10 Fun Things to Do in French Lick Indiana
There is so much to do in the fabulous Midwest town of French Lick, Indiana!
My mom and I recently enjoyed a two-day trip to French Lick and had a wonderful time taking in many of the attractions. While this list is far from exhaustive, I hope that by sharing my list of 10 Fun Things to Do In French Lick, it will inspire you to plan your own getaway!
1. Go Wine Tasting
If you have followed Traveling Tanya for long, you know I never pass up an opportunity to go wine tasting! I had visited the French Lick Winery several years ago on a trip with friends, but I was excited to take my mom this time around.
We bellied up to the bar for a tasting and we both found several varieties that we loved.
With such fun names and cute bottles, we couldn’t resist buying a few to take home! Rhuby Razz was the winner for me, and my mom snagged a bottle of Pretty in Pink.
You can enjoy an unlimited number of tastes for just $6!
The French Lick Winery is also a distillery, but we decided to stick to wine on this outing.
We did take time to go on the tour of the winery and distillery and would highly recommend it if you have the time.
The knowledgeable staff will share the history of this family-owned business and educate you on the wine and spirit-making process. All of which just makes their award-winning elixirs taste even sweeter (or dryer, depending on how you like them)!
2. Do Some Gambling
While not a high-stakes gambler, one of my mom’s favorite activities in retirement is visiting the casinos. And that is what initially brought us to French Lick.
One of the perks of hanging out in casinos is the freebies they often give to their loyal visitors. My mom had earned a free night’s stay at the French Lick Resort, and I was more than happy to be her traveling companion!
The casino at French Lick has a fun history from its underground days to the lobbying it took to get a sanctioned casino that would draw crowds to the resorts.
While we didn’t come home big (money) winners on this trip, we did enjoy some time testing our luck at the slots, along with the free coffee and soda provided.
For me, I like that this casino is moderately sized. There are plenty of machines to choose from, but not so many that I got lost in a sea of flashing lights.
I love that this casino is smoke-free…that’s a huge draw for me!
3. Wander Around the French Lick Resort
We had a lovely room at the French Lick Resort, but this is not the kind of hotel where you spend all your time in your room. There is so much to explore and opulence is everywhere!
You may want to grab a map because it is easy to get lost…this place is huge!
From the ornate lobby to the multiple sitting areas throughout the resort, there is something to see around every corner. Spend time roaming the wide hallways and exploring every inch of this impressive resort. Then lounge in a velvet chair with a good book…ahh vacation!
And don’t forget to look up! The chandeliers and ceiling masterpieces are not to be missed.
4. Ride the Rail Trolley
For a bit of nostalgia, take a ride on the rail trolley that runs between the French Lick and West Baden resorts.
The rail trolley station is located by the casino’s entrance and it operates daily between noon-8pm. Just hang out in the small covered station and before you know it the trolley will be coming down the track.
It is just a mile between resorts so it is a short but scenic ride along the resorts’ beautiful parks and gardens.
It’s free to ride the rail trolley…making it fun and affordable for all ages!
The other rail trolley station is just outside the entrance to West Baden resort, so you can’t miss it.
5. Wander Around the West Baden Resort
It is debatable as to which resort is better, but while you are visiting French Lick I highly recommend that you wander around both resorts. Then you can decide for yourself!
Even though we stayed at the French Lick Resort, the rail trolley made it so easy to hop over to West Baden.
We later learned that the previous owners went head-to-head trying to outdo each other on their competing resorts. While the results of that competitive spirit paid off in spades, I was happy to hear the two resorts now play very well together and are actually owned by the same company.
The West Baden Resort has an overall smaller footprint, but it is no less spectacular. The drive into the resort signals of the luxury that awaits.
The exterior of the West Baden Resort is nothing short of breathtaking!
The rocking chairs on the wraparound porch overlooking the lush gardens beg visitors to slow down and enjoy the beauty that abounds.
Inside this impressive resort, you will want to take in the grandeur of the massive atrium. This is a great spot to grab a cocktail or a bite to eat (more on that in a bit), or simply lounge in luxury.
My mom and I thoroughly enjoyed the live piano music as we watched the color-changing lights atop the atrium’s dome. And we dreamed of returning and staying in one of West Baden’s suites with a balcony overlooking the atrium!
Be sure to venture beyond the atrium to the circular hallway that will lead you to a small museum where you can take in more of the history of this impressive resort.
6. Roam Around the Gardens
Don’t leave the resorts without roaming the grounds outside!
During our visit, the area had experienced heavy rains and some of the parks were underwater (not uncommon for this time of year). But we still found plenty of ornate gardens worthy of strolling. The gardens outside of West Baden were tranquil and well-manicured.
At French Lick, it would be easy to miss the beautiful gardens and mineral springs that are located behind the resort. (Aren’t you glad you read this article and won’t miss this hidden gem?!)
While you may smell the faint odor of sulfur, seeing the lush landscape surrounding the springs more than makes up for it.
