Fall in French Lick, Indiana

Depart Michigan for Lebanon, Ohio for an included lunch at the Golden Lamb. This restaurant & hotel opened in 1803 and is Ohio's oldest continuously operating business, having hosted 12 U.S. Presidents, and features Shaker artifacts and décor. Continue on to tour Beauverre Riordan Studios, the oldest continuously operating stained glass studio in the United States. Hear the stories of how the windows are created and see the stained glass artisans at work creating the newest commissions in the studio! Dinner is included at a local restaurant in Hamilton, OH where you’ll stay for the night at the Courtyard Marriott. (L,D)

After an included breakfast, depart the hotel for Huber’s Orchard & Winery. It is Indiana’s largest estate-bottled winery. The farm has been in the family dating back to the 19th century and is nationally recognized, receiving dozens of awards for its wine and spirits. Enjoy a wine tasting as well as an independent lunch in their family farm restaurant. Their commitment to uncompromised sustainability is woven into every step of the process, from holistic vineyard management to innovative packaging solutions. Continue on to French Lick, Indiana with a stop at the First Chance Center, whose mission is to promote abilities and provide opportunities for persons with disabilities or other barriers to fully participate in their community. You’ll have the unique opportunity to give back and gain a beautiful, one-of-a-kind product through Envision Designs, a line of products produced in the FCC Industries through donations of discarded fabrics from local businesses in the Orange County area. All profits from the sales of Envision Designs products goes to fund the programs and services at First Chance Center for individuals with disabilities. Check into the luxurious 4-star West Baden Springs Hotel for a 3 night stay. A three course dinner is included tonight at the hotel. (B,D)

After an included breakfast, take a guided tour of the hotel. Find out how the hotel's dome was constructed and discover how this colossal hotel was built in less than a year. Learn more about the mysterious Angel Room high above the atrium and find out who those movers and shakers were that came here to make deals, gamble and "take the waters" in the early 20th century. You’ll have time to relax, explore and enjoy the property’s features including the stables, pickleball & lawn games, gardens, pools, rail trolley, and more. This afternoon, sip and sail on the Patoka Lake on a Fall Foliage Wine Tasting Boat Cruise followed by an included dinner at the German Cafe, a local favorite. (B,D)

Breakfast is included at the hotel with a leisurely morning at the property. Just after lunch time, take an autumn color train ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway in the First Class Car. Climb aboard for a 1 hour and 45-minute journey through the hills and forests of Southern Indiana. The trip will take you on a winding ride through the Hoosier National Forest, pass several sites of interest, and through the Burton Tunnel – the second longest railroad tunnel in the State of Indiana at just under 1/2-mile in length. Enjoy a bountiful private buffet dinner at the French Lick Springs Hotel with an option to spend some time at their iconic casino. (B,D)

Breakfast is included at the hotel before we depart this morning for the return to Michigan. Stop for lunch and a visit to the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art. This museum offers a rich exploration of the artistic traditions and cultural heritage of Native American and Western communities. Through carefully curated exhibits and masterful artworks, gain a deeper appreciation for the vibrant stories, traditions, and histories that continue to shape these cultures today. This experience provides a meaningful journey into the heart of cultural preservation and artistic expression. At their cafe, you’ll find a fresh and delicious selection of southwestern inspired food prepared by their in-house chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Arrive home this evening. (B)