Despite a history of competing natural spring resorts, Indiana today lacks any sort of proper hot spring resort. Though places like French Lick and West Baden still exist, their focuses have transitioned away from their springs, and many similar resorts have sealed off their springs entirely.
Luckily, a few options exist in nearby states. For the sake of consistency, resorts are listed in order of proximity to Indianapolis. While they may seem far, these destinations could make the perfect road trip, and they’re a great excuse to travel to a new state.
Here’s our list of the best hot springs near Indiana.
The Original Springs Hotel (Illinois – 231 miles)
Located across the border in Illinois, The Original Springs Hotel is one of the closest mineral hot spring resorts to Indiana. Part of the National Register of Historic Places since 1978, Original Springs Hotel has a rich history that first began in the 19th century.
The highlight of the hotel is definitely the private baths. Unlike typical hot springs, mineral water does not come from the ground heat. Instead, boilers heat the healing water to a temperature up to 110° F, and visitors can adjust the flow of hot and cold water to find the perfect temperature. In addition to the soaking, visitors are provided with a cup for drinking the mineral water.
Besides private baths, the hotel is also home to a pool heated to 84°F. The pool is not filled with mineral water, but it’s still a great place to swim and hang out. After going for a soak or swim, be sure to visit the full-service spa for a deep tissue massage, body wrap, or any number of other restorative and relaxing options.
The hotel has forty rooms to choose from, and visitors can pick between several different types. Single beds are available, but visitors with larger parties may prefer a room with double beds. Additionally, a variety of packages are available for purchase for special occasions. Food is available on-site at a full-service restaurant, and the hotel’s bar and lounge offer cocktails and pool tables.
Armour’s Hotel & Spa (Tennessee – 247 miles)
A quaint hotel with forty rooms, Armour’s Red Boiling Springs Hotel is located two states away from Indiana in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee. First built in 1924, this hotel is also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Mineral baths can be found in the bathhouse, and visitors are welcome to schedule a one-hour soak. The bathhouse features two claw-foot tubs, and they are filled with natural mineral water from an on-site well. In addition to soaking, visitors can also book massage therapy and a variety of other spa treatments.
Family-style dining is available for both breakfast and dinner, and Wi-Fi is offered for all visitors. After taking a soak in the bathhouse, consider taking advantage of the firepits or badminton court on the two-acre property. If the weather’s bad, explore the hotel’s stocked library.
The Greenbrier (West Virginia – 429 Miles)
Although it’s much further from Indiana, The Greenbrier deserves a spot on this list for its rich history and incredible accommodations and activities. Operating since 1778, the Greenbrier features a beautiful main building located on a massive 11,000-acre property.
The Greenbrier offers a number of different soaking packages. For those looking for a simple bath, consider choosing the Sulphur Soak or the Mineral Bath, both of which feature secluded tubs full of relaxing water. For a more luxurious experience, try out the Fruit and Cream Bath, which involves the addition of real fruit to the mineral water.
After relaxing in the baths, take advantage of the resort’s huge number of activities. Adults will enjoy the large casino, while visitors with children should be sure to stop by the on-site bowling alley and arcade. On the sprawling property, try out horseback riding, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even Segway tours.
Guests can choose from a large number of accommodations. Simple guest rooms are the most popular choice, but visitors can upgrade by choosing a Classic Suite, a Historic Suite, or even a stay in the luxurious Windsor Club. For larger parties, book one of the Greenbrier’s estate homes or cottages.
This has been our list of the greatest places to soak near Indiana. For more variety a little further from home, consider one of the East Coast’s other hot springs for your itinerary. Enjoy your visit!
Tolovana Hot Springs – Tolovana River Valley, Alaska