It was sold to the Society of Jesus, where the Jesuit priests removed many of the hotel’s lavish decor, capped off the natural springs, and ran the hotel as a seminary for 30 years. The West Baden Springs Hotel soon turned from luxurious to dismal as the hotel traded hands after the stock market crash of 1929. The hotel was completed in 9 months, and at the time, the dome was the world’s largest free-span dome which stretched 200 feet. However, Sinclair used the fire as an opportunity to build his dream luxury resort which was modeled after the grandest spas of Europe. Sinclair purchased the West Baden Springs Hotel, only to have it destroyed by a fire in 1901. John Lane built a health resort a mile up the road and named it Mile Lick Inn, which later would be changed to West Baden Springs.

William Bowles built the French Lick Springs Hotel, which began to attract wealthy and prominent vacationers.įive short years later, Dr. The area of French Lick Indiana rose to fame as guests flocked to partake of the “miracle waters” from the natural sulfur and mineral springs. French Lick does have a small municipal airport. The nearest airport to French Lick, Indiana, is Louisville, KY. For those driving, many opt to take I-64 over country highways.įrom Lousiville, KY, the drive is roughly an hour.

Where Is French Lick, Indianaįrench Lick is in Orange County, Indiana, in the state’s southern portion.

We want to thank the French Lick Resort and Visit French Lick West Baden for sponsoring this post. This article highlights the best things to do during your visit to French Lick, Indiana. Between the incredible amenities at the resort and nearby attractions, French Lick is a great place for families, couples, and getaways with friends. The iconic atrium of the historic West Baden Springs Hotel at the French Lick Resort lures visitors to this luxury hotel tucked away in the southern hills of Indiana. On the hunt for the top things to do in French Lick, Indiana? You have come to the right place!

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