Vandalia, the second capitol of Illinois, is steeped in history. Built in 1836, it is the oldest Illinois State Capitol building. The Federal-style white building which served as the Illinois State Capitol from 1836-1839 is impressive with its high ceilings, tall windows and vintage furnishings. At the top of the broad, curving staircase are the Senate and House of Representatives chambers, where Abraham Lincoln began his historical political career for the grand sum of $4 a day.

Today, the Statehouse draws more than 30,000 annual visitors. Visitors may take guided tours or they may walk through the building at their own leisure. Exhibits include display boards that have copies of documents from Illinois' early days and Lincoln's tenure as a state representative in Vandalia. Visitors will walk on the same floorboards where the future President once had. The Vandalia Statehouse also holds to major events each year. On Father's Day weekend, the Grande Levee is held on the Old State Capitol grounds. The three day celebration is a recreation of the social life of Vandalia during its tenure as the Illiniois State Capitol. The Grande Levee features a ham and beans dinner, period artisans display their crafts and give demonstrations, plus, entertainers give performances throughout the event. Each December, the Statehouse is bathed in candlelight for the historic site's Christmas Open House. That annual holiday event features candlelight tours of the building, period music and refreshments.