WEST BADEN — There is a sense of peacefulness in this tiny Indiana community located just north of French Lick that allows visitors to reflect on the beauty of nature.
The rolling hills of southern Indiana provide the perfect background for a leisurely drive to the community that is home to what was dubbed “The Eighth Wonder of the World.” Words that come to mind are reflective, unique and serene as you walk through the grounds of West Baden Springs Hotel.
The concept has been duplicated but never equaled in terms of architectural style and majestic landscaping.
The hotel was constructed in 1902, complete with its six-story atrium culminating in what was then the world’s largest free-span dome.
It was the playground to the rich and famous in the 1920s and 1930s, eventually closing in 1932. After years of neglect the hotel was restored to its former magnificent glory in 2006.
This is not a typical tourist destination with hotels, chain restaurants and gift shops on every corner. It retains much of the small-town charm that probably made it an attraction before the Great Depression.
Walking into the atrium the visitor can’t help but be overwhelmed by the dome and circular hotel rooms, some complete with balconies.
But the real beauty of the facility is the formal gardens, complete with a fountain that sits across from the main entrance to the hotel.
The setting has very little noise from traffic, the only sound the horn of a trolley that runs between West Baden Springs Hotel and French Lick Casino.
A large veranda runs across the front entrance of the hotel, complete with rocking chairs to sit and relax.
Built in 1901, French Lick Springs became famous for the Pluto Mineral Bath. The resort’s mineral water and baths were alleged to cure almost anything. The original Pluto springs bath house built in 1901 remains, but bathing in the springs is no longer an option.
The French Lick Springs Hotel features a swimming pool with a domed roof, bowling alley, an outdoor pool and of course, the casino.
Guided tours of both restored hotels are available. There is a twilight tour on Saturday each month with costumed characters representing the famous guests who would visit the site.
The French Lick Scenic Railway provides a 20-mile ride through parts of the Hoosier National Forest and through the 2,200 foot Burton Tunnel, the second longest in Indiana. The trains leave from the railway museum in French Lick.
Follow Ken de la Bastide on Twitter @KendelaBastide, or call 640-4863.
If you go
• What’s there: French Lick Resort includes the historic West Baden Springs and Frenh Lick Springs hotels. There are championship golf courses, spas, casino, horseback riding and activities for kids.
• From Anderson: Depending on route, it’s 145 miles to 175 miles. Driving time about 3 hours.
• Information: www.frenchlick.com, 888-936-9360
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