Circus Day at French Lick West Baden Museum

Join us on June 22 from 3:00 pm – 9:00pm for Circus Day at the Museum 2024! We are excited to announce more fun and games than ever before! We are so happy to have many exciting experiences, with food trucks, bounce houses, live performances, carnival games, candy, booths, and so much more. It is destined to be a great time for everyone!

Our annual Circus Day celebrates the life of the 86 performers of the Hagenbeck Wallace Circus who lost their lives in the Great Train Wreck of 1918. But as they say, the show must go on! So come and celebrate the fantastical art of the Circus, while supporting your favorite local museum!

Swimming at Patoka Lake Beach

Patoka Lake is one of the cleanest lakes in the midwest. With a concession stand, ball field, and several nearby picnic areas – there is something for everyone. Make a day of it and spend some time swimming in the lake, playing on the playground, and relaxing under the trees. Bring along a picnic and make a day of it.  You won’t regret it!

Watch a Game of Vintage Base Ball

Vintage Base Ball portrays America’s pastime from its earliest roots. Throwback teams will compete in an exhibition doubleheader from the era when “base ball” was two words and the sport was first gaining popularity in the mid-1800s. Pitching was underhanded, fielders didn’t use gloves, and games were played in open fields without fences. Players will recreate the look and lingo from the era, complete with vintage reproduction uniforms. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs for comfortable seating.

Visit Otis at French Lick Cabins

Meet Otis, French Lick Cabins, 25′ tall fishing Bigfoot constructed in April by the Bear Hollow Wood Carvers!  He is a must see while in the French Lick area!  We can’t wait to share our amazing property with you!

Play at PLAYOLI Community Park

PLAYoli Community Park offers park-goers a unique experience complete with a look-alike courthouse of Orange County. From swings, slides, climbing ropes and a smaller play area for the littles, there is something for everyone! The park also has a walking trail along side the slow trickle of water from the Lick Creek.

Take a Hike at Hoosier National Forrest

The Hoosier National Forest, comprised of 203,000 acres, is set in the rolling hills of south central Indiana, providing a mix of opportunities and resources for people to enjoy.

• Hiking on over 260 miles of trails, cross country or day hikes available
• Fishing … lake/pond or river/stream
• Camping – from cabins to primitive.  Campsites require reservations.
• Mountain biking or road cycling opportunities

 Interesting and special places to visit in French Lick West Baden and close by:

• Lick Creek African American Settlement – site of an 1815-1900 African American Settlement near Paoli.
• Pioneer Mother’s Memorial Forest – 88-acre virgin old-growth forest and archaeological site.  Located in Paoli.
• Springs Valley Trail – this 12.7 mile trail offers scenic views of Spring’s Valley Lake and includes remnants of the buffalo trace.  Located in French Lick.
• Wesley Chapel Gulf – deemed a National Natural Landmark, this 8-acre collapsed sinkhole features an underground river system.  Located in Orangeville, near Orleans.
• Hemlock Cliffs – box-shaped canyon with sandstone formations, seasonal waterfalls and rock shelters.  Located near English.