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History & Culture

History & Culture

Downstate Illinois Historical Sites

Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! There is no shortage of historic sites in our region, and we know that history buffs are always on the lookout for places that they haven’t explored yet. With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 21 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 

Fayette County Museum

 Vandalia, Illinois
The museum contains Lincoln-era memorabilia and artifacts of the people living in the county. Of special interest i...more!

Historic National Road Scenic Byway

 Vandalia, Illinois
The National Road is called the "road that built the nation" because it was the first highway in American history. ...more!

Illinois Central Railroad Riverwalk

 Vandalia, Illinois
Walk along the former historic Illinois Central Railroad to the beautiful scenery that is the Kaskaskia River. You ...more!

Kaskaskia Dragon

 Vandalia, Illinois
The side of the highway seems like the least likely place to spot a fire-breathing dragon... but not in Vandalia! Y...more!

Lincoln Marker

 Vandalia, Illinois
On a large natural stone in the Park, you can see the trail reported to have been used by Abraham Lincoln and other...more!

Lincoln Park

 Vandalia, Illinois
Located across the street from Illinois' Oldest State Capitol, the park features a life-size bronze statue of A...more!

Little Brick House

 Vandalia, Illinois
The house is filled with china, furniture, engravings and books belonging to settlers during the time Abraham Linco...more!

Looking for Lincoln Storyboards

 Vandalia, Illinois
Ten storyboards depicting Abraham Lincoln's early years as a legislator are installed around Vandalia. Find out abo...more!

Madonna of the Trail

 Vandalia, Illinois
This is one of 12 statues in the U.S. honoring the pioneer women who traveled along the National Road....more!

National Road Interpretive Center

 Vandalia, Illinois
Learn the history of travel and transportation in the early days of our country through interactive maps, exhibits ...more!

Old State Cemetery

 Vandalia, Illinois
Bronze markers give biographical information about prominent citizens from the earliest history of the community....more!

Vandalia State House

 Vandalia, Illinois
The Vandalia State House, built in 1836, is the fourth capitol building of the U.S. state of Illinois. It is also t...more!

Downstate Illinois Events

Downstate Illinois Events

Explore Our Event Calendar
Whether you’re looking for a festival, marathon or something family-friendly to bring the kids to, Downstate Illinois has something for everyone. The region hosts over 900 events each year, and we pride ourselves on providing the most accurate event information so that you don’t miss a thing.
Travel Ideas

Travel Ideas

Check Out Our Blog
From outdoor recreation and adventure to foodies and family fun, we have the trip ideas to plan the perfect vacation.
Road Trip Itineraries

Road Trip Itineraries

21 Counties made for Road Trips
Downstate Illinois was made for road trips! With the help of our road trip itineraries, you can discover all that our 21 counties have to offer — from family fun to outdoor adventures and shopping sprees. 
Check out our calendar of events!
Money Shoot

Money Shoot

 February 3, 2025 - August 29, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
North American Outfitters | Highland, IL
DIY Watercolor Class: Cherry Blossoms

DIY Watercolor Class: Cherry Blossoms

 February 6, 2025 @ 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Warren James Winery | Mattoon, IL
John Cariani's Love/Sick

John Cariani's Love/Sick

 February 7, 2025 @ 7:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Charleston Community Theatre | Charleston, IL

View Entire Events Calendar

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