French Lick: A Resort for All Ages

My sister-in-law had her heart set on ringing in her 60th birthday at a casino. Las Vegas was her dream, but heading there in August was simply unworkable—especially given our group’s wide range of ages and needs. Joining the celebration were my 91-year-old mother-in-law, my 28-year-old daughter, the 60-year-old birthday girl with special needs, my husband, and me. We needed a destination that could accommodate everyone comfortably, and French Lick Resort checked all the boxes. It was close to where my sister-in-law lives, offered the slot machines she longed to play, and provided more than enough diversions for the rest of us.

A Glimpse into History

French Lick Resort dates back to the late 1800s, originally established as a health retreat thanks to the healing mineral springs in the area (French Lick Resort, n.d.). The property’s storied past is evident in its grand architecture, elegantly restored interiors, and thoughtful nods to the era of its founding. Stepping through the doors feels a bit like stepping back in time—though with every modern comfort and convenience.

Two Distinct Hotels

The resort comprises two main hotels: French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel. We opted to stay at the French Lick Springs Hotel, recognizable by its sunny yellow facade and wide verandas. Our two rooms were stylishly furnished and perfectly sized for our little party.

Later in the day, we visited the West Baden Springs Hotel—often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” for its spectacular domed atrium. Once the world’s largest freestanding dome, it has a mesmerizing architectural design that makes you feel as if you’ve walked into a cathedral of light and space. Even with a brief walk-through, we were awed by its ornate details.

Dining: 1875 Steakhouse

For the birthday dinner, we made reservations at 1875 Steakhouse, a top-tier dining option within French Lick Springs Hotel. Named for the year the resort was founded, its interior combines warm wood accents, subtle lighting, and leather seating to create a refined yet cozy atmosphere. My sister-in-law feasted on gourmet mac and cheese alongside fluffy mashed potatoes—satisfying her comfort-food cravings—while the rest of us enjoyed steaks cooked to perfection, paired with sides like sautéed mushrooms and fresh asparagus. The staff ensured all of our special requests were accommodated, making the meal feel both elegant and personal.

The Casino Experience

No birthday trip for my sister-in-law would be complete without some slot-machine fun, so we hopped on golf carts and zipped over to the French Lick Resort Casino. A flurry of lights and the jingle of coins greeted us at the door. My sister-in-law wasted no time; she planted herself at the first slot machine she saw and happily pressed “spin.” Not long after, she was up $15 and decided to cash out—proclaiming it was time for a souvenir-shopping spree. Smart move!

Morning Indulgence: Room Service

By morning, our group was happily exhausted. We decided to order room service, and it did not disappoint. We savored fluffy pancakes, cheesy omelets, pastries, coffee, and juice—an easy, delicious way to recharge before exploring more of the resort.

So Much to Do

The beauty of French Lick Resort lies in its abundance of options. During our 24-hour stay, we couldn’t try everything, but we glimpsed some highlights:

• Spa and Wellness: Renowned for its rejuvenating treatments, including massages and facials that draw on the mineral-spring history.

• Golf Courses: Golfers can test their swing on meticulously maintained greens surrounded by Southern Indiana’s scenic landscape.

• Family-Friendly Pools: The indoor pool and outdoor splash area were a hit with guests looking to cool off in the summer heat.

Even with our quick trip, it was easy to see that French Lick Resort caters to every age group, from kids splashing around to older guests enjoying a peaceful afternoon tea.

A Memorable Birthday Getaway

Our multi-generational crew found exactly what we were looking for at French Lick Resort—gambling fun for the birthday girl, relaxed luxury for all of us, and enough on-site amenities to keep everyone happy. The rich history, stylish accommodations, and friendly service all combined to create a special celebration. If you’re seeking a getaway that balances entertainment, relaxation, and a dash of historic charm, French Lick Resort in Southern Indiana fits the bill beautifully.