French Lick, Indiana, is often described as a hidden treasure in Southern Indiana, perfect for a weekend escape, romantic retreat, or family adventure.
Visitors are drawn to its balance of historical elegance and modern resort-style living.
Once known for mineral springs and grand resorts, it now offers a combination of luxurious hotels, cultural experiences, outdoor fun, and family-friendly entertainment.
A stay in French Lick feels like stepping into the past while enjoying every modern comfort.
Where to Stay
A visit to French Lick feels incomplete without an overnight stay, and the options provide something for every type of traveler.
Families, couples, and business professionals can all find a hotel that matches their needs, combining convenience with comfort.
Each resort offers a different atmosphere, ranging from energetic to peaceful to practical. Here’s a closer look at the accommodations available:
French Lick Springs Hotel
French Lick Springs Hotel is designed with families and active travelers in mind. Its lively environment makes it easy for guests of all ages to enjoy their time.
Entertainment is integrated throughout the resort, giving parents a chance to relax while children remain engaged.
- Bowling and arcade games at Pluto’s Alley
- Kid’s Activity Center with creative activities for children
- Outdoor lawn games for interactive fun
- Casual dining spots and live music in the lobby
Guests enjoy a blend of casual fun and resort comfort. Parents can appreciate the historic setting while children explore safe, structured activities. It is the perfect option for travelers who want constant activity paired with moments of relaxation.
This hotel is on our list of haunted places in Indiana. It is said that there is a ghost or two mingling with the guests. For ghost lovers, it’s a must-see!
West Baden Springs Hotel
@claudiacoffeytv Gilded Age flex meets Gatsby-level luxury—welcome to West Baden Springs Hotel in Indiana. Back in 1902, this place was so over-the-top they called it the Eighth Wonder of the World (because a massive domed atrium wasn’t extra enough). Over the years, it’s been a millionaire’s playground, a military hospital, and even a Jesuit seminary (talk about a plot twist). Now? It’s all about luxury, history, and seriously elite vibes in the heart of French Lick, Indiana. Would you stay here or just come for the pics? Drop a 🏛️ if this is your kind of getaway! #WestBadenSprings #GildedAgeGoals #HistoricDrip #indiana @French Lick Resort ♬ original sound – TheBluegrassLife
West Baden Springs Hotel is best known for romance, peace, and elegance. Couples searching for a retreat find everything they need in its quiet halls and luxurious design.
The world-famous atrium dome immediately captures attention and sets the tone for a stay filled with refinement.
Rooms with private balconies enhance the sense of exclusivity and privacy.
- Iconic atrium dome with awe-inspiring architecture
- Fine dining in a sophisticated atmosphere
- Balcony rooms offering peaceful views
- Live piano music that creates an elegant backdrop
Perfect for honeymoons, anniversaries, or couple’s retreats, this hotel emphasizes relaxation and romance.
Guests looking for quiet moments paired with high-end service will find it to be an unforgettable destination.
Valley Tower Hotel
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Valley Tower Hotel caters to modern travelers, especially professionals and event attendees. Located closest to the Casino and Event Center, it offers easy access for those coming for conferences, shows, or short visits.
Rooms are sleek and efficient, balancing practicality with comfort. Guests still enjoy access to the full range of resort amenities, making it a convenient choice without sacrificing luxury.
- Immediate proximity to Casino and Event Center
- Modern rooms with business-friendly design
- Access to resort facilities for relaxation after events
- Ideal option for professional stays or quick weekend trips
Valley Tower Hotel is often chosen by travelers who value efficiency and convenience but still want the perks of staying within the resort complex.
What to Do
French Lick offers more than just elegant hotels. Activities span history, wellness, outdoor recreation, fine dining, and family-friendly fun.
Visitors can enjoy quiet relaxation, hands-on adventure, or cultural enrichment all in one trip. Below are the experiences that stand out and make a stay truly memorable.
Explore the Historic Resorts
@frenchlickresort “What exactly does #FrenchLickResort consist of?” Jeff’s here to break it down for you, with a quick history lesson and a surprising fun fact! 🏨 #AskTheHistorian ♬ original sound – French Lick Resort
French Lick and West Baden Resorts are filled with history, each building telling its own story of elegance and prosperity during the early 1900s.
Indiana Landmarks provides guided tours that reveal the fascinating legacy of mineral springs, Pluto Water, and the glamorous guests who once frequented these halls.
- Guided tours showcasing architecture and history
- Stories of Pluto Water and its role in the area’s fame
- Gardens and scenic pathways behind French Lick Springs
Walking through these spaces allows guests to connect with a fascinating era while appreciating the grandeur that has been preserved.
Take a Ride on the Rail Trolley
A visit is not complete without experiencing the historic rail trolley that connects French Lick Springs and West Baden Springs.
Operating on an original 1900s line, the trolley is a living piece of history still in motion today. Guests enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in the scenery between the two resorts.
- Authentic early 1900s experience
- Free transportation between resorts
- Scenic and family-friendly attraction
It is especially enjoyable for first-time visitors who want to capture the spirit of the town in a simple and memorable way.
Relax & Rejuvenate
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Luxury and wellness are central to the resort experience.
Guests seeking rest can spend hours at the full-service spas, where mineral baths, massages, and signature treatments provide complete rejuvenation.
Indoor and outdoor heated pools offer year-round relaxation, while hot tubs add to the indulgence.
