For many years, the Southern Railway and the Monon Railroad brought scores of vacationers to the mineral spring baths in the southern Indiana hill country. Today, the railroad offers an 18-mile diesel-powered round trip that leaves from the historic 1907 depot that served both railroads and travels through beautiful, forested country and the 2,200-foot Burton tunnel.
Choices
Located in a historic passenger depot, the Indiana Railway Museum operates the French Lick Scenic Railway. One-and-one-half hour excursions through the Hoosier National Forest travel along lakes and limestone cuts. Special events are offered at various times throughout the year.
When to go
The operating schedule varies at different times of the year, so it is important to visit the website for the most up-to-date schedule. There you will find the details on scenic trains, special events, and the popular Polar Express train ride.
Good to know
French Lick is on Eastern Standard Time, which is good to remember when visiting from the Central time zone. You are still able to soak in the sulfur-rich spring water with 25-minute baths at the spas of the French Lick Springs Hotel and the West Baden Springs Hotel.
Worth doing
Southern Indiana is home to a variety of caves ready for exploring, such as Squire Boone Caverns, Wyandotte Caves, and Marengo Cave.
Don’t miss
Be sure to check out the former Louisville, New Albany & Corydon Railroad boxcar No. 14023 repainted as a Pluto water car that shipped Pluto mineral water, which was bottled by the French Lick Springs Hotel.
Getting there
French Lick is in southern Indiana, easily accessible from Bloomington (60 miles), Columbus (90 miles), and Indianapolis (110 miles). From Indianapolis or Bloomington, take Highway 37 to Highway 56. Take Highway 56 west to French Lick and the museum. From Columbus, take Interstate 65 to Highway 56.
Location: 8594 West State Road 56, French Lick, IN
Phone: 800-748-7246
Website: frenchlickscenicrailway.org
E-mail: contactus@frenchlickrr.org
