Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Vincennes, Indiana

One of the oldest settlements west of the Appalachians, and the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in Indiana, Vincennes is a city that was established in 1732 by French fur traders.

At the commencement of the 19th century, this city served as the capital of the Indiana Territory, where the future 9th President William Henry Harrison (1773-1841) held the position of governor.

It was from Vincennes that Harrison commanded a force against Tecumseh’s confederacy during the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811, thereby establishing a reputation that would ultimately contribute to his future election as president.

Vincennes continues to embody this historical legacy, prominently displayed at the Harrison Mansion, in Indiana’s oldest Catholic church, at various monuments from the era when this was a territorial capital, and at the sites of forts that experienced significant events during the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812.

1. Grouseland (Harrison Mansion)

William Henry Harrison’s residence during his tenure as Governor of the Indiana Territory (1800-1812) is an elegant Federal-style structure, preserved as a National Historic Landmark.

Constructed from red brick and completed in 1804, this two-story building would have been striking compared to the rudimentary log cabins that characterized the Vincennes townscape at that time.

Grouseland, allegedly named for the plentiful grouse that inhabited the property, served more than simply as a residence; it played a critical role in the social fabric of the territory and functioned as a stronghold during periods of unrest.

The interior, observable during a guided tour, is adorned with period furnishings and personal items that illuminate the life of the 9th President.

2. Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy

One of America’s most cherished entertainers of the 20th century originated in Vincennes in 1913.

Beginning his career on showboats in the 1920s to support a family that had lost its father prior to his birth, Skelton would eventually embark on a prolific 70-year career, also establishing himself as a talented painter of clowns.

Skelton’s widow bestowed a substantial collection of memorabilia and personal items to Vincennes University, which formed the foundation for an engaging interactive museum that debuted in 2013, coinciding with what would have been his centennial birthday.

The central exhibition, Red Skelton: A Legacy of Laughter, encompasses a hands-on timeline of his life and career, an introduction to physical comedy, a theater showcasing highlights from his television and film career, and an array of memorabilia featuring costumes from iconic characters such as Freddie the Freeloader and Clem Kadiddlehopper.

3. George Rogers Clark National Historical Park

Located on the riverside at the historic site of Fort Sackville is a magnificent granite rotunda that commemorates the remarkable achievements of George Rogers Clark (1752-1818) during the winter of 1778-79.

During the Illinois Campaign, he led 170 frontiersmen and Frenchmen on a courageous march northward from Kaskaskia on the Mississippi, confronting frigid floodwaters along the way.

His successful capture of Fort Sackville on February 25, 1779, allowed the newly established United States to gain control over a vast territory encompassing present-day Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Clark’s march and victory is recognized as one of the paramount accomplishments of the American Revolution.

The rotunda is embellished with 16 fluted Doric columns. Beneath the dome resides a bronze statue of Clark, and the walls are decorated with seven murals illustrating the 18-day journey.

4. St. Francis Xavier Cathedral and Library

Esteemed since 1826, this Greek Revival basilica is, in fact, the third church constructed on this site. The oldest was a rudimentary log structure with a bark roof, established around 1732.

This current edifice is the oldest Catholic church in Indiana, featuring an impressive arched ceiling supported by lofty Doric columns.

Noteworthy are the murals painted by Wilhelm Lamprecht (1838–1922) displayed above the high altar, the Blessed Mother altar, and the Saint Joseph altar.

The cathedral is the focal point of a complex that includes a cemetery housing approximately 4,000 early citizens of Vincennes, as well as a rectory (1841) and a library (1840).

The latter is the oldest in the state, preserving around 10,000 rare volumes and documents dating back to the 14th century.

The museum located here showcases an array of fascinating artifacts, with notable items including Lincoln’s campaign banner, a peace pipe utilized by Governor William Henry Harrison, maps from the 18th and 19th centuries, Shawnee chief Tecumseh’s war club, and prehistoric stone tools excavated from the area.

5. Indiana Military Museum

This museum in Vincennes boasts one of the nation’s most distinctive collections of military artifacts and memorabilia.

This impressive assortment spans multiple centuries, from the American Revolution to the conflicts in Afghanistan, encompassing everything from field equipment to firearms, artillery, vehicles, uniforms, insignia, flags, battlefield souvenirs, and much more.

While perusing the extensive array of weapons, visitors will encounter metal-tipped Native American arrows, flintlock rifles, Philippine swords from the Spanish-American War (1898), a British 60-pounder field gun, a massive eight-inch gun, and a WWII twin machine gun turret from a PT boat.

Additionally, the preserved WWII-era barracks from George Field, a pilot training facility located a few miles away in Lawrenceville, IL, add further interest.

6. Ouabache Trails Park

The largest recreational area in the vicinity is situated a short distance up the Wabash River from Vincennes. Comprising predominantly rolling woodlands, Ouabache Trails Park encompasses over 250 acres.

The arboreal environment supports a diverse variety of birdlife, including red-headed woodpeckers, barred owls, and various warblers that may be observed during your visit.

Visitors can explore the park’s habitats via over four miles of trails, while families will appreciate the availability of three playgrounds within the park.

Furthermore, extensive camping accommodations are available, featuring 35 RV sites and nine tent areas, along with four modern cabins that can be rented year-round.

