Visit Where Lincoln Once Walked – Vandalia, IL, the 2nd State Capitol of Illinois

Photo © Courtesy of Vandalia Illinois Tourism

Visit Where Lincoln Once Walked – Vandalia, IL, the 2nd State Capitol of Illinois

Standing in the foyer of the Old State Capitol, one might expect a young Abraham Lincoln to come bounding down the winding staircase after a House of Representatives session. As Illinois’s oldest remaining state capitol building, this landmark sits proudly at the crossroads of the National Road (U.S. 40) and U.S. Route 51—a trip into the early days of American democracy.

What many don’t know is that it was here, in Vandalia, that Lincoln took some of his first steps toward greatness. He proposed to Mary Owens before meeting Mary Todd, crossed paths with political rival Stephen Douglas, and made his first public stand against slavery— all within these walls.

Across the street from the Capitol is Lincoln Park, which features a life-size bronze statue of Abraham Lincoln designed by world-renowned Lincoln sculptor John McClarey. A short stroll north leads to the Fayette County Museum, housed in a historic Presbyterian church built in 1867. This National Register of Historic Places site showcases Lincoln-era artifacts, including an original paper press from the Capitol and a hand tool believed to have belonged to Lincoln himself, etched with the initials “A.L.”

One block west on 5th Street, stop by the National Road Interpretive Center. As the terminus of America’s first federally funded highway, Vandalia played a key role in early transportation.

The Center’s interactive exhibits are a unique way to learn about early infrastructure and the pioneers who brought it to life.

On the corner of the Old State Capitol Lawn, visitors can find the Madonna of the Trail Statue.

This statue, one of 12 along the National Road, was donated by the Daughters of the American Revolution to honour the women who walked behind the wagons to open the West.

Vandalia isn’t just a place for history buffs; It is also a thriving community of quaint shops, new restaurants, patios, and period-style lights and benches, making for a relaxing downtown experience. Many of the shops and restaurants are locally owned.

Witness Distillery, located South of the Capitol, offers tours for a behind-the-scenes look at how their spirits are crafted, and a stop at the Whiskey Underground offers a chance to sample their creations. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop to take home a bottle of your favourite spirit.

Charters Patio is another local favourite—from live music in the summer to year-round outdoor events, it’s a great spot to kick back and enjoy the community atmosphere.

Just south of the downtown area, visitors can walk along the former historic Illinois Central Railroad to the beautiful scenery of the Kaskaskia River. Start at the trailhead behind the Fayette County Health Department at 416 W. Edwards Street and follow the path dotted with informative “Did You Know?” signs that take you through the area’s history—including Lincoln’s ties to the railroad.

If you’re up for more adventure, make your way to Lake Vandalia, a 660-acre lake just northwest of the city. With swimming, camping, boating, and fishing facilities, there’s something for everyone. The lake is home to various fishing tournaments and the Annual Fireworks Display each year in July sponsored by the City.

No trip to Vandalia is complete without a stop at the Kaskaskia Supply Fire-Breathing Dragon—a 35-foot dragon that comes to life with glowing eyes and fiery breath, shooting flames 16 feet into the air. Located at the corner of Veterans Avenue and Rock Island Avenue, this unique attraction is a hit with kids.

For a more peaceful experience, head to the Dutch Prairie Mennonite Shops and Settlement Area, just southeast of the city. Over 20 businesses on the prairie produce handcrafted items, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade furniture and rugs. Stop by the country store for a homemade lunch, and don’t miss their Saturday special: soft pretzels.

Whether you come to retrace Lincoln’s steps or to take in the tranquillity, Vandalia is the right choice. For a complete calendar of events and operating hours, call 618-283-1152 or visit vandaliaillinois.com