As Spring blooms in Southern Indiana, travelers seeking a scenic weekend escape can find it in the charming resort community of French Lick West Baden and its neighboring towns of Orleans and Paoli. From the vibrant Dogwood Trees to delectable culinary adventures and hometown festivals, there's something for everyone in this picturesque resort community. And being in the path of totality for the solar eclipse on April 8 adds an extra layer of excitement for travelers visiting the destination.
Below are a few of the upcoming happenings and events and taking place this Spring For a complete listing of events, visit: www.VisitFrenchLickWestBaden.com.
Made in Indiana Brick Exchange Retail Store Debuts
Visitor Center in West Baden
Travelers interested in taking a piece of French Lick West Baden home with them can find a variety of goodies at the Brick Exchange. Located in the Visitor Center in West Baden, the newly opened retail store features a diverse array of Indiana-focused products, celebrating local business and minority-owned ventures. From handcrafted candles to regional inspired clothing, shoppers can delight in unique finds that capture the essence of French Lick West Baden.
French Lick West Baden Kicks Off First Culinary Experience Food Trail
Visitor Center in West Baden
Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Visit FLWB will host its first Squawk n" Walk culinary food trail event featuring tantalizing chicken dishes from local restaurants on March 23. Foodies can enjoy a fun evening out with friends and eat and drink their way through the streets of French Lick & West Baden. The event begins at the Visitor Center in West Baden. With the purchase of an admission ticket, 10 vouchers are provided to redeem at participating restaurants for a unique chicken small plate at each location, no repeats. Participating restaurants include Speakeasy Pizza, Bagel Bistro, Legendz, Doing Stuff BBQ, Hometown Scoops, German Cafe, French Licks, Rishi's, Elle's on Elm and 33 Brickstreet. In addition to the culinary delights, participants can engage in a scavenger hunt at select retail locations, offering a chance to explore local shops, collect passport stamps and vie for exciting prizes. The event will begin at the Visitor Center in West Baden. Tickets are $40 per person. Event is open to all ages. Held rain or shine. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit, https://visit-french-lick-west-baden.square.site/s/shop.
Solar Eclipse 2024 Festivities
French Lick West Baden will be in the path of totality for the Great North American Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024. Through April 8, the visitors center is handing out FREE Solar Eclipse glasses during normal business hours. French Lick West Baden and the neighboring towns of Orleans and Paoli have planned a host of special Eclipse Watch parties featuring live entertainment, food and more. For more information on what's in store for the Eclipse, www.visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com/eclipse-2024.
FRENCH LICK RESORT NEWS:
West Baden Springs Hotel Dome Renovations Near Completion
The historic dome at West Baden Springs Hotel is on track for completion by late April. Since taking a direct hit from a massive hailstorm last June, the dome has been undergoing a major facelift. The glass being installed is Lexan, which is a safety glass that's 250 times stronger than the original glass on the dome, ensuring a better chance to sustain future storms. Visitors can own their own piece of this history as the original dome glass and clay tiles have been turned into keepsake coasters. A limited supply is available at the West Baden Mercantile Company inside the hotel.
For more information on the dome renovation, what's happening at French Lick Resort or to book a stay, visit, https://www.frenchlick.com.
NEW OUTDOOR CONCERT VENUE IN PAOLI OPENING IN 2024
Castle Knoll Farms Revitalization Project Begins
Castle Knoll Amphitheater and the Eric Group have announced a long-term agreement to manage and promote a new outdoor amphitheater in Southern Indiana. Castle Knoll is a historic, early 20th-century farm under restoration, with the Castle Knoll Amphitheater at the forefront of the revitalization of the property. The amphitheater is the start of bringing new life to this once-working farm. The venue will present its inaugural season this year. Castle Knoll Amphitheater, located at 4809 US Hwy 150 in Paoli, will have capacity for approximately 8,000 people. The amphitheater will allow guests to view outdoor concerts, shows and events on the grounds of the Iconic Orange County landmark. For additional information on the project and updates, visit, ckamp.com.
UPCOMING SPRING EVENTS
Wine & Canvas at West Baden Springs Hotel
Caddy Sinclair Room
Saturday, March 23, April 27 and May 25, 4 p.m.
Gal pals in search of a fun evening out can enjoy fine wine while painting their own canvas with the expert help of a seasoned artist. Each participant will leave with a one-of-a-kind creation. Cost: $80 per person. Reservation required. Call (844) 291-7465. Must be 21 or older with a valid ID to participate.
Scenic Railway Easter Bunny Express
French Lick Scenic Railway
March 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30
Families in search of the Easter Bunny, can climb aboard the Easter Bunny Express as it departs the French Lick Depot on a journey to the Easter Egg field. Guests 11 and under will have an opportunity to search for eggs and pose for pictures with the Easter Bunny himself. The ride lasts about 2 hours and 20 minutes, including the egg hunt. In the event of inclement weather, the Easter Bunny may decide to hand out eggs onboard the train instead. Departures are at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Cost: $25-$30 per seat. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit, https://frenchlickscenicrailway.org/easter-bunny-express/
Easter Brunch at West Baden Springs Hotel
Sunday, March 31, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Easter brunch at West Baden Spring Hotel is an elegant holiday tradition the whole family will enjoy. Gather in the atrium for an Easter-inspired menu featuring brunch classics, entrees and desserts. Overnight guests receive priority for brunch reservations. Reservations are open to the public on March 18. $85 per person. $25 children ages 6-12. Children five and under are free. Reservations required. Call (844) 291-7465.
Dogwood Festival
Saturday, April 20 through Saturday, April 27, 2024
Orleans Town Square
Celebrate Spring at the annual Orleans Dogwood Festival. Orleans Town Square will come alive for a full week of featuring carnival rides, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, live entertainment. and more, commemorating the blooming of the Dogwoods.
About French Lick, West Baden
Visit French Lick West Baden is The Official Tourism Association for French Lick West Baden, Indiana. Nestled in Orange County within Southern Indiana, the beautiful resort community of French Lick West Baden and neighboring towns of Orleans and Paoli have been welcoming guests on unforgettable Indiana getaways for over 100 years. The destination is home to French Lick Resort, which is comprised of two historic hotels, the West Baden Spring Hotel built in 1902 and French Lick Spring Hotel build in 1901. The resort has recently been named "Best Historic Resort" by Historic Hotels of America. It is the perfect destination for guests searching for gracious hospitality, ultimate luxury, and a multitude of opportunities for an indulging vacation experience.
For additional vacation ideas or more information on French Lick West Baden, please visit visitfrenchlickwestbaden.com or follow @visitfrenchlickwestbaden on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and events.
