Vicennes Indiana
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Vincennes State Historic Sites Vincennes

4.8
·25 reviews·Vincennes, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
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Vicennes Indiana

Vincennes State Historic Sites Vincennes

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.8
(25 reviews)

"We enjoyed the buildings and the information as the tour guide took us from building to building and explained the town."

Vertical photo
TIP

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!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Indiana Territory Capitol

Indiana Territory Capitol

Original Territorial Capitol Building

Explore the 'Red House,' the oldest major government building in the Midwest and Indiana's first capitol.

Instagram
Elihu Stout's Print Shop

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.

Instagram
French Colonial History

French Colonial History

Various reconstructed buildings

Immerse yourself in the French influence on territorial Indiana and its early frontier life.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Vincennes State Historic Sites offers a deep dive into Indiana's territorial past. Plan for at least 2-3 hours to explore the reconstructed buildings and learn about early American frontier life. Consider booking guided tours in advance, especially during peak season, to maximize your historical immersion. Instagram

Navigating the Sites

The historic sites are spread across Vincennes, with key locations like the Indiana Territory Capitol and Elihu Stout's Print Shop. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking between buildings. Reddit Check the official website for current hours and any special event schedules to make the most of your visit.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal tours
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Renaissance fair & more!
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@wildrosevincennes
23.2K likes • 1.1M views

Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:

You'll be walking between historic buildings, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. Reddit

Book Guided Tours :clipboard:

Knowledgeable guides bring history to life and answer all your questions. Highly recommended! Reddit

Mistaken Identity of Flight 655 ✈️ • • ✈️: Iran Air Flight 655 📹: Air Crash Investigation Season 3 Episode 6 • • On 3 July 1988, during the Iran–Iraq War, the USS Vincennes launches missiles which bring down Iran Air Flight 655, killing all 290 people on board. The crew of the Vincennes claimed that they mistook the airliner for an Iranian Air Force Grumman F-14 Tomcat fighter, but Iran believes t...
@aircrashdaily
3.8K likes • 134.9K views
Experience the place where Indiana had its beginnings. Walk through Indiana’s oldest city, learn about the French influence on territorial Indiana, explore the original territorial capitol building – considered the oldest major government building in the Midwest – and more during your adventure to Vincennes State Historic Sites. #indianaexplored #indianastatemuseum #vincennes #indianaterritory #...
indianamuseum
55 likes • 0 views

Check Hours Online :computer:

Verify operating hours and tour availability before your visit to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Combine with Other Sites :world_map:

Vincennes has a rich history; consider visiting other related sites for a fuller experience. TikTok

The Indiana Territory Capitol building was known as the “Red House” because of its exterior color. The capitol building was originally on Main Street in #Vincennes, but the building was moved four times throughout its life. It has been used as a tailor shop and other multiple businesses – even a home at one point. The first floor is where the House of Representatives met, and the second floor is w...
indianamuseum
54 likes • 0 views

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. Reddit

Book Guided Tours :clipboard:

Knowledgeable guides bring history to life and answer all your questions. Highly recommended! Reddit

Check Hours Online :computer:

Verify operating hours and tour availability before your visit to avoid disappointment. Instagram

Combine with Other Sites :world_map:

Vincennes has a rich history; consider visiting other related sites for a fuller experience. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(25 reviews)

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

Knowledgeable tour guides
Educational historical insights
Stepping back in time

What People Dislike

Unclear tour boundaries

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Many visitors opt to drive between the sites. Consider downloading an offline map or using a GPS app to navigate the city. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

🎫 🧭 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. Instagram+1

Yes, guided tours are highly recommended. Knowledgeable guides provide in-depth historical context and answer visitor questions, making the experience very educational. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions within certain buildings or exhibits. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

Picnicking might be allowed in designated outdoor areas, but check the site's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages. TikTok

Local recommendations often include diners and casual restaurants in the downtown Vincennes area, offering a taste of local flavor. TikTok

While some historic sites may have a small gift shop with limited refreshments, dedicated cafes are uncommon. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The historic buildings, especially the Indiana Territory Capitol and the print shop, offer great architectural shots. The grounds themselves also provide scenic backdrops. Instagram+1

Professional photography equipment or tripods may require special permission. It's best to inquire with the site management beforehand. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed, but flash photography might be prohibited inside certain buildings to protect artifacts. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the historic architecture. TikTok

It's polite to ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially if they are in costume or actively portraying historical figures. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Vincennes State Historic Sites can be an engaging educational outing for families. While younger children might need encouragement to appreciate the historical details, older kids and teens can find the stories of frontier life, early printing, and territorial government quite interesting. TikTok The hands-on aspects of the print shop recreation and the visual appeal of the historic buildings can capture their attention. Consider focusing on the more narrative-driven parts of the tours to keep them engaged. TikTok

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. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Enthusiasts

For those with a deep interest in history, Vincennes State Historic Sites are a must-visit. You'll delve into the foundational period of Indiana, exploring its territorial capital, early printing press, and the French colonial roots that influenced the region. Instagram+1 The knowledgeable tour guides are a significant asset, providing detailed insights and answering complex historical questions. Reddit

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. Instagram

📸 Photographers

The historic architecture of Vincennes State Historic Sites offers numerous picturesque opportunities. The Indiana Territory Capitol, with its distinct 'Red House' appearance, and the charming details of Elihu Stout's Print Shop are prime subjects. Instagram+1 The best light for capturing the buildings' character is often during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon. TikTok

Advice: Be mindful of any restrictions on flash photography inside buildings. While personal photography is generally allowed, professional shoots might require prior arrangements. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Indiana Territory Capitol: A Seat of Power

The Indiana Territory Capitol, often called the 'Red House,' stands as a significant landmark at Vincennes State Historic Sites. It's considered the oldest major government building in the Midwest and served as the center of political power for the Indiana Territory. Instagram Originally located on Main Street, this building has been moved multiple times throughout its history, adapting to the evolving needs of the growing community. It has even served various commercial purposes, including a tailor shop and private residences, before being preserved as a historical site. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

Elihu Stout's Print Shop: The Birth of Indiana Journalism

Elihu Stout's Print Shop is a meticulously recreated space that brings to life the origins of Indiana's first newspaper, the Indiana Gazette. This site offers a fascinating look into the laborious process of 19th-century printing. Instagram Visitors can learn about the terminology associated with printing, such as 'upper and lower case' and 'proofreader,' terms that originated from the physical setup of the printing press. Instagram

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. Instagram 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. Instagram

Significance: This site highlights the importance of early journalism in shaping public opinion and connecting communities across vast distances. Instagram+1

Vincennes: A Melting Pot of Cultures

Vincennes State Historic Sites offer a unique opportunity to explore where cultures clashed and blended to form the Indiana Territorial frontier. Long before Indiana achieved statehood, Vincennes was a vibrant hub where French, Native American, and later American influences converged. Instagram This historical narrative is woven throughout the sites, showcasing the complex interactions that shaped the region's identity.

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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