The beautiful thing about golf is you never know where it is going to take you. Before getting into golf, Indiana might not have been on the radar. French Lick changed that. French Lick Resort is a legendary Midwest golf destination nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, with historic hotels, a casino, spa, and three standout courses (plus nearby access to more). Home to designs by golf architecture legends Pete Dye and Donald Ross, plus the classic Valley Links, it’s a perfect blend of modern challenge, timeless strategy, and stunning panoramic views over the Hoosier National Forest.

Quick Facts

  • Championship golf heritage: Courses by Pete Dye (2009), Donald Ross (1917, restored), and Tom Bendelow (1907 origins)
  • Dramatic terrain: Elevation changes (highest point in Indiana on the Dye course), volcano bunkers, contoured greens, and forest vistas
  • Year-round play: Great spring/fall conditions; mild summers; winter escape potential
  • Historic resort vibes: Two grand hotels (French Lick Springs & West Baden Springs), casino, spa, dining, and shuttles to courses
  • Top-ranked: Pete Dye course often #1 public in Indiana (Golfweek); Donald Ross consistently #2

It really is special that in every part of the United States there are absolutely beautiful courses. It provides people with a reason to go somewhere they may never have considered, to talk to people and see how folks in those parts of the world live.

Perfect For…

  • Guys’ Trips: Multi-round days mixing brutal Dye drama with classic Ross strategy, post-golf casino action, steaks, or beers, easy 36-hole potential
  • Families: Luxe historic hotels with pools, spa, kids’ activities, casino fun; shorter Valley Links for beginners or relaxed play

Top Standout Courses

Pete Dye Course

The modern masterpiece, sketched on a napkin and carved into hilltops at Indiana’s highest point. Over 8,100 yards from tips, volcano bunkers, massive elevation drops, three man-made lakes, and 40-mile panoramic views. Hosted the Senior PGA Championship (2015); pure adrenaline and bucket-list drama.

Donald Ross Course

Step back to 1917: a classic, rolling meadow layout with undulating fairways, contoured greens, and strategic genius. Hosted the 1924 PGA Championship (Walter Hagen win); restored beautifully. More playable yet nuanced, a joy for shot-makers and history buffs.

Valley Links (9-Hole)

Charming, walkable regulation nine (par-36) tracing back to Tom Bendelow’s 1907 original. Park-like feel, great for families, warm-ups, or quick rounds while enjoying the historic resort grounds.

Great Stay-and-Play Resorts & Spots

  • French Lick Springs Hotel: Classic historic vibe, near casino and Valley Links
  • West Baden Springs Hotel: Stunning dome architecture, luxury elegance
  • Valley Tower Hotel: Modern, convenient access
  • Packages include rounds on Dye/Ross, replays, breakfast, and resort perks

All Key French Lick Golf Courses at a Glance

  • Pete Dye Course (hilltop drama)
  • Donald Ross Course (classic strategy)
  • Valley Links (9-hole historic fun)
  • Nearby: Sultan’s Run (Pete Dye disciple design, 30 min away, often bundled in packages)
  • Plus short course options and massive practice areas

Pro Tips

  • Book stay-and-play packages early via frenchlick.com or golf specialists; includes priority tees, replays ($200-$400 extra on Dye), and multi-course deals
  • Fly into Louisville (SDF) or Indianapolis (IND); drive 1 to 2 hours
  • Pair golf with resort classics: casino gaming, spa treatments, historic tours, or Indiana eats (steaks, bourbon)
  • Use shuttles everywhere; consider caddies on Dye for strategy; forward tees make it fun for all levels