Exterior of French Lick Resort

The History Lover’s Escape

DURATION

1 Day

AGES

All ages

COST

$

Home   /   Plan Your Visit   /   The History Lover’s Escape

Take your time exploring a county steeped in history. From the grand historic hotels used as hideaways for over a century, to the ancient forests that surround the grounds, discover the rich stories that shaped French Lick.

In A Place Where Time Seems to Stop, History is Everywhere

Take your time wandering the region exploring all sixteen National Historic Registry sites, including two stunning properties named Historic Hotels of America’s 2025 Best Historic Resort in 2025.

Tour French Lick Springs and West Baden Historic Hotels

~ 2 hrs

Visit the French Lick Railroad Museum

~ 1 hr

Take a Ride On The French Lick Scenic Railway

~ 1 hr

Stop at the Paoli Historic Courthouse Square

~ 1 hr

Explore the French Lick West Baden Museum

~ 1 hr

Visit the Restored Black First Baptist Church in West Baden

~ 1 hr

Discover Orleans’ Historic Downtown

~ 1 hr

Experience Local Craftsmanship at Bear Hollow Wood Carvers

~ 2 hrs

A train ticket salesperson waiting for the train to arrive
Sketch of West Baden Springs Dome

Tour French Lick Springs and West Baden Historic Hotels

Step back in time at two of the most iconic historic hotels in America. Grand architecture and rich history tell the story of the area’s resort heyday from the 1800s through today.

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Museum entrance with a sign waving out front

Visit the French Lick Railroad Museum

Learn all about the region’s rail history while touring vintage railcars.

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A trolley bumping down the road.

Take a Ride On The French Lick Scenic Railway

Be sure to take your chance to actually ride on a vintage railcar, too. This relaxing scenic railway experience is a great way to take in the area’s history.

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Sketch of stacked barrels

Stop at the Paoli Historic Courthouse Square

Surrounded by local shops and architecture, be sure to pause in Paoli for a charming glimpse into small-town Indiana.

Museum entrance with a sign waving out front

Explore the French Lick West Baden Museum

Exhibits showcase everything from resort history to notable local figures like Larry Bird. Not to mention a true must-see: the largest circus diorama in the world.

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Water lapping on lakeshore.

Visit the Restored Black First Baptist Church in West Baden

In 2021, restoration was completed on this culturally significant church that’s stood for over a hundred years. The site offers an important perspective on the area’s Black history.

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Sketch of an acoustic guitar leaning on a tree stump

Discover Orleans’ Historic Downtown

Stroll through Orleans’ historic downtown and admire its preserved buildings. It’s an easy stop that highlights the town’s heritage and community pride.

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Sketch of a Bear

Experience Local Craftsmanship at Bear Hollow Wood Carvers

See skilled artisans at work. Hand-carved pieces and towering sculptures showcase local craftsmanship.

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