When Did French Lick Resort Reopen?

By Alice Nichols

French Lick Resort has a rich history and is known for its luxurious amenities, world-class golf courses, and spas. The resort has been through many changes over the years, including closing down and reopening. In this article, we’ll look at when French Lick Resort reopened.

The History of French Lick Resort

French Lick Resort dates back to the 19th century when it was initially established as a health spa. The mineral springs in the region were believed to have healing properties that could cure various ailments. The resort’s popularity grew rapidly, and it became a popular destination for the wealthy and famous.

The Closure of French Lick Resort

Unfortunately, in 2005, French Lick Resort was forced to close its doors due to financial difficulties. The closure was a significant blow to the local economy as French Lick Resort was one of the largest employers in the area.

The Reopening of French Lick Resort

Thankfully, after several years of closure, French Lick Resort reopened in 2006 after an extensive $382 million renovation project. The renovation project restored the resort’s original charm while adding modern amenities like a casino, indoor water park, and various dining options.

The Renovation Project

The renovation project included restoring historic landmarks such as West Baden Springs Hotel and French Lick Springs Hotel to their former glory. Both hotels are now elegant destinations that offer guests world-class accommodations.

  • West Baden Springs Hotel: This hotel has been restored to its original grandeur with an atrium that spans 200 feet.
  • French Lick Springs Hotel: This hotel underwent significant renovations but still retains its classic charm.

New Amenities at French Lick Resort

In addition to restoring historic landmarks, several new amenities were added to French Lick Resort, including:

  • French Lick Casino: The casino offers guests a variety of gaming options, including slot machines, table games, and a sportsbook.
  • Big Splash Adventure Indoor Water Park & Resort: This 40,000 square foot indoor water park is the perfect place for families to cool off on hot summer days.
  • The Donald Ross Course at French Lick: This championship golf course is one of the many world-class courses at French Lick Resort.

The Impact of French Lick Resort’s Reopening

The reopening of French Lick Resort was a significant boost to the local economy. It created hundreds of jobs and brought in millions of dollars in revenue. The resort’s reopening also helped put French Lick on the map as one of Indiana’s top vacation destinations.

Conclusion

French Lick Resort’s closure in 2005 was a significant blow to the local economy. However, after an extensive renovation project, French Lick Resort reopened in 2006 with modern amenities while still retaining its historic charm. Today, French Lick Resort is one of Indiana’s top vacation destinations and continues to draw visitors from all over the world.