The resort towns of West Baden, Ind. and French Lick, Ind. are located about two hours south of Indianapolis. The drive is quicker now that more progress has been made on I-69.
The resorts attracted the rich and famous in the early 1900s as guests were attracted by the lavish hotels and mineral springs. After falling into disrepair, they are attractions again.
The grounds feature stables, a baseball field, walking track, gardens and more.
The resort is neighboring French Lick features a non-smoking casino.
French Lick is the hometown of Indiana basketball legend Larry Bird, and it's impossible to spend time in the town without seeing references to him. My favorite sign was at French Licks Ice Cream Shop where a door to the kitchen was labeled "Employees Only Or Larry Bird."
There is great golf in the area as well as a water park. We enjoyed a 1:45 ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway. The ride travels through the Hoosier National Forest and includes a half-mile tunnel, the second-longest in Indiana.
Posts
