French Lick lies in the south-central part of the Midwestern state of Indiana. The original French trading post was built at the site of a salt lick, giving the town its unique name. Hometown of NBA legend Larry Bird and frequent vacation spot of Al Capone, Clark Gable and the famous Roosevelt, Truman and Kennedy families, French Lick is know today as one of the Midwest's premier resort, spa and casino towns.
French Lick offers visitors two choices for luxury accommodations. The French Lick Springs Hotel was established in 1845, and parts of the current structure were built in 1901. The nearby West Baden Springs Hotel, built in 1902, is a National Historic Landmark. Both hotels offer extensive spa services, including mineral baths in the Pluto Mineral Springs water. In addition, the hotels offer riding stables, a 24-hour casino and elegant dining.
French Lick Resort
8670 West State Road 56
French Lick, IN 47432
West Baden Springs Hotel
8538 West Baden Avenue
West Baden Springs, IN 47469
888-936-9360
frenchlick.com/hotels/
Throughout the history of French Lick, casinos and gambling operations have played a significant part in the local economy. Due to Indiana state laws against gambling during the second half of the 20th century, the casinos operated either underground or were closed down by law enforcement. Today, the French Lick Casino enjoys its status as one of the premier and most historical casinos in the Midwest, having obtained a license from the Indiana Gaming Commission in 2005. The casino is open 24 hours a day, and offers a wide variety of slot machines and table games.
French Lick Casino
8670 West State Road 56
French Lick, IN 47432
888-936-9360
frenchlick.com/casino/
The area surrounding French Lick is known for its beautiful landscapes and clear water sources. Visitors to the town can canoe or kayak down the beautiful Blue River, fish or hike at Spring Mill State Park, or ski in the winter at Paoli Peaks. In addition to the natural outdoor venues, the area offers two major theme parks/water parks: Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort and Holiday World and Splashin' Safari.
For train enthusiasts and novices alike, the Indiana Railway Museum offers a glimpse into the glory days of the locomotive. For only $14 for adults and $7 for children, you can experience an almost two-hour ride in vintage cars through the Hoosier National Forest and the 2200 Burton Tunnel. Throughout the year, special train rides are offered, including train robbery tours and evening dessert trains.
Indiana Railway Museum
1 Monon Street
French Lick, IN 47432
800-74-TRAIN
indianarailwaymuseum.org
