INDIANA — The historic resort town of French Lick and Nashville has been thrust into the national spotlight once again, as USA Today names it a top contender for its 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards.
French Lick is currently in the running for “Best Small Town in the Midwest” and “Best Golf Destination“. Nashville, Indiana, is running for the “Best Small Town Cultural Scene.”
French Lick is one of just 20 towns nationwide—and one of five in Indiana—nominated for the “Best Small Town in the Midwest” title. To qualify, towns must have a population of fewer than 25,000 and be recognized for their charm, scenic beauty, and historical significance. Other Indiana nominees include LaPorte, Madison, Middlebury, and Vevay.
Art galleries, historic homes, and a calendar full of festivals (nearly 40 spread throughout the year) make Nashville, Indiana, a favorite small-town getaway in the Midwest. In this former artists community, visitors will find everything from paintings to hand-thrown ceramics, as well as live theater, musicals, and ample opportunity for outdoor adventure in surrounding Brown County.
A Golfer’s Paradise
In the “Best Golf Destination category, French Lick stands alongside world-renowned hubs like Maui, Hawaii; Hilton Head, South Carolina; and Gulf Shores, Alabama.
The nomination highlights the resort’s 45 holes of championship golf, featuring two of the most celebrated courses in the country:
- The Pete Dye Course: A hilltop masterpiece known for its 40-mile panoramic views of the Hoosier National Forest. It has been ranked the #1 course in Indiana for 15 consecutive years by Golfweek.
- The Donald Ross Course: A meticulously restored 1917 classic that hosted the 1924 PGA Championship and remains a favorite for “old-school” purists.
The final winners will be determined by a public vote. Community members and fans can cast their ballots online once per day until the contest concludes on Monday, March 30, at 11:59 p.m.
