Plan a Group Trip to French Lick Indiana, luxury amenities meet small-town charm

A members-only outing on a PGA Championship golf course, a lunch gathering beneath an architectural wonder often cited as “the eighth wonder of the world,” an evening reception aboard a sunset cruise and a night filled with gaming and entertainment; it’s a dream group travel itinerary that conjures visions of a coastal metropolis and a prohibitive price tag. Perhaps that’s why so many group travel planners are amazed to discover an affordable, world-class gathering place in the rolling hills of Southern Indiana.

The area surrounding French Lick, Indiana, has quickly become a must-consider option for group travel planners in the Midwest and across the country. Through the magic of a recent rebirth, the region features unique group trip options to fit most tastes.

“The combination of historic hotels, diverse entertainment options and modern convention facilities is unmatched in this area,” said Richard Pauley, director of group sales for French Lick Resort Casino. “I was truly amazed when I first learned what this area had to offer, and I experience that same reaction from first-time visitors every single day.”

Orange County Indiana and its quaint towns of French Lick, Orleans, Paoli and West Baden first attracted travelers in the late 19th century. Mineral springs in the area gained reputations for purported medicinal powers, prompting developers to build grand hotels that served thousands of visitors. The area played host to heads of state and notorious gangsters throughout the early 1900s. But the region fell on hard times during the Great Depression, and the once magnificent hotels began their steady decline.

Recently a new wave of entrepreneurs realized the significance of this historic site and its potential to regain a grip on the imaginations of travelers worldwide. Since 2005, the French Lick Springs Hotel, originally built in 1901, has been completely restored to its original grandeur. Modern convention facilities were added, an opulent new casino rests adjacent to the property and the nearby golf course has been restored to the original design laid out by famed architect Donald Ross in 1917.

A mile down the highway stands the West Baden Springs Hotel. This breathtaking architectural monument built in 1902 features what was the largest free-span dome in the world until the construction of the Houston Astrodome in 1964. Often called “the eighth wonder of the world,” the West Baden Hotel hadn’t hosted guests since 1932 until its full restoration was completed and the hotel reopened earlier this year. The two classic hotels, casino and golf course are now known collectively as French Lick Resort Casino.

“It was like walking into a time machine,” said Joyce Trefts who recently traveled from her new home in Florida to explore the town where she grew up more than a half century ago. “I had heard so many stories from my parents and grandparents about the old hotels and casinos, and now those memories are all coming to life again.”

From the Boardroom to the Campfire
While the French Lick Resort Casino is the keystone of this community, it is Orange County’s broad range of facilities and activities that makes it truly unique. There are group event options ranging from snowy slopes to crackling campfires.

Nature is the main attraction at The Wilstem Guest Ranch with plenty of fresh air and wide open spaces surrounding rustic cabins. The Loft, situated above the general store in the ground’s central cabin, boasts a modern meeting facility with rustic charm. This fully accessible space features all the comforts of a conference center including air conditioning, modern restrooms and a kitchen. But the exposed wood beam rafters and beautiful vistas assure that you’re miles away from the stresses of the city.

Wilstem is a short drive from the luxury of French Lick Resort Casino, but those looking for an immersive experience can choose to stay on the grounds of this working ranch. Cabins of varying sizes host small to mid-sized groups that can schedule events from the first rays of sunrise until the last coals dim on the campfire. But watch out for uninvited, if not unwelcome, attendees as wild turkey, quail, rabbit, fox, deer and other native wildlife might choose to join your meeting. Meal and recreation options are available, and horseback riding is offered for visitors of all skill levels.

If horse-drawn carriages and bluegrass bands aren’t in your plans, the Patoka Lake Marina can schedule an unforgettable group event on the water. Services and accommodations satisfy the most avid anglers or those just looking for a peaceful day on the lake. Rentals range from private watercraft to party barges, and your itinerary can include a catered cruise aboard a 60-passenger boat.

For those planning winter ski group trips, Paoli Peaks features slopes that attract skiers, snowboarders and tubers from hundreds of miles away. The 45,000-square-foot lodge includes meeting facilities and a restaurant. Group rates are available, and multiple slopes cater to skiers of all skill levels. Even first-timers won’t be left out as USA Today recently rated Paoli Peaks one of the top places to learn how to ski.

The Orange County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau serves as a conduit to these area attractions as well as additional unique meeting locations like the picturesque town square in downtown Orleans, the French Lick Scenic Railway and numerous civic buildings throughout the county.

“Group travel planners who contact our office are amazed at the choices for group activities in the French Lick area,” said Rob Denbo, executive director of the Orange County CVB. “It’s not unusual for them to run out of space on their own itineraries before they run out of options.”

A new generation of group travelers is discovering the colorful history and bright future of Orange County Indiana. Amidst the snowy trails of Paoli Peaks and the sun swept waves of Patoka Lake, group vacationers experience activities for all ages and adventures for all seasons in this Southern Indiana playground. Home to the palatial French Lick Resort Casino including the magnificently restored West Baden Springs Hotel – an architectural wonder often cited as the “eighth wonder of the world” – Orange County stakes its claim as America’s top resort destination for recreation and relaxation. Conveniently located in America’s heartland, the Southern Indiana communities of French Lick, Orleans, Paoli and West Baden are less than a day’s drive from any Midwest locale. And Orange County’s close proximity to Louisville and Indianapolis provides a point of entry for any traveler. For more information, or to plan your Orange County group travel getaway, visit http://www.orangecounty.travel/ or call (866) 353-5889.

Courtesy of  grouptravelblog.com