Plan your next weekend getaway in Indiana’s territorial past, located in Vincennes and Knox County. Indiana’s first city, Vincennes, is best known for its rich history dating back to Indiana’s early days as a US Territory. This quaint, historical town is the perfect getaway for history enthusiasts.
Vincennes also has a wide variety of agri-tourism locations including orchards, berry farms, farm markets, and a local winery. The laid-back community provides the perfect place for a relaxing weekend getaway for two or the entire family!
Where to Eat:
Breakfast at Graze
Stop for breakfast at Vincennes newest restaurant, Graze. Graze 1885 is a locally owned bakehouse, café and wine bar in one of Main Street’s most historic buildings. They offer a wide selection for breakfast on their menu, including their scrumptious cinnamon rolls, pastries and wide variety of coffees.
Lunch at Pea-Fections
Pea-Fections is a locally-owned, charming restaurant in Vincennes. The delicious lunch menu will satisfy any appetite, with four daily soups and gourmet salads and sandwiches. You can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. Complete your dining experience with one of their unique cheesecakes or specialty tortes.
Dinner at Procopio’s Pizza & Pasta
During your stay, treat yourself to a local gem for dinner. Procopio offers delicious and authentic Italian food, including signature appetizers, salads, sandwiches, pasta, and pizza. Although you can’t go wrong, the Basil Pasta with a Greek Salad is sure to hit the spot.
What to Do:
George Rogers Clark National Historic Park
The George Rogers Clark National Historic Park will be one of the most memorable stops on your trip. The park features a massive granite memorial which commemorates the conquest of the Old Northwest Territory.
It is the largest national monument outside of Washington, D.C. and is located on the site of the former British Fort Sackville, which was captured by Colonel George Rogers Clark and his army of 170 frontiersmen and Frenchmen. The moment of the fort’s surrender on February 25, 1779 marks the birth of the United States north of the Ohio River. Visitors will also enjoy park tours, exhibits, a gift shop, and a 30-minute movie presentation.
Indiana Military Museum
Spend the afternoon wandering around the Indiana Military Museum in Vincennes, Indiana. The museum has one of the most outstanding displays in the Midwest spanning the Civil War through WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Desert Storm, and current engagements.
Exhibits include an authentic WWII Homefront and WWII barracks from George Field, military aircraft, vehicles, artillery, uniforms, related artifacts, and more.
After visiting the Indiana Military Museum, head over to The Red Skelton Museum of American Comedy. This museum celebrates the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest comedians, Richard Bernard Skelton.
The interactive museum focuses on sharing Red’s life as well as his characters, such as Freddie the Freeloader and Clem Kadiddlehopper, whom he brought to life through his radio and television shows.
Where to Sleep:
Affordable Accommodations
To complete your stay in a beautiful wooded setting, consider staying at the Cabins at Ouabache Trails Park. Just two miles north of Vincennes on the Wabash River, the park features 4 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for children.
Spend a weekend relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. Guests will enjoy utilizing the open-air shelter houses, artillery range, and nature center. Mountain bikes are also available for rent. Families can stay in one of the four modern rental cabins, 9 tent areas, or 35 RV sites.
Better Boarding
If you’re looking for a more historical place to stay, the Reily Home Bed & Breakfast is exactly what you’re looking for. This beautifully restored historic home has four spacious bedrooms, each complete with a private bath.
Luxury Lodging
Vincennes newest hotel, Hampton Inn, is sleek and upscale, providing the ultimate comfort for travelers. The modern, non-smoking guest rooms feature one king or two queen-sized beds, a microwave, refrigerator for snacks, and an HDTV.
Free Wifi is available in every room. Guests will enjoy waking up to a free, hot breakfast with fresh-baked waffles and hearty oatmeal toppings.