- Mineral baths drawing on historic spring traditions
- Massages and body treatments tailored for relaxation
- Heated pools available indoors and outdoors
- Hot tubs designed for peaceful unwinding
Solo travelers and couples often consider spa visits the highlight of their stay, giving them a chance to disconnect and recharge.
Get Outdoors
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French Lick also caters to outdoor enthusiasts. Trails, horseback riding, and scenic gardens encourage visitors to embrace nature at a comfortable pace.
Both active adventurers and those seeking tranquil walks find plenty to enjoy.
- Horseback riding at The Stables with guided tours
- Scenic hiking and biking trails for all skill levels
- Walking paths through formal gardens and natural areas
- Outdoor games such as lawn sports and casual activities
Southern Indiana’s hills provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure.
Indoor Fun for All Ages
The weather never limits activities in French Lick. The resort complex offers entertainment designed to keep both children and adults happy.
Guests looking for shopping, live music, or hands-on games can find plenty to fill an afternoon.
- Bowling and arcade games at Pluto’s Alley
- Shopping at resort boutiques and artisan shops
- Seasonal events, cultural performances, and live music
Families, couples, and groups all find something enjoyable to do without stepping outside.
Fine Dining Experiences
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Dining in French Lick is a highlight in itself, with options ranging from casual meals to refined culinary experiences.
Guests can plan a romantic dinner, a family outing, or a quick bite without leaving the resort.
- Sinclair’s: fine dining with historic ambiance
- Ballard’s in the Atrium: casual elegance paired with live music
- 1875: The Steakhouse for classic steakhouse dining
- Grand Colonnade Restaurant for variety in a spacious setting
- Power Plant Grill for quick, laid-back meals
Every appetite is satisfied, whether guests seek upscale flavors or fast convenience.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Families visiting French Lick discover attractions designed with children in mind.
Seasonal programming ensures that every visit feels special. Parents appreciate the combination of fun and education in a safe setting.
- Kid’s Activity Center with games and crafts
- Holiday events such as scavenger hunts and breakfast with Santa
- Gingerbread house building during the festive season
- Wilstem Wildlife Safari, a drive-through animal park just a short drive away
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Children stay entertained, while parents enjoy watching them create lasting memories.
Golf & Sporting Activities
Sporting options in French Lick go far beyond the traditional. Golfers, shooting enthusiasts, and fitness-minded travelers all find outlets to stay active during their stay.
- Valley Links Golf Course with nine holes and footgolf
- Sporting Clays, a 75-acre shooting range designed for all skill levels
- Fitness centers with modern equipment
- Lawn games and casual outdoor activities
Guests who love sports and competition find the resorts packed with options that make every day feel rewarding.
Nearby Attractions & Day Trips
Not every highlight of French Lick is contained within the resort walls. Surrounding towns and attractions offer opportunities that bring even more depth to a getaway.
Wildlife encounters, local wineries, cultural heritage, and nearby cities create a variety of options for those who want to experience more during their stay.
Wilstem Wildlife Park in Paoli
A short drive to Paoli brings visitors to Wilstem Wildlife Park, a favorite among animal enthusiasts. The park is best known for its drive-through safari, where guests remain in their car while passing by giraffes, zebras, bison, and other exotic animals.
Families find it exciting for children, while couples enjoy the novelty of seeing such wildlife in Southern Indiana.
In addition to the safari, the park also offers hands-on encounters with animals, seasonal programs tailored to families, and educational experiences centered on conservation and care.
A visit here provides an adventurous alternative to the luxury atmosphere of the resorts, making it a refreshing addition to the trip.
Winery Tours
Southern Indiana has gained recognition for its wineries, with French Lick Winery serving as a central attraction.
Guests often spend an afternoon sampling locally crafted wines while learning about the region’s winemaking traditions.
Guided tastings paired with flavorful meals create a complete experience, and the winery’s gift shop offers an opportunity to bring home a taste of the visit.
Couples appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, while groups find it an enjoyable outing that encourages conversation and shared memories. A winery tour creates a slower rhythm to balance more energetic activities at the resorts.
Dubois County and German Heritage
For those drawn to cultural experiences, Dubois County provides an enriching day trip filled with history and tradition.
The area is noted for its strong German heritage, reflected in its historic landmarks like churches, community festivals, and distinctive architecture.
Visitors are often impressed by the way local events celebrate these traditions, offering an authentic look at the county’s roots.
Museums and cultural programs add an educational dimension, while local restaurants and bakeries highlight traditional flavors.
Spending time in Dubois County gives travelers a connection to Southern Indiana’s heritage while staying within easy reach of French Lick.
Day Trips to Nearby Cities
Guests who wish to broaden their itinerary can consider longer day trips to nearby cities.
Jasper is well known for its arts community and lively downtown, making it an inviting stop for those who enjoy culture paired with small-town warmth.
Patoka Lake offers a completely different experience, centered on fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation that immerses visitors in nature.
Evansville, the largest of the nearby destinations, provides a more urban flavor with shopping districts, diverse dining options, and cultural institutions that range from museums to theaters.
These city excursions complement the French Lick experience, offering balance between resort luxury and the varied character of Southern Indiana.
Summary
French Lick, Indiana blends history, resort luxury, and small-town atmosphere into a destination suited for all travelers.
Guests find grand architecture, relaxing spa treatments, wildlife safaris, fine dining, and endless activities.
Couples fall in love with its elegance, families appreciate the variety, and adventurers discover both outdoor trails and indoor fun.
Once visited, it becomes a place travelers are eager to return to for new experiences and lasting memories.
