Start Planning Spring Break

Guest Blogger -- Kristie Smith

There’s no better way to get through the long months of January and February (yes, I know technically February is shorter) than by planning a spring break trip. Time flies when there’s something to look forward to, and spring break isn’t just for college kids. More and more it’s becoming a time-honored family tradition. Southern Indiana is a great place to rest, relax and gear up for phase three of the school/work year because there are plenty of things to see and do, like museums, hiking, biking, boating and lots of ways for mom, dad, the kids and the grandparents to hang out—together.

My brother, his wife and children, with my mom and dad in tow, love making the drive from out of state to stay at French Lick Resort. After settling in at the hotel every itinerary item is a day trip—or less—away. Though, my nephews would be more than happy to spend the whole time swimming at the indoor and outdoor pools at French Lick Springs Hotel, we make sure they get out and see what else is both on and off property. This year, they are looking forward to a grudge match on the putt-putt course. During last summer’s visit, I was accused of spending my lunch hours practicing at Shotz Miniature Golf and Lazer Tag—because I was that good. Rumor has it “Aunt Kiki” will not win this spring.

Carson and Walker have been asking to visit Eeyore and the gang at The Stables at French Lick Resort. The horses, goats and rabbits love meeting new people and the boys have never met a thing covered with fur that they didn’t like. Spring 2013 will also include a trip to the Indiana Railway Museum. Boys of all ages love trains and my nephews, brother and dad are no exception. There’s nothing like the rock and sway of the historic Hoosier Line and her antique railcars to take a side trip to yesteryear. The exhibits and gift shop are cool too.

As if they aren’t going to be tired enough I’ve got to make sure they save time to visit Patoka Lake and the marina. The wildlife area, nestled in the Hoosier National Forest, is a great place to spot eagles and other animals in their natural habitat. Whether on land or “sea” the short trek out Route 145 is well worth it. Weather permitting we’ll even be able to sneak up to Paoli Peaks for skiing, tubing and snowboarding. The variety of activities available this time of year seems endless.

In previous visits, “the fam” has gone bowling, visited Bluespring Caverns and been exploring in all different directions. Every trip to French Lick, West Baden, Indiana is filled with fun, new experiences and old favorites. When they return in the summer we’ll make our annual pilgrimage to Holiday World and Splashin’Safari then spend hours by the pools – boys endlessly active and mom, dad, grandparents and Aunt Kiki poolside playing Euchre. Family time doesn’t get any better than this.

 For more information about what your family can do southern Indiana visit Explore Southern Indiana.