Vincennes Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and stay in Vincennes, Indiana with this comprehensive travel guide. From historical places and natural attractions to hiking and biking routes, this guide has got it all.


Introduction to Vincennes

Vincennes is a historic city in Southwestern Indiana, nestled along the Wabash River. Founded in 1732, it is the oldest city in Indiana and was once the capital of the Indiana Territory. Today, Vincennes is known for its rich history, charming downtown, and beautiful natural scenery. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to see, do, eat, and stay in Vincennes.

List of Places to Visit in Vincennes

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. George Rogers Clark National Historical Park – Located in the heart of Vincennes, this park commemorates the Revolutionary War hero and his victory over the British. Visitors can tour the memorial, see ancient artifacts and exhibits, and watch a short film about Clark’s life.

  2. Vincennes State Historic Sites – This complex features several historical buildings, including the Old State Capitol, the Governor’s Mansion, and the Jefferson Academy. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the city’s role in early American history and see artifacts from that time period.

  3. Grouseland – This 200-year-old mansion was once the home of William Henry Harrison, the first governor of the Indiana Territory and later the ninth President of the United States. Today, it is a museum showcasing the life and times of Harrison and the early pioneers who settled in the area.

Natural Attractions of Vincennes: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy – This museum honors the life and work of comedian Red Skelton, a Vincennes native. Visitors can see memorabilia from his career and even try their hand at performing on a replica stage.

  2. Wabash Riverfront – Take a stroll along the banks of the Wabash River and enjoy views of the water and beautiful countryside. The riverfront features a paved trail for walking or biking, as well as picnic areas and a playground.

  3. Gregg Park – This 22-acre park offers hiking trails, a disc golf course, basketball and tennis courts, and a fishing pond. It is an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with family and friends.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vincennes

  1. Wabash Heritage Trail – This 13-mile trail runs along the Wabash River and connects Vincennes to nearby towns. It is open to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders and offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding countryside.

  2. Kimmell Park Trail – This 1.5-mile trail winds through Kimmell Park and offers scenic views of the Wabash River. It is a popular spot for walkers and joggers and is easily accessible from downtown Vincennes.

  3. Fox Ridge Nature Park Trails – These trails wind through a 90-acre nature preserve and offer a chance to see wildlife and natural beauty up close. The park features a variety of trail options, from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

Best Things to Do in Vincennes: Activities and Tours

  1. Vincennes Farmers Market – Held on Saturdays from May through October, this market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. It is a great place to support local farmers and artisans and sample some of the region’s delicious food.

  2. Vincennes River Walk – Take a guided tour of the city’s historic riverfront and learn about the role Vincennes played in American history. Visitors will see landmarks like the Clark Memorial and the old Vincennes Bridge and learn about the river’s importance to the local economy.

  3. Historic Vincennes Ghost Tour – This nighttime tour takes visitors through the city’s haunted locations, including the Grouseland mansion and the Old Cathedral Cemetery. Participants will hear spooky tales and learn about the city’s supernatural history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vincennes

Day Activities
1 Tour the George Rogers Clark National Historical Park and visit the Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy
2 Explore the Vincennes State Historic Sites and take a walk along the Wabash Riverfront
3 Hike one of Vincennes’ scenic trails, such as the Fox Ridge Nature Park Trail
4 Visit the Gregg Park and enjoy a picnic or play some basketball
5 Take a tour of the historic Vincennes downtown and visit the Old Cathedral
6 Sample local produce at the Vincennes Farmers Market and enjoy a scenic bike ride
7 Take a spooky Historic Vincennes Ghost Tour and see the city’s haunted locations

Food and Drink Scene of Vincennes

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sugar Cream Pie – This traditional Indiana dessert is a rich and creamy pie made with sugar, cream, and a hint of vanilla.

  2. Fried Biscuits – These delicious biscuits are deep-fried to crispy perfection and served with honey butter.

  3. RiverFront Tacos – This local food truck serves up delicious tacos with a variety of fillings, including chicken, pork, and vegetarian options.

Local Beverages

  1. Oliver Winery – This award-winning winery produces a variety of wines using grapes grown in the Midwest. Visitors can sample their wines and enjoy a scenic view of the vineyards.

  2. Pea-Fections Distillery – This local distillery produces a range of spirits, including bourbon, gin, and rum. Visitors can take a tour of the facilities and sample their delicious drinks.

Where to Stay in Vincennes: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Hampton Inn & Suites – This modern hotel features comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.

  2. GreenTree Inn & Suites – This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, as well as an indoor pool and spa.

  3. GUEST House at Brum Woods – This cozy guesthouse is located in a peaceful wooded area and offers a quiet retreat for travelers.

What to Buy in Vincennes: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Old Vincennes Soaps – This local soap maker produces handmade, all-natural soaps in a variety of scents.

  2. Artisans Gallery – This shop features unique handmade crafts and gifts from local artists.

  3. French Lick Winery Tasting Room – Take home a bottle of delicious wine or other local products from this tasting room in downtown Vincennes.

Local Culture and Customs of Vincennes

Vincennes is a friendly and welcoming community, with a strong appreciation for the area’s rich history and natural beauty.

Best Time to Visit Vincennes

The best time to visit Vincennes is in the spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and crowds are smaller. The summer months can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vincennes

Do:

  1. Do visit the city’s historical sites and museums to learn about its rich history.

  2. Do try the local food and drinks, including sugar cream pie and RiverFront Tacos.

  3. Do be respectful and courteous to locals and fellow travelers.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter or damage natural areas when exploring hiking trails and parks.

  2. Don’t drive recklessly or park in restricted areas.

  3. Don’t be overly loud or disruptive in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vincennes

Vincennes is a safe and welcoming city, but visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

Health in Vincennes

There are several medical facilities in Vincennes, including Good Samaritan Hospital and Vincennes Immediate Care. Visitors should also be aware of ticks and other outdoor hazards during hikes and outdoor excursions.

Getting to Vincennes: Transportation Options and Logistics

Vincennes is easily accessible by car, located just off of routes 41 and 50. The nearest airport is Evansville Regional Airport, which is about an hour’s drive to the south. Visitors can also take a Greyhound bus to Vincennes.

Airports Near Vincennes

  1. University of Illinois Willard Airport – Located about two hours’ drive from Vincennes in Champaign, Illinois, this airport offers daily flights to several major cities.

  2. Indianapolis International Airport – About two hours’ drive to the north of Vincennes, this airport offers flights to domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Vincennes

  1. Greyhound – This bus station is located in downtown Vincennes and offers daily service to and from several nearby cities.

Other Options

  1. Car Rentals – Visitors can rent a car from several major rental companies at airports or in nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Vincennes

Vincennes is a walkable city, and many attractions are located within easy walking distance of each other. Visitors can also take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to get around town.

Where to Go Next from Vincennes: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. French Lick – This nearby town is known for its historic hotels, excellent golf courses, and casino.

  2. Hoosier National Forest – This scenic forest offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities, as well as stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.

  3. Evansville – This larger city to the south of Vincennes offers a variety of cultural attractions, including theaters, museums, and art galleries.

Conclusion

Vincennes is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering a rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and delicious local cuisine. We hope this comprehensive travel guide helps you plan your visit to Vincennes and enjoy all that this fascinating city has to offer.

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