children might find it less captivating unless part of a specific family-oriented program.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions within certain buildings or exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, historic sites like this do not have extensive dining facilities. It's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to eat at nearby restaurants in Vincennes.
Vincennes offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to local eateries. You can find various cuisines to suit your preferences after your visit.
Picnicking might be allowed in designated outdoor areas, but check the site's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
Local recommendations often include diners and casual restaurants in the downtown Vincennes area, offering a taste of local flavor.
While some historic sites may have a small gift shop with limited refreshments, dedicated cafes are uncommon.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic buildings, especially the Indiana Territory Capitol and the print shop, offer great architectural shots. The grounds themselves also provide scenic backdrops.
Professional photography equipment or tripods may require special permission. It's best to inquire with the site management beforehand.
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but flash photography might be prohibited inside certain buildings to protect artifacts.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the historic architecture.
It's polite to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially if they are in costume or actively portraying historical figures.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Look for any special family-friendly programming or events that might be happening during your visit. Wearing comfortable shoes is essential for everyone, as there will be walking involved.
📚 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
Recommendation: Allocate ample time for your visit to fully absorb the information. Consider researching William Henry Harrison's role as the first governor of the Indiana Territory before your visit to add another layer of context.
📸 Photographers
Advice: Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography inside buildings. While personal photography is generally allowed, professional shoots might require prior arrangements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Indiana Territory Capitol: A Seat of Power
Walking through its halls offers a tangible connection to the early days of Indiana's governance. You can envision the debates and decisions made within these walls that shaped the future of the state. The site provides a crucial glimpse into the administrative and political landscape of the frontier era, highlighting Vincennes' pivotal role in territorial development.
Key takeaway: This building is a testament to Vincennes' historical importance as the first capital of the Indiana Territory and a hub of early American governance in the region.
Elihu Stout's Print Shop: The Birth of Indiana Journalism
The Indiana Gazette played a vital role in disseminating news across the territory, though much of its content was reprinted from larger East Coast newspapers. News traveled by horseback, taking about a month to reach Vincennes, underscoring the isolation and communication challenges of the time. The recreation of Stout's shop allows visitors to appreciate the dedication and skill required to produce printed materials in an era before modern technology.
Significance: This site highlights the importance of early journalism in shaping public opinion and connecting communities across vast distances.
Vincennes: A Melting Pot of Cultures
The French colonial heritage is particularly evident, with reconstructed buildings and exhibits detailing the early French settlements and their impact on the area. Understanding this French influence is key to grasping the full historical context of Vincennes and its role in the development of the Midwest.
Key insight: The sites provide a nuanced perspective on frontier history, moving beyond a single narrative to embrace the diverse cultural tapestry that defined early Indiana.


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