Things to Do at French Lick Resort

If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway in the Midwest, French Lick Resort in French Lick, Indiana, is a splendid destination. This sweet town is near the Hoosier National Forest and is located in a picturesque setting. As you arrive, you are drawn in by the beauty and magnificence of the property and the surrounding forests.
What makes French Lick Resort a perfect place to take your family for the weekend? Let me share our favorites with you in this ultimate family guide to French Lick Resort. FULL DISCLOSURE: Visit French Lick West Baden CVB hosted us.

Rooms at French Lick Resort

First things first, picking out your accommodations. We are a family of 5 travelers, and so we need a bit of room to spread out. When we picked out our lodging, I chose a traditional guest room. These are 385 sq. ft and offer various configurations. You can choose from one king, one queen, two queens, or two double beds. Our room had two double beds, and we had a roll away brought. Each room comes with the things you would expect in a hotel room, adjustable thermostat, alarm clock radio, flat-screen TV, hairdryers, in-room coffee and tea, iron and ironing board, and on-demand movies.

Admittedly, in retrospect, I would upgrade to the premium guest room. It is 450 sq. ft and offers a bit more space for your family to spread out.

If your budget allows you to go even bigger with a suite guest room or a specialty suite. These offer more amenities like refrigerators, sitting area, and wet bars.

Things to Do Indoors at French Lick Resort

One thing that I loved about our stay here was the opportunity to go from French Lick to West Baden whenever I felt like it! You can use both locations, and that is a real bonus.

Indoor Pools and hot tubs: 

Our family utilized the indoor pool at French Lick, and we had a great time. The pool here has a dolphin water fountain that gives a place for kids to play in the falling water. For the bigger kids, they provide a water volleyball net and balls. We had a rousing game going on for one evening, and I am sure it was a sight to see.

Of course, we took some time to unwind in the hot tub as well!

Shopping:

Browsing the shops was a fantastic evening activity to do! We wandered around, checking out all the unique stores located within French Lick Resort. Most of the stores are located on the same floor and in easy walking distance of one another. You’ll find local artisans wares in Indiana Artisans Originals, and The Signature Shop offers all the one-of-a-kind fun stuff for you to have! I bought a hand-thrown French Lick Coffee mug to add to my collection.

Other stores you can check out are:

  • Chastain’s
  • Disinger Jewelers & Gifts
  • Siebert’s Shop for Men
  • Refined
  • Landmarks Emporium

Indiana Landmark Tours: Historical Tours

“French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel are two amazing examples of historic preservation in the Hoosier State. Thanks to Indiana Landmarks historical tours, guests can learn about the resort’s rich history that dates back to 1845.” I was bummed we did not have time for this tour during our stay. I will want to do this on my return trip in the future.

Tours are 60-75 minutes, and tickets can be purchased at the Landmarks Emporium shops located in each hotel. You can buy combo tickets for $27 for adults and $10

Bowling Alley and Arcade:

We spent a little time here! My kids love to take on their dad in the arcade. While the arcade is not huge, it offers some indoor fun when you are dealing with a rainy day or evening time fun. The bowling alley was excellent, and it was such a unique feature to the hotel. How often can you bowl right on the premise of your hotel?

KidsFest:

KidFest is the go-to-hangout for kids! This is a parent’s favorite amenity to French Lick, and it is a perfect spot to let the kids go and have fun while you get some adult R and R.

Things to Do Outdoors at French Lick Resort

Things to Do Outdoors at French Lick Resort

Hiking:

We love hiking, and there are some spectacular trails here on the property! You can explore the resort property on foot and take time to rejuvenate in nature. There are ample wildlife and plenty of phenomenal birding to enjoy.

Maps can be found at the Valley Links and Golf Learning Center. A complimentary bird-watching rack card can be picked up at the concierge desk at both French Lick and West Baden Springs Hotels.

Trail 1 – Moderate (1.5 miles) – Begin at the Valley Links Golf Course parking lot and hike along Sand Creek into the hills of Hoosier National Forest.

Trail 2 – Rugged (5.1 miles) – Trailhead located west of Monon Drive on West County Road 25 South.

Trail 3 – Rugged (3.8 miles) – Trailhead located west of Monon Drive on West County Road 25 South. Access this section through Trail 2.

Ferguson Trail (1 mile) – A paved path connects French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel.

Bike Rental:

Biking can be so much fun! I saw families piled on biking throughout the resorts. It looked like a great “team building” experience. The surreys were so adorable and looked like a perfect afternoon activity.

Horseback Riding and Carriage Rides:

Abbie and I took to the trails for a late afternoon trail ride. We were impressed with all the horses, and I think it was the cleanest stable I have ever been in. We took a leisurely ride through the woods and saw about ten deer while we were out. If you have time, put this on your to-do list!

FootGolf:

I love FootGolf! Footgolf is using a soccer ball to score points just like if you were golfing. You don’t use golf irons, just your foot. French Lick offers 18 holes played on the Valey Links course. If you don’t know what FootGolf is, now is the time to learn and try it out.

Trolley Ride:

“Like many French Lick Resort treasures, the trolley’s history spans many decades, starting in 1903. In 2014, trolley service returned more than 100 years after it was first launched in French Lick and West Baden.”

What a historic return! There is undoubtedly something special about this trolley; make time to take a ride.

Places to eat at French Lick Resort

Everyone loves to eat, and you have your choice of dining at Frech LicHowever, taking kids to lovely places can ruin the ambiance! Since we were with the kids, we ate at the family-friendly locations, but I have to tell you I was dying to try the other place!

Family Friendly:

Power Plant Bar & Grill

This is the perfect place for sandwiches and pizza! While eating here, you will notice the large electrical switchboard that once powered the French Lick Springs Hotel.

Spring No. 8

Perfect for an afternoon snack or drink while you sit by the pool. It’s easily accessible when you are outdoors riding bikes or taking a hike around the property.

The Grand Colonnade Restaurant

Great for breakfast! I enjoyed eating in the former ballroom where Franklin D. Roosevelt gained support for his presidential nomination. Plenty of made-to-order items or make use of the buffet/cafeteria-style dining option.

Pluto’s Pizzeria

Our boys love pizza, and they got some take-out for the room one evening. This is located near the bowling and arcade, which makes it easy for a quick dinner while playing as a family.

Ballard’s in the Atrium (West Baden)

You could say this is casual dining with an upscale twist! It was a perfect evening for us, and we enjoyed every morsel. I have to say the dessert was my highlight.

Fine Dining:

1875: The Steakhouse:

I have to mention this because I was dying to eat there. Matt and I tried to get a reservation for dessert and coffee, but there was no availability. The menu looked amazing, and the smells coming out of there when I walked by made my mouth water. I want to get here again so I can dine there. It has been added to my foodie bucket list.

French Lick offers plenty to do off-site as well. You can take a trip on the French Lick Scenic Railroad, take a spin on some indoor Karting or enjoy some time with animals at Wilstem Animal Park. This is more than just a vacation. It is a family adventure! If you’re looking for a day trip away from the resort try Squire Boone Caverns.

French Lick Resort has everything you need to have a great family vacation all in one spot. It’s about as “all-inclusive” as you can get in the Midwest! We made so many wonderful memories while we were there and look forward to returning sometime in the future. We hope your time there is as enjoyable as ours was.

Happy Adventures,

Brandy

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