French Lick Resort: Award-Winning Resort Close to Home

French Lick Resort in Indiana was recently named the “Best Historic Resort” in Historic Hotels of America® Awards of Excellence.

Each year, Historic Hotels of America honors and celebrates the most exemplary historic hotels, hoteliers, and leadership practices through this exclusive awards program. The Historic Hotels of America Awards of Excellence are presented to historic hotels and hoteliers demonstrating innovative leadership, stewardship and contribution to furthering the recognition, preservation, and celebration of these preeminent historic hotels and their histories. Fifteen historic hotels received this recognition from Historic Hotels of America in 2025.

Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across the United States of America.

“We are delighted to honor French Lick Resort with this prestigious award. It was chosen from an exclusive group of nominees and considered for several categories. It stands among the finest hotels and hoteliers in the world,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “We applaud the dedication and passion of the individuals working at these iconic and legendary historic hotels, the people who keep the stories alive from the past and make staying or celebrating special occasions at these historic hotels memorable experiences.”

The “Best Historic Resort” honor is presented to a property that best celebrates its history in the guest experience and provides exceptional customer hospitality and service.

“We thank our guests for sharing in this outstanding honor from Historic Hotels of America, because their loyalty has helped French Lick Resort stand the test of time,” said Chuck Franz, French Lick Resort’s Chief Executive Officer. “It’s remarkable to walk around and see guests enjoying the resort the same way they did more than 100 years ago — rocking on the French Lick Springs Hotel veranda or relaxing under the West Baden Springs Hotel dome. History is such an important part of our story, and we take pride in integrating that legacy into the guest experience today.”

French Lick Resort is a $600 million historic restoration and casino development project that includes West Baden Springs Hotel, French Lick Springs Hotel, Valley Tower Hotel and French Lick Casino. This Midwest premier resort destination features 756 guest rooms and suites; 24/7 gaming at French Lick Casino; 54 holes of golf including the fully restored 1917-designed Donald Ross Course at French Lick and the 18-hole Pete Dye Course at French Lick. After all these activities, you might enjoy some pampering at one of their two full-service spas. There is also an array of dining and entertaining options available.

Lovers of History Take Note

If you like historic buildings, this resort may be for you. Just under a three hour drive from Cincinnati, a trip to the French Lick Springs Hotel or the West Baden Springs Hotel truly feels like you are stepping back in time. The atrium at the West Baden Springs Hotel is perfect for both a family photo or a Instagram post.

In the area, you can visit the French Lick West Baden Museum which is home to the world’s largest circus diorama, exhibits about local history and fine art. Through from the late local artist, Lois A. Doane (1894-1989). Doane, using a variety of media, created art from pieces of her parents former boarding house. the results are candid and colorful. On display through July 4, 2026.

The Hagenbeck Wallace Circus of 1915-1935 is represented in the diorama. It was headquartered in West Baden Springs from 1915-1929.

For souvenirs or treats, head to the adjacent French Lick 5 & 10. Here, you can find books about area history, post cards, toys games and more.

All aboard! The French Lick Scenic Railway offers scenic and specialty tours for both children and adults. Grown-ups might enjoy its bourbon, wine and chocolate tasting events and the kids can ride a Polar Express-themed train during the winter holidays.

Lovers of the great outdoors might want to carve out some time to explore the trails in the Hoosier National Forest. Its 204,000 acres are a local treasure. There are over 260 miles of trails available as well as equestrian trails. Climbing, caving, or even a relaxing picnic can all be on your itinerary.

For more information about the area, visit: https://www.visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com