Carol Johnson, Southern Indiana Business Report
FRENCH LICK – By its very name, French Lick is quirky, inviting curious speculation as to the origins of its name. So it’s no surprise that the Orange County travel destination was recently named one of the quirkiest towns in Indiana.
World Atlas recently compiled a list of six of the quirkiest towns in Indiana. French Lick made the list, noting its unusual name, mineral springs history and hotels with incredible architecture and design.
Ranking high on a travel list is nothing new for the town. Brandy Ream, executive director of Visit French Lick West Baden, said the towns are turning up on more and more lists of travel websites and bloggers.
“Ever since the pandemic ended, it does seem we are showing up on a wider variety of lists,” Ream said. “Traditionally, we were on lists for our history and retiree travels. Now, through the different marketing campaigns we’re doing, we’re seeing a surge in families coming here. We’re on best lists for couples weekends, girlfriend trips and romantic getaways.”
Ream said Indianapolis and Louisville are the top two markets bringing visitors.
“The destination you can drive to is still very appealing to visitors,” she said. “Something we always hear from visitors is, ‘We had no idea this is what Southern Indiana looked like’ and that we’re surrounded by nature and offer great outdoor recreation. Add to that these two magnificent hotels and you can see why people are amazed when they visit.”
Another somewhat quirky surprise, Ream said, is Paoli Peaks. Located a short drive from French Lick, the ski resort that is celebrating its 45th anniversary this year is not something visitors expect to find.
Quirks, in detail
Here’s what World Atlas had to say about French Lick.
The lovable spa town of French Lick in Orange County, near the Kentucky border, is a revered destination to unwind and relax, some 12 miles west of the ski town of Paoli. Home to only about 1,800 people and full of quirks, its name can be hard to get past! Well, this original French trading post was constructed close to a salt lick, around the area’s mineral springs. The long-time resort of French Lick immerses you in roots digging into the 1800s, with evidence along the streets and more quirky discoveries around each scenic corner.
The towering French Lick Resort and Casino is a giant complex for every taste, including families and avid architectural fans. Boasting wonders of construction throughout its resort amenities, the restored entertainment complex draws from near and far to stay and gamble. Also home to the French Lick Scenic Railway, visitors can hop on a ride in incredible views past captivating geological and historic features like an 1850s log cabin, through the 2200-foot-long Burton Railroad Tunnel, and the Hoosier National Forest. Don’t miss the French Lick West Baden Museum, complementing a stay at the West Baden Springs Hotel, while the French Lick Springs Hotel lures with its uncountable attractions.
Other towns that made the list – Goshen, Oldenburg, Madison, Shipshewana and Beverly Shores.