Michigan Golf Journal March 2023

West Baden Springs Hotel The West Baden Springs Hotel is a one-of-a-kind experience. Originally built in 1855 to capitalize on the healing waters from the springs in French Lick, it was named after Baden-Baden in Germany, the great mineral European Mineral Spa. The eight-story atrium of the West Baden Springs is awe-inspiring. A marvel of its time, it has been called the 8th Wonder of the World. After various ownership changes the building had fallen into disrepair. The Cook Group invested $500 million into the French Lick Resort and restored this grand old dame to her original beauty. It is a marvel and a visit to the West Baden Springs Hotel will leave a lasting impression. While the French Lick Springs Hotel and West Baden Springs Hotel embrace their distinguished history, the resort just completed the Valley Tower that added 71 new rooms adjacent to the Casino. They are comfortable, beautifully appointed and the rooms can be connected to accommodate families and various groups. Dining One of my favorite things at the resort is the variety and quality of the dining options. They take their food service very seriously and both The 1895 Steakhouse in the French Lick Springs Hotel, as well as, Sinclair’s in the West Baden Springs Hotel, serve only the finest cuts and dishes to please the most discerning diner. If you are looking for a more casual dining experience, French Lick has several options. The Power Plant Bar & Grill, The Grand Collonade and Pluto’s Pizzeria are all located in the French Lick Springs Hotel. Ballard’s in the Atrium at the West Baden Inn allows diners to take in the beauty of the domed lobby, while enjoying a delicious repast, or favorite adult beverage. Fun Fact: Tomato Juice was first served at French Lick Resort In 1917, Head Chef Louis Perrin was preparing the breakfast menu for the guests and realized they were out of oranges for juice. Ever resourceful, Perrin grabbed a handful of tomatoes and created a new beverage, tomato juice. Using ripe tomatoes, a touch of sugar and his secret sauce, the Chef created a new breakfast drink that was a huge success. News of the drink spread quickly throughout the country and people arrived at the hotel just to try the interesting

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