From 1836 to 1839, the Vandalia State House served as the Illinois State Capitol. It is the oldest surviving capitol building in Illinois. In addition to state history, places throughout the county also tell the story of former transportation routes, the region’s history, and its landscape.
Capitol History and Local Historic Sites
Visitors to the Vandalia State House can join guided tours or explore the historically furnished rooms on their own. Schedules may change; check visiting hours before making plans. The first floor is accessible to visitors with disabilities, but the second floor is not. If this information is important for your visit, confirm current conditions in advance.
The Little Brick House is an example of simple Italianate architecture. Its six rooms contain period furniture, porcelain, engravings, and books. The Berry-Hall Room honors James William Berry and Judge James Hall. The Fayette County Museum offers another look at the county’s past: its ground floor is divided into ten small rooms that tell the county’s history. Four legislators and a federal judge are buried at the Old State Cemetery.
The National Road and Railroad History
The Historic National Road originally ran from Cumberland, Maryland, to Vandalia, Illinois. The National Road Interpretive Center displays a piece of wood from the original road dating to the 1830s. Tours can be arranged for schools, churches, bus tour groups, and other groups; arrange an appointment in advance.
The Farmer's Monument also commemorates local history: the black granite monument stands on the grounds of the Vandalia Illinois Tourist Information Center, near the intersection of Interstate 70 and Route 51. Different historical themes come together at various locations—the development of the state, the National Road, and the railroad.
Trails and Waterways
The Illinois Central Railroad River Walk is a flat, unpaved, scenic nature trail along a section of the former Illinois Central Railroad main line. It is just under a mile long and leads to the Kaskaskia River. Several interpretive signs along the trail explain the history of the railroad. Those interested in transportation history can encounter it right on the trail, which also passes through a natural landscape.
Vandalia Lake covers 660 acres and has 12 miles of shoreline. A boat ramp is located just south of the Kaskaskia River bridge on Route 51 and Highway 40. The figures for the lake and its shoreline give an idea of its size; the ramp provides a specific landmark for anyone looking into access to the water. Check current access conditions before your visit.
Wildlife, Parks, and Local Life
At Carlyle Lake State Fish & Wildlife Area, visitors can watch birds, fish, and hunt. The federally leased and state-owned lands together provide nearly 9,500 acres of wildlife habitat. Kaskaskia River State Fish and Wildlife Area in Fayette County offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The county’s state parks also offer opportunities for hiking and camping.
Vandalia’s parks are also part of the area’s character: six separate sites totaling 60 acres are managed by the Vandalia Park District. Local farmers' markets in Fayette County offer fresh produce and handmade goods. Since market dates may change, check the dates if a visit is part of your plans.
The Fayette County Fair celebrates the county’s agricultural heritage. Vandalia Old Tyme Christmas is a community Christmas celebration in Fayette County. If you plan to attend either event during your trip, check the dates for each. This way, you can choose from historic sites, outdoor experiences, and events that showcase different sides of the county.
Discover more destinations: St. Elmo, DeKalb, Lawrence, Pulaski County, Kendall County, DuPage, Massac County, Knox County.
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