Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Located in southern Indiana less than 90 minutes south of Indianapolis and an hour north of Louisville, French Lick was once celebrated for its natural mineral springs. Home of the historic West Baden Springs Hotel, French Lick has been called “the playground of the Midwest.” While adults have enjoyed the luxurious French Lick Resort, the addition of an indoor water park in the area has created a playground for kids as well.
Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park and Resort offers year-round family fun. The 40,000-square-foot indoor water park is adjacent to a smoke-free, 154-room hotel. Water park attractions include Buccaneer Bay, a three-story water play zone for the entire family, the Jolly Roger Jetty body slide, the adults-only hot tub oasis Palm Cove, a splash pool for younger guests and tube slides. An arcade and restaurants are also available. Day passes are limited so hotel reservations are recommended. Park hours vary by season.
Travel the tracks on historic railway cars through a small part of southern Indiana including the Hoosier National Forest and the 2,200 foot Burton Tunnel. The Indiana Railway Museum regularly runs a 20-mile round trip journey from French Lick to Cuzco. Special train excursions including staged train robberies, and holiday events are held at special times and dates. Drinks and snacks are available on the train and in the museum gift shop. Discounts are offered for large groups and field trips.
Open daily, Pluto’s Alley is a six-lane bowling alley located in the lower level of the French Lick Springs Hotel. Pluto’s Alley also features an arcade with video games and pinball machines, and Pluto’s Pizzeria serves up calzone, Stromboli and pizza. Parents can unwind with a cocktail at Pluto’s Bar.
French Lick West Baden Indoor Karting brings go-carting indoors on its 1,250-foot indoor road course. Adult and Junior go-carts are available. Children must be 48-inches - approximately 8 years old - to drive a junior go-cart, and a parental consent form must be signed. A helmet head sock is required and available for a small fee. Rental shoes are also available.The facility is open daily and includes arcade games and a restaurant.
Hike, bike or ride horseback with the kids through the 12.7 mile Spring Valley trail in the Hoosier National Forest. The Spring Valley trail head is approximately seven miles south of French Lick. Surrounding the 140-acre Spring Valley lake, the trail also features primitive camping, a boat ramp and picnic facilities.