French Lick IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near French Lick, Indiana.
1. French Lick Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION
French Lick Casino offers visitors a chance to try their luck at various gaming options in this historic resort town. The casino provides an exciting atmosphere with slot machines, table games, and other gambling activities for adults looking to add some thrill to their vacation. Visitors can enjoy the lavish surroundings while experiencing one of the top attractions mentioned by travelers to the area.
2. French Lick West Baden Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The French Lick West Baden Museum showcases the rich history of this unique Indiana destination and its famous mineral springs. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the area's past, including the heyday of its luxury resorts and the cultural significance of the region. The museum provides valuable context for understanding why French Lick became such a prominent destination in the Midwest.
3. Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort
YEAR-ROUND WATER FUN
Big Splash Adventure Indoor Waterpark & Resort delivers aquatic entertainment regardless of season in French Lick. Located at 8505 W. State Road 56, this family-friendly attraction features water slides, pools, and other water activities in a climate-controlled environment. The waterpark offers a perfect solution for travelers seeking recreation even when outdoor activities might be limited by weather.
4. Stables At French Lick
EQUESTRIAN ADVENTURES AWAIT
The Stables At French Lick provide visitors with opportunities to enjoy horseback riding experiences in the scenic Indiana countryside. Guests can take tours, meet the horses, or embark on guided trail rides through the beautiful surrounding landscape. This attraction combines the area's natural beauty with the timeless pleasure of equestrian activities for visitors of various experience levels.
5. Indiana Railway Museum
HISTORIC RAILROAD EXPERIENCE
The Indiana Railway Museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience rail travel through the picturesque Hoosier National Forest. Guests can ride the French Lick Scenic Railway, which operates from this museum and showcases the natural beauty of southern Indiana. The railway trips provide both entertainment and education about the importance of rail transportation in the region's development.
6. French Lick Resort
HISTORIC LUXURY DESTINATION
French Lick Resort combines three historic hotels - the West Baden Springs, French Lick Springs, and Valley Hotel - into a premier destination in southern Indiana. Visitors can wander around this grand complex, taking in the architectural splendor while learning about its fascinating history connected to the area's famous mineral springs. The resort offers a glimpse into America's past era of luxury spa destinations while providing modern amenities and activities for today's guests.
7. Indiana Landmarks Tours
GUIDED HISTORICAL EXPLORATIONS
Indiana Landmarks Tours provide 75-minute guided explorations of French Lick's historic properties with knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating historical details. Visitors can choose tours of the French Lick Resort, West Baden, or both, gaining insight into the entrepreneurial history and evolving luxury of these iconic destinations. These informative tours, available Tuesday through Saturday at noon, offer an enriching perspective that brings the photographs and relics throughout the properties to life.
8. Wilstem Wildlife Park
EXOTIC ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Wilstem Wildlife Park spreads across 1,100 countryside acres offering unique opportunities to meet exotic animals including elephants, giraffes, and kangaroos. Visitors can choose from various experience levels to interact with wildlife in ways not possible elsewhere in the region. The park combines animal encounters with outdoor adventure options like ziplining and ATV tours for a comprehensive recreational experience.
9. Patoka Lake
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Patoka Lake, Indiana's second-largest reservoir, offers 8,800 acres of water wonderland perfect for boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming near French Lick. Visitors can enjoy water activities, beach relaxation, or explore hiking trails surrounding this massive outdoor recreation area. The lake's nature center provides educational opportunities to learn about the area's unique wildlife, natural resources, and cultural history.
10. Patoka Lake Marina
COMPLETE BOATING EXPERIENCE
Patoka Lake Marina offers comprehensive boat rental services for visitors wanting to explore Indiana's second-largest reservoir. Guests can choose from pontoon boats, fishing boats, and other watercraft to enjoy the lake at their own pace. The marina also hosts seasonal events and specialized lake cruises that showcase the beauty of this expansive body of water.
11. French Lick Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE
French Lick Winery invites visitors to sample locally produced wines in a charming setting. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings while learning about the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of wines produced in this region of Indiana. The winery provides a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that complements the other attractions in the French Lick area.
12. French Lick Scenic Railway
HISTORIC RAIL JOURNEY
The French Lick Scenic Railway takes passengers on a memorable journey through the stunning landscapes of the Hoosier National Forest. Riders can enjoy the nostalgic experience of train travel while witnessing natural beauty that's otherwise inaccessible by car or foot. The railway offers a relaxing way to appreciate the regional terrain while learning about the historical significance of rail transportation in southern Indiana.
13. The Spa at French Lick
LUXURY WELLNESS RETREAT
The Spa at French Lick offers visitors a chance to indulge in luxurious treatments including massages, facials, and the legendary Pluto Mineral Bath. Guests can experience the famous mineral waters that initially made French Lick a sought-after destination for wellness seekers. The spa combines historical therapeutic traditions with modern relaxation techniques in an elegant setting within the historic resort.
14. Valley Links Golf Course
ACCESSIBLE GOLFING EXPERIENCE
Valley Links Golf Course offers a 9-hole walkable course that welcomes golfers of all skill levels at the French Lick Resort. The course provides a unique foothole option that combines soccer and golf for an innovative sporting experience. Families particularly appreciate that children 12 and under can golf for free, making it an accessible activity for visitors of all ages.
15. Paoli Peaks
WINTER SPORTS ADVENTURE
Paoli Peaks transforms the rolling hills of southern Indiana into a winter sports destination offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing not far from French Lick. Visitors can enjoy seasonal snow activities that contrast with the region's warmer-weather attractions, providing year-round recreational options. The facility caters to winter sports enthusiasts of all skill levels, making it a family-friendly option during the colder months.