The Indiana towns of French Lick and West Baden owe their existence to the springs that are abundant in the area. "Pluto Water" became famous and was bottled and shipped all over the world.
TUESDAY - MARCH 25th - Our travels today will take us south through our home state where we'll experience 100 years in two days traveling to some of Indiana's "JEWELS" of Long Ago to the West Baden Springs and French Lick areas of Indiana. Upon our arrival we'll enjoy lunch at the Beechwood Inn - this Historic Ballard Mansion - home of Charles Edward Ballard, famous millionaire and onetime owner of the West Baden Springs Hotel. After lunch we'll tour his spectacular home, which his been carefully restored. Our day will continue as we travel a short distance to the French Lick Resort, where a guide will be waiting to take us on a trip through time - when the wealthy and famous traveled to this area to enjoy fine dining, take the curative waters, wager fortunes, and relax in a world away. We'll learn the history of its historical guests such as presidents FDR and Ronald Reagan - along with its celebrated history of political and entertainment guests... and maybe some less desirable ones. As we explore this historic landmark you'll become familiarized with the layout so later on this evening you'll know your way around as you're enjoying dinner at the casino. Following our tour of the French Lick Resort we'll check into the West Baden Springs Resort for an evening of luxury in this "5" Star Hotel. To make our stay a little more enjoyable we will have a guided tour to view this magnificent 1902 architectural wonder, which features a breathtaking six-story domed atrium. We will come away with more understanding why it has been called '"The Eighth Wonder of The World." This evening you'll be free to enjoy dinner at the French Lick Resort - The New French Lick Casino or relax in your room.
WEDNESDAY - MARCH 26th - Our day begins with breakfast at the French Lick Resort at the Colonnade Buffet and then we'll travel to Bedford - "The Limestone Capital of The World." Upon our arrival we'll be greeted by a local guide where we will learn more about "limestone" from the time it comes out of the quarry - see it cut at a mill and along with some of the products that can be produced for you to enjoy in your home. Limestone is the building stone of our nation, with many structures such as the Pentagon and The Empire State Building along with 35 of the state capitol buildings being built of Indiana limestone straight from Lawrence County. Make plans to join us on this very special tour, which features some of Indiana's Hidden Historic
Jewels.
