Winter has its moments, but let’s be real - sometimes it can be a bit dreary. After the holidays end and the craziness of the new year begins to settle in, feeling a little blue (and not just from the cold) is perfectly normal. This year, resist the urge to hibernate in your living room and dial into new ways to start the year off feeling refreshed with some of these Southern Indiana activities.

Rejuvenate at a Spa

Dry and dark winter days can leave anybody feeling a bit dull. Treat your mind and body with a luxurious spa treatment sure to leave you feeling bright and rejuvenated. French Lick Resort is home to The Spa at West Baden and The Spa at French Lick. Both offer a full-service spa and multiple treatment options including massages, facials, and nail treatments to both overnight guests and those just stopping by. Take a step back in time with the signature Pluto Bath, which includes a soak in the world-renowned mineral water that put French Lick on the map in the 1920s. Bliss Spa and Boutique offers services to help you glow from head to toe. Whether you stop by for a quick mani/pedi, or indulge in the four-hour Goddess for a Day package, including an aromatherapy massage, facial, and more, you’re sure to walk out the door with a new spring in your step.

 

Find a New Adventure

Sometimes all you need is a little fresh air. Get outside and get moving at one of the many outdoor recreation options in Southern Indiana.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more intensive hike, Southern Indiana has it all. Hoosier National Forest is 203,000 acres with over 260 miles of trails to explore. Greene-Sullivan State Forest is one of the most serene places you can visit in Southern Indiana with over 120 lakes scattered throughout the forest and extensive opportunities for viewing some of the local wildlife and plantlife. The Harrison Crawford State Forest completely surrounds O’Bannon Woods State Park and has over 20 trails ranging from under a mile to over 25 miles letting visitors truly choose their own adventure!

Don’t forget to hit the slopes at Paoli Peaks and embrace the winter weather. Whether you prefer to ski, snowboard, or tube, there’s something for everyone - including a lodge to warm up in with a cup of cocoa!

 

Book a Getaway

For those local to the region and those looking to visit, a change in scenery can be the perfect thing to reset your mind. Book a getaway in Southern Indiana to get a new perspective going into the new year. 

For a unique lodging option and perfect spot for a girls weekend or romantic getaway, check out the Patoka Lake Silos. The two-story Silo Suites are attached to Patoka Lake Winery and equipped with a king-sized bed, fireplace, jacuzzi bath, and fully outfitted kitchenette. 

Southern Indiana thrives when it comes to small-town charm. Get a first-hand view of Hoosier hospitality at a local bed and breakfast. Green Gables B&B offers a getaway from city life’s hustle and bustle on its 13 acres of countryside beauty. The Winfield West B&B is the perfect combination of modern amenities and historic charm and just a few blocks from Jasper’s historic district. 

Traveling with kids? Big Splash Adventure Hotel & Indoor Water Park is the perfect destination for tons of family fun no matter what the Indiana winter weather brings. The hotel includes a 40,000 square foot indoor water park, arcade, and two dining options, offering a vacation all in one building.

 

For more things to do in Southern Indiana, explore our events calendar.