FRENCH LICK — The Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau is proud to announce that Timeless French Lick will serve as the host community for “Voices & Votes: Democracy in America,” a Smithsonian Institution traveling exhibition, on display at the Timeless French Lick Visitors Center from May 16 through June 28, 2026.
The exhibit arrives as communities across the country prepare to mark America’s 250th anniversary, and Orange County is honored to be among the select Indiana communities chosen to host this nationally recognized experience.
The exhibition explores the history of American democracy — its ideals, its struggles, its triumphs, and its ongoing story — through compelling artifacts, photographs, and interactive elements. Presented as part of the Smithsonian’s Museum on Main Street program, with support from Indiana Humanities, “Voices & Votes” is designed to travel to the heart of communities like ours, connecting national themes to local stories and inviting reflection on what democracy means in places where people actually live, work, and build lives together.
Opening Day: Saturday, May 16, 2026
The community is invited to celebrate the opening of “Voices & Votes” at the Timeless French Lick Visitors Center. The day’s schedule is as follows:
- 10:00 a.m. — Official program with ribbon-cutting ceremony for local and state officials
- 11:00 a.m. — VIP walkthrough of the exhibit
- 12:00 p.m. — Reception with lunch/refreshments served (open to the public)
- 1:00 p.m. — Smithsonian Exhibit opens to the general public
Admission to the exhibit is free and open to all.
Exhibit Hours (May 16 – June 28, 2026)
- Monday – Friday: 9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
“Bringing a Smithsonian exhibit to Orange County is something we are very excited about,” said Joe Lannan, Director of Tourism in Orange County. “As we approach America’s 250th birthday, we want both guests and residents to have a place to gather, reflect, and connect. We’re grateful to Indiana Humanities and the Smithsonian Institute for this opportunity, and we’re excited to welcome everyone through the doors.”
The Visitors Center, located at 8102 Indiana 56 in West Baden Springs, will serve as both the exhibit venue and a full destination welcome hub during the run of the show, offering visitor information, America250 memorabilia, interactive gifts, and resources to help guests explore everything Orange County has to offer. Visitors are encouraged to make a full day of their experience by exploring the shops, historic sites, and attractions that make Timeless French Lick a truly unique destination.
“In French Lick and across Orange County, we invite people to take their time, and this exhibit is no exception,” said Makenzie VanHoy, Brand Strategy Manager for Timeless French Lick. “As we prepare to celebrate 250 years of American history, ‘Voices & Votes’ creates space to slow down, engage with the past, and consider the role we all play in its future.
“Voices & Votes: Democracy in America” is a traveling exhibition of the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES), adapted from the companion exhibition at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. The Indiana tour is made possible through a partnership with Indiana Humanities.
To learn more about this exhibit and other upcoming events, please call 812.936.3418 or visit us online at www.timelessfrenchlick.com.
About Timeless French Lick
Timeless French Lick is the brand and marketing organization for the Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau. Contractually funded through the Orange County Tourism Commission, Timeless French Lick promotes Orange County as a historically rich and culturally vibrant destination. Home to landmark resorts, natural beauty, and a deep civic heritage, Orange County welcomes visitors year-round.