We learned all about the history of these healing springs during our tour (keep reading).
The waters helped “clean people out”, so there also used to be plenty of outhouses on the grounds for when the waters “kicked in”.
I can only imagine the rich and elite gathering in this beautiful setting to “take the waters” and heal what ailed them!
Don’t worry, the outhouses have long since been removed and there are immaculate restroom facilities just inside.
And don’t drink the water, as that custom is a thing of the past! But for many years Pluto Water, derived from the springs in French Lick, were known as America’s Greatest Laxative and sought after by many (until the sale of Pluto Water halted in the 1970’s when one of the springs minerals, lithium, was deemed a controlled substance).
7. Take an Indiana Landmarks Tour
With so much history to uncover in French Lick, a guided tour with Indiana Landmarks should be at the top of your to-do list!
My mom and I were absolutely delighted with the 75-minute tour we took of the French Lick Resort (currently offered at noon, Tuesday-Saturday; $15 for adults and worth every penny).
I must confess that many of the historical tidbits I’ve incorporated into this article were gleaned from our very knowledgeable and passionate tour guide, Stephanie!
She brought many of the photographs and relics showcased throughout the resort to life as she regaled us with the entrepreneurial spirit of the resort’s previous owners and its escalating decadence over the years.
We enjoyed this tour so much, I decided I need a return visit so I can take the guided tour of West Baden!
Check out all the available tours offered at both resorts on the Indiana Landmarks website, and note the times and offerings based on the time of year you plan to visit.
8. Indulge in Fine Dining
All good trips include great food, and French Lick offers tons of great dining options.
While there is a popular German restaurant in town as well as a steak house and a Hawaiian restaurant (just to name a few), we found plenty of fabulous restaurants without even leaving the resorts.
If you really want to splurge, indulge in fine dining at 1875: The Steakhouse or Sinclair’s. Or partake of the decadent breakfast buffet at the Grand Colonnade.
For more casual eats consider Spring No. 8, the poolside restaurant, or Pluto’s Pizzeria. Many of the eateries at the resorts also offer the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail or mocktail.
Mom and I selected Ballard’s Bar at West Baden for dinner as it allowed us to linger in the lovely atrium.
Both the ambiance and the meal were top-notch!
We enjoyed french onion soup…in French Lick, Indiana…and it was sublime!
We were too full for dessert, but in addition to the sweet offerings at all of the restaurants, Xanadu Coffee & Creamery is a great option for satisfying your sweet tooth. French Lick Mercantile also dishes up some sweet treats as well as lighter breakfast fare, which suited us just fine the next morning.
9. Lounge by the Pool
When you are ready to relax, why not go for a dip in one of several pools found at both resorts?!
Both indoor and outdoor heated pools are available with plenty of deck space for lounging.
We opted for the hot tub, and it proved to be just what our sore muscles needed during our very active trip!
If you are looking for even more pampering, check out the luxurious spa services offered at both resorts. Or if you are in the mood for some competitive family fun, visit the bowling alley and arcade in the basement of the French Lick Resort.
There are tons of activities in French Lick that will appeal to travelers of all ages and interests!
10. Go on a Drive-Through Safari
I’ve saved the most unique activity for last!
Having recently been on a safari in Africa, I was a bit shocked (and skeptical) to learn that Indiana has a drive-through safari, just 7 miles outside of French Lick in Paoli, Indiana. I had to check it out…and it was quite the wild ride!
Wilstem Wildlife Park is home to more than 40 species of animals, many of which roam the expansive grounds.
For the drive-through safari, we were given a map of the route through the park, instructions on when we were allowed to open our windows, and containers of feed.
We set off on our safari adventure and were soon approached by several hungry emus!
I’ll admit we were hesitant to open our windows at first, preferring to admire the many animals we encountered from the comfort and safety of our vehicle. We did eventually brave our fears and fed some adorable llamas.
Along the path we saw camels, bison, longhorn steer, zebras and many more forms of wildlife…
…very up close and personal!
After driving through the park we also enjoyed the Roos and Crew Barn where we saw various kinds of monkeys, reptiles, kangaroos, and more.
While the drive-through safari was the right option for us, Wilstem offers several kinds of animal encounters. For big groups or those who are a bit less inhibited, consider the guided wagon tour and let an experienced guide lead the way…with no windows to obstruct your view and feeding of the animals!
Ready to plan your trip to French Lick?
Discover Southern Indiana can provide even more ideas on attractions, dining, and lodging whether you are planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a guys or girls’ weekend. There is so much to do in French Lick!
Wherever the road takes you, make it a joyous journey,
Traveling Tanya
I’d like to extend a HUGE thank you to Kristal and Discover Southern Indiana for hosting our trip and for all the Hoosier Hospitality! As always, all opinions expressed are my own.
P.S. Subscribe to my email list here and never miss out on any of Traveling Tanya’s exciting excursions or travel tips…plus I’ll send you my free Packing List!
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