7. Vincennes State Historic Sites

Adjacent to Grouseland and on the periphery of the Vincennes University campus are further reminders of Vincennes’ rich history. The Vincennes State Historic Sites encompass several significant structures and locations within the city.

Among the most noteworthy is the Indiana Territorial Capitol (a red building), which served as the governmental seat for the Indiana Territory from approximately 1800 to 1813.

This unassuming two-story frame structure was relocated to its current location in 1949. Along the same row, several replica buildings can be found, including an 1830-style log cabin that houses a visitor center and a reproduction of the Jefferson Academy building (1801), which serves as the predecessor to Vincennes University.

Also included is the Elihu Stout Print Shop, recreating the 1804 headquarters of the Indiana Gazette and featuring an authentic Ramage press from that era.

8. Kimmell Park

Named in honor of the mayor at the time, this park along the Wabash River was inaugurated in 1938 and is perfect for passive recreation within close proximity to downtown Vincennes.

Kimmell Park was a Works Progress Administration (WPA) initiative, and several remnants from that era still remain, including a limestone shelterhouse and a walled circular seating area with built-in ovens.

The park has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 2013 and is suitable for tranquil picnics and fishing, with a riverside trail connecting this area to the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park located two miles away.

9. Fort Knox II

Situated three miles up the Wabash, near Ouabache Trails Park, is the location of another early outpost for Vincennes. Constructed in 1803, Fort Knox II replaced the earlier fort of the same name established in 1787.

The second fort was strategically positioned at a river landing, providing commanding views of the Wabash. In late 1811, this site served as the rallying point for Governor Harrison’s troops prior to their march to Prophetstown and the Battle of Tippecanoe, and later became the location where they returned with several mortally wounded.

As the War of 1812 progressed, Fort Knox II was deemed insufficiently located to safeguard the settlement and was subsequently floated downriver to be rebuilt near the site of Fort Knox I.

Today, the original location of Fort Knox II is recognized as both a national and state historic site, marked with short posts and interpretive boards.

10. Old State Bank

One of the Vincennes State Historic Sites, the venerable Old State Bank building is located at 114 N. Second Street.

Exhibiting Greek Revival architecture, this structure was the Vincennes branch of the Indiana State Bank, constructed in 1838 by local contractor John Moore. Prominent features include the portico accentuated by four large Doric columns.

A historical marker is situated outside, and visitors wishing to explore the interior and learn more about the history of the edifice and the State Bank of Indiana may do so.

11. Rainbow Beach Family Aquatic Center

Gregg Park, located east of downtown, features Vincennes’ outdoor pool complex, which operates from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.

It’s readily apparent why Rainbow Beach has become a family favorite, boasting two twisting water slides, a zero-depth play area, a splash pad, and a lap pool.

Parents can enjoy relaxation on sun loungers beneath the shade of large canopies. Rainbow Beach has been a local attraction since the Depression era when initially constructed by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).

12. Lincoln Trail State Memorial

Located directly across the Wabash River from Vincennes is the site where, in 1830, Abraham Lincoln is believed to have first entered Illinois. At that time, he was traveling with his father Thomas and about 12 members of his extended family.

They likely crossed the river utilizing a flatboat or ferry, before continuing their journey northwest to Decatur, where they established their first homestead in the state, and the point where Abraham split from his family.

The sculpture group memorializing this location was installed in 1938 and designed by Nellie Walker (1874-1973). This monument, a bas-relief crafted from Bedford limestone, depicts the moment the family disembarked along with their livestock. In the foreground stands a bronze representation of Abraham Lincoln at the age of 21.

13. Charlie’s Caramel Corn & Candy Shop

This award-winning provider of premium candy has been operational since 1955. Prior to that, founders Mr. Charles and Mrs. Lorethea Hamke garnered acclaim for their delectable caramel corn after introducing it to Charles’s colleagues.

Before long, residents across town became curious about the renowned treat and began visiting following Lorethea’s advertisement in the local newspaper.

Nearly 70 years later, the company continues to be cherished for its caramel corn, produced from the same recipe, and offers an extensive array of chocolates, seasonal specialties, and gift baskets. The turtles (chocolate-dipped pecans and caramel) are particularly indulgent.

14. Apple Hill Orchard

Located just past Ouabache Trails Park, approximately five miles from downtown Vincennes, lies a delightful orchard cultivating over 40 apple varieties.

Apple Hill Orchard serves as a summer and autumn attraction, operating from July to mid-November. During the initial months, peaches draw significant interest, available for picking until Labor Day.

The farm store, set within a quaint cabin, offers a wealth of seasonal produce cultivated on the farm, alongside apple cider, slushies, donuts, freshly baked pies, cobblers, salsas, and spices.

15. Windy Knoll Winery

You can spend a leisurely hour or two at this winery, located just outside of Vincennes amid picturesque countryside.

Windy Knoll Winery specializes in sweet varieties such as Traminette, along with fruit wines (cherry, peach, blueberry, raspberry, strawberry), all crafted in small batches.

The winery is open daily for tastings, with seating available both indoors and outdoors, allowing guests to appreciate sweeping views of the vineyards.

For a unique experience, visitors can enjoy a wine slushy, and the gift shop features crafts by local artisans